"Apparition"
The New York Irish Brigade Monument
at Gettysburg
By William Brock
Image Size 10 7/8" x 16 1/2"
The Irish Brigade monument at Gettysburg stands
as a magnificent reminder that Irish emigrants have fought and died in America's
wars, with courage and honor, throughout our history. Many believe that
this polished granite and inset bronze monument, dedicated to the three
New York regiments of the brigade, is the most beautiful on the field. Upon
the Celtic Cross, representing faith and devotion, is engraved the 2nd Army
Corp trefoil symbol, the three regiment numbers, the state seal of New York,
and the Irish harp. At the base of the cross lies the sadly posed Irish
Wolfhound, forever mourning his fallen master. "Apparition" depicts
that reunion, that never occurred for many brave soldiers of the Irish Brigade.
The artist, William (Will) Hudson Brock, Jr. was
born June 10, 1914 in Leesburg, Virginia. He currently resides with his
wife Catherine, in Pasadena, Maryland. Will's first love is wood carving,
which has been his hobby for 25 years. He has appeared on local television
with his carvings and was recently published in "Wild Fowl Carvings
& Collecting." He also paints with acrylics, water color, colored
pencils and charcoal. Will graciously agreed to create this work of art,
for the Union Irish Brigade at Gettysburg, but he would be the first to
tell you that as a Virginian, his heart is still in "Dixie". |