Description

The 10th Tennessee fought at Fort Donelson with antiquated muskets first used by state militia in the War of 1812.

They, too, fought for the Cause. America’s Irish community – like so many other Americans – was divided by the War Between the States. Less known, but no less fervent in their patriotism, were Southern Irishmen – who promptly took up arms in defense of the South and Southern Independence.

Most prominent among Irish Confederate commanders was General Patrick R. Cleburne, and among the best-known Irish Confederates were the troops of the 10th Tennessee, CSA. Outfitted in new uniforms trimmed in red and equipped with British Tower muskets from the War of 1812, they endured a regimental baptism of fire during the Fort Donelson Campaign of 1862.