Lusmagh is a civil parish in County Offaly, Ireland, located near the rivers Shannon, Lusmagh, and Little Brosna. Historically part of County Galway, it has notable connections to the O’Kellys and a monastery founded by Saint Mo Chua. The name represents “the plain of the healing herbs.”
We can link 7 Offaly men to the Battle Of Antietam in September 1862. As Members of “The Fighting Irish” they will each experience the horrors of war as they bravely attack Confederate defensive positions along “The Sunken Road”. Antietam will decimate the ranks of “The Fighting Irish”.
A newly discovered letter adds more details to the tragic story of Patrick Derivan from Lusmagh, Co. Offaly. A Civil War soldier we previously documented in December of 2024.
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.
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.
A MUSICIAN IN THE UNION ARMY – Patrick Derivan Patrick Derivan from Lusmagh, County Offaly was a talented musician when
John J Birmingham, a Civil War soldier from Lusmagh County Offaly, was on duty at Ford’s Theatre when President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865. Birmingham lived until 1939, often reflecting on his experiences of that tragic night and the impact it had on American history.
John Stephens from Lusmagh in County Offaly, Ireland arrived in America in 1850. He was only 17 years of age
