Kerry Archaeological and Historical Society, c/o Hon Secretary, County Library,
Moyderwell, Tralee, Co. Kerry.
The Society publishes an annual Journal, of great use to those researching
Co. Kerry ancestors. The Society also organises lectures and field trips.
James Patrick Donahue - Donohue? came from Ireland (Co. Kerry) or County Cork with family to New York about 1847 - 1848. Joined the Navy - he was about 17 years old. During Civil War was stationed at Brooklyn Naval Yard. Wanted to get in actual fighting so deserted and joined up with Minnesota Volunteer Unit. Changed spelling of name to Donahue because he was being hunted by the Navy. He didn't like Minnesota Unit so he crossed the road and joined up with the Illinois Unit. Showed up in New Orleans after Civil War and moved to Plymouth Minnesota, which is just a few miles from downtown Minneapolis
1870 census shows His occupation as Lumberman.
In 1873 he bought 80 acres of land in Plymouth, Township (Minnesota) He lived in Plymouth Township with his wife and children (Mary, Michael, John and William) - He farmed there.
No I have never visited Ireland, however my grandfather (Michael Donahue who was Married to Margaret (Riley) Geiser visited Ireland several times in the late 1890's and early - 1900's - before he passed away in 1920. He toured Ireland by bicycle.
He had two sons Vincent George Donahue - (my father) born February 15, 1906 - 1966) and Sylvester Richard Donahue - born 1913.
Mary (Donahue) Davis
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