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
Today in History
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
October 25, 1818
On this day in 1818, Irish Opera singer Catherine Hayes was born in Limerick. Hayes had a house cleaning position at Lord Limerick's house. There Dr. Knox, Bishop of Limerick for the Church of Ireland, overheard her singing. He launched her career and arranged her education. She went on to study in Paris and Milan for five years. Hayes made her debut at the Italian Opera in … [Read more...] about October 25, 1818
July 7, 1816
On this day in 1816, Dublin born playwright and politician Richard Brinsley Sheridan died in London. Sheridan was a member of the British House of Commons and is best remembered for his plays "A Trip to Scarborough," "The Rivals," and "The School for Scandal." He was very well respected by his contemporaries and is buried at the Poet's Corner at Westminster Abbey. … [Read more...] about July 7, 1816