250th American Independence Day – 4th July 2026.
A short video celebrating America’s 250th birthday and its connections to County Offaly, Ireland.
Tullamore
Tullamore, the county town of County Offaly in Ireland, has a population of 15,598 according to the 2022 census. Positioned on the Grand Canal, it is the fourth largest town in the Midlands Region, with notable historical significance tied to its location and local heritage.
May 1864 – Michael Dooling, Imprisoned On Alcatraz Island For Desertion.
Michael Dooling, born in Tullamore, Offaly in 1835, enlisted in the 2nd California Infantry but deserted shortly after. He was imprisoned on Alcatraz, later transferred to Camp Reynolds, and returned to service before being discharged in 1866. Dooling lived in St. Louis and died in Leavenworth in 1915, unmarried.
The Battle Of Antietam – September 1862. Seven Offaly Men Are Members Of The “Fighting Irish”, The 69th New Yorkers.
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”.
Sergeant Richard S. Cusack – Born in Tullamore. Pictured With Members Of His Company During the US Civil War 1861-1865.
Richard Cusack, born in 1834 in Offaly and later settling in New Jersey, served as a sergeant in the 39th New Jersey Infantry during the US Civil War. A painted photograph captures him at ease with fellow soldiers in 1864. Cusack survived the war, passing away in 1901, and is remembered for his service.
Sergeant Patrick Cooke, Born In Durrow, Co. Offaly. US Civil War Soldier In the 16th Kentucky Infantry.
Sergeant Patrick Cooke, born in 1831 in Ireland, served in the 16th Kentucky Infantry during the Civil War. He participated in key battles, including Franklin and Nashville. Cooke witnessed the surrender of General Johnson at Bennett Place in April 1865, marking the war’s end. He later farmed with his family in Kentucky until his death in 1904.
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.
William Creevy – A Cavalry Soldier From Offaly Who Served For 25 Years In The US Army.
William Creevy, an Irish-born soldier, enlisted in the US Army’s 1st Dragoons in 1850 and served until 1875. He participated in the Civil War, fought against Native American tribes, and witnessed historical events like Lee’s surrender. Discharged due to health issues, he spent his final years at a Soldiers’ Home, passing away in 1878.
John Wilson, Tullamore – A Civil War Soldier Who Survived Andersonville Prison
John H. Wilson, born in 1846 in Ireland, became a Union soldier at 16, serving in the 122nd Ohio Infantry. Captured at the Battle of the Wilderness, he endured ten months in the notorious Andersonville Prison. After the war, he became a minister, public speaker, and community leader before dying in 1909.
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.
William Patrick Kelly
A Tullamore Soldier Who Died At The Battle Of Cold Harbor in June 1864 William Kelly was born in Tullamore