For three years a mysterious potato blight devastated Ireland’s clacháns, townlands, and cities. Nearly a million died. Was it the prospect of starvation, the snows of Black ’47, or the fear of typhus that made the Bodkins leave? Or was it the dream of America’s freedom and opportunity that drove the family from Galway onto an Irish coffin ship known as Cushlamachree? Their destination was Brooklyn. An unimaginable hurdle confronted the seven young Bodkin siblings, only days after docking in New York. Would the “fever” get them, too? But they managed to survive into adulthood as they were led by their two oldest brothers—Dominic and Martin. Dominic—a fledgling surgeon on the Alabama battlefields of Spanish Fort and Fort Blakely—spends thirty-five years delivering and caring for thousands of Brooklyn babies. Martin—a Civil War veteran, and later an ironmonger with his own shop—ultimately is the progenitor of a large family of New York Bodkins. Briarhill to Brooklyn, is a novel, grounded in facts, in which Jack Bodkin tells the story of his Irish Catholic family’s 1848 migration from County Galway, Ireland, to Brooklyn, New York, in the era of the Irish Potato Famine.
✔ Author(s): Jack Bodkin
✔ Title: Briarhill to Brooklyn: An Irish Family's Journey to Freedom and Opportunity
✔ Rating : 4.3 out of 5 base on (2106 reviews)
✔ ISBN-10: 1736378708
✔ Language: English
✔ Format ebook: PDF, EPUB, Kindle, Audio, HTML and MOBI
✔ Device compatibles: Android, iOS, PC and Amazon Kindle
Readers' opinions about Briarhill to Brooklyn by Jack Bodkin
Sharman Banks
Explore the complexities of human relationships in this beautifully crafted novel. The author's nuanced writing and rich character development make for an engaging read. Each storyline intertwines seamlessly, creating a tapestry of interconnected lives. The emotional depth and realistic portrayal of life's challenges resonate deeply. It's a book that stays with you long after you've finished reading. Perfect for fans of literary fiction.
Aubrie Todd
Experience the inspiring journey of an individual overcoming incredible odds in this powerful memoir. The author's candid and heartfelt writing brings their story to life. Each chapter reveals the resilience and strength of the human spirit. The narrative is both informative and deeply moving, offering valuable life lessons. It's a story that motivates and inspires, making it a must-read. Perfect for those seeking inspiration and personal growth.
Louise Russell
Explore the transformative power of travel and adventure in this inspiring memoir. The author's vivid descriptions and engaging writing make you feel like you're right there with them. Each chapter offers new insights into different cultures and landscapes. The narrative is both informative and deeply personal, sharing the highs and lows of the journey. It's a story that inspires wanderlust and personal growth. Perfect for those who love travel stories.
