Br. Kilian Beirne

Brother Kilian (Joseph) Beirne, C.S.C. (Congregatio a Sancta Cruce), was a Holy Cross Brother and author, born in 1896 in Cornacranaghy, Drumshanbo, County Leitrim, Ireland. He is best remembered for his 1969 memoir, Me Grandfather: A Graphic Picture of Rural Ireland, which offers a vivid portrayal of his childhood experiences in rural Ireland. The book blends biography and reminiscence, capturing the essence of Irish rural life in the early 20th century.​

Brother Kilian entered the Brothers of Holy Cross in May 1915 and was professed in 1921. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame and went on to teach English and mathematics in the Brothers’ schools. His first assignment was at Catholic Central High School in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He was known not only as a dedicated teacher but also as a gifted storyteller and speaker, earning a warm reputation among his peers and students. Brother Kilian served at Holy Trinity High School in Chicago between 1935 and 1937, before going to Valatie, New York, to teach at the Brothers’ Juniorate from 1939 to 1942.

By February 1950, Brother Kilian had accumulated a wide teaching experience when he was appointed Superior of the Brothers’ Juniorate in Valatie, New York. This appointment, announced by Brother Ephrem O’Dwyer, C.S.C., Provincial of the Brothers of Holy Cross, recognized his leadership and deep familiarity with the Juniorate, where he had taught previously. He was then serving at Gilmour Academy in Gates Mills, Ohio, and welcomed the chance to return to the scenic Catskill region.

Brother Kilian was a guest lecturer for a summer course in Community history at Holy Cross Junior College in Indiana in July 1968. He spoke about the history of the C.S.C. Brothers in the United States, drawing on decades of personal experience and historical knowledge.

In addition to Me Grandfather, he authored White Birch Abbey: A Characterization of Life at the Abbey and From Sea to Shining Sea: The Holy Cross Brothers in the United States, further testifying to his literary gifts and interest in both religious and cultural history. His works provide valuable insights to those interested in Irish heritage, Catholic education, and religious life in 20th-century America.

Brother Kilian Beirne passed away on 26 March 1978 in Connecticut, U.S.A., leaving behind a legacy as a teacher, author, and chronicler of Irish and Holy Cross life.