Daniel O’Connell was born August 6. 1775 at Carhen near Cahirciveen , County Kerry. Though his family could trace their roots back to the famous chieftains of the 14th century, 18th century Ireland was dominated politically, economically and socially by the minority Protestant ascendancy. It was still an era of the Penal Laws; a world where many of the doors of opportunity were … [Read more...] about “The Liberator”, Daniel O’Connell
Reflections on Memorial Day
Memorial Day is the day when the United States honors those who have made the supreme sacrifice in defense of our country. It is not to be confused with Veteran’s Day which is a day when we rightfully honor all those who served. Memorial Day is when we should remember and give thanks to those who traded all their tomorrows so that we can enjoy today. From the beginning, … [Read more...] about Reflections on Memorial Day
Keeping Another Tradition Alive
The history of the Irish Marines goes back to Lt. Presley O'Bannon leading his men to the Shores of Tripoli and beyond. Here we have a great photo of two generations of Leathernecks, Frank Duffy who earned the Silver Star at Iwo Jima and currently serving Marine Joseph Farrelly Semper Fi … [Read more...] about Keeping Another Tradition Alive
A Meeting in Rockland, a Reunion in No Man’s Land
In the summer of 1896, a newly ordained Priest said one of his first masses at St. Peter’s in Haverstraw, Rockland County. Though the young Cleric was born in Ontario Canada, he was the grandson of Irish immigrants who had fled the horrors of the Great Hunger. During the mass, he was assisted by a young Irish American altar boy who was born and raised in … [Read more...] about A Meeting in Rockland, a Reunion in No Man’s Land
Three Irishmen and the Earliest Medal of Honor
On a cold January morning in what was then the New Mexico Territory but today is known as Arizona, 12 year old Felix Ward was tending his father’s herd of sheep and cattle. Felix was the adopted son of John Ward who had immigrated to America from Ireland during the Great Hunger and had traveled west to seek his fortune in the gold fields of California. While not finding gold in … [Read more...] about Three Irishmen and the Earliest Medal of Honor