The Louth woman and the American Civil War

Incredible story of woman who fought war as a man

DESCRIBED as possibly the greatest character of the American Civil War, “Albert DJ Cashier” was exposed to extreme conditions over three years, survived 40 battles and was one of a small group to survive the Battle of Guntown on June 10, 1864.

A number of officers remarked on his great courage, tenacity, and gallantry. It was Albert who climbed a tree, risking being shot by a sniper, to raise the Union flag after it had been shot down.

Except Private Albert was not Albert, but Jennie Hodgers, born in Clogherhead, Co Louth, in about 1843.

Her parents were Sallie and Patrick Hodgers. Some records state that Jennie could read, but not write, while others claim she was illiterate. She always signed her name with an ‘X’.

She made her way to America as a stowaway, leaving on a fishing boat from Clogherhead to Liverpool and from there to America…

For more, check out this week’s Tuam Herald or log onto our digital edition HERE.