Michael Dougherty (soldier) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Michael Dougherty
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|---|---|
| Born | May 10, 1844 Falcarragh, Ireland |
| Died | March 19, 1930 (aged 85) Bristol, Pennsylvania |
| Buried |
Saint Mark's Roman Catholic Churchyard
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| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1862 - 1865 |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit |  13th Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry Regiment - Company B |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
Private Michael Dougherty was an Irish soldier. He lived from May 10, 1844, to February 19, 1930. Michael fought in the American Civil War. He earned the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for bravery in the United States. He received this award for his brave actions on October 12, 1863, in Jefferson, Virginia. He was given the Medal of Honor on January 23, 1897.
Contents
Michael Dougherty's Life Story
Michael Dougherty was born in Falcarragh, Ireland, on May 10, 1844. When he was 18, he joined the army. He became a soldier in the 13th Pennsylvania Cavalry on August 8, 1862.
A Heroic Act and Capture
On October 12, 1863, Michael did something very brave. This act of courage earned him the Medal of Honor. On that same day, he was captured by the enemy. He became a prisoner of war. Michael was held in different Confederate prisons. He remained a prisoner until April 12, 1865.
Surviving the Sultana Disaster
After being released from prison, Michael went to Camp Fisk. This was a special camp for freed prisoners. It was located near Vicksburg, Mississippi. On April 24, 1865, Michael boarded a steamboat. The boat was called the Sultana. Almost 2,000 other soldiers were also on board. They were all recently freed Union prisoners.
On April 27, 1865, the Sultana had a terrible accident. Its boilers exploded near Memphis, Tennessee. About 1,200 people died in the explosion. Private Dougherty was one of the survivors. He was very lucky to be alive. After this, he was sent to Spring Mills, Pennsylvania. He was officially discharged from the army on June 27, 1865.
Life After the War
After the war, Michael Dougherty married Rose Magee. They had 12 children together. He lived with his family in Philadelphia. He worked at the U.S. Mint. In 1908, he published a diary. This diary told the story of his time in Confederate prisons.
Michael Dougherty passed away on February 19, 1930. He was buried at Saint Mark's Roman Catholic Churchyard. This churchyard is in Bristol, Pennsylvania.
See also
