Please join me at 7 pm on October 7 at Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro, 3905 N. Lincoln Ave., to commemorate the launch of the audiobook production of “Mrs. O’Leary.” The date is significant: one day before the 155th anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire. No price for admission other than your fellowship. Meet some of the voice actors, listen to scenes from the book, get a drink from the cash bar, and set it on a coaster designed by my brother. Also: Take home a teensy weeny fire extinguisher key chain with your donation to the Chicago Fire Department Foundation.
“Mrs. O’Leary” is a story that supports the Chicago City Council’s position in 1997 that Catherine O’Leary (and her cow) did not start the fire.
It explores how cancel culture existed in the late 1800s as O’Leary was blamed in both the media and literature (such as postcards and leaflets – the original social media). We can still remember how kids were taught the kicking-cow story in school back in the day. The plot features details from the investigation by the Chicago Board of Police and Fire Commissioners and subsequent newspaper coverage that blamed O’Leary.
Outside of official records and my research, the story takes some liberties as a work of historical fiction about O’Leary – who never granted any interviews about the event – and her experiences in her neighborhood and malignment within the Irish community. O’Leary is voiced by local actress Barbara Figgins. The story imagines her as a feisty, funny and flawed person: a businesswoman who radiates vulnerability and strength; a heroine whose side we are on.
Hope to see you there!
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