This is the story of John Joseph McBride who was born on February 3, 1847 at Sheetland Road in Termonfeckin who, when he was a young man, fled to America to avoid persecution because of his republican activities and embarked on a career as a political activist that would bring him into contact with five US Presidents and British Prime Minister William Gladstone.

Two friends who are both resident in New York, McBride's great nephew Michael McBride and Kevin J O'Brien are hoping to bring the story of Exile John J McBride to the attention of the world. 

“This man spent his life and a fortune to promote Home Rule and independence for Ireland and this should be recognized and celebrated” they say. Known as Exile McBride, his life's work centred on the struggle for Irish independence and he became a prominent figure in the Home Rule movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Having found refuge in the United States, McBride became a vocal proponent of liberty and justice, not just for Ireland but for oppressed people worldwide. Known for his charismatic leadership and innovative use of photography to promote his cause, he became affectionately known as the "Badgeman of Buffalo" due to his creative production of patriotic memorabilia.

This unique blend of artistry and advocacy, and his unwavering dedication to liberty, cemented his legacy as one of the most influential Irish-American patriots of his era.

His death in 1911 marked the end of a life committed to the pursuit of freedom and justice. Today, he is remembered as a symbol of resilience and hope for Irish sovereignty.

Early Activism and Exile

McBride's activism began in his teenage years in Ireland, where he helped organize a rebellion against British rule. When the British authorities uncovered the plot, he was forced to flee the country, narrowly avoiding imprisonment. Following a brief stay in France, he migrated to the United States, where his passionate dedication to liberty earned him the nickname "Exile."

Advocate for Irish Independence

Settling in Buffalo, New York, McBride became an influential voice in the Irish-American community. He actively campaigned for Home Rule, travelling extensively across the United States and Europe to rally support. Over the course of four decades, McBride organized petition campaigns and collected over 50,000 signatures from prominent figures, including U.S. Presidents Benjamin Harrison, William McKinley, Theodore Roosevelt, and William Howard Taft. These efforts culminated in several personal meetings with British Prime Minister William Gladstone, where McBride presented these petitions to advocate for Ireland's independence.

At the age of 19, McBride joined a group of Union Army veterans in an attempt to invade Canada from Buffalo, New York, as part of a broader effort by the Fenian Brotherhood to pressure Britain into granting Ireland its independence.

The Fenian Raids, though ultimately unsuccessful, were significant in fostering transatlantic solidarity among Irish communities. McBride’s participation in this daring campaign earned him widespread recognition and respect within the Irish-American community. His involvement was frequently mentioned in contemporary newspapers, further bolstering his image as a dedicated patriot and advocate for Irish independence.

McBride also authored and distributed numerous publications supporting the Irish cause, often financing their free distribution at public events. He wrote articles for newspapers and maintained correspondence with key political and religious leaders to sustain momentum for Irish Home Rule.

McBride never married and had no children, dedicating his entire life to activism and the Irish Home Rule movement. His earnings from photography and publishing supported his travels and campaigns, and he often used his personal funds to promote his cause. Known for his humility, he lived modestly despite his wide recognition and influence.

McBride became a beloved figure in the Buffalo community and was often referred to as "Exile" due to his forced departure from Ireland. He was a devout Catholic and maintained friendships with prominent clergy, including Cardinal Gibbons of Baltimore and Archbishop Walsh of Dublin. His unwavering faith provided him with strength and purpose in his mission for Irish independence.

McBride passed away on February 9, 1911, in Buffalo. His funeral was a major event, attended by members of the Irish-American community and local dignitaries. He was laid to rest alongside his mother in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Brockport, New York.

For more information or to connect with the organisers, see https://www.facebook.com/ExileMcBrideRochester