Patrick MacGill facts for kids
Patrick MacGill (born December 24, 1889 – died November 22, 1963) was a well-known Irish writer. He was a journalist, poet, and novelist. People often called him "The Navvy Poet." This was because he worked as a navvy (a laborer who builds roads or canals) before he started writing books.
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About Patrick MacGill
Patrick MacGill was born in a place called Glenties in County Donegal, Ireland. If you visit Glenties today, you can see a statue built to honor him. It stands on the bridge where the main street crosses the river.
Patrick had three daughters: Christine, Patricia, and Sheila. He passed away in Florida, USA, when he was 73 years old. He was buried in Fall River, Massachusetts.
His Time in the Military
During the First World War, Patrick MacGill joined the army. He served with a group called the London Irish Rifles. In October 1915, he was hurt during a big fight called the Battle of Loos.
After his injury, he joined military intelligence. This meant he helped gather important information for the army. He wrote for a special unit called MI 7b from 1916 until the war ended in 1918.
One of his famous books is a novel called Children of the Dead End. It tells a story that is a bit like his own life.
His Lasting Impact
Patrick MacGill's life story has inspired many. In 2008, a special movie was made about him. It was a docu-drama, which means it combined facts with a story. The movie starred Stephen Rea. It was released in Ireland in 2009 and was called Child of the Dead End. Part of the movie was filmed on the Union Canal in Edinburgh.
Every year, a special event is held in Glenties to remember him. It is called the Patrick MacGill Festival. It celebrates his writing and his life.
Books and Music Inspired by MacGill
Patrick MacGill's work continues to inspire artists. An Irish fiddle player named Gráinne Brady created an album in 2019. It was called The Road Across the Hills. This music was made to go along with MacGill's book, Children of the Dead End.
