Charles G. Halpine

Halpine, Charles G., Major, an author, better known by the pseudonym of "Miles O'Reilly," was born at Oldcastle, in the County of Meath, November 1829. His father, a clergyman, a scholar, and an author, was at the time of his birth editor of the Dublin Evening Mail, Having passed through Trinity College, when but eighteen he emigrated to America, and was engaged on the press in New York and Boston until April 1861, when he volunteered in the Union army and rose to the grade of major in the regular service. He resigned in 1864, and became editor of the Citizen, supported Mr. Lincoln's second candidature, and was appointed Register of the County of New York. He died from an overdose of chloroform, 3rd August 1868, aged 38. While serving in the south he wrote Poems by the Letter H, two volumes of humorous writings under the name of "Private Miles O'Reilly," and a volume of war songs and verses, which became favourites in the army. The New York Times says: "Personally, General Halpine was extremely popular. Fond of society, and overflowing with wit and humour, his presence was ever welcome in the social circle. As a writer he was sprightly, terse, and vigorous. His last poetical production was written on the occasion of the gathering at Jones's Wood, to raise funds for the erection of a monument to the Irish soldiers who fell during the war. It is entitled 'Lines for the Day,' and was recited by the author during the gathering."

Sources

37a. Biographical Dictionary—American Biography: Francis S. Drake. Boston, 1876.

233. Manuscript and Special Information, and Current Periodicals.