ETA conflict known as the "Battle of Funks-Town" occurred on St. Patrick's Day in 1823 between Irish workers and local residents. Two groups of men converged in the street: Irish turnpike workers and local Funkstown residents. In 1822, Funkstown residents witnessed construction begin on the National Turnpike through Funkstown, along the stretch from Hagerstown to Boonsboro. St. Patrick’s Day 1823 persisted in the minds of Washington County residents long after the turnpike’s completion. The St. Patrick’s Day Battle of Funkstown highlights a moment of contact and conflict between different cultures in 19th century Washington County.

Source: The Herald March 08, 2026 20:10 UTC