The Mitchell Family Scandal
Hi, folks. My great-grandmother, Delia Mitchell, was born in Galway in 1866. She emigrated to the U.S. in the mid-1880's. She got a job as a scullery maid to a wealthy family called Rutherford, who lived in New York City on Fifth Avenue.
Delia eventually sent for two of her sisters, Kate and Anne.I think all three girls worked in the same house.Anne fell in love with the butler.He was half black and was said to be "from the islands." That's all I know about him.When the Mitchell family found out, they disowned Anne and cut off all communication with her.She and the butler left New York and went to Philadelphia. They got married (I don't know if they married in New York or Phillie) and had at least one son.
I don't know any more about Anne and her husband and I would like to learn more.They may have living descendants in Philadelphia.If anyone knows anything about this matter, please email me.Thanks.-- Clare Higgins