Many Tales to Tell: A Musical Journey Through Irish Influence in the Civil War

Oneida County History Center to Host“Many Tales to Tell”: A Musical Journey Through Irish Influence in the Civil War

UTICA, NY — Experience “Many Tales to Tell,” a unique musical program exploring the profound impact of Irish music on the American Civil War and its lasting legacy on American traditions. The event will take place on Saturday, May 9, at 2:00 p.m. at Oneida County History Center, and invites the community to a foot-tapping journey through history that connects the past to the present through the universal language of music.

Presented by veteran musician Bill Fahy and featuring talented fiddler Zach Hirst, the program weaves together stories and songs to illustrate how Irish melodies boosted soldier morale and provided a commentary on the hardships of war. Attendees will discover how these rhythms and storytelling styles evolved from campfire tunes into enduring American ballads.

Fahy, a traditional musician with over 30 years of experience, developed this program through extensive research into soldiers’ diaries, letters, and historical newspapers. He is known for his mastery of the guitar, banjo, and mandolin. Joining him is Zach Hirst, a versatile fiddler whose credits include performances with the Syracuse Symphony and regional groups like Craobh Dugan O’Looney.

About the Oneida County History Center:

Located at 1608 Genesee Street, Utica, NY, Oneida County History Center is a private 501(c) (3) not-for-profit educational institution dedicated to preserving the history, heritage, and culture of the Greater Mohawk Valley for present and future generations. Free for History Center members, $5.00 suggested admission for non-members. Please contact the History Center at 315-735-3642 or visit oneidacountyhistory.org for additional information.