This article examines one of the first attempts by Irish journalists to establish a professional representative organisation. Established in near-tandem and in response to the establishment of the National Association of Journalists of Great Britain in 1884, the Association of Irish Journalists presents a unique insight into early attempts at professionalism by Irish journalists that were ultimately thwarted by the bitter divisions that, amid demands for home rule and a violent campaign for tenant rights, characterised Irish politics and journalism in the late nineteenth century. While no records of the association survive, this article utilises digital newspaper archives to shed light on journalistic practice, solidarity and division amid early attempts at professional organisation among journalists in late nineteenth century Ireland.