John (Johnny) Francis Patterson (1840 - 1889) was an Irish singer, song writer and circus entertainer. He was born in Kilbarron, Feakle, County Clare. Both his parents had died by the time he was three years old and so he was raised by an uncle in Ennis. At the age of 14 he enlisted in the 63rd Regiment of Foot which was based in Limerick at the time. He learned to play various instruments especially piccolo and drums. When a circus came to Limerick he got a part-time job in its band and so bought himself out of the Army. He was soon given a long-term contract and billed as "Th… read more
John (Johnny) Francis Patterson (1840 - 1889) was an Irish singer, song writer and circus entertainer. He was born in Kilbarron, Feakle, County Clare. Both his parents had died by the time he was three years old and so he was raised by an uncle in Ennis. At the age of 14 he enlisted in the 63… read more
John (Johnny) Francis Patterson (1840 - 1889) was an Irish singer, song writer and circus entertainer. He was born in Kilbarron, Feakle, County Clare. Both his parents had died by the time he was three years old and so he was raised by an uncle in Ennis. At the age of 14 he enlisted in the 63rd Regiment of Foot which was based in Limerick at the time. He learned … read more