James Hoban, the Kilkenny born architect who designed the U.S. White house, died on this day in 1831. Hoban worked in Ireland as a wheelright and carpenter until his early twenties, when he was given an advanced student placement at the Dublin Society's Drawing School. He excelled in his studies and became an apprentice under Cork architect Thomas Ivory. After the American … [Read more...] about December 8, 1831
September 1, 1830
The Dublin Zoo opened on this day in 1830. Then a private society, it was founded by anatomists and physicists, and was financially supported by wealthy subscribers. In 1840, the society began opening its gates to the public on Sundays, for a one penny entrance fee. By this time, the zoo held 72 birds and 46 mammals; all of which had been donated by the London Zoo. Today, the … [Read more...] about September 1, 1830
August 3, 1823
Thomas Francis Meagher, exiled Irish nationalist, brigadier general for the union in the U.S. Civil War, and acting governor of Montana, was born on August 3, 1823 in Waterford, Ireland. After joining the Young Irelanders and being tried for sedition following the rebellion of 1848, Meagher was exiled to "Van Diemen's land" or Tasmania. He fled to America, studying law and … [Read more...] about August 3, 1823
May 31, 1821
The Cathedral of Assumption of Blessed Virgin Mary, the first U.S. Catholic cathedral, is dedicated in Baltimore. The cathedral, now a Basilica, was envisioned by John Carroll, America's first bishop, who was the founder of the American Catholic hierarchy and Georgetown University. It was designed by renowned architect Benjamin Henry Latrobe. Carroll, whose father was born in … [Read more...] about May 31, 1821
February 17, 1821
Lola Montez, actress, dancer, courtesan, mistress and Countess of Landsfeld, was born Eliza Gilbert in Co. Sligo on February 17, 1821. After her birth, her family moved to India, but Lola was sent to several boarding schools in England. She eloped at the age of 16 with Lieutenant Thomas James, but the two separated after five years. It was at this time that Lola Montez adopted … [Read more...] about February 17, 1821