With the affects of the disaster of the Potato Famine still in their minds,
large numbers of the Irish began a massive migration to America.
Many arrived at the Port of New York only to be pressed into military service.
A war not of their making.
The renowned 69th New York State Volunteers,
“The Fighting Irish” formed from the streets of New York
and served with great distinction throughout the war
from the first skirmishes to Appomattox.
http://www.la-irishfair.com/2007/Entertainment.htm