250th American Independence Day – 4th July 2026.
A short video celebrating America’s 250th birthday and its connections to County Offaly, Ireland.
Banagher
Banagher is a town in Ireland’s County Offaly, situated by the River Shannon. Historically, it thrived during the mid-19th century with a population of 3,000. However, as per the 2022 census, the population has decreased to 1,907, reflecting significant economic changes over time.
A Granddaughter’s Tribute to Her Civil War Grandfather – William Larkin From Banagher
William Larkin, born in Banagher, Ireland, in 1828, served in the 49th Wisconsin Infantry during 1865. His granddaughter, Loretto Paul, ensured his military service was recognised posthumously by securing a military headstone in 1969. Larkin’s grave remained unmarked as a veteran until her efforts in honouring his legacy.
Killed At The Battle of Antietam – 17th Sept’ 1862. Banagher Born William Galvin, A Union Soldier In The 104th New York Infantry Regiment.
Born in Banagher, County Offaly, Ireland in 1821, William Galvin emigrated to the USA settling in Albany, New York. He enlisted into the 104th New York Infantry Regiment in December 1861 at 40 years of age. Seeing action at several major battles he was eventually shot and killed in “The Cornfield” at Antietam. His family were informed of his death in a letter written by a comrade detailing his fate.
Thanks To Everyone Who Has Made Contact With Us, Helping To Add Vital Information To The Stories of Forgottten Offaly Soldiers – US Civil War 1861-1865.
Over recent months, we received valuable feedback from readers about forgotten lives in Offaly. Many have shared details about their family histories, assisting us in unraveling stories of notable individuals like Carey Heaton and Patrick Fox. We appreciate all contributions that help illuminate these important histories.
Offaly’s Darkest Day Of The US Civil War? 2nd July 1863 At The Battle Of Gettysburg
On July 2, 1863, during the Battle of Gettysburg, eleven soldiers from Offaly were either killed or wounded, marking a tragic day in the region’s history. Among them, Barney Horan and James Egan were both wounded and died later in a Gettysburg hospital on the same day. Ongoing research continues to uncover more details about Offaly soldiers involved.
Thomas Flattery, Killed In Action on June 3rd 1864 At The Battle of Cold Harbor.
On June 3, 1864, during the Battle of Cold Harbor, Union General Grant ordered a disastrous frontal assault on Confederate positions, resulting in approximately 7,000 Union casualties. Corporal Thomas Flattery was among the wounded and later died. The attack led to significant criticism of Grant’s tactics and jeopardized Lincoln’s reelection chances.
Can You Help?
We seek information on Offaly’s heroes from the American Civil War, specifically those categorized as “Unknown within Offaly.” If you have family stories or records, please share them. We’ll soon add more identified soldiers lacking specific details. Every piece of information is vital for preserving their legacy.
Andersonville Prison, Banagher, County Offaly, James Flynn, Thomas Flynn
A video retelling of the Blog “a fathers quest to find his son”
For full story click link below ▶️ A father enlists to find his son ◀️
A Father Enlists To Find His Son
James Flynn from Banagher enlisted in the Union Army to find his son, Thomas, who joined at 14. James served as a hospital steward, while Thomas was promoted to sergeant. Despite letters exchanged, they never reunited. James was captured and likely imprisoned at Andersonville, never returning home to his family.