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.
[2][4] He was appointed the clerk of the U.S. Fund Commission, responsible for distributing surplus revenue to the states.
[4] In February 1860, he was appointed to committee to oversee routes and safety issues related to the Great Miami Railroad on behalf of Hamilton.
[10] Ryan played a key role in organizing the 50th Ohio Infantry which only included men of Irish descent.