A Self-Made Man

Born at the start of the Irish Potato Famine in 1845, Michael Hart was destined for a life of struggle. At age sixteen, Michael traveled from his home in the small village of Modeligo, Ireland to seek opportunity in the expansion of the United States.

After his arrival at Ellis Island in 1861, Michael homesteaded the flatland of Kansas. The land he originally claimed in 1862 was unsuitable for farming so he slept in a dugout on the property until he could obtain the rights to better land near Delphos, Kansas. He lived in that hole of the ground for two years. His heart was driven by perseverance and the hope for something greater. His favorite expression was "Don't dupe any man & don't let any man dupe you."

Sadly, Michael Hart never spoke to any of his family in Ireland again.

Hart Farm Founders, left to right: Mamie (sister-in-law), Mary Eliza Hart (Michael's wife), Nellie (sister-in-law), and Michael Hart

The man pictured on the right is Michael Hart, my great-great-grandfather.  This photo was taken at the farmhouse he built for his family in the 1860's, which has served as another home to every Hart descendant since its establishment. Every generation has memories of growing up here. Throughout the different points in our lives, it was inevitable that at some point after a few years had passed the Hart family would all wind up together again on the farm. 

2004 Reunion, left to right: 11-year-old me, Aunt Ilene (keeper of the farm and family matriarch), my mom, and my brother.

I mention Michael Hart because his story has always inspired me and made me proud to be of Irish-American heritage. He is one of the reasons why I am making this endeavor. I hope to learn more about his past and the roots he set free.