Series 4 - Colonel James Mulligan letters

125pp

Kerby A. Miller created the transcripts of the Colonel Mulligan letters from copies held in the Mulligan Papers [Box 1, Folder 6], Chicago Historical Society.

Materials pertaining to letters written between 1853 and 1864 by Irish emigrants to first-generation Irish American Colonel James A. Mulligan. The letters are mostly from soldiers serving under Mulligan during the American Civil War, but also include two Irish nationalist letters written to Mulligan in 1853 and 1860, including a letter from Young Ireland leader John Mitchel.
Per Kerby A. Miller: ‘Born, Utica, NY, 1830. Family moved to Chicago, 1835. Graduated with honors from University of St. Mary's at the Lake. Edited a Catholic weekly, the Western Tablet. ""Devoted himself to literature"" after graduation, then turned to the law. Became successful lawyer, with a large practice; member of the firm of Arrington & Mulligan. Renowned as an orator, and prominent in promoting charities, education, libraries, etc. Keen on Irish history -- often a subject of his orations. Entered the U.S. Army at the beginning of the Civil War. Became colonel of the 23rd Illinois Infantry, the famous ""Irish Brigade."" Won fame for his defense of Lexington, MO, when attacked by Confederates under Sterling Price; was taken prisoner, later exchanged. Refused promotion to brigadier general in order to remain with his men. However, it was commonly believed, at least by his soldiers and in the Irish-American community, generally, that he had been denied promotion (and had considered resigning, as a result) because of nativist influence in the GOP and Army. Subsequently, he and his units fought in Virginia. Killed at the battle of Winchester, 24 July 1864. Supposed last words were, ""Never mind me, boys, but save the flag of the Irish Brigade."" Buried in Calvary Cemetery, Chicago. Left a wife and 3 children.
The series includes: Miller’s transcripts and abstracts of the Mulligan letters; biographical notes on James A. Mulligan; notes and documents regarding Peter Casey, one of the letter writers; and photocopies from publications regarding the ‘Irish Brigade’.