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Archiver > PALACKAW > 2003-11 > 1068041209


From: "Dick O'Donnell" <>
Subject: [PA-LAC] Civil War Veterans Question
Date: Wed, 05 Nov 2003 09:06:51 -0500
References: <200311050200.hA520dY4011353@lists5.rootsweb.com>
In-Reply-To: <200311050200.hA520dY4011353@lists5.rootsweb.com>


Like many of you, I am trying to nail down when my ancestors first
arrived in the US and ultimately in the Scranton area. Ship Passenger
Lists bearing their names seem to have not survived.

Recently I browsed NARA's Civil War Veterans list and realized that of
all the O'DONNELL men listed for PA service, only four came from
Scranton and two of them matched in name and approximate age with the
men that I am trying to document. If these are the same two persons,
their military service ended in 1864 immediately prior to their first
appearance in the 1865-66 Scranton city Directory. This may not be the
same two individuals but it all seems to fit.

But, it strikes me as odd that they would have gone into the Army more
or less immediately after their arrival unless their sense of adventure
and need for a job put them into uniform. Another thought came to mind.

Does anyone know whether there may have been a program that paid for
ships passage for young Irish lads if they committed to serving in the
Civil War?


Dick


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