Join us for the digital exhibit opening, The Life of Michael Dougherty, to learn about the items in the Michael Dougherty Collection and explore a life filled with challenges yet also marked by faith, love, and community. 

Michael Dougherty was just a young man and Irish immigrant when he joined the Union Army to fight in the Civil War. Dougherty was captured twice; the first time, he was exchanged, but the second time, he was not so lucky. He was transferred around Pemberton, Libby, and Belle Isle before being sent to Andersonville Prison, where he would remain for the rest of the war. Despite the horrific conditions of Andersonville, Dougherty survived.  

Following his release, Michael Dougherty headed for Bristol. He married Rose McGee and had 12 children, 9 of whom survived into adulthood. He was a Bristol Council Member, a founding member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians in Bristol, a devoted Grand Army of the Republic member, and served on the Bristol Fire Company. Dougherty published his prison diary in 1908 with the help of his son Charles and attended the 50th Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg in 1913 to represent his G.A.R. group despite not having fought at the battle. Dougherty received the Medal of Honor on 23rd January 1897 for his service; however, his time in prison deeply affected his physical and mental health. However, Dougherty’s family remained by his side, and he lived to be 86 years old.  

Registration is required. Secure your spot at grundylibrary.org. 

Questions? Please call the Grundy Library at 215.788.7891. 

About the Author: 

This exhibit was created by archivist Abigail Duffany.