Episode 34: The Catalpa Rescue: The Greatest Prison Escape in Irish History | Marcus Howard

Welcome back to another episode of Craic on the Coast! In Episode 34, Michael Schilling and Greg Shanahan sit down with independent historian and filmmaker Marcus Howard to discuss one of the most extraordinary stories in Irish and Irish-American history—the Catalpa Rescue. Marcus recently released his groundbreaking documentary, The Catalpa Rescue: The Greatest Prison Escape in Irish History, which tells the remarkable story of six Fenian prisoners rescued from Fremantle Prison in Western Australia through an international operation organized by Irish-Americans and led by the whaling ship Catalpa. Check this video out:    • Why the Irish Language Is Making a Comebac...   The conversation explores: ☘️ The Fenian movement ☘️ John Boyle O'Reilly's incredible escape from Australia ☘️ The planning and execution of the Catalpa Rescue ☘️ Captain George Anthony and the role of New Bedford ☘️ Irish-American support for Irish freedom ☘️ How Marcus used AI to help bring history to life ☘️ Why this story deserves a major motion picture We also discuss the legacy of John Boyle O'Reilly, one of the most influential Irish-American voices of the nineteenth century, whose connections to Massachusetts remain strong today. If you enjoy Irish history, Irish-American heritage, revolutionary stories, and untold historical adventures, this is an episode you won't want to miss. To watch Marcus Howard's content and his documentary: ▶️ YouTube:    / @easterrisingstories9729   📩 Have a story to tell or a topic you want us to cover? 📧 Email: [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) 📸 Instagram:   / craiconthecoast   ▶️ YouTube:    / @craiconthecoast   🎧 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who loves Irish history, culture, sports, or heritage storytelling. Craic on the Coast is a podcast dedicated to exploring Irish history, culture, music, community, and the stories that connect Ireland and Irish America — with a special focus on the South Shore of Massachusetts and the wider Irish diaspora. Hosted by Michael Schilling, Greg Shanahan, and Shaun Morgan, Craic on the Coast features conversations with historians, musicians, authors, community leaders, athletes, and cultural figures who bring Ireland's past and present to life. Each episode blends thoughtful discussion, accessible storytelling, and good craic, making history and heritage engaging for both casual listeners and lifelong enthusiasts. Whether we're unpacking pivotal moments in Irish history, highlighting modern cultural connections, preserving local stories, or spotlighting community-driven initiatives, Craic on the Coast is about connection, curiosity, and keeping Irish stories alive. #IrishHistory #CatalpaRescue #JohnBoyleOReilly #IrishAmericanHistory #Fenians #Australia #NewBedford #BostonIrish #AOH #CraicOnTheCoast