A Long Way from Tipperary: A Journey of Morrisseys, Ryans, Horans, and Agnews to Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Dakota

When Mike Morrissey began researching his family history, he thought he knew exactly what he would find. He had always been under the impression that his great-grandfather had emigrated from Ireland to the United States without other family. Instead, he discovered that his ancestor was one of nine Morrissey family members who, under the guidance of the family patriarch, Timothy, sailed into New York Harbor in 1851.

When Timothy died shortly after arriving, the family had to reconsider their future plan. Their journey would take them to Wisconsin. Building railroads, the family moved west until the railroad line went bankrupt and began to pay their employees with script. The Morrisseys wisely bought land adjacent to the rails. It was when they reached Waukau, WI, that they set down roots, began to farm the land, and built homes to call their own.

For Morrissey, uncovering the history of his newfound family shows him the profound legacy they left to future generations.

At the same time, Morrissey writes about his own life, thematically connecting his experiences with those of many Morrisseys, Agnews, and other ancestors. From the Revolutionary War to the Battle of Guadalcanal, their collected stories are full of valor, perseverance, and strength.