Gettysburg's Monuments: From Their "EYE'S" Father William Corby
The bronze statue of Father William Corby was dedicated October 29, 1910. It was the work of sculptor Samuel Murray. The statue depicts Corby, on the afternoon of July 2nd, granting the men of Kelly's Irish Brigade absolution. This brigade would then move as part of Caldwell's Division to the fighting in the Wheatfield. In 1861 Father Corby teaching at Notre Dame University would leave this position and join the 88th New York Infantry as Chaplin. He would serve with the Irish Brigade throughout the war. Following the Civil War, he would return to Notre Dame and serve two terms as president. Corby would die December 28, 1897 at the age of 64.
Murray included Corby wearing a stole as well as a frock coat.
This coat would have been of black cloth with flat black buttons.
Father William Corby
Corby blessing the men of the Irish Brigade.
The seriousness of the moment was captured by the sculptor.
Corby looking south-west in the direction of the Peach Orchard.