Francis O’Neill

Francis O’Neill was an influential Irish-American police officer and collector of traditional Irish music, born in 1848. As chief of the Chicago Police Department, he served with integrity and was known for his leadership. Outside of work, he passionately collected and preserved Irish folk tunes, compiling one of the most important early collections of Irish music, which helped preserve and popularize the tradition worldwide. His work bridged law enforcement and cultural heritage, making him a notable figure in both fields.