"The Fighting 69th" 69th New York State Volunteer Infantry: The Most Famous Irish Regiment

Hadn't heard that one before, Pat...thanks for sharing :smile:
It is an example of a song that is essentially a news report. Here are the lyrics:

On the 21st of July, beneath a burning sun,
McDowell met the Southern troops in battle at Bull Run.
Above the Union vanguard, was proudly to be seen
Beside the starry banner, old Erin´s flag of green.

Col. Corcoran led the 69th on that eventful day,
I wish the Prince of Wales were there to see him in the fray.
His charge upon the batteries was a most glorious scene,
With gallant New York firemen and the boys that wear the green.

In the hottest of the fire, there rode along the line
A captain of the Zouave band, crying, "Now, boys, is your time."
Ah, who so boldy rides with the bold and dauntless men?
´Tis Thomas Francus Meagher of Erin´s isle of green.

The colors of the 69th, I say it without shame,
Were taken in the struggle to swell the victor´s fame;
But Farnham´s dashing Zouaves, that run with the machine,
Retook them in a moment, with the boys that wore the green.
Being overpowered by numbers, our troops were forced to flee.
The Southern black horse cavalry on them charged furiously,
But in that hour of peril, the flying mass to screen,
Stood the gallant New York firemen with the boys that
wore the green.

Oh, the boys of the 69th, they are a gallant band,
Bolder never drew a sword for their adopted land.
Amongst the fallen heroes, a braver had not been
Than you, lamented Haggerty, of Erin´s isle of green.

Farewell, my gallant countrymen who fell that fatal day.
Farewell, ye noble firemen, now mouldering in the clay.
While blooms the leafy shamrock, whilst runs the old machine.
Your deeds will live bold Red Shirts and boys that wore the green.
 
New bust of Irish Brigade founder Thomas Meagher:

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I enjoyed both of these videos Pat, but I have to say while the first was entertaining visually, the second actually told the story more meaningfully for me. I often find visuals distracting, even in current music videos and prefer to just see a performer in front of a microphone - bottom line - keep it simple for me! That way I will actually hear what the song is about...unless, of course, it's rubbish (and therefore requires distracting visuals)! There's plenty of that around, too :smile:
 
I enjoyed both of these videos Pat, but I have to say while the first was entertaining visually, the second actually told the story more meaningfully for me. I often find visuals distracting, even in current music videos and prefer to just see a performer in front of a microphone - bottom line - keep it simple for me! That way I will actually hear what the song is about...unless, of course, it's rubbish (and therefore requires distracting visuals)! There's plenty of that around, too :smile:
The first was made by someone other than the musician, I think.
 
Color Guard of the 69th NYVI in Dec. 2018 at the anniversary ceremony of the Battle of Fredericksburg at Calvary Cemetery, Queens, NY.
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I have researched the Irish Brigade for 34 years. Please contact me at [email protected] for attachments. I am new to CivilWarTalk, and am trying to find Irish Brigade things. I can't attach files here, I think they are too big.
 
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