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.
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”.
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 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.
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.
The site Americasoffalyheroes has documented 300 Offaly-born soldiers who fought in the US Civil War. Highlights include one Medal of Honor recipient, various regimental affiliations, and insights into their lives. With over 225 names pending addition, visitors are encouraged to contribute any further information about these soldiers.
Patrick Craven, an Irish immigrant, served in the Union Army during the Civil War but died of yellow fever in 1866. His wife, Mary Kilraine, displayed remarkable determination, appealing to President Lincoln for her husband’s release and later serving as a laundress in the army. She continued her life resiliently after his death.
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.
2 US CIVIL WAR SOLDIERS Today we paid a visit to the graves of these two soldiers who fought on
