Michael J. Coffey

Michael J.Coffey
Member of the New York State Senate
In office
1894–1901
President Of The Brooklyn Board Of Alderman
In office
1892–1893
Member Of The Brooklyn Board Of Alderman
In office
1892–1894
In office
1868–1874
Member of the New York State Assembly
In office
1874–1892
Personal details
Born 1839
County Cork, Ireland
Died 1907
Brooklyn, New York City
Political party Democratic
Children 4

Michael J. Coffey was an American politician from New York. Who served in The Navy in the Civil War.As well as serving on the Brooklyn Board of Alderman,The New York State Assembly,and The New York State Senate.

Early Life

His family emigrated to the United States from Ireland when Michael was five, and they settled in Brooklyn. When he was older he worked as a ship carpenter and worked with Ned Harrigan who became an actor.

Civil War

When the American Civil War broke out Michael joined the navy on the Monticello gunboat. Daniel Braine who was in command said that "He was one of the most courageous man he had ever met." He served on the boat until the end of the war.

Political Career

In 1867 Coffey was elected to The Brooklyn Board of Alderman. He served on the board until 1874 to serve in the New York State Assembly. In 1892 he was chosen again to serve on the board of Alderman where he served as President of the board for two years. In 1893 he was elected to the New York State Senate the same year that all other democrats in Kings County where defeated. In 1901 he was accused of "treason" by the establishment and he was expelled he argued a case to the Court Of Appeals and was reinstated. During his time in politics he was rivals with Hugh Mclaughlin who was the boss of the democrat party in kings country. His district was dubbed the name "Coffeyville". He is responsible for the creation of Red Hook's only park the largest plot of the park was purchased in 1892 other parcels where purchased in 1907 and 1943. The park gained the name "Coffey Park".

Late Life

After he left office he returned to his work as a ship carpenter. He developed cancer and died on March 22, 1907 in Long Island College Hospital after surgical complications.

Sources

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