Born in Kinneigh, Co. Cork, Ricard O’Sullivan-Burke received his early education in Dunmanway where he seems to have developed a keen interest in the military. At the age of 15 years, he enlisted in the South Cork Light Infantry (Militia) and served at the barracks in Bandon, Kinsale, Limerick and Dublin. However, within three years Ricard had…

Memphis Tennessee was home to the 2nd largest Irish population in the South and on the outbreak of war, many rushed to the state colours.

Colonel Knox Walker was in command of 2nd TN. Infantry Regt, a.k.a. “Irish Regiment”. Early uniforms made by the ladies of the city consisted of a dark, 8 button, frock coat,…

Led by the colourful, Brig-Gen. Thomas Francis Meagher, the Irish Brigade began Sept. 17th by crossing the Antietam at Pry’s Ford before joining the battle, like most of the II Corps, piecemeal. Gen. French trailed Sedgwick toward the West Woods before they veered southwards and the CS centre, where they encountered DH…

Originally organized at Fort Henry, TN., the 10th was comprised of men from the Nashville area, as well as, Humphreys, Giles, Davidson, and Montgomery counties of Tennessee. Initially serving at Ft. Henry the 720 men of the regiment were transferred to Ft. Donelson where it was part of Col. Heiman’s command which was surrendered in February…

Born on November 12, 1819, in Dublin, Mary Sophia Hill was the daughter of a physician, who, along with her twin brother, Samuel, spent part of their early lives living in England.

By late 1850, both Mary and her brother were living in New Orleans where…

Albert D.J. Cashier enlisted as a private in Company G, 95th Illinois Infantry in August 1862. Standing at 5 feet, 3 inches tall, he was…

As August comes to a close, the fruits of summer show no signs of slowing down — lots of peaches, blackberries, plums, and nectarines available for snacking and baking. This tart recipe starts with a shortbread-like crust and is then filled with peaches and blackberries. (You can substitute…

In July 2013, I was honoured to give an oration at the graveside of Fr. John Bannon. The following, though long, is the text of my speech. Regards, Liam. (This post is part of a week-long series I've titled, 'Their Stories, Our Heritage, Not Forgotten', in honor of Irish Heritage Week 2020.) 

Commemoration…

Dan Breen was startled awake from his dozing slumber by the sound of tramping feet. The small room suddenly flashed to near daylight as a spotlight played across the window looking out to the back of the house. Breen leaped to his feet and grabbed his Mauser pistol off the chair where he had left…

Fourteen Irishmen would receive the Medal of Honor for their actions during this battle.

The 14 men and their ships:

* USS Lackawanna:  Michael Cassidy; Patrick Dougherty -- both Landsman.

*…