James Murrary (before 1840/47 – after 1890) Sligo Ireland
He was married before 1861/65 to his wife Agnes Maguire. He was from Tawran. He was buried in Aslin Boyce.
Anne Murrary (1861/65 - 1944 or 1951)was born in the railway cottages near Mweelroe and was from Tawran townland and all her people were railway men.Pete Murray from Mweelroe, her brother was meant to be a train driver for the Great Western Railway from Broadstone station, Liffey Junction or Westlinrow. Pete was married to a Toolan and had 15 children. His son Michael lived in the old family home which was a railway cottage. She had one other brother called Michael.Another brother Jack was an inspector or milesman on the railway. Another brother Jimmy Murray was also an engine driver.
The McGills were her friends. She received an American army pension (2 shillings & 1/2 crown) as the next of kin of her son James who was killed in WWI in and was comfortable and the US government paid for her funeral.
Her daughter Mary Anne was born on the 29/9/1898 at Mweelroe, district of Gurteen, Union of Boyle, Co.Sligo, and her father Pat placed his mark on the 12/12/1898 when he registered her birth. Mary Anne was married on the 9th September 1923 to a farmer John Murray of Seefin who was a son of a farmer Michael Murray. They were married by Canon O’Connor in Gurteen church with her sister Maggie as a witness along with Edward Cryan. She spelt her townland name incorrectly as Moydoo. They lived in the Poor Law Union of Boyle in the county of Sligo before emigrating to the US. Her son Billy Murray died in 1999 in California and is survived by a step-daughter and two sons with whom sadly he had little contact in the later years of his life. Billy Murray was married more than once and his first wife was Rita from Germany. He had a college degree and was a reporter for the Navy in WWII before working for CBS TV network.
Her brother John lived at Mweelroe in the 1901 Census on the 22nd April, he lived in the county of Sligo, parliamentary division of South Sligo, Poor Law union of Boyle, District Electoral Division of Cuilmore, Barony of Coolavin, Civil Parish of Kilfree on the Townland of Mweelroe. His house is number 19 on the Ordnance Survey No.44 six-inch map made of stone with a thatch roof and two rooms with two front windows and was classed as a 3rd class house. There was also a cow house. There were six members in his family. All his family were born in Sligo but only fluent in English. All the family were Roman Catholic and he said his age was 33 (born in 1868) while his wife was 30 (born in 1871) implying he was 3 years older than his wife. His eldest daughter was named as Maria aged 4 (born in 1897), James Joseph aged 2 (born in 1899), John William aged 2 months (born in 1901) and his widowed aunt Margaret Queenan aged 80 (born in 1821). Only he and his wife could read and write and his landlord was William McGill. He worked as a labourer on Great Western Railway.
John still lived at Mweelroe in the 1911 Census on the 4th April and his dwelling was marked as number 16. His house now had a thatch roof and two rooms with two front windows and was classed as a 3rd class house. There was also a piggery. There were eight members in his family and his landlord was William McGill. He said his age was 50 (born in 1861) while his wife Maggie was 48 (born in 1863) implying he was 2 years older than his wife. His eldest son was James aged 13 (born in 1898) and was in school along with John aged 12 (born in 1899), Maria aged 15 (born in 1896), Kate aged 10 (born in 1901), Bartley aged 11 (born in 1900) and Agnes aged 9 (born in 1902). All could read or write and were Roman Catholic.
None of his children had died in childhood and both he and his wife were fluent in Irish and English. He said they were married for 19 years implying that they got married in 1892. He worked as a linesman on Great Western Railway. Christy said that he took the last train home from Ballaghdreen when the line was closing and died on the train of a broken heart.
Her son James Peter Tymon emigrated from Boyle in Ireland and boarded the Baltic ship sailing from Queenstown (later Cobh) in Cork and arrived to Ellis Island, New York on the 4th May 1912, aged 18. He joined the 77th Infantry Division of the US Army in New York city with service number 1707371 on 19th September 1917 and arrived in France in May 1918. He started fighting in June 1918 and was killed in action in France in World War I on the 30th August 1918. He died from his wounds at the 307th field hospital. The US Army awarded him the Purple Heart medal. His father had died the previous week.
Your grand uncle undoubtedly saw action in and was killed during the Oise-Aisne Battle. The 77th relieved the 4th Division west of Fismes on the Vesle River on the 4th of August, "advancing against stubborn resistance to the Aisne River. The fighting... was very severe, especially at Revillon and Glennes." The 77th action in this sector occurred from Aug. 12 until Sept. 15, so your grand uncle was killed halfway through. Had he lived, he might very well have become part of the very famous Lost Battalion -- which included the 306th and 308th Regiments, plus Company K of the 307th Regiment -- which held out for days against all odds in the Argonne Forest in October of 1918.
An interesting note: Being from Manhattan, the 77th Division was renowned as one of the most racially mixed divisions in the Army. Its theme song ran thus: "The Jews and the Wops, The Dutch and the Irish cops, They're all in the Army now." By the way, there's a wonderful book out you might want to read, from which I lifted the 77th's theme song. It's called "The Last Days of Innocence: America at War 1917-1918." It's by Meiron and Susie Harris.
The 77th Infantry Division was deactivated as an active Reserve unit in the 1960's at which time two units were formed: the RTU which received the name and division flag and the 77th ARCOM [now the 77th RSC] which got most of the manpower, all of the money and Fort Totten. While the RTU technically is flagged out at Fort Totten, its headquarters actually is Manhattan --- fitting Teddy Roosevelt's description of Mug-Wumps [though both my mug and wump are in Manhattan].
What was her relationship with John, James and Michael Murray in Mweelroe? She is buried at Knockbrack not Kesh and knew Tommy Kings whose mother was Kate Tymon.
GURTEEN
The Village of Gurteen (Gortin - Little Tillage Field), County Sligo, in the Barony of Coolavin is situated in a deep valley and bordered on three sides by the Owenmore River at a distance of half a mile from the village. To the immediate north is the Hill of Keash and the town of Ballymote and beyond the beautiful Benbulbin Mountain may be seen on a clear day.To the west lie the Ox Mountains that creep into County Sligo from County Mayo and beyond the delightful Knocknarea Mountain near Sligo City - the burial place is marked on the top of the mountain of Maeve, former Queen of Connaught.To the east are the Curlew Mountains and the town of Boyle, and to the south the Hill of Largan and beyond, the town of Ballaghaderreen.
Unlike most other villages and towns in Ireland, Gurteen has not grown on the banks of a river but has as its foundation three major factors. First, the coming together of four roads that means easy access to Ballymote and Sligo, Ballaghaderreen, Tubbercurry and Boyle. Second, the building of a Creamery after a spring well had been discovered at Gurteen Cross. Third, the union of the Parish of Kilfree and Killaraght, and the building of a church in Gurteen as a result of that union.
Gurteen, then, can be said to be the offspring of a marriage between Kilfree, half Barony of Coolavin, and Killaraght, also half Barony of Coolavin. To this day the parish is known as the parish of Kilfree and Killaraght. In Samuel Lewis's Topographical Dictionary of Ireland, dated 1837, there is a description given for both Kilfree and Killaraght:
Kilfree a Parish in the half Barony of Coolavin County Sligo and Province of Connaught, 9 miles from Boyle, on the road from that town to Ballina, containing 5,103 inhabitants. The soil is good, the land principally in tillage, and there is an abundance of turf and limestone. It is a Constabulary Police Station, and a Manorial Court is held occasionally. The principal seats are Kilfree, the residence of E. Costello, Esq., Mount Irwin, of W. T. Sherlock, Esq., and Red Hill, of A. Baker, Esq. It is a Vicarage in the Diocese of Achonry, forming part of the Union of Killaraght, The Rectory is impropriate in Viscount Lorton, and the Tithes amount to £287.0.8d, which is equally divided between the Impropriator and the Vicar. The Church is a plain building with a square tower, erected in 1826, for which the late Board of First Fruits granted a loan of £600. In the Roman Catholic Division, it is the head of a Union or District called Gurteen, which comprises this Parish and Killaraght and has a large Chapel in Gurteen, built in 1826, and one in Killaraght. About 50 children are educated in a public school and 260 in eight private schools. O’Gara erected a Friary at Knockmore in the 14th century, it is now derelict, but it is still a favourite burial place. Here are the ruins of Gara Castle, the residence of that O'Gara, who had the Psalter of Ballymote written, and whose descendant, Colonel O'Gara, left Ireland after the Battle of Aughrim, having forfeited his possessions, and entered the Austrian service. Killaraght, a Parish, in the half Barony of Coolavin, County of Sligo, and Province of Connaught, 4 miles southwest from Boyle, on the road from that place to Frenchpark, contains 1,986 inhabitants. This place is said to derive its name from a nunnery founded there by St. Patrick and St. Attracta, sister of St. Coeman who received the veil from him in 470 A.D. It is situated on the southern shore of Lough Gara, and consists chiefly of pastureland. The principal seats are Lisserlough, the residence of Jacob Powell, Esq.; Ardgallan, of Harlow P. Baker, Esq., and Ratarman, of J. Flanagan, Esq. It is a Vicarage in the Diocese of Achonry, episcopally united to those of Kilfree and Kilshalvea; The Rectory is impropriate in Viscount Lorton. The Tithes amount to £150, of which £56.9.32d is payable to the Impropriator, and 93.10.82d to the Vicar. There is a Glebe of 3.5 acres. In the Roman Catholic Divisions it forms part of the Union or District of Gurteen, and has a chapel at Cloonagh. About 90 children are educated in a school that is aided by Lord Lorton. At Templeronan are the ruins of a church, with a burial place attached.
SURVEY OF CONNAUGHT— 1633
The O'Haras and the O'Garas, although they did not attain to sovereignty, have always taken an important and leading part in the affairs and transactions of the County. They were descended from Olliol Olum, King of Munster, of the race of Heber, son of Milesius, and the O'Hara family claim ownership of Leyney since the third century. It is stated that "From Aengus Fionn are descended the inhabitants of Gregia. At this day Coolavin, a half barony of the County of Sligo near Lough Techet. In the 11th century his descendants assumed the family name of O'FINN."
It contains 25,473 acres 0 roods and 28 perches with 3,707 acres, which are covered by water, and comprises three parishes, Kilcolman, Kilfree and Killaraght. The McDermott’s, although they have resided in Coolavin since the family estates in Roscommon were confiscated in the 17th century, their history as Connaught chiefs belongs to the latter century. Kilfree old parish contains 14,016 acres I rood and 33 perches and is divided into 31 townlands.
TOWNLANDS MEANING ACRES ROODS PERCHES
Annaghmore Big marsh or cut out bog 486 2 19
Calteraun Land abounding in hazel 260 0 12
Carrowntemple Church quarter 767 1 25
Chacefield Wood of the herb or edible weed 153 0 2
Cloonanure Land of the yew 240 0 28
Cloonlaheen Half beautiful meadow or lawn 306 2 19
Cloontycarn or Cluntecarn Lawn of the cairns or heap of stones 346 0 33
Cuilmore or Coolemore Great wood 1,934 3 6
Cuilprughlish Wood of the badger cavern 183 2 28
Doon A fort 986 2 35
Gortygaray or Gurtygaru O’Gara’s field 347 2 38
Greyfield ? 264 0 8
Island: Eagle Island ? 0 2 1
Kilfree St.Fraech’s Church 835 0 0
Kilstraghlan or Ragwood Wood of the rags 294 1 16
Knocknahoo Hill of the cave 178 3 34
Knockshammer Hill of the shamrock 228 0 11
Knocknaskeagh Hill of the briars and thorns 309 2 39
Lisbaleely or Lisballile Fort of Healy’s town 267 3 5
Mahanagh Abounding in oak slits 869 1 38
Mount Irwin ? 337 2 10
Moydough or Moyduagh Duach’s plain 181 2 9
Moygara O’Gara’s plain 1,174 2 7
Mullaghroe Red summit 432 3 32
Mweelroe Round mound or bald hill 234 1 1
Rathmadder Fort of the mether 162 2 24
Seefin Finn’s seat or sitting place 195 0 33
Sragh Low lying land 264 3 18
Knockshammer was the place of residence of William Smith, who was Sheriff of County Sligo between 1701 and 1704 and it was spelt Knockrashammer. Killaraght old parish contains 6,901 acres 0 roods and 32 perches and is divided into 33 townlands.
Townlands Meaning Acres Roods Perches
Annagh Marsh 71 0 2
Ardgallin Gallin’s height 111 1 20
Ardlona Hill of the blackbirds 127 3 7
Ardmoyle Bald hill 260 1 11
Ardsoreen Hill of the little kiln 419 1 1
Carrownaun ? 78 3 9
Carrowurlain ? 131 2 9
Cashel A stone fort 260 3 13
Clooncunny Lawn of the fire wood 153 2 21
Cloonloogh Lawn of the marsh mallows 431 0 7
Derrinoghran or Derrinaghran Oak wood of the maze 765 1 16
Derrybeg Little oak wood 77 2 9
Emlagh A marsh or land on a lake 85 1 1
Islands in Lough Gara ?
No 1 ? 0 0 8
No 2 Inch Island Island or holm 13 0 21
No 3 Inchbeg Small island 15 2 32
No 4 Inchmore Large island 21 0 7
No 5 Derrymore Large oak wood 33 0 27
No 6 ?
No 7 Derrinatallen Little oak wood of the ? 2 0 9
No 8 ? 0 0 10
Killaraght Church of St. Attracta 683 0 1
Lisgullaun Gallan’s fort 292 1 24
Lissmerraun Ferran’s fort 198 3 11
Lisserlough Fort on the lake 148 2 30
Lomcloon Bone lawn or meadow 348 1 34
Rathermon Fort of the termon or sanctuary 271 0 3
Rathtinaun Senan’s fort 75 1 33
Reask A morass or a fen 297 0 38
Ross ? 273 0 20
Stonepark ? 213 1 11
Tawran ? 68 1 1
SURVEY OF CONNAUGHT - 1633
Moygara: The inheritance of Farrill O'Gara, who setts it to undertenants for £21. It is some parte good arable lande, it hath good shelter and fir wood, and a great scope of mounteyne — 7 days mowing, it will grase 205 cowes and it is worth £21 per annum. There is an old castle upon this quarter.
Cluntecarn: It had some arrable lande and woods for timber. It hath goode turffe 5 days mowing, if it were kept it will grase 80 cowes and it is worth £16.
Lisballile: Good arrable lande, good wood and turffe, 8 days mowing, it will grase 205 cowes, worth £21.
Moyduagh: Good arrable lande, good shelter and good turffe, 6 days mowing, it will grase 80 cowes and worth £16.
Calteraun: Good arrable lande, wood and turffe, 8 days mowing, it will grase 300 cowes and is worth £30.
Coolemore: Good arrable lande, it hath wood and turffe, 8 days mowing, it will grase 300 cowes and is worth £30.
Knocknaskeagh: 6 days mowing, it will grase 40 cowes and is worth £8.
Cappenagh: 10 days mowing, it will grase 200 cowes and is worth £20.
Cloonsillagh: 5 days mowing, it will grase 100 cowes and is worth £18.
Annaghmore: It is worth £4, will grase 25 cowes.
Coolavin, though inferior in extent and value to the other baronial divisions of Sligo, enjoys the distinction of being the first spot in the county to which reference is made in the old annals of the country.
The Four Masters under the year A.M. 2,532 among the earliest entries record what they call the "eruption of Lock Techet", now Lough Gara, a lake that forms the most remarkable feature of the district. Coolavin, in ancient times was called Greagraighe, though Greagraighe was more comprehensive as it took in a considerable stretch of the County Roscommon.
Source: O'Donovan in the Four Masters under the year 811
Doctor Joyce agrees with O'Donovan in holding Coolavin - in Irish, Cuil O'Bh Finn - to mean the angle or corner of the Finns, who were in the past, as they are at present, numerous and respectable in the locality.
Source: O'Rourke - History of Sligo County
When the O'Haras and the O'Garas, who were originally one family, separated from one another, they divided between them the patrimony which was co-extensive with the Diocese of Achonry, the O'Haras taking the northern division, now known as the Barony of Leyney in Sligo, and the O'Garas, the Southern which comprised the Barony of Gallen and the lower half of the Barony of Costello in Mayo. The O'Garas were then commonly styled Lords of Slieve Lugha ((Four Masters 1227/56/57), as ruling over that mountainous territory, but being dispossessed by the Jordans, the Berminghams, the Cuisins and especially the Costellos, and driven from Coolavin, they became known in later times as Lords of Coolavin (Four Masters 1461/69, 1537). The Costellos, who had themselves been ejected by the English Authorities from Meath where they were called De Nangle, usurped the O'Gara lands and took, soon after, the name of MacCostello. In 1633, a Farrell O'Gara in his day possessed all Coolavin except Coillemore, which belonged to Mr. Dodwell, and Knocknaskeagh, which was in the inheritance of O'Connor of Sligo, and if he did not pass on this fine estate to his descendants it was precisely because when the occasion called for it, he sacrificed all to his religion and country.
Another O'Gara was Colonel Oliver who fought an active and influential part on the side of King James in the conflict between the Monarch and the Prince of Orange, and he also fought with distinction at Sligo, The Boyne, Athlone and Limerick. It is recorded that he fell at Athlone but O'Rourke states that this is an error and says that Oliver O'Gara passed to France with his regiment where he died universally respected. (O'Rourke's History of Sligo and County).
Under the acts of settlement and explanation, nearly all Coolavin was granted to John, Lord Kingston and Bryan Magrath. Between the restoration and the revolution, Colonel Irriel O'Farrell possessed large scopes of land in Coolavin as a lessee, apparently of Magrath but whatever interest the O'Farrells had was forfeited by the part Irriel took on the side of James II.
To Lord Kingston was granted, Clonecunny, Lumcloune, Tonemucklagh, Carrowreagh, Fallin, Monasteraden, Cappenagh, Annaghnarrow, Carrowlassan, Moygarrow, Liscornagh, or Killscornagh, Cloonesallagh, Coylestrackland, Clonehalasse Alias Gontnegory Mollroe, Clontecarne, Meaghana and the Woods of Cullaghbeg, Cullaghmore, Carrowbrackane, Skehane Rey or Key and Doneorerance.
To Bryan Magrath were granted part of Monasteraden, part of Tonemucklagh, Rosmadder, Cloonalenghin, Knocknashamer, Knocknehow, Carrowhill, Annaghmore, Downe, Carrownetolor, Carrownea, Sheeroghin or Sheephin.
Source: Abstract of Grants under Acts of Settlement and explanation in Public Records Report
O'Ferral possessed Annaghmore, Annaghbeg, Carrowkill, Carrowmore, Carrowtubber, Clunlugher, Dromkilfree, Knocknahow, Knockneshama, Monasteraden and Rathmadder.
Though the distinguished family of the MacDermots have resided for the most part at Coolavin since confiscation of their hereditary possessions m the 17th century, and had a small estate in fee there since 1616 as it stated in an inquisition taken that year at Rosslee, their history as Connaught Chiefs belongs to the County Roscommon. From MacDerrnott who died in 1159 to Charles MacDermott who died about the middle of the 17th century, they ruled in that county over a territory so extensive that the names of the townlands in the patent of re-grant by James I in 1618 to Bryan MacDermott covers, as John Dalton states, sixteen skins of parchments. –
Source: James I Army lists
During all this time the MacDermotts occupied a position as Chiefs of Moylurg, second to none in the Province making them unmistakably kings of Connaught as well as influencing neighbouring chiefs and furnishing the church with so many bishops and priests that they have an incontestable right to be counted the leading ecclesiastical family in Connaught. O'Rourke, in his history of Sligo and County speaking of some of the more distinguished members of the McDermott family recalls a Myles McDerrnott who died in 1793 and who had distinguished himself throughout Ireland and, of him Anthologia Hibernica in its number January 1793 says: "Died on the 7th January at Coolavin, County Sligo, common called the Prince of Coolavin, a gentleman whose extensive information, easy manners, and hospitable turn of mind proves his noble descent and endeared him to numerous and respectable acquaintance. His son Doctor Hugh was universally respected and associated himself with the Catholic Convention of 1792, 1793. He was also a patriot, the source of Iiberality and knowledge".
Doctor Hugh's son, Mr. Charles McDermott, lived as a country gentleman. This is a further list of townlands in the Barony of Coolavin.
Townlands Meaning Acres Roods Perches
ANNAGHBEG or MONASTERADEN Little marsh or Redan's monastery ? ? ?
CLOGHER A stony place ? ? ?
FALLEENS Little hedges or enclosures ? ? ?
SROOVE A stream ? ? ?
TAWNYMUCKLAGH Field of the piggeries ? ? ?
CLOONEAGH Lawn of the horse ? ? ?
CLOONSILLAGH Lawn of the swallows ? ? ?
GURTEEN A little tillage field ? ? ?
CASHEL A stone fort ? ? ?
CUPPANAGH Abounding in dock leaves ? ? ?
RXU The point or the wood ? ? ?
TURAW Little Tara ? ? ?
KILFREE
In the survey of 1633, the parish has the alias of Clonahiglish while the spot on which the church stands is described as "Kilfree" alias Carntemple, one quarted where old church of Killfroy standeth, one hundred and thirty nine acres. The church of Kilfree is entered in the taxation of 1307 as Kelnafrych that is the Church of the Heath, being so called from the heathery site on which it was erected. Some remains of the church are still standing and near them a spring well called Tober-na-neeve, Well of the Saints, which is supposed to be the source of the Owenmore River. Round the ruin is a graveyard, which was much used and contains the graves of the Costellos.
In the Register of 1704, David Henery, is given as parish priest and that he was then aged about fifty. Owing to the absence of records, a century elapses before we fall in with the name of any of his successors when in 1804 we meet with that of Frank Cunnane who resided in the townland of Kilfree. Father Roger McDermott, of the Coolavin family was parish priest in 1825. Two later parish priests were the brothers Peter and Roger Brennan, the latter died on the 3rd December 1880. The joint incumbencies of the two in the Union covered something more than half a century and, as might be expected in the case of such men under such circumstances, they are laid to rest inside the Church of St. Patrick in Gurteen. It is to Canon Roger Brennan the parish of Kilfree and Killaraght is indebted for the beautiful Gothic Church, the foundation stone of which was laid on Monday, the 21st May, 1866 by Right Reverend Dr. Durcan, Bishop of Achonry, in the presence of many of the clergy and great numbers of the laity of the county who had come to Gurteen for the occasion. In the church today lie the remains of the two brothers in the same grave, and in memory of them stand two beautiful terra cotta statues, one of the Redeemer and the other of the Blessed Virgin Mary on either side of the High Altar.
The beautiful altar rails are a donation of J. Connolly, Esq., J.P. of Sligo. Just to the rear of the High Altar are two magnificent stained glass windows, one to the memory of Father Thomas Finn of Blackpool who was a native of the parish, and the other erected by John McKeon to the memory of his parents. The splendid high altar is a monument to the memory of Canon Lowry, parish priest in Gurteen and who died in 1905 and is laid to rest inside the church.
Two angels standing on two pedestals have graced either side of this altar and were the gift of Mrs. Ellen McManus, Gurteen, who lived next to the church, now Conlon's. These statues are still to be seen but have in recent times been moved to the Blessed Sacrament Altar to the east of the high altar. The two windows at the rear of this altar depict the Blessed Virgin, erected to the memory of Mary Reid, and St. Joseph, erected to the memory of Canon O'Donoghue who succeeded Canon Roger Brennan as parish priest in Gurteen in the Union of Kilfree and Killaraght in 1881.
To the west of the high altar stands the altar of the Sacred Heart and behind this altar is a window donated by the female teachers and children of the parish of Kilfree in stained glass of Saint Brigid and another of St. Patrick. The Stations of the Cross were erected through the generosity of Miss Margaret Lee, Doon, in the parish of Gurteen and presented from the U.S.A. Both Margaret and her sister Belinda were generous donors not only to their native parish but to many others, as well as to the Missions. Both sisters are now deceased and their home is still standing along the roadside between Gurteen and Ballaghaderreen at Doon. Mrs. Muldoon of Cuilmore erected the large statue of Saint Anthony and the one of Saint Teresa of Lisieux to the memory of Father John Casey C.C.
Severe winters and prolonged rain have taken their toll on this church like many others and in the last few decades several repairs have had to be carried out. Among these was the lowering of the ceiling, undertaken by Canon Colleran 1955-1968, as well as the replacement of windows other than those behind the three altars. Once again generous families subscribed and donated a window.
The east wall of the church contains the Joyful Mysteries: The Annunciation donated by Patrick and Ann McDonagh, The Visitation donated by the Lee Family, Doon, The Nativity donated by Mr. Hanley to the memory of his wife, The Presentation donated by Thomas Murray and Mrs. Kate McDonagh, The Finding in the Temple donated by William and Mrs. McGovern The west wall contains the Sorrowful Mysteries: The Agony in the Garden donated by the Needham Family, The Scourging at the Pillar donated by The Leahy Family, The Crowning donated by Thorns Doctor and Mrs. Kilcoyne, The Carrying of the Cross Master donated by Mrs. Maye, The Resurrection donated by Kate and Lizzy Tansey, The Ascension donated by The Spelman Family. During this period of renovation a new pulpit was presented to the parish by Mrs. O'Connell, formerly Miss Hunt of Mount Irwin and later of Bundoran, County Donegal.
Following the recommendations of Vatican II Council (1962-1965), certain changes were necessary in order to comply with the new liturgy as laid down by the Council. This necessitated the re-arranging of the High Altar in such a way as to facilitate the celebrant of the Holy Mass who under the New Rite must now face the congregation. The High Altar in memory of the late Canon Lowry was moved forward and the Blessed Sacrament removed to the side altar. This seemed to necessitate the removal of the glorious marble from around the altar.
The baptismal font was moved from the rear of the church and given a place of prominence near the high altar, as was also recommended by the Council. A decade later several major repairs were to become necessary and in 1979, one year after the installation of Rev. Father Towey as parish priest, began this vital repair and restoration work. The roof needed great attention and the electrical system needed to be re-wired. A new central heating system was installed and new seats were purchased. This together with the repairs needed in the Sacristy, was to be of enormous expense, but once again the people of the entire parish came forward and defrayed the entire expenditure. Each householder was asked to contribute a sum of £75 and all wage earners £30. This amount was collected in five installments. Furthermore, people were encouraged to purchase a new pew at £140 and a most generous donation of £2,000 came from two sisters, Miss Spelman and Mrs. McDonnell of Rathmadder. On the church grounds, a Calvary was erected earlier by Elizabeth Tansey of Rathmadder and contains exquisite white marble statues.
The final result of all this renovation and restoration is that once again, there is in Gurteen, a church to the Almighty, that all Should be proud of. The credit for all this must go to one man, that of the parish priest, Rev. Father Towey, who engineered, coordinated and supervised every detail, was the brains behind the entire project and who gave of his time and experience to the church and to the parish and continues to do so. The people of the entire parish are blessed to have as their leader such a man as Father Patrick Towey. We pray that God may give him many more years in the priestly ministry and as a leader of the people of the parish of Kilfree and Killaraght.
CLERGY NATIVE TO GURTEEN AND DISTRICT
SERVING IN THE MISSION AT HOME OR ABROAD
Most Rev. Thomas Drury Bishop Of Corpus Christi, Texas, U.S.A.
Most Rev. Thomas McGettrick Bishop Of Abakalaki, Africa
Rev. Padraig McGovern Achonry
Rev. John Coleman U.S.A.
Rev. Patrick Kilcoyne Scotland
Rev. Kieran Needham South America
Rev. Paul Surlis Achonry
Rev. Roger McDonagh Wales
Rev. Michael Ryan Scotland
Rev. Gregory Hannan Achonry
Rev. Fergal Shannon Wales
Rev. Francis O'Grady U.S.A.
Rev. John Finn U.S.A.
PARISH PRIESTS OF KILFREE AND KILLARAGHT
Rev. Patrick Towey 1978—
Rev. Canon McVann 1968—1978
Rev. Canon Colleran 1955 – 1968
Rev. Canon Gallagher 1944 – 1955
Rev. Canon O’Connor 1906 – 1944
Rev. Canon Lowry 1905
Rev. Canon O'Donoghue 1881
Rev. Roger Brennan 1880, Died 3rd Dec.
Rev. Peter Brennan 1856
Rev. Roger McDermott 1825
Rev. Frank Cunnane 1804
Rev. David Henery 1704
Priests still on active service:
Rev. Patrick Travers, Rev. Patrick Finan, Rev. Sean Murray, Rev. Eamonn Flanagan, Rev. Patrick Flanagan, Rev. Michael Flanagan.
Curates who served in Gurteen since 1900: Rev. Edward Henry; J. J. McKeon; John Casey; James Shryane; Philip J. Durkin; Michael O'Hara; James McVann; Edward O'Hara; James B. Walshe; M. Walter Casey; James Henry; Patrick O'Leary; John Wims; Martin McManus; Michael J. McLaughlin; Charles J. Doherty; Michael Giblin; Alfie Byrne; Rory O'Brien; Peter Kennedy.
CANON O’CONNOR
Uncle John served mass for the Canon. Over forty years after his death, the name of Canon O'Connor is still a household name in and around the parish of Gurteen. People still speak of him in the streets and in the homes, and recall with admiration and affection his unselfish and dedicated service as a pastor of his flock.
Father O'Connor, as he then was, first arrived in Gurteen in 1905, to attend the funeral service of his predecessor the late Canon Lowry. Miss Bea Pallas recalls that day vividly and remembers attending the funeral herself. "Even that day in Gurteen", she says, "it was common knowledge that the then Father O'Connor was to be the next Parish Priest of Kilfree and Killaraght."
And so Father O'Connor duly arrived to take up his post six months later, and for the next thirty eight years he was to become a true leader of his community and when eventually God called him to his eternal reward in the Spring of 1944, the people of the parish openly mourned a great priest and leader. This was evident from the vast numbers who came to Gurteen on his burial day to pay their last respects to the man they admired and respected. Rarely has the village experienced such a large gathering as on that day. He became the first parish priest of Gurteen to be laid to rest outside the church itself in the church grounds, and to this day many people are seen visiting his grave. Canon O'Connor was a man with a big heart. He loved his people and they m turn reciprocated that love.
He openly expressed his views irrespective of his audience but always in a true Christian fashion. He helped many a poor family in the parish. He moved continuously among his parishioners and as a result he was up to date in the everyday life of his flock. On the 21st July, Commandant Michael Marren was accidentally drowned in Strandhill. After the body had been recovered from the sea twelve days later and buried in Mount Irwin cemetery, Canon O'Connor officiated at the graveside. In his eulogy he said, "…a brave soldier or a more fearless companion of the Irish cause never breathed the breath of life; a man universally beloved by his own people and by everyone within the circle of his acquaintance."
Let us not forget then, the untiring work accomplished by such a zealous parish priest and let us pass on to other generations the tremendous work accomplished while parish priest of Gurteen.
REV. FATHER THOMAS O'KELLY
In a cemetery in Nice in the South of France stands a Celtic Cross with an inscription in both Gaelic and English, and beneath that cross lies the remains of a "County Sligo Scholar Priest" Rev. Father Thomas O'Kelly. Thomas O'Kelly was born at Brisleach, Cloonloo, in the parish of Gurteen, on December 15th, 1879. He was educated at Summerhill College, Sligo and subsequently, at St. Patrick's College, Maynooth. In 1908 he graduated at the Royal University with first class honours in English and modern languages. He subsequently studied ancient and medieval Irish and Welsh. He was ordained to the Priesthood in 1903 and later appointed to the staff of Summerhill College and shortly he was appointed to the Board of Governors of Galway University. Soon he was to become a prolific writer in particular for the revival of the Irish language. He was a regular contributor to the 'Sligo Champion' as well as to many other periodicals and papers. Father O'Kelly was an untiring worker, a man of boundless energy and enthusiasm. In 1924, his health failing him, he was advised to take a holiday in the south of France. He was not, however, to regain his health and in February 1924 he died in the city hospital, Nice, at the early age of forty-five years. His premature demise was widely mourned.
MOYGARA CASTLE
The Castle of Moygara, in which the head of the O'Gara family resided, was a spacious and strong structure of 185 feet square, though not perhaps as solidly built as the neighboring Castle at Ballymote. The remains are still in fair preservation and six square battlemented towers, one at each angle of the square with one in the center of the west wall twenty five feet square plus forty feet high, another in the center of the East wall. The curtains, which are recessed eleven feet from the face of the towers, stands fifteen feet high plus four feet thick and are loopholed all through for the use of firearms.
It was, no doubt, through one of those openings the shot was fired which killed Nial Grave, the son of Manus O’Donnell, in 1538. Having taken the Castle of Sligo and ravaged Moylurg, Manus took the Castle of Moygara as he was returning home, but the capture cost him dear, for as his people were approaching the walls of the fortress, a ball from the interior laid his son dead at his feet. This occurrence exasperated his followers who clamoured for the life of the man that fired the fatal shot, but Manus, with a generosity quite in keeping with his chivalrous character, took this obnoxious person under his special protection and saved him from the fate that threatened him.
(Extract from Four Masters, 1538).
O'Donnell later pardoned him and, we are told, sent him away. In 1581, the Castle was the scene of a still greater tragedy for in that year a body of mercenary Scots in the service and pay of Captain Malby, Governor of Connaught, burned the building, so that, to use the words of the Annals of Loch Ce, Diarmuid Og, son of Cian O'Gara, was put to death and Tiege, the son Rory Et Alii Multi.
(Annals of Loch Ce, A.D. 1581).
It is worth mentioning that in the South Eastern Tower is a Sycamore tree, which the local people say, is the shoot of another on which the O'Gara's used to hang malefactors. The North Western Tower is popularly known in the neighborhood as Teach Na Calliagh Dhu, the house of the nun - probably from some religious, of the family inhabiting it when her convent elsewhere was broken up. There is some truth in the story that the gates leading to this castle 'are placed somewhere in the present Lough Gara which is close by. The claim has neither been proved nor disproved. In the early 1950's as a result of the lake becoming flooded and thereby spreading, the Government drained the Boyle river and there were valuable findings discovered in the lake such as crannogs or small mud dwellings, as well as finds of spears and other items dating from 1000 B.C. All these are now safe in the National Museum in Dublin. If the story regarding the gates to the castle being in the lake and drive to the castle commencing in the lake is true, it would make the castle one of the prettiest in the kingdom.
KILFREE JUNCTION
The railway line which connected Kilfree Junction and Ballaghadereen was built after the main Dublin to Sligo line was extended from Longford in 1862 to Sligo. The Kilfree Junction to Ballaghaderreen branch line was closed in the Spring of 1962 and the line was constructed across that road leading from the lake to the castle. This branch line as well as the road from Monasteraden to Mullaghroe is modern then, when compared to the age of the castle.
MONASTERADEN
We know from our ecclesiastical history that as Saint Patrick traveled west, and after visiting Elphin and Croghan, he came around the north of Lough Gara through the present townlands of Cuppenagh, Templeronan and Dooballa and did in fact spend some time in Killaraght where it is said that he gave the veil to the future Saint Attracta who had settled in this parish. We also hear in later years of Saint Attracta having hospital in the area and to this day we have the well of Saint Attracta close by the old church foundation of Saint Aidan in Monasteraden. This is the ground of the present cemetery in Monasteraden. The well is situated along the road at Clogher. It is enclosed on three sides and sculptured on a limestone flag is the figure of Christ as he hung on the cross. The Feast of Saint Attracta is celebrated throughout the diocese of Achonry on the 11th August. In the same townland and within the McDermott demesne stands a fine example of the Cashel which may be the Rathclochair mentioned by the Four Masters, A.M. 4328. Not far away from the ruins of Aidan's Monastery stands the present church, one of the prettiest in the County Sligo. The high altar was presented by Thomas McDermott and was erected by Father Denis O'Hara. The builder was James McDonagh, Ballisadare. Monasteraden has its name from a religious house founded by Aidan, (Four Masters, Record 557).
On the roadside between Monasteraden Church and Moygara Castle stands monument erected in 1956 by Muintir Na Tire to the memory of two men who lost their lives on this very spot. Reading the inscription we find that the day this fatal shooting occurred was the 2nd April 1881, but according to the historian O'Rourke the date was the 22nd March 1880. Whatever the date, the conflict occurred between two countrymen named Corcoran and Flannery on the one side and Sergeant Armstrong on the other, they lost their lives in mutual conflict. This was the period in our history of mass eviction of people from their homes under foreign rule. This is precisely what was at stake on this occasion when the police were about to evict a family. Corcoran and Flannery were shot dead by the police party in the fields on the edge of the roadway, where two cairns, six or seven feet high and eight feet from one another, now mark the fatal spot.
Constable Hayes, one of the police under the command of the Sergeant was saved, partly by his own presence of mind, and partly, by the heroism of a country girl named Mary Bermingham. After he had fallen grievously wounded to the earth, and the enraged countrymen had already the stones lifted to dispatch him, he cried out, showing his scapular, "Kill me if you will, but bring the priest first". The sight of the scapular arrested for a moment the uplifted arms and moved the pious and heroic girl so strongly that she threw herself on Hayes as he lay helpless on the ground, and covering with her person his head and chest protested, "that they should have to kill her before they could harm him". Such devotedness combined with the sight of the scapular, touched all hearts, and as a result the life of the poor constable was saved. The constable on recovering from his wounds offered Mary Bermingham his hand in marriage and she accepted.
KNOCKMORE
Knockmore in the Townland of Mount Irwin contains the ruins of a church which belonged to a Carmelite Monastery as appears from an inquisition held before Richard Boyle at Ballymote on the 12th Day of January 1793 where it is styled: "Cella Dissoluta fratrum nigrorum vocat Carmelythe Fryars", a dissolved cell of the Black Brothers called Carmelite Friars. After a time it fell into the hands of Richard Boyle himself, who even in official dealings was notorious for minding number one and who by this means blossomed in due time into the "Great Earl of Cork", probably the wealthiest and most powerful man in Ireland in his day.
In the Crown Rental of 1692, "Earl Cork" is entered as tenant of the 'College' or 'Friars' house of Knockmore in Mount Irwin, 3 miles from Gurteen. In the survey of 1632 all the townlands of Kilfree are given as the inheritance of Farrell O'Gara, the son of Thady and the grandson of Irriell O'Gara, except Collemore, Sligo and part of Lady Creasy's dowry. Under the Act of Settlement and Explanation, John, Lord Kingston, was granted on the 9th day of January 1667 nearly all Coolavin, a good part of which passed by him soon after to Dominick French, the ancestor of Lord de Freyne as Assignee.
JAMES HYLAND
Sacred to the memory of James Hyland, an Irishman who labored consistently during his life for the freedom of his country and who suffered many hardships and miseries for the sake of Roisin Dubh. (Inscription on the grave of James Hyland).
James Hyland was born in Kilfree, in the parish of Gurteen in 1836. His father, Patrick Hyland was a small farmer and a tenant on the estate of The McDermott, Prince of Coolavin. From his earliest years, James was a student of history. He attended the local school and later a special school in Ballaghaderreen. He subsequently graduated to the position of Principal of a local school.James Hyland, who was a worthy historian could not turn a deaf ear to the injustices of several centuries in his native country. The Fenian Movement was begun and James was to become its head in the Gurteen area, a position he gladly accepted, even though he was aware that his career as schoolmaster might be jeopardised. The authorities began rounding up all known "Fenian men" in and around the year 1865 and James was tipped off by a Protestant friend and neighbor, James Powell. Shortly afterwards he resigned his headship and went into hiding.
No doubt it was due to his increased activity in the Movement that brought the two Fenian leaders, James Stephens and O'Donovan Rossa to visit Gurteen. In September 1865, James Hyland was arrested at Clogher and charged with illegal training and drill, but soon released on bail and he continued his activities. He was again arrested in February 1866 and held at Sligo Prison. Strong representation was made on his behalf by Charles J. McDermott, J.P. of Coolavin. This petition was also signed by the Reverend M. Finn, the local Parish Priest, and Charles Costello ofKilfree. In 1867 still another petition was signed and forwarded to Dublin to the authorities and this time the names of James Powell and another Protestant neighbor by the name of James Knott of Battlefield. Hyland was released as a result of this petition and on the sureties of Dominick and John Rogers and that he keep the peace for two years. After the Fenian Rising collapsed in March 1867, Hyland left for America and upon his return 10 years later, he became a close friend of Michael Davitt, famous as the Leader of the Land League Movement. James Hyland was no doubt responsible for thecoming to Gurteen in November 1879 for a massive Land League meeting of thefounder himself. This meeting is described elsewhere in this history James Hyland died in November 1905 and was laid to rest in Carntemple Cemetery, close to his home. In 1909 a large monument, in the form of a Celtic Cross was unveiled over his grave, on which occasion John O'Dowd, M.P., himself a Fenian in his youth, paid tribute to the great Fenian leader. James Hyland was a man of conviction, a great Irishman, a worthy Sligoman and a man that Gurteen should be proud to call her own.
THE FIGHT FOR FREEDOM
It is not the intention of the writer to recall in detail the history of the fight for freedom in which the men of Gurteen and District fought so courageously in order that our country may be free and that we, today, may enjoy the freedom that is ours. The struggle was a long and bitter one and it is hoped that some day in the not too distant future, some other author like Michael Farry, far more qualified than myself would, out of love for those men, put pen to paper and give to posterity a full account of those times and events. However, no history of Gurteen would be complete without recalling the memory of those men, however brief. Two men stand out as distinct leaders during this period of our history 1916-1920, namely, Commandant Jim Hunt and Commandant Michael Marren, the former from the 4th or Gurteen Battalion and from the 3rd or Ballymote Battalion.The full list of members was:
Brigadier: Alec McCabe, T.D.
Commandants: James Hunt, Michael Marren.
Vice Commandants: Joseph Finnegan, Patrick Coleman, Thomas Cawley.
Adjutant: Ted McGowan.
Captains: Patrick Hunt, Patrick Higgins, Thomas Brehony, James Dwyer, Thomas McDonagh, Brian Healy, John Finn, J. B. O'Beirne.
Lieutenants: Tom Casey, James Molloy, John Cawley, Patrick Ballytine, Joe McDonagh, James Keegan, Frank McDonagh, Mark Cunningham.
Volunteers: Jack Roddy, Jim McCabe, Tom Kelly, Michael Cawley, Michael Harrington, John McDermott, J. Flynn.
Their daring escapades together began in May 1920 when Marren and his men surprised the Crown Forces occupying the town of Ballymote and set fire to the Courthouse before withdrawing into the surrounding hill. Later that same year they carried out two more adventures. First, they attacked a Constabulary Patrol on the Tubbercurry - Ballymote road and though there were no casualties on either side the ambushers made off with the Constabulary's arms. Soon after this came the Raltra ambush when the Battalion ambushed a group of Black and Tans and Constabulary. This was a more bitter encounter and young Adjutant Tom McDonagh was mortally wounded in the exchanges. All the time Marren, Hunt and their comrades were in great danger. Once Marren paid a visit to his home accompanied by Hunt, as Michael was anxious to see his family. However, an informer had warned the Constabulary of the visit and when the pair entered they found themselves trapped. Marren and Hunt burst out the back door and escaped into the hills. 1921 saw them in action once more. In March the Battalion raided Collooney Barracks where the exchanges were sharp and bitter. Marren himself was wounded in the fighting and Jim Hunt and Jim Molloy also had to receive first aid. But if the fighting was deadly serious, there were amusing incidents also. Once when visiting a volunteer at Cloonkeary, Ballymote, Michael Marren and Jim Hunt were surprised by a pair of Black and Tans. The pair of them had barely time to escape and they were forced to leave their bicycles after them. Not to be outdone, the lads went into Ballymote and "borrowed" two bicycles from the homes of R.I.C. men and in order that the deed would be understood, they left a note explaining. Michael Marren, the gallant hero, so brave in combat, survived the bitter struggle and on the 21st July 1921, the day of the Truce, he took part in the official dismissal of the Battalion.
But fate decided that the hero who battled so gallantly was to die on that Michael and three companions; Jim Molloy, Joe Finnegan and Tadg McGowan, decided to head for Strandhill to relax under the shadow of Benbulbin. Marren himself was a strong swimmer and could not resist the temptation to go for a 'dip' on that hot summer day. In the treacherous currents that are still every bit as dangerous today, His death caused unprecedented grief throughout the community and the County Sligo. His heartbroken mother was looking forward to having her son back at home again for all during the campaign he had been living the life of a rebel, often sleeping in some sheltered spot in the hills and glens. The day of the funeral, young and old, men and women, as well as hundreds of his old colleagues poured into Ballymote. The Mass took place in Ballymote cemetery and afterwards he was brought to the family plot at Knockmore.
Near his grave are the remains of another great soldier, Commandant Eoin Tansey, who was a brave member of the South Sligo Brigade. Eoin was a victim of the flu epidemic of 1918. For many years afterwards, the Marren Marathon was held each year. This was a race from Strandhill to Gurteen via Sligo, Ballisadare, Collooney and Ballymote, a distance of just over 26 miles and the first three winners were J. J. O'Connor (1927), Army A C.; D. J. McKeon, Blackrock, Dublin A.C. (1928) and D. J. McKeon, Dublin (1929).
Land Records
The principal records are the tithe allotment books from the mid 1830’s and the Griffiths rates from the mid 1850’s to 1979. It can be confusing when following the lot numbers because they were renumbered as holdings were consolidated and the population declined. The numbers of interest should be 12,13,14b, 5b and 4b in the Townland of Lisbaleely (Ordnance Survey sheet number 44) for the Coleman/McDermott families. The numbers of interest should be 3 in the Townland of Moydough (Ordnance Survey sheet number 44) for the Timon/Tymon family.
Church records
The church records for births and marriages rarely exist before the famine except in major cities and end at 1900. The state records which start in 1864 for deaths, marriages and births and can be cross-referenced to the 1901 and 1911 census. Gurteen was a sub-parish of Kilfree & Killaraght in Achonry diocese and it is important to remember that there are two sources of parish boundaries. The old boundaries were called civil parishes and became Protestant parishes after the reformation. An interesting aside in relation to the Penal laws is that all dioceses in Ireland have access to the sea. Recent Catholic parishes boundaries generally date from the 1829 Catholic Emancipation Act but were drawn up before the famine and mass emigration and may seem strange in relation to the current distribution of population. This is because the areas that they were centred around were badly hit in relation to infectious diseases that were rampant during the famine. Kilfree & Killaraght baptism records run from 4/5/1873 to 27/11/1889 and the marriage records run from 19/2/1844 to 11/12/1868 with a break and from 22/5/1868 to 20/11/1880. The names or entire entry can be in Latin with Jacob for James, Maria for Mary, Eleanora for Ellen, Anna for Anne, Bryidda for Brigid.
I examined the Killucan & Killumod parish register, Boyle parish register and Kilfree & Killaraght parish register. I already have the Mathew Coleman and Thomas Coleman marriage records of 1848 and 1850 from previous research. I did see the following Colemans in the record but how they match up to what we are after I do not know. These could be children of either Mathew or Thomas Coleman, which children later got married.But as there is no baptisms for pre. 1873 it is impossible to know. In any case all these Colemans come from the Kilfree and Killaraght areas.
Kilfree & Killaraght: Pos. 4227 but I had to look at the negative N. 1368 because part of the postive was missing
Catherine Coleman married Owen Killoran, 18th Feb. 1879 with witnesses,Owen Killoran and Helen McGovern
Philip Coleman married Bridget Murphy, 20th March 1879 with witnesses,Fergal (?) Gara and Honoria Connor
Michael Coleman married Margaret Farrell, 3rd Feb. 1879 with witnesses,William Gady and Bridget Farrell
James Coleman married Bridget Coleman, 8th Feb. 1875 with witnesses,John Keilty (?) and Mary Coleman
Bridget Coleman married John Hunt, 20th Feb. 1873 with witnesses,George Hunt and Mary McDonough
This is the one from 1901 census who was a farmer and shopkeeper with children: Teresa 3, Elly 7, John M. 10, Ann 20, Beesy 16, Oney 14 and Maggie 12. Bridget was dead by 1901 and John Hunt was a widower by 1901. BEASY or BESSY appears to be a shortened version of Bridget?
Margaret Coleman married Patrick Kane, 2nd Feb. 1871 with witnesses, James Coleman and Patrick Spelman
James Coleman married Mary Callaghan, 1st Nov. 1866 with witnesses, Mathew Callaghan and Bridget Taffe
James Coleman married Bridget Jordan, 26th Nov. 1864 with witnesses, Martin and James Jordan
Catherine Coleman married Lucas or Luke Dolan, 28th Jan. 1855 with witnesses, James Tansey and Peter Sheeran. This Luke Dolan probably lived at DOON townland in the 1850s.
Bridget Coleman married Dominick Dolan, 23rd Jan. 1853 with witnesses, Michael McManus and Mary Coleman. This Dominick Dolan probably lived at Knocknashammer townland in the 1850s.
Patrick Coleman married Bridget Murray, 7th Feb. 1850 with witnesses, Patrick Darcy and Winhelmina Murray.
Winhelmina Coleman married John McDermott, 11th Nov. 1850 with witnesses, Hugh McDermott and Catherine "Irwin" (?).
Michael Kane baptised 6th Dec. 1873 the son of Rose Coleman and James Kane, sponsored by Bridget "Lily" (?) and Michael Coleman.
BOYLE RC Parish register Pos. 4607
The only possible John McDermott found so far was in the Boyle parish register Pos. 4607:
John or Johannem McDermott baptised 9th Feb. 1846 the son of Patrick McDermott and Mary or Maria Ryan with godparents Johannem or John Ryan and Ellena Redican.
Patrick McDermot married Maria or Mary Ryan on the 23rd Oct. 1841 with witnesses,"Nicilo" (Nicholas ?) Mulvogue and Catherine Murray.
KILLUCAN(Croghan) parish register Pos. 4606.
This supposedly covers Croghan area in Co. Roscommon but there were no John McDermotts born to a Patrick McDermott anytime between 1839 and 1850s. I will outline what I found here in case it proves helpful but it appears the one found in Boyle is the only one that fits so far.
John McDermott baptised 27th Dec. 1839 the son of Hugh McDermott and Joanna Healy with sponsors Patrick Tansey and Sara Linahan.
"Joanaem" (John) McDermott baptised 26th Dec. 1839 the son of Martin McDermott and Cecilia Brady with sponsors Cornelius McCoy and Mary "Myan"
Hugh McDermott baptised 27th March 1849 the son of Patrick McDermott and Anne "McDermott" with sponsors Patrick Daly and Mary McDermott
Patrick McDermott married Anne McCormack on 27th Jan. 1845 with witnesses,Hugh McDermott and Anna McCormack. This is probably the same couple as Patrick and Anne McDermott.
The only source left that may asisst for pre 1873 Kilfree area are the census returns for those who applied for pensions c. 1916-20. None had a defintie connection to us but you with your superior knowledge of the people and places, may find something of interest.
Cen S/261/100 Application Dated 13/11/1915
James Callaghan and his wife Winnie (Dona) Murray. Their daughter Winnie Callaghan McDonagh of Drumhillock, Gurteen PO via Ballymote applied for a pension. The children located in 1851 census:
Neill Callaghan
Beesy Callaghan
Anne Callaghan
Winnie Callaghan
Townland of Clooneagh, Parish of Kilfree, in 1851.
Cen S/261/62 Application Dated 16/5/1917
Patrick Murray and his wife Margaret Kelly
Their daughter Anne MURRAY now Mrs Ann McCaffrey of 23 Garden street, Rosindale, Mass., USA applied 16/5/1917 and their daughter Mrs Margaret Costello of Carrowreagh, Kesh, Ballymote applied 14/9/1920 (S/261/163). The information found in the 1851 census was that Patrick Murray and Margaret Kelly had the following children and the ages given are those in 1851:
Bartholomew Murray aged 13
Michael Murray aged 11
Patrick Murray aged 7
Bridget Murray aged 3
Margaret Murray
Anne Murray aged 5.
Townland of Clooneagh, Parish of Kilfree.
Patrick Murray seems to have married Margaret Kelly in 1835.
Cen S/261/210 Application Dated 2/10/1917
Bridget Power
c/o Mr. Owen Connor of Ballytore, Co. Kildare.
She was the daughter of Laurence Powell and Margaret McDermott
of Mullaghroe, Parish of Kilfree.
Cen S/261/238 Application Dated 30/10/1916
Michael J.McDermott of Saint Patricks street, Boyle who son of Michael McDermott and Mary Scanlon of Tawran, Parish of Killaraght.
Cen S/26/159 Application Dated 30/11/1915
Batty MURRAY
C/O Mrs Davey of Mullaghroe NS, Boyle
Batty was the daughter of Dominick Murry and Mary Cawley.
The 1851 census shows that they had the following other children:
Patrick 14
Dominick 6
Mary 11
Winnie 9.
No location given for the parents but somewhere in parish of Kilfree.
1911 CENSUS: 9/8 GURTEEN CUILMORE
Hugh McDermott aged 66 and Honor (his wife) married 39 years before 1911. They had 9 children with 9 children alive including:
James McDermott aged 18 son
Nora McDermott aged 16 daughter.
1911 Census
I do not know what the connection is but Dominick Coleman aged 28 appears in the 1911 census Form 6 at Lisbaleely and with him is his mother Bridget Coleman aged 72 and his sister Winnie aged 25. Bridget Coleman widow had been married 43 years before 1911 and she had 9 children with 7 alive in 1911.
1911 Census
The only Flanagans I could find where found at Cuilmore townland.
Winifred Flanagan aged 53 a widow
Bridget her daughter aged 22
Patrick her son aged 20
James her son aged 15
Joseph her son aged 13
Peter her son aged 11.
1911 Census Sligo Townland of Moygara Form 47
Dominick Murray aged 57 and Bridget his wife aged 46 married 15 years before 1911
7 children were born and alive:
John Joseph aged 14
Mary Anne aged 13
Bartly aged 11
Bridget aged 9
Margret aged 7
Dominick aged 5
Kate Agnes aged 3.
I did not go too far into Pos. 4607 Boyle looking for Hugh and Luke. Though Killucan (Croghan) has a few Lucas/Luke and Hugh McDermotts they are all an older generation. I am sure John McDermott was not baptised here in any case. If John McDermott and possibly his family had dealings with Rockingham estate then he would have lived north of and close to Boyle. It would be great if they were in Boyle as this register goes back to 1793 with gaps. It also has death records. I went to the Boyle parish register and did a thorough search but it does not look good. When I searched before I did it in a hurry as I was not positive it was worth searching. There are more John McDermotts then I found before.
Pos. 4607 NLI Boyle RC register
Patrick McDermott married Honora Drury on the 11th Feb. 1836 with witnesses, Michael Higgins and Ann Drury
Their children :
1. Mary McDermott baptised 1st Jan. 1837 with sponsors Patrick McDrury and Margaret McDermott
2. Roger McDermott baptised 2nd Nov. 1838 with sponsors Patrick Brennan and Sarah Drury
3. Patrick McDermott baptised 18th Oct. 1843 with sponsors Michael Ryan and Mary Ward
4. John McDermott baptised 30th Sept. 1846 with sponsors Patrick Regan and Bridget Henery
5. Edward McDermott baptised 19th Nov. 1849 with sponsors James Regan and Mary Gordon.
So while there is a John McDermott born to this couple in 1846 I cannot see any reference to a Hugh or Luke McDermott. I cannot be positive though that I have located all the children of this couple or that this couple stayed in this parish all the time.
Patrick McDermott married Catherine Rocke 1st Feb. 1845 with witnesses,Peter McDermott and Eleonora Brennan
1. John McDermott baptised 24th Nov. 1845
with sponsors John and Ellen Brennan.
Once again though there is a John McDermott c. 1845 who fits but I cannot locate any other children for this couple and certainly no Hugh or Luke McDermott. The other McDermott I found earlier email turned out to have complications and certainly no brothers called Luke or Hugh. The complications start with the marriage.
Patrick "McDermottroe" (not McDermott) married Mary Ryan 23rd Oct. 1841 with witnesses,Nicilo Mulvogue and Catherine Murray
Their children:
1. Bridget "McDermott" baptised 9th June 1842
with sponsors Thomas Corcoran and Bridget Ryan
2. "JohnMcDermottroe" baptised the 9th Feb. 1846 son of Patrick McDermott and Mary "Regan" (mistake for Ryan I think) with sponsors John Ryan and Ellen Redecan.
So this John McDermott is the son of Patrick McDermottroe rather than McDermott but I would think the name changed from one to the other. I am certain that Regan is a mistake for Ryan as no Patrick McDermott married a Regan at this time in this register. So it appears that they were not listed in this register of Boyle unless the one above with the mother a Drury or McDrury is the one ?? There are no locations given in the register for any of these though I do see later that Gurteen was covered by the Boyle register.
I looked at the GRO for Deaths:
Ann Murray Tymon d. 1944 and d. 1951
Margaret Flanagan McDermott d.c 1912-13
James Timon d. 1879-1881 ?
Attracta Conway Tymon or Timond.c. 1892
James Murray d.after 1890
Thomas Coleman d.c.1944
BIRTHS:
Ann Murray b.c. 1864-5 or before
Bridget McDermot b.c. 1887-9.
I will also check RC parish registers:
Aghanagh pos. 4606
Ardcarn pos. 4612
Kilnamanagh pos. 4605
I have already checked other registers for the area.
1. Attracta Conway Tymon was listed as ATTY Tymon aged 82 years old. PLU of Boyle. 4/83. March QRT.1892
2. Thomas Coleman aged 62 years old. 4/71.March QRT. 1881. PLU of Boyle.
3. Annie Tymon aged 87 years old. 4/49 PLU of Boyle 1950.
Other Tymons or Timons who came up in the search all in the PLU of Boyle:
Cecilia Timon died aged 65 PLU of Boyle. 4/59. June QRT.1882
Ellen Tymon died aged 70 PLU of Boyle. 4/53. Sept. QRT. 1881.
Bridget Timon aged 25. PLU of Boyle. 4/65. June QRT. 1881.
John Timon aged 84. PLU of Boyle. 4/55. Dec. QRT. 1882.
James Timon aged 75 PLU of SLIGO. 2/107 June QRT. 1943.
Elizabeth Tymon aged 86 PLU of Boyle. 4/47. June QRT. 1952.
Results of the others searches: There was no birth record c. 1864-5 for Ann Murray Tymon
Margaret Flanagan McDermotts death record was not registered 1910-1914.
Mary Coleman McDermotts death record was not registerd for 1944 (c. 1942-46 searched).
Griffiths Valuation 1850s shows that John Conway and James "Tinnon" shared the 19 acres 2 rod 10 perch at Mweelroe. Conway was at 8A and "Tinnon" (i.e Timon) at 8B. The Tithes Applotments for Lisbaleely dates probably from earlier than 1833 as there is a date also given as 3rd Dec. 1824. This was taken by Thomas Sherlock and Andrew Baker. Its impossible to find reference to Dooballa, Parish of Kilfree, except in the Tithe Applotments 1824/33 where Patrick Cunnane or Curnane had 60 acres, John Shannon and Patrick Regan had 70 acres and James Cunnane or Curnane had 28 acres. I checked several other parish registers in the NLI but there was nothing found. It appears to me that every record was in Kilfree area and as that parish registers only starts 1873 it does appear there is no way of getting further information from registers. Patrick McDermott senior could be in the Killucan register as it goes back far enough but there are so many McDermotts and no way of knowing which Patrick would be the right one.
I wonder why marriages exist for Kilfree from 1844 but no bapt. until 1873. In any case there does not seem to be any estate papers for the area or house books. I examined Kilshalvy register today but there was nothing found. As for the registers 1873 Kilfree is possibly the latest register I have ever come across. With a register this late there is very little that can be found. But remember Killucan (Coghan) is a very good register but since Patrick moved out of there c. 1840s or 30s we can only guess as to his relationship to the various McDermotts found there. Its obvious that many of the elderly people around 1901 and 1911 never really gave proper ages and John McDermotts age and therefore year of birth is a problem. Killucan (Croghan) register is quite good but our John McDermott along with a Hugh
and Luke do not seem to register in that.
More Replies:
-
Re: James Murrary (before 1840/47 u2013 after 1890) Sligo Ireland
Robbin Shepherd 9/27/09