Well Known Canal Boatman Died After Long Illness – Was Native of Ireland
Following an illness of two years duration, during which he had been a very patient sufferer, John Tyrrell died on Wednesday afternoon at his home, 5191/2 W. Thomas street. He was born in County Kings, Ireland 65 years ago and came to this country when he was 15 years old, settling at Irish Ridge, near Higginsville. He was engaged in boating on the Erie Canal for about 30 years and was one of the best known men i n that business. About 11 years ago he moved to this city and had since made his home here. Mr. Tyrrell was married to Miss Norah Kennedy in Oneida 43 years ago. He was a member of St. Peter’s Church and the Holy Name society connected therewith. In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons and two daughters, Thomas Tyrrell of this city, John of Indianapolis, Ind., Mrs. Carl Schuler and Mrs. Albert Schuler of Rome. He also leaves three brothers, Edward of Oneida, William and Walter of Irish Ridge.
Mr. Tyrrell had at least one very exciting experience in his career as a boatman on the Erie Canal, This consisted of a fast ride through a break in the canal bank. In May, 1871, he was the owner and captain of the Barney Bird, named after the Father of James E. Bird Sr., 305 Kossuth street. The boat was on the 17 mile level, at a point near the Ox Bow, two miles west of Fairport, when a big break occurred. This break was known as the Ox Bow break. A section of the canal bank 300 feet long and 75 feet deep went out. The Barney Bird was caught in the current and the men were unable to get a line fastened to stop its progress. The driver of the team saw that the boat could not be stopped and when it reached the break he unfastened the tow line. The craft went through the break and stopped on a knoll about one mile from the canal. Edward Tyrrell, a brother of the deceased, was steering the boat at the time. The break occurred about 11 o’clock at night. The boat was never placed back in the canal. The insurance company paid the owner for it and it was abandoned. Thousands of dollars worth of damage was done by the water flooding the land.
Eternal rest grant unto him, oh Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.