Born in Killarney, Ireland, July 9, 1836. His parents emigrated to this country when he was quite young, locating in Massachusetts, where he was reared and educated. He was always of an adventurous disposition. While yet a boy he joined Gen. Walker in his conquest of Nicaragua. In 1856 he came to Iowa, remaining until 1857, when he removed to Faribault, Minn. In 1859 he was married to Miss Bridget Cavanaugh, of that town. In 1862 he raised a company for the 8th Minnesota Infantry, then was transferred to the 10th regiment, Minnesota Infantry Volunteers. He went south in 1863, and served chiefly under Gens. Scofield and Rosecrans. After the war he returned to Faribault, and engaged in the milling business with his brother-in-law, Capt. D. Cavanaugh, under the firm name of D. F. McCarthy and Co. In 1871 he moved to St. Ansgar and bought the water power and flouring mill, which he improved immediately, and was actively engaged in that business in connection with the grain trade. In 1880 he bought the woolen factory at Waterloo, and engaged also in the manufacture of woolen goods. In 1882, the adventure not proving profitable, he disposed of the property. In 1885 he was elected to the legislature from Mitchell county. In 1887 he became deputy state auditor, and in 1893 he was appointed state bank examiner.