U.S. Corps of Topographical Engineers
James Kearney
Died 10 January, 1862
James Kearney was born in Ireland and immigrated to the United States. He was commissioned from the District of Columbia as a 3rd Lt., in the 5th Infantry, on 11 Apr 1813 followed by promotions to 2nd Lt., 1 June 1814; 1st Lt 13 Aug. 1814; Capt, Assistant Topographical Engineer, 12 Apr. 1813; and was honorably discharged, 15 June 1815. He was reinstated as Major, Topographical Engineers, 29 Apr 1816; promoted to Brevet Lt. Col., Topographical Engineers, 29 Apr 1826 for 10 years faithful service in one grade; and Lt. Col., Topographical Engineers, 7 July 1838.
His brother, Dr. John Kearney, a surgeon for the US Navy, was an early member of James Hoban's Washington Artillery. This was one of Washington City's first volunteer militia companies and was largely Irish. James Kearney helped Hoban organize the Union Fire Company in 1808 and afterward served as secretary of the Sons of Erin. He retired from the Army 9 Sept 1861 and died 10 Jan 1862 in Washington D.C.
from Heitman, Francis B., 1903, Historical Register and Dictionary of the United States Army. William W. Warner, 1994, At Peace with all their Neighbors.