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.
Born in Clara, County Offaly, Ireland James Dargin enlisted in the 1st New Jersey Infantry Regiment under the alias of James Molloy in April of 1864. He was killed on the first day of The Battle of The Wilderness on the 5th May 1864. His decision to enlist under an alias would lead to difficulties when his wife tried to claim the Widows Pension and would ultimately follow him to his grave.
Gilbert Proud Robinson, a soldier from Offaly, Ireland, served in the Union Army during the Civil War and was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel. He participated in numerous key battles and commanded his regiment during the critical capture of Petersburg. After the war, he became a respected community leader and police officer in New Jersey, receiving military honors at his burial.
By summer 1863, the American Civil War prompted Congress to enact the Enrollment Act, initiating a draft that incited riots in New York due to socioeconomic tensions. Rev. Walter Quarter intervened to calm crowds amidst chaos, ultimately losing his health and life due to the events. Quarter significantly contributed to community building yet remains memorialically overlooked.
BY DANNY LEAVY Captain Edward Hopper was born in Banagher in 1826. His father was a Sergeant with the Kings
