Born in Sharon, Massachusetts, Tirrell attended public schools and later studied law at Dartmouth College, graduating in 1866. He served as principal of Peacham Academy in Peacham, Vermont, for one year, and of St. Johnsbury High School for two years.
Tirrell's early life involved public education in Sharon, Massachusetts, followed by higher learning at Dartmouth College to study law, graduating in 1866. He later led educational institutions, including a stint as principal of Peacham Academy and St. Johnsbury High School for two years.