Encyclopedia Dubuque
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
O'NEILL, John
O'NEILL, John. (County Kerry, Ireland, July 1, 1815--Dubuque, IA, Apr. 19, 1894). O'Neill came to Dubuque prior to the CIVIL WAR and entered the boot and shoe selling business. He attempted to organize an Irish regiment to fight for the Union, but was unable to raise enough troops. Those he encouraged were joined to other regiments. He did assist in drilling troops quartered at CAMP FRANKLIN.
He was a founder of the DUBUQUE CATHOLIC BENEVOLENT SOCIETY and the local Irish League. In 1889 he was elected to the first of several terms on the city council and also served as deputy marshal.
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Source:
1. "Colonel John O'Neill Dead," Dubuque Daily Herald, April 20, 1894, p. 4. Online: https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=_OG5zn83XeQC&dat=18940420&printsec=frontpage&hl=en