Corporal Patrick Shea

Patrick Shea was born in County Carlow, Ireland in 1830.  After immigrating to the United States he settled in Columbus, Ohio and worked as a laborer.  Shea married Bridget Rourke on October 6, 1852 and they would have two children, Ann born in 1860 and Michael born in 1861.  On January 14, 1862 Shea enlisted in the army and was appointed a corporal in Company F of the 61^st.  On January 5, 1864 Shea reenlisted and at that time he was described as being 5’6 with grey eyes, light hair and fair complexion.  Receiving a veteran’s furlough for reenlisting, Shea arrived at Columbus on April 1.  On April 12, 1864 Shea died at his home due to inflammation of the lymphatic glands, believed to have been contracted during the Knoxville Campaign the previous November and December.