Captain Michael Hoy was born in Kings County, Ireland in 1834. He came to the United States in 1850 and arrived in St. Anthony in 1855. He was a stone-cutter by trade.
In September of 1862, Captain Hoy enlisted in Company K of the Tenth Minnesota Voluntary Infantry. He was elected Second Lieutenant of his company and served with distinction. He was severely wounded in the Battle of Nashville and was awarded the rank of Captain for his gallantry on the field. After he recovered from his wounds, Captain Hoy returned home to St. Anthony on April 13, 1865 where he remained for the rest of his days.
In the spring of 1867, the name of Michael Hoy first appears in connection with the Police Department of St. Anthony in the role of City Marshal. In addition to fulfilling the duties of City Marshal, Captain Hoy was also a patrol officer on both night and day watch, and he was frequently called upon to act as Deputy Sheriff and Deputy U.S. Marshal. He also acted as City Jailer at the small, stone two-room St. Anthony Jail located on Central Avenue between Fifth and Sixth Streets. He earned a salary of two dollars per day.
In 1873, Captain Hoy served as Chief of Police along with R.W. Hanson for the period of one year.
In addition to his work in the police department, Captain Hoy was one of the city’s first volunteer firefighters. He served as Foreman of the Minnesota Engine Company in the St. Anthony Fire Department. During his career, he also served as the Supervisor of Streets.
Captain Hoy was married to Miss Catherine Quealy, a native of Clair County, Ireland, on October 24, 1860. Together they had twelve children.
Captain Hoy died on March 20, 1895. He is buried at St. Anthony Cemetery at 2729 Central Avenue Northeast, Block 51 Lot 4. Mrs. Catherine Hoy lived until 1926. She is buried by his side at St. Anthony Cemetery.