M. C. Daily

Daily, M. C., Chief of Police, City Hall, was born in county Kerry, Ireland, Dec. 10, 1842, and is the son of Martin Dailey and Catharine Horgan, natives of that county. When about eight years of age he came to America with his parents, landing at New York. They settled at Middletown, Conn., and resided there for eight years, where he received his education. In 1858 he came to Peoria. He enlisted in April, 1861, in Co. A, 17th Ill. Vol. Inf. under Captain Norton, and served with his regiment till June 2, 1864, on which date he was mustered out at Springfield, Ill. He took part in the battles of Frederickstown, Mo., Ft. Henry, Ft. Donelson, Pittsburgh Landing, Corinth, Vicksburgh and many others. He married, June 22, 1867, in Peoria, Miss Mary A. Hanlon, a native of this county, and daughter of Timothy Hanlon, by whom he has had three children -- two now alive: Maggie E., Katie, and Martin C. (deceased). He worked at various occupations for some time; kept a saloon for many years. He received the appointment of Chief of Police January 1, 1874, and has since filled that office, except during the years 1876 and 1877, proving himself one of the most vigilant and efficient officers the city has ever had. He owns his residence and lot on Caroline street, and himself and wife are members of the Catholic Church.

from The History of Peoria County, Illinois, Johnson & Co., 1880