Oral History Interview with Michael W. Deery, April 19, 2012 Page: 3

                                
Mr. Deery
My father and my uncle were both born in Ireland and their father had taught them to be horse shoers
(farriers), so my father had a job throughout the Depression. It wasn't much money. I think he was
making about $25 a week and he shod horses for a boat company, Sheffield Farms. My mother was
able to buy a house with that money. Houses were pretty cheap then.
Mr. Misenhimer
When did they come to the United States from Ireland?
Mr. Deery
My father, I believe, came in 1911 and my mother came in 1921.
Mr. Misenhimer
Were they married in Ireland, or did they marry after they got over here?
Mr. Deery
They were married here. They got married in Brooklyn, New York. In fact, they were married in a
church on Coney Island.
Mr. Misenhimer
How old was your father when he came to this country.
Mr. Deery
I think he was in his 30s, maybe around 35.
Mr. Misenhimer
Did he get his American citizenship?
Mr. Deery

Yes, he was an American citizen.
Mr. Misenhimer
Do you know when he got that?
Mr. Deery
No I don't. I know that he was the only Democrat in the house. (laugh)

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