Patrick Kelly (Civil War) facts for kids
Patrick Kelly (born around c. 1822 – died June 16, 1864) was an important Irish-American officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He is famous for leading the brave Irish Brigade at the major Battle of Gettysburg.
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Patrick Kelly's Early Life
Patrick Kelly was born in a place called Castlehacket, near Tuam, Ireland. He later moved to the United States and settled in New York City. His wife, Elizabeth, was also from Tuam.
Joining the Civil War
When the Civil War began, Patrick Kelly joined the Union Army. He started as a captain in Company E of the 69th New York Infantry. He first saw action at the First Battle of Bull Run. For a short time, he was also a captain in the 16th U.S. Infantry.
Rising Through the Ranks
On September 14, 1861, Kelly was promoted to lieutenant colonel of the 88th New York Infantry. He fought in many big battles with the Irish Brigade in 1862. He commanded his regiment at the Battle of Antietam.
After the Maryland Campaign, while stationed at Harpers Ferry, he became a colonel on October 20, 1862. He led his regiment in tough attacks at Marye's Heights during the Battle of Fredericksburg. By the end of 1862, Colonel Kelly was acting commander of the Irish Brigade.
Leading the Irish Brigade
After the 1863 Battle of Chancellorsville, Kelly was given command of the Irish Brigade. This happened after Brig. Gen. Thomas Francis Meagher resigned.
Kelly led the brigade, which had fewer than 600 men, into a fierce attack. This was at the Wheatfield during the Battle of Gettysburg. The brigade fought bravely but lost 198 out of 532 soldiers. This was about 37% of their fighting force.
Final Battle and Legacy
Later, as more senior officers returned, Kelly went back to commanding his own regiment. However, when Colonel Richard Byrnes died at the Battle of Cold Harbor in 1864, Kelly again took command of the brigade.
Patrick Kelly was 42 years old when he died during the Siege of Petersburg. He was shot in the head while leading the Irish Brigade against Confederate defenses. His body was brought back to New York for his funeral. He was buried at First Calvary Cemetery in Woodside, New York.
