Patrick Kelly (Civil War)

Patrick Kelly (1822-1863) was an Irish-American officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Born in County Galway, Ireland, he immigrated to the United States and settled in New York City. Before the war, he was involved in the mercantile business and the militia.

At the outbreak of the Civil War, Kelly helped raise a company of Irish volunteers and was commissioned as a captain in the 69th New York Infantry Regiment, part of the Irish Brigade. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming lieutenant colonel of the 88th New York Infantry in 1861 and colonel of the same regiment in 1862.

Kelly distinguished himself in several major battles, including the Battle of Antietam, where he took command of the Irish Brigade after the death of Brigadier General Thomas Francis Meagher was incorrectly reported. He was also heavily involved in the battles of Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville.

Patrick Kelly was killed in action at the Battle of Gettysburg on July 3, 1863, while leading the Irish Brigade in a charge against Confederate forces during Pickett's Charge. He was initially reported missing, but his body was later recovered and identified. Kelly was praised for his bravery and leadership, and his death was a significant loss for the Union Army and the Irish community. His remains were returned to New York and he was buried at Calvary Cemetery in Queens.