Michael Clarkson Ryan

Michael Clarkson Ryan (April 23, 1820 – October 23, 1861) was an American attorney, politician, newspaper editor, and a founder of Beta Theta Pi. Ryan also organized and was the colonel of the 50th Ohio Infantry during the American Civil War.

Early life Ryan was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania on April 23, 1820. He was raised in the Roman Catholic faith. While at Miami, he was one of eight founders of Beta Theta Pi fraternity on August 8, 1839. He then attended the Cincinnati Law School where he received an LL.B. in 1842. He received an A.M. From Miami University in 1845. Ryan was prosecuting attorney of Butler County, Ohio from 1848 to 1852. In January 1853, he represented the 3rd Congressional District at the Democratic State Convention. Ryan was a representative to the National Democratic Convention in 1856.

In August 1861, the U.S. War Department authorized Ryan to organize an "Irish Regiment". Ryan played a key role in organizing the 50th Ohio Infantry which only included men of Irish descent. He was appointed by Governor William J. Dennison Jr. to serve as the regiment's Colonel. However, he died before the regiment saw action.

Personal life Ryan was married to Emily Leffler on November 16, 1845, in Butler County, Ohio. He died on October 23, 1861 in Hamilton, Ohio. He was buried in Greenwood Cemetery in Hamilton.