SS Cuba Reaches New York Harbour

19 Jan 1871: The SS Cuba arrived to great fanfare at New York Harbour. Aboard were the "Cuba Five", Irish exiles including Jeremiah O'Donovan Rossa, John Devoy, Charles Underwood O'Connell, Henry Mullady and John McClure. The 5 were amongst 33 Irish rebels granted amnesty for crimes against the British crown. But "amnesty" had a catch, as the 5 could not return to the their homeland before natural expiration of their sentences. Most notable were O'Donovan Rossa (2nd from right) of Cork and Devoy (left) of Kildare, who would dedicate their remaining years to the cause of Irish freedom from across the Atlantic. The two would play pivotal roles in the lead up to 1916 and beyond- raising awareness and popular support in North America plus much needed funding. Both would eventually be laid to rest at Glasnevin in recognition of their contributions. Tour Glasnevin Cemetery & Museum (Finglas Road, Dublin 11) to learn more about these and other patriots.