Michael Kennedy - First Responder

People of the Eastland
Written By natalie zett

Michael Kennedy. Irish Immigrant, Chicago Police Officer and Eastland Disaster First Responder. Source: A Family History of the Kennedy Family of Doon, County Limerick, Ireland. March 2009.

Uncovering Eastland Gems in Unexpected Places

Sometimes, the best discoveries happen when you least expect them. I found myself browsing the Books section on FamilySearch.org, not really sure what I was looking for, when I stumbled upon a hidden gem. While searching for any mention of the Eastland Disaster in family histories, I hit the jackpot with a story that hadn’t appeared anywhere else.

The story of Michael Kennedy—a man whose journey from Doon, County Limerick, Ireland, to Chicago was lovingly documented by his family—REALLY stood out. This treasure, tucked away in the Kennedy family’s history, offers a rare glimpse into his life and his connection to the Eastland Disaster. Here’s a look at his story.

Michael’s bio from A Family History of the Kennedy Family of Doon, County Limerick, Ireland. March 2009.

Michael Kennedy’s obituary

Chicago Tribune, April 26, 1935

In this video, we commemorate the 109th anniversary of the Eastland disaster by highlighting the individuals whose stories have been covered in our podcast since November 2023. These untold narratives honor the memory and legacy of those affected by the tragedy. Here is the link to the complete video: https://tinyurl.com/2bps9bvt




natalie zett

I've been a writer, actor, photographer, and musician and have worked as a freelance journalist for magazines and papers since I was in my late teens.

My favorite writing job was working for an award-winning community newspaper in Saint Paul, the Park Bugle.

I’ve also taught others how to write for community newspapers at The Loft Literary Center in Minneapolis, MN. And, during the last few years, I became a family historian.

https://www.flowerintheriver.com
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From Web to River: Tracing Eastland's Digital Footprints