As I have discussed frequently on this site and elsewhere, the Widows and Dependent Pension Files from the American Civil War represent the greatest repository of detailed social information on ordinary nineteenth century Irish people that exists anywhere in the...

The night of 31st August 1861 found Private Luke Ferriter of the 3rd Vermont Infantry standing guard at the Chain Bridge on the Potomac river. He was sharing his sentry duty with two other men from the regiment, with each...

I am delighted to announce that my first book, ‘The Irish in the American Civil War’ published by The History Press Ireland, is now available. If you are interested, the best place to purchase the book is from The History...

As I am an archaeologist by profession, the vast majority of public presentations I give are related to that subject, principally my area of expertise which is conflict archaeology. It is therefore very gratifying for me to have two upcoming...

‘Gentlemen, we are to storm and carry the enemy’s works on Lookout. You will of course whip the enemy, and then we will all assemble at my quarters and take a drink’ (1). So said Brigadier-General Walter C. Whitaker to...

The main purpose of this site is to operate as a resource tool for those interested in the Irish experience of the American Civil War. To that end a new page has been created where the battle reports of wholly...

In order to increase the site’s visibility and to facilitate dissemination and discussion Irish in the American Civil War now has a presence on some other social media sites. If you are a member of facebook be sure to check...

The Medal of Honor is the highest gallantry award that can be bestowed by the United States. The medal was introduced for naval enlisted men in December 1861, and for army soldiers and non-commissioned officers in July 1862. In March...