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”.
For more reading on this soldier: https://americasoffalyheroes.com/2025/11/07/john-renehan-born-in-county-offaly-part-of-the-union-garrison-at-fort-sumter-on-friday-12th-april-1861/
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.
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.
The story of William Keenan, an Irish soldier from Offaly, emerged after 160 years of obscurity. Born around 1839, he fought in the US Civil War, participating in key battles. Later, he experienced personal struggles, leading to his demise in 1869, leaving behind a remarkable yet lonely legacy. His contribution is now recognized.
A significant milestone was achieved with the addition of 400 Offaly-born men who served in the US Civil War, anticipating at least 150 more names. Key statistics include a Medal of Honor winner, Colonels, and various service roles. Efforts continue to uncover more identities and stories of these soldiers.
HE WAS A MEMBER OF COMPANY D, 125TH NEW YORK INFANTRY, BRANDED “THE HARPERS FERRY COWARDS” FOR THEIR SURRENDER IN
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.
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.
Patrick Byrne, a Color Sergeant of Co. C, 1st Vermont Heavy Artillery, served bravely during the Civil War. He was wounded in April 1865 at the Third Battle of Petersburg but astonishingly recovered. After the war, he returned to Castleton, Vermont, where he lived a quiet life until his death in 1894.
