James O’Brien and Mary Smith
James O’Brien
There is limited information available about James O’Brien’s early life. According to his death certificate, his parents were Luke O’Brien and Kate Jurett (possibly spelled Jarrett). The certificate also indicates that James was previously married to Mary Ann McGorrist, with the wedding taking place in Southern Ireland, and that their marriage lasted for twenty-five years.
Mary Ann Smith
James O’Brien’s second marriage to Mary Ann Smith, daughter of farmers John Smith and Ellen O’Reilly, lasted thirty-four years. Researcher (Gus) Barry O’Brien suggests that the first five children may have been from James’s first marriage to Mary Ann McGorrist, which took place in “Southern Ireland” and lasted for twenty-five years.
Prior to their arrival in Australia, James and his family resided in the small village of Knockerk near Slane, County Meath, Ireland. According to Griffiths Valuation in 1851, James was both a landowner and a renter. The records also indicate a close association between James O’Brien and the Willens Family, which is further supported by a gravestone inscription listed on the website of the Slane Historical Society.
According to this online reference, James was renting land to Laurence Timmons
In 1855, Laurence Timmons is the occupier of 14 acres of land in Knockerk. Laurence was renting the land from a Mr. James O’Brien. In 1861, the occupancy of this farm passed from Laurence to his son James (29), suggesting Laurence had passed away. Around the same time, James O’Brien sold the land to a Captain Leslie.
Descendary and Researcher, Janice Dunning notes the following.
I have been been researching the family history on Ancestry.com.au (whilst having regard to your information and that of Barry O’Brien and Kevin Maddern. According to Ancestry records.
Mary (no Ann) recorded McGorisk was born in 1812 and baptised 1812 at Kelsaran Louth Ireland. Place of residence on this certificate is Kelsaran Louth and her parents are recorded as Patrick McGorisk and Anne Waters. James and Mary were married in 1832.
Her death certificate states that she died on 30 August 1837. This information is registered in the parish of Nobber in County Meath. Therefore the marriage was 5 years duration. I have not found my records of children boring to this union although it is possible that there were. In 1841 James (according to Ancestry ) married Mary Ann Smith. The census in 1851 has the family living in Knockerk and confirms James a property owner who both farmed and rented land. The children that I could find birth certificates for (registered by the father) most certainly belong to James and Mary Ann as they were born after this marriage. Ellen 1847, Luke 1851,Eliza 1853, John 1856, Catherine 1859, Mary 1861 and Patrick 1862. I can’t comment on the validity of the information other than I have documents in my Ancestry tree to support what I have told you.
Regards Janice.
Coming to Australia
It is difficult to determine the exact reasons why James, Mary, and their children decided to leave Ireland and move to Australia. However, it is believed that the decision was likely influenced by a combination of factors such as the devastating economic effects of the potato famine and the lure of opportunities available in Australia. Additionally, Mary had a brother named Bernard who had already emigrated to Australia in the 1830s, which may have also played a role in their decision.
The family embarked on their journey to Australia from Liverpool, England, aboard the clipper ship named “Great Victoria.” The ship arrived in Melbourne on September 8, 1864, marking the start of their new life in a new country.
It is believed that James and Mary Ann had originally purchased tickets to travel from Ireland to the Darling Downs. However, as the ship “Great Victoria” rounded South Australia and approached Port Phillip Bay, it was discovered that their daughter Ellen had contracted Typhus. The conditions on board the ship were likely a contributing factor to her illness. Ellen was subsequently disembarked from the ship and sent to the Quarantine Station at Portsea, located at the head of Port Phillip Bay. James and Mary Ann stayed in Melbourne until Ellen had recovered.
Settling on the NSW South Coast
After settling at Wollumla, James O’Brien found work as a shepherd for John Ritchie before eventually selecting his own land near Bembooka, which he named Slane Park. Initially, the property covered 200 acres, but over time, James expanded it to 800 acres, focusing on dairy farming. He dedicated over two decades to building and improving the farm.
As reported in The Bega Gazette and Eden District or Southern Coast Advertiser (NSW : 1865 – 1899), Saturday 24 June 1882, page 2, James, Mary and their son John appeared in court on the following…
Bega Gazette and Eden District or Southern Coast Advertiser (NSW : 1865 – 1899), Saturday 24 June 1882, page 2. Arthur Thomas Batfield, Johu Haddigadi, and Johu M’Grath were charged with using obscene language, and were each fined 10s. and 3s. 2d. costs. William Allen, who was remanded last week, on a charge of obtaining goods on false pretences, was again brought up. Senior-Constable Smythe, of Candelo, on being examined, deposed that when he arrested the prisoner on Monday, 12th June, he was going in the wrong direction for O’Brien’s house, which was about 9 miles from Candelo.
L. C. Lynch, assistant to Cook & Co., store keepers of Candelo, tleposed that prisoner came to the store on Monday, 12th June last, and represented that he had been sent by Mr. James O’Brien *to get a pair-of boots find a pound of biscuits; the biscuits were said to be for Miss O’Brien, who was sick, and a riding whip and pair of tweed trousers for John O’Brien, son of James O’Brien, of Tantawanglo. Knew that prisoner was in the employ of O’Brien, as he had previously supplied him with a pair of boots for Miss O’Brien. Gave him the boots on the strength of his representation, and charged them to O’Brien’s account. It was about 1 o’clock when prisoner came to the store I identify the goods now produced by the firm’s private mark. • James O’Brien deposed that he resided at Tantawanglo. Knew the prisoner. He came to me from Sydney about 9 weeks’agb. My wife was in the habit of sending prisoner to Cook’s store for goods, with an order. Prisoner left my employ, on Monday, 12th June, I did not authorise him to get goods in my name. Went to Candelo on that day, and heard something which led me to report to Senior-constable Smythe
The prisoner asked witness if he was sure it was only nine weeks since he came from Sydney. Witness thought it was. [The unfortunate youth then broke down, and the tears fell fast from his eyes in unmistakable drops.]
Mrs. O’Brien, wife of previous witness, knew that prisoner was discharged from her husband’s employ on the 12th June. Used to send him to the store for goods, but did not authorise him to go for the goods produced.
The prisoner asked this witness if she did not authorise him to get the goods ?
Witness: ” No, I did not.”
John O’Brien deposed that he resided at Tantawanglo, sometimes with his father. Did not authorise prisoner to get any goods in his name. Had not seen prisoner for a fortnight.
This closed the case, when the magistate said that the case must go to a jury, as he had not the power to deal with it himself. The prisoner was therefore committed for trial.
To date, I haven’t been able to find a report of the trial, so hoping if you have one you might comment below with details.
In the mid 1880s, James and Mary returned to Ireland, where, reportedly, one or more of her brothers were dying. After staying there for five months, they returned to Bemboka.
Page 3
Death of James O’Brien
Senility afflicted James in the final three years of his life. He died on May 17, 1894 and was buried two days later.
Death of Mary Ann Smith
After his death, Mary and her daughter moved into Bega where Mary remained until her death on Saturday, December 9, 1911 (13685/1911).
DEATH OF A NONAGENARIAN: On Saturday night there passed peacefully away at her residence, Gipps Street, Mrs James O’Brien at the great age of 93 years. Her illness was only of short duration, the old lady sustaining a fall about a fortnight ago. Prior to that she enjoyed good health, and retained a wonderful memory to the last.
Born in Ireland, she married in County Kavan, at the age of 18 years. Eight children, four boys and four girls were the issue of the union, and the family emigrated to Australia when the youngest was two years old, landing in Melbourne on 26th January, 1865.
After 12 months spent in Victoria they came to NSW, landing at Eden, and travelling to Wolumla by bullock dray. Mr O’Brien settled down at Kameruka, where he was employed as a shepherd by Mr. John Ritchie. After three or four years he selected Slane Park, now Kirby’s.
Almost 27 years ago this property was sold, and Mrs and Mrs O’Brien and their son and daughter, Mary and Jack, made a trip home to Ireland, where Mrs O’Brien (whose maiden name was Smith) had two brother priests. They remained in Ireland (about 12 months) till one of the brothers died, and once more sailed for Australia. They bought a property at Cooper’s Gully, and resided there till Mr O’Brien died 17 years ago. Mrs O’Brien ultimately took up her residence in Bega, and during the latter end of her days, was cared for by her daughter, Mary.
The deceased have lived through the reign of four monarchs of the British Empire. The four sons were Peter (deceased), Luke (resident of Bemboka), John and Patrick (both of Queensland), the daughters being Mrs Brannigan (Victoria), Mrs Bennett (Yourie), Mrs D. Collins (Wyndham) and Mary. Mr J.J. Smith of Wolumla was a nephew of deceased.
The funeral, which took place yesterday afternoon, was largely attended, Rev. J.J. Gunning conducting the burial service.
A further newspaper report of her death Southern Star (Bega) on Wednesday 13 December 1911, page 2 adds some further detail
A very old and respected resident of the district passed away on Saturday evening, in the person of Mrs. James O’Brien, who bad resided for some time in Gipps-street. Deceased, who was in her 93rd year, had been ailing for some time. She was a native of county Cavan Irelund, and came to Australia with her husband and family of eight in 1865. Alter spending some time in Victoria, they came to this State, landing at Eden, aud travelling to Wolumla per bullock dray, which were the ‘motor cars’ of those times. They went to Katneruka, where Mr. O’Brien was employed shep herding by the late Mr. John Ritchie. Later on, Mr. O’Brien selected Slane Park, now Kirby’s. Some 20 odd years ago they sold this, and paid a visit to their native country, together with a couple of the family. Returning to Australia they bought the property at Cooper’s Gully now known as Neath’s, and there, Mr. O’Brien died some 17 years back, after which Mrs. O’Brien and her daughter Mary came to town to live. She leaves three sons— Messrs Luke, Patrick, and John, and four daughters— Mesdames Brannigan (Victoria), Beunett (Yourie), D. Collins (Wyndham), and Mary. She was attended with a true daughter’s care by the latter during her declining years. Mr J.J Smith, JP Wolumla, was a nephew of deceased. The funeral on Monday was largely attended, and the remains were interred in the R. C. portion of the old cemetery, the Rev. Father Gunning conducting the service. Mr. Pat. O’Brien, who has resided in Queensland for some years, arrived in time to see his mother alive. Mr. John O’Brien, the .third son, only arrived from Queensland yesterday, and was much distressed at being too late to see his mother.
Children
Peter O’Brien
Peter O’Brien was born in County Meath, Ireland. At the age of 18, he left Ireland on September 5, 1864, along with his parents and siblings on the “Great Victoria” and arrived in Melbourne on November 29, 1864. When he was 23 years old, he met and married Mary Ann Goward, the daughter of James and Mary Ann. Although Mary Ann was only 15 years old, she soon became pregnant with their first child, James Joseph. At the time of their marriage on October 2, 1870 (Reference: 1870/2194), Peter was working as a “Labourer” at Tantawangalo, while Mary Ann was working as a “Dairy Maid” at Lithgow Flat. They raised a large family in the Bega district. Peter was reportedly a “noted wrestler in the district,” according to Mary Ann’s newspaper obituary.
Peter O’Brien died at Candelo on October 6, 1897, after a one-year illness with Phibesis, possibly related to heart disease. (Death Certificate 1897/11322) He was buried the following day. Mary Ann died at Orchard Farm, Candelo, after a three-year illness with Chronic Congestive Heart Disease (Mitral Insufficiency) at the age of 77 on September 22, 1932. She was buried the same day in the Church of England section at Wolumla Cemetery.
Ellen O’Brien
Ellen O’Brien was born in 1851 in Meath, Ireland. She later met Thomas Branigan from Bulla, Victoria and they got married on August 1, 1876 in the Catholic Church at Keilor. According to the Hume Shire website, Thomas was the son of Thomas Branigan and Mary Anne Stanleke. After their marriage, Thomas and Ellen lived for many years at St. John’s Hill in the Bulla District. When Thomas’ mother passed away, his eldest brother was farming at Strathmerton, which was a newly opened area for selection at the time, located on the lower Goulburn.
Edward O’Brien
* Edward O’Brien was born on 1 May 1853.
Luke O’Brien
Luke O’Brien, born in 1853 in Ireland, married Annie Moran in 1884 in Bega. Annie, born in 1864 at Eden, NSW, bore them five children: William Thomas O’Brien (born in 1885 in Bega), Mary Ellen O’Brien (born in 1887 in Bega), Theresa Ann O’Brien (born in 1888 in Bega), James O’Brien (born in 1889 in Lytteton, NSW), John Joseph O’Brien (born in 1890 in Lytteton, NSW), and Francis Leo O’Brien (born in 1892 in Candelo, NSW). Luke and Annie made their home for many years at Moran’s Crossing near Bega. Luke was a local horse trainer and several stories about him are included in the book “River Oaks, Green Willows and Young Corn: A Brief History of the Bega District Jockey Club” by Ray James and Jim Gordon.
Luke O’Brien was fond of a bet, and his daughter, Mrs Roy Ziegler told a story of one of Luke’s gambling adventures. In many stories of this kind, it can be difficult to separate truth from well-intentioned humour. We’ll let you decide this issue. Well, anyway, Luke set off through the bush to go to the Bredbo Cup Meeting. Bredbo was a flourishing gold mining town at this time, and it took Luke a few days to find his way through the bush and through the mountains, and the horse looked a complete wreck when they arrived. However, he had been fit before leaving Moran’s Crossing, and starting at a good price, the horse duly won the Bredbo Cup, and Luke cleaned out the bookmakers well and truly. It had taken him several days to reach Bredbo across country, but Luke returned by road, stopping at every hotel en route, and the return trip took almost a month. With no communication in those days, the family had to go looking for Luke, eventually to find that he had come to no harm. Which just goes to show, that even if racing is a bit of an adventure, there is no need to overdo things.
Luke died July 22, 1932 at North Bondi, NSW (aged 79). His wife, Annie Moran died several months later on December 24, 1932 at Bega, NSW (age 68).
John O’Brien
John O’Brien, a native of Ireland, was born on May 5th, 1855. Further details about his life, such as his occupation, family, or notable accomplishments, are not clear in my research.
Catherine O’Brien
Catherine O’Brien, born on 18 Jul 1857, married David Collins. Additional information about Catherine and David was obtained from researcher Fran Firth from the Blue Mountains.
David Collins married Catherine O’Brien on August 13, 1883 at the Catholic Church in Candelo. David was the eldest child of William Collins and Margaret Keys both of whom were born in Co. Tyrone Ireland. William, who had emigrated to Australia as an 18 year old with his parents and siblings, married Margaret keys in 1852, who had arrived the year earlier from Ireland. David being the oldest son took over the running of the dairy property “Greenmount” near Wyndham, and had 6 daughters and 1 son. Their children were: Mary Collins born July 6, 1885, married George Yates and lived in Randwick, Sydney; Christine Collins born November 9, 1887 married Eugene Grant; Adeline Collins born March 18 1889, who married Andrew Burg; Rachel Collins born April 21 1890 and married Michael O’Rourke; Alice Collins born October 8, 1891 and married Russell Auguston; John Collins born December 23, 1893 and married Alice Reid.
Her funeral notice which appeared in the Bega Standard also gives some information about her life.
Mrs David Collins, of “Greenmount”, “Wyndham” passed away in Pambula District Hospital on Saturday, at the age of 62 years. The late Mrs Collins, who had been ill for a long time, was highly esteemed and had a large circle of friends who will regret her death. She was formerly Miss O’Brien, sister of Mr Luke O’Brien, of Moran’s Crossing. A husband and grown up children are left to mourn their loss. The funeral was held at Wyndham on Sunday and was very largely attended. Rev. Father McNeeve of Pambula conducted the service. Manning and Sons of Bega had charge of the arrangements.
Mary O’Brien
Mary O’Brien was born on March 7, 1860. It appears that Mary never married and instead dedicated herself to caring for her mother in her later years. Although it has not been definitively confirmed, it is believed that Mary passed away in Bega in 1932 (13543/1932).
Patrick O’Brien
Patrick O’Brien born on July 6, 1862 in Slane, Ireland, married Agnes Moran on October 28, 1889 in Bega (4482/1889). Their children were born in different places across the Bega District, including Annie (born in Bega in 1890), Mary Aileen (born in Bemboka in 1894), Bernard Eugene (born in Bemboka in 1896), Agnes Maud (born in Bega in 1900), Patrick (born in Bega in 1903), and Ruby (born in Lyttleton in 1902). It is believed that they lived in various locations such as Bega, Lyttleton, and Bemboka. Patrick passed away, and his death was reported in The Courier-Mail (Brisbane, Qld. : 1933-1954) on Wednesday, October 16, 1935, page 4. Additionally, a photograph of his and his wife’s graves is available online.
The death of Mr P. J O’Brien, of Woodford, occurred yesterday after a short illness. Mr O’Brien started his turf career in the Bega and surrounding districts, where he rode with a good deal of success being associated with the late Teddy and Eueene McGrade and with Tommy O’Keefe about 1876. He and his brother, the late Luke O’Brien, afterwards bred and raced a number of
horses, among them being Sir Ladden, Lemonwood, Desert Queen, and Reform. Mr. P. J. O’Brien about 29 years ago settled in the Woodford district. He bred Little Jewel, Billy Jewel, Retford Cooney, Bega, and All Black. These horses won many races in Brisbane and Sydney. The late Mr. O’Brien was chiefly interested in dairy farming and pig raising, and for a time kept hotels in Woodford and Maryborough. He is survived by his widow, five daughters, and a son, Mr. B. O’Brien, ‘ of Woodford. The funeral will take place at Woodford at 2 o’clock to-day.
Eliza O’Brien
Eliza O’Brien married Alfred Bennett on 5 April 1882 in Petersham (2193/1882). According to her mother’s death notice, Eliza lived at Yourie, near Cobargo. Eliza passed away in Bega in 1912 (9515/1912).
Some Notes
The death certificate for James O’Brien records his first marriage, but this information remains unconfirmed. However, a search for the name “McGorrist” in Louth, Ireland, where James was born, did not yield any results. Instead, an alternative spelling of the name, “McGorisk,” was found in historical records, including the names James and Thomas McGorisk. Thomas lived in Upper Dundalk, part of Louth, according to the 1842 electoral roll, and was listed at Drumcashel on the 1855 Ardee Convent Subscription Fund. James McGorisk is listed on the Louth Parish Church Subscription Fund 1890.
It is possible that McGorisk is the correct spelling of the name and that James may have been married to someone with this surname prior to his marriage to Bridget Clarke. Further research is necessary to confirm this information. The name McGorisk also appears in relation to several businesses in Athlone (Westmeath), which is interesting to note. Any additional information or insights into the story of James O’Brien’s first marriage in 1831 would be appreciated.
There is a record of a personal diary kept from someone who was on board the Great Victoria when it came to Australia. I have written seeking more information about this diary.
Family Reunion
An O’Brien Family Reunion was held at Jamberoo Hall on February 27, 2010.
Sharing Around: Please feel free to copy any of the information on this page which may help you in your own research. My feeling is that family research is hard enough, without the need to constantly re-invent the wheel. It would be great, however, if you’d leave a comment below just to say “hi”.
Hi James, I am not related to the o’Briens, but I think my GGGrandmother was on board the GREAT VICTORIA.
Do you have the passenger list. Her name was Margaret Clifford married to James Clifford who were on board, but I cannot find the child Ellen Clifford with them.
Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
Cheers, Kevin
Hi Kevin
I don’t have the complete list for the Great Victoria, as I only worried about printing off the bit I wanted.
Having a look at the Victorian Public Record Office, though, it seems Margaret and James Clifford came to Australia on an earlier voyage of the Great Victoria, arriving November 1863.
http://www.access.prov.vic.gov.au/public/PROVguides/PROVguide023/PROVguide023.jsp
Hope this helps.
James
Hi James I am looking for my birth father Michael O’brien or Frank O’brien he was using both names last known living in the area of Wollongong nsw but was living in Eden back in 1959 to 1961 approx im not sure if the O’briens you are researching would be connected?
Cheers Kathy
Hi Kathleen, I don’t know him personally, but from from the places he lived it sounds like there is a connection. Someone else can help? Gus?
Thanks James
Hi,
O’Brien was my g grandmothers surname she being Mary Anne married to Thomas, My Grandmother was Elizabeth and her brother Bernard was one of a twin and a sister Gertrude. LIz moved to W.A. married a Thomas Russell.
After Thomas died Mary Anne remarried to someone with the surname of Smith.
I’m clutching at straws but there is some similar surnames as your history hope you can help.
Hi Jacquie, I’m not sure if I can help, as my interest has been mostly focussed on my own immediate ancestors and getting as much info as possible about them, rather than a broader study of the O’Brien family. A distant relative Barry (from Muswellbrook) has done a lot of O’Brien research and another, Alf (from Shellharbour) put together an O’Brien and Smith book a few years back. From what I can see about the broader family, some of the O’Brien family ended up in Victoria and others in Queensland, but mostly the family were either in the Bega District or the Lismore districts of NSW. I hope this helps in some way. James
Hi James,
I think my G Grandmother is your Catherine O’Brien (1857) married to David Collins in Candelo. He was from Whydham. I purchased their wedding certificate but unfortunately there were no details about Catherine’s parents or her age. They were married in 1883. Does this look like a match to you?
regards
Fran
Hi Fran, lovely to hear from you and it sounds like it might be, as the death notice for Mary refers to her daughter-in-law as Mrs D. Collins from Wyndham. If you have some information about Catherine and David about when they were married, the children they had, where they lived etc it would be great if you could write back so I can fill out more of the details of them for the website. Cheers James
“The deceased have lived through the reign of four monarchs of the British Empire. The four sons were Peter (deceased), Luke (resident of Bemboka), John and Patrick (both of Queensland), the daughters being Mrs Brannigan (Victoria), Mrs Bennett (Yourie), Mrs D. Collins (Wyndham) and Mary. Mr J.J. Smith of Wolumla was a nephew of deceased.”
Hi James
Did any of your O’Briens have a brother named William O’Brien, born c1840 in Ireland, married Margaret Moran in Bega in 1865 and was listed as a farmer at Meringo or Meringlo near Bega in 1882. These two are my GGrandparents.
Thanks for your efforts.
Hi Lorraine, I’ve been struggling with this for the last couple of weeks trying to find out the correct answer. It’s a bit confusing as there was a Luke O’Brien who married Annie Moran, but I’m not sure where a William O’Brien fits into it all. Given the time/dates involved, and the connection I wonder if the William you’ve described is a cousin, maybe one of the as yet unproven step-brothers, or no relation at all? Any further information you have about William who married Margaret would be great to receive. This might add another layer to the story, perhaps? James
* Luke O’Brien was born in 1853 in Ireland. In 1884 at Bega, Luke married Annie Moran (who was born at 1864 in Eden, NSW). They had the following children : – William Thomas O’Brien (born in 1885 in Bega), Mary Ellen O’Brien (born in 1887 in Bega) Theresa Ann O’Brien (born in 1888 in Bega), James O’Brien (born in 1889 in Lytteton, NSW), John Joseph O’Brien (born in 1890 in Lytteton, NSW). and Francis Leo O’Brien(born in 1892 in Candelo, NSW). Luke and Annie lived for many years at Moran’s Crossing, near Bega.
Hi James
Just read your response to Lorraine regarding Margaret Moran who married William O’Brien. Margaret Moran was the sister to the following: Thomas Moran who married Ann O’Donohue 21 Jan 1860, Moruya (Annie Moran who married Luke O’Brien is Thomas and Ann’s daughter); Patrick Moran who married Alice Slavin, Ulmarra NSW (who is my ggrandfather – putting the finishing touches to this section of the family and I have been working on Thomas side from Bega); twins Bridget and Ann, James and Mary (have not undertaken an indepth research on last four). Their parents were William and Mary (nee Carey) Moran from Galway. I beleive their was 14 children in the family but still researching.
Would appreciate if you could put me in contact with Lorraine Palmer (or for her to make contact with me) as it appears we are connected by our great great grandparents William and Mary (nee Carey) Moran. Happy for you to pass my email address to her.
Regards
Araleen
Araleen
You would not credit what I felt when I read your posting. The family legend always said that 2 brothers came out from Ireland – one went north & one south, but I had never found any evidence of that until reading what you wrote. My g grandfather was Thomas the one who went south, & yours seems to have been the northerner. I really hope you can contact me, or James can you help put us in touch?
Hi Araleen, thanks for the clarification. I’ve passed your details on to Lorraine. James
Hi James
Thanks for sending my details to Lorraine as she has made contact. Araleen
Hi James
I wonder if any of your research extends to the family of Bernard Smith. One of my extended branches includes Ellen Darling who married Bernard Smith in 1860 at Wollongong, The first son Edward was reg at Wollongong the following births included Ellen 1864, Catherine 1865,Michael T 1867 and Jane 1869 all at Eden. I think Bernard Smith died 1870 at Eden, parents noted as John and Ellen. Ellen Mary Darling was the daughter of John Darling a convict and Mary Oates. I am a descendant of Mary Oates’ sister Ann Gilham formerly Quirk(e) nee Oates.
I’m interested to know if the family remained in the Eden district or returned to Sydney and what became of them.
Regards Viv Callaghan
I am trying to contact Viv Callaghan re a Hughes connection. I had lost Contact with Viv. since moving to Queensland. Would love to be in touch again. Regards Bronwen Hughes
Hi Bronwen
Pleased to make contact again.
P.O.3177
Dural, NSW 2158
or below
Hi Viv, my own research doesn’t. However, a distant cousin Alf, who lives at Shellharbour has put together a book which includes a lot of information about Bernard Smith and family. I’ll check the book when I get home tonight. Cheers James
Hi Viv, sorry for the delay. I came home from work last night quite exhausted and didn’t have much energy for family history matters.
Tonight, however, I checked Alf O’Brien’s book which has a lot of information about Bernard Smith and his family…
A couple of interesting facts contained in the book…
1/…Bernard’s first marriage was to Ellen McHugh. They married at Ratmond Terrace on April 27, 1843, and had a reasonably large family until Ellen’s death at Berkley on June 21, 1859.
2/…His second marriage to Ellen Darling was at St Franxis Xavier’s Wollongong on March 18, 1860. They apparently had 5 children together.
3/…The reason for Bernard’s move from the Illawarra to South Wolumla isn’t known. However, Alf speculated it may have been because of the presence there of his borther in law, Bernard McHugh.
4/…He died in 1860 after being thrown from his horse in soggy ground.
I could go on, as there’s a wealth of information in Alf’s book. I haven’t seen Alf for a number of years, but the last time I did he was living at Shellharbour. Failing that, I know there’s a copy in the Mitchell Library at the State Library of NSW.
I hope this puts you in the right direction for your own research.
James
Hello
I came across your story and recognised the names you discuss. Ellen O’Brien married Thomas Branigan from Bulla. Thomas father, also Thomas was born in County Louth and arrived in Australia in 1842. His first wife was Mary Anne Stanlake and they had two sons Richard and Thomas. Thomas senior married again to Johanna Elligot in 1850 and had two sons Michael and Denis. Denis was my great grandfather. Please contact me if you want to discuss anything further.
Thanks Donna
Hello,
Like Donna Young, I’m a great-grandchild of Thomas Branigan from his second marriage. I’d be very interested to get in touch with her to discuss the family’s history.
Could you pass on my email address to her?
Regards,
Tony Branigan
Sydney
Hi Tony, I’ve passed on your details. James
Hello.
My name is Martin O’Rourke, and Catherine O’Brien was my great grandmother.
My grand parents were Michael O’Rourke and Rachel Collins, a daughter of David Collins and Catherine O’Brien.
We have kept in touch with the new owners of Greenmount, and still hold a close affinity with Wyndham.
Regards, Martin.
so that would make us second cousins -I think as my g/grandmother was Mary Collins -she married George Yates.
Marcia Hatcher
Martin, thanks for being in touch. I’m currently on an extended overseas holiday. I’ll be in touch properly when I return mid-September. James
Hi James,
My name is Trish O’Brien and I’m trying to find any information whatsoever regarding my portion of the O’Brien clan. Unfortunately not much information has been handed down, only an old family prayer book which says that he’s from Limerick, was a Remittance Man, and married Mary Maher from Balycamis in 1867, coming out to Australia in 1868. They had one child, also called James, and settled in Hay or Young. ‘Young’ James became a pharmacist, married Mary Garry from ‘Garryown Station’ and had 4 children, Florence, Carlene, Alexis Margaret and (another) James who was my father.
Sorry it’s so little to go on but it’s all I’ve got. I couldn’t find any information regarding the wedding in the Dublin Registrary Office and I think that Balycamis (Tipperary) was one of those villages that was burnt to the ground. If you could point me in the way of finding out more about them I’d really appreciate your efforts.
Regards,
Trish
Hi James
My name is Anne Arnold and my grandparents were Theresa O’Brien and Roy Ziegler. So it was really great when I googled Luke O’Brien and your site came up. So thankyou for the information.
Regards
Anne
Hi James,
The previous writer Anne Arnold is my first cousin and thus like Anne I am one of the great grandchildren of Luke and Annie O’Brien and one of the 29 grandchildren of Theresa Anne O’Brien. I recall visiting Mary Ellen (aunty Sis as we knew her)at the Bondi Beach Surf Club and William – Uncle Bill to us was a regular visitor to our home 36 Carp Street Bega. Each time he came to town he would give my brother and I 2 shillings to carry his tea from the kitchen to lounge room but often he would allow us to watch him juggle the tea cup on the saucer. I thought he was incredibly clever that he never spilt a drop. I know believe that he probably suffered from Parkinson’s Disease.Nanny Zig (Theresa Anne) often told the story of the race horse (and it never changed from the story you have. She told other little tales some of which are contained in Visions for a Valley. Catholic People in the Bega Valley (1985).
History has a way of repeating itself and my daughter married an Irishman so in December 2006 I visted my son in laws family and toured Ireland extensively. Louth,Cavan and Mead had significant relevance for me. Thank you for the detailed history of the family which I will now pass on to my children and grandchildren.
Regards Janice Dunning (nee Moody)
Gday James my grand aunties Annie & Agnes Moran married O’Briens as you’ve listed, & quite possibly my great grand aunt Mary, a William O’Brien. Would like to compare notes ..
Hi Patrick, I’ll drop you a line privately. James
Hi James,
My father is Terence Edward O’Connell, son of Terence O’Connell, son of Thomas O’Connell, son of Terrance O’Connell and Mary O’Brien.
The only evidence we have is the following:
Thomas ,bachelor aged 30 years, nationality Irish, birthplace Sligo
marries Anna Petronella Susanna van der Schyff, spinster aged 20 years
in Wakkerstroom, Transvaal, South Africa in 1866.
Terrance O’Connell and Mary O’Brien are present at the marriage. The eldest daughter (of Thomas & Anna)is subsequently named Mary Elizabeth; perhaps Mary O’Brien is also Mary Elizabeth.Second son is called Daniel Thomas Petrus (known as Thomas) after Anna Petronella’s father but also after Thomas his father.Their 3rd son is James, possibly after Mary O’Brien’s Father. PLEASE is someone able to help me find my people…I have found all our other lines but my O’Connells appear nowhere. Thomas & Anna name their farm in Potchefstroom,South Africa: SHAMROCK…ever so Irish!
Greetings from South Africa,
Lesley O’Connell-Maritz.
Hi Lesley, lovely to hear from you South Africa. I hope someone finds this connection which helps you. I’ll pass on any emails, details that come through. Cheers, James
Hi Lesley,
My great great grandfather on my mother’s side was Barney James O’Connell, son of Terence O’Connell and brother of Terence Edward O’Connell.
I have recently started looking back into the family history and found your comment above.
If you are still looking for more information on the O’Connell family history in South Africa I have found some interesting information on the following website: http://www.familysearch.org/Eng/Search/IGI/family_group_record.asp?familyid=259918298&indi_id=100171871385&lds=1®ion=0&frompage=99
I would love to know if you have managed to trace any more of the family history since you posted this comment?
Regards
Tabitha Stone
Hope you find this helpful
Hi Tabitha,
I actually placed that information on FamilySearch but have since revised it, as I have obtained further information. I need to systematically enter my information onto my pc but I have been hoping to trace Terrance O’connell further back in Ireland before doing so. Thank you,
Lesley.
My name is bernard rulach sri lanken born lives in australia mel 30 years . Iam trying to locate jim obrien from bondi beach. I was in sydney in 1964 as a school boy cricketer. Lived in his home with his parents on tour. If sombody can help to locate him. Thank you
Hi James
i would be grateful if you could pass on my email address to Jacquie, Fran, Lorraine Palmer, Araleen Taylor, Viv Callaghan, Donna Young, Tony Branighan, Martin O’Rourke, Anne Arnold and Janice Dunning. I have been in contact with Pat Edgerton, so thank you for passing my details on to him. I had been planning to travel to the Blue Mountains this past week with my cousin Pat Smith from Ipswich to catch up with Keven Madden, but unfortunately Pat had to defer his trip down south. Hopefully we will make it soon. Keven has a wealth of information, especially on the Smith side of the family.
Cheers
Gus
Hi Gus
Not sure if you’ll read this.
Viv at gjcallaghan.com to make contact.
Hi Barry,
Details have been passed on.
James
Information about the O’Brien Family Reuion has been added here http://jamesobrien.id.au/obrien-family-reunion/
HI My Grandmother was Mary collins who married George Yates .They lived in Randwick and had 2 children-georgena and Leslie .Frances Firth who has an entry earlier is my cousin -Catherine O’Brien is my great grandmother.There is a book published some years ago with the family history-it was published in the late 1970s early 1980s .There rae probably many homes with the photo of the Collins sisters all dressed in their finery for a family photo -they excluded their brother .I have 3 photos of them all together at different ages.I have childhood memories of hearing about Nanas .Marcia Hatcher
Hi Marcia, great to hear from you. James
James
Just a small correction re caption for “Great Victoria” and also the obituary for James O’Brien.
My understanding is the O’Brien family arrived in Melbourne aboard the “Great Victoria” on 29 November 1864, not September 1864 nor January 1865.
Barry
Hello, James, I was wondering if you could do me the most huge favour and either let me have a copy of the Great Victoria passenger list, or look something up on for me or let me know how to get hold of it myself? I think some ancestors of mine were on it too and I can’t find any info online – heroic people are transcribing passenger lists but it a huge process. I would be extrmely grateful if you could help me – I’m in York, England, by the way!
Alison
Allison, I don’t have a copy handy except for the bit relating to mine. However, happy to pop down to the library/state records office to grab a copy, and will put online.
Hi, that would be absolutely brilliant! My relatives were called Dowson, if that’s any help. Thank you so much.
Alison
Hi James,
I also think my ancestor was on the Great Victoria with your family. His name was Richard Power, of Co. Wexford. A great aunt told me that he travelled to Australia with his cousin called Jim, and there happens to be a James Power on board too! Very grateful for any assistance!
I went into the NSW State Library today and scanned the passenger records for the Great Victoria, only to discover they’re available online here.
http://www.prov.vic.gov.au/indexes/index_search.asp?searchid=23
I hope this helps anyone looking for anyone on the ship. There’s an index of Unassisted Passengers.
Would like to hear from Viv Callaghan have lost contact re the Hughes family
Brownen, my grandmother Ruby Margaret Hughes married my grandfather Herbert Henry Hughes. The Hughes are also related to the Brennans of Dalby Qld. My sister is doing the family tree, has done for the past 25 or more years.
Apologies for mistake it should write that my grandmother Ruby Margaret HUGHES married Herbert Henry CALLAGHAN. Ruby’s mother was Maria Cecilia Hughes (nee Brennan). William Callaghan married Helena Orth (widow) in 1857 Ipswich Qld.
Hi James & Bronwen
I have tried several times to reach Bronwen, both via this post site and an old Genforum e-mail address.
If one of you reads this please reply with Bronwen’s e-mail.
Regards
Viv Callaghan
Hi Viv, I sent your details to Bronwen after your last post on January 17. James
Hello James,
Did you have any luck retrieving the diary kept by Grace Ferrier on board the Great Victoria, 5 September to 29 November 1864.
If so, would it be possible to get a copy?
Regards,
Grieko Enter, Netherlands
Hi Grieko, no I haven’t. It kinda slipped my mind. But thanks for the reminder. Will chase up. James
Hi James
I gathered a fair bit of information on the Great Victoria from digital English newspapers. My wife’s grandfather Charles Goodliff left the New Plymouth UK on 11 October 1865 and arrived in Queensland on 5th January 1866. Unfortunately the passengers list seems to have gone missing, funny enough an index and the crew list did survive.
So the diary might shed some light on the circumstances on the Great Victoria.
Regards, Grieko
My grandfather’s wife Ruby Mary Chapman (Mrs William Ernest Smith) is related to a O’Brien. Anyone here related to her?
Hello!
I am trying to track down my ex sister-in-law who was a Patricia o’Brien. Now she’s married and I do not know her new surname. How can I track her down. Is there a South African Irish association I can contact? She now lives in Johannesburg,South Africa.
I would be thankful if anyone is able to help.
Thanks!
Warm regards,
Miss Winsome Loraine Peter
Hi James,
I am trying to track the origins of a Jack O’brien who came to the islands of Tuvalu as a resident trader. There is a book that Doug Munro wrote on the resident traders that came to Tuvalu but there is only limited information on Jack O’brien. Apparently he is of Irish-Australian descent and in the book it states that his father was a New South Wales convict. Jack travelled to the islands during the 1950s, he then married one of the locals. I am a descendant of Jack and would very much like to track his ancestry and who his parents were. if you have any information that could assist me in my research it would be greatly appreciated.
thanks Penny
Hi, I’m Cliff, I am trying to track the origins of Jack O’Brien who came to the island o Tuvalu as a trader in 1850 and married Sarai. My father’s mother is Mele and Mele Father is Tanei who was one of the son of Jack O’Brien. And I also tried to track his ancestry who his parents were. thanks for any information.
Hi James – I have written to you before. I am a descendent of Luke O’Brien born in 1853 in Ireland. I am returning to Ireland early next year and would like to know where he was born (if possible) – do you have any idea?
I was delighted to see the correction on the arrival of James, Mary & children (29/11/1864) as my birthdate is 29 November.
I noted that a previous writer was looking for passenger lists – I found the Genealogical Recordfinder at http://www.cobhheritage.com most helpful when last in Ireland – they have both British and Irish ships with passenger lists (but not all) You can also email cobhheritage.com
Hi James, I am trying to contact Grieko Enter. I have contacted him before regarding the Goodliff family in Queensland, but have lost his email address.. Can you supply it? or ask him to contact me?
Hi Ian, apologies for the delay. I’ve been pretty busy over the last few months, and am only catching up on some my genealogy correspondence today. I’ll pass on your email and comment to Greiko. Cheers, James
Hi James, I don’t think I’m related to you but do you think that you can perhaps help me find out about the O’Brien’s that came to South Africa because that’s where I’m from.
Thank you
Austin O’Brien, 12
Hi Austin, I’m sorry but I don’t think I can help as I don’t know much about family history resources in South Africa, though I have seen the SA version of “Who Do You Think You Are?”. My advice is to go back generation by generation. When I was about your age, I had a high school project about genealogy, and began by asking my parents and grandparents as much as they knew. It helped, and so I was able to go on from there. So if you can, ask your parents and grandparents and write everything down. Hopefully it will beome easier. James
Hi Austin, one of my relatives moved to South Afica from Ireland, she was known as Annie or Patricia O’Brien, her remaining siblings came to Australia, settling in Victoria and New South Wales. Her father’s name was Patrick. regards, Sonya
Hello James,
My great great great grand mother was Catherine O’Brien from Co Meath.
She and her husband lived in Hoardstown, that is to say 8 km from Knockerk.
I really can’t find anything about her or her family.
She married an Owen Finnegan (spelt at times Finnigan) and I got her maiden name through the birth certs of her children (Lobinstown parish). None of the sponsors were an O’Brien / Brien.
The first birth cert I have for her eldest son dates from 1826 (Lobinstown parish). She may have had other children born before but I have no way of finding out. Her husband Owen Finnegan died circa 1871. As for Catherine, she died circa 1876.
Would you have any information concerning the O’Briens round about the 1800s; late 1700s ? Do you think there are chances that Luke and Catherine were both brothers and sisters?
Was James O’Brien the eldest son of Luke and Kate O’Brien?
Owen and Catherine did name one of their sons James. Often in Irish families children bore the name of their grand parents or parents.
Any information or help would indeed be greatly appreciated.
Thank you very much,
Regards,
Steph Finnegan.
Hi Steph,
Thank you so much for writing.
The short answer is – “absolutely no idea if there’s a connection”. Going back beyond James and Mary (and those vague references in their obituaries) has always been in the “too hard basket”.
However, it would be fascinating to think this through a little further. James, Catherine, Luke are pretty common names, as is O’Brien. But as you say, there was a regularity in the traditional naming patterns amongst the Irish.
As I’ve seen it written…
First born son named after his father’s father
Second born son named after his mother’s father –
Third born son named after his father
Fourth born son named after his father’s oldest brother
Fifth born son named after his father’s 2nd oldest brother or his mother’s oldest brother
First born daughter named after her mother’s mother
Second born daughter named after her father’s mother
Third born daughter named after her mother
Fourth born daughter named after her mother’s oldest sister
Fifth born daughter named after her mother’s 2nd oldest sister or her father’s oldest sister
Using that as a basis, I’ve always been a little confused about the name of the first-born son, Peter. Unless of course, Peter wasn’t actually his first name, but rather a second name?
I hope we’ll stay in touch as we continue to research. If there’s a connection this could be a big breakthrough for all of us?
Cheers
James
Hi, i’ve come across your page and noticed a John O’brien and was wondering if you know anything about a John O’brien who was a trader in the small island of Tuvalu? according to a book I read, he was a son of an Australian man. I am a descendant of John O’brien and am looking for any details about him, where he is from, who are his siblings etc. I’ve noticed a few names that are common in our family, i.e Mary, Elizabeth, James – i’m praying that i’ve struck gold here. looking forward to hearing from you or anyone?
Do you have any idea on when he was trading in Tuvalu? That would help narrow things down a bit.
Sorry i should say that I am descendant of Jack O’brien who was a trader in Tuvalu but he was also known as John Obrien.
Hi to all down under and over the pond! My name is Ruthie O’Brien. I fell across your page and noticed Meath, Ireland in your research. My Great Grandfather was William O’Brien was listed on my Grandfather, Charles O’Brien’s naturalization papers as from Westmeath, Ireland. Charles came to Boston Ma in 1896 and states his father is already dead. William was in the Royal Army for the English as a Horse Trainer in India. They say he was born there. Charles has Ellen Canavan listed as his mother on his death certificate. I do not know where Ellen & William were married. Charles told my father that his mother (Ellen) birthed her children in London. Not sure how true it is. We know William had a sister Juila and one other sister. not sure about brothers..none mentioned. Supposedly the sisters either immigrated to Austrailia or America. Charles lost contact with them. If anyone has done any Irish research and has come across any of this info, I’d greatly appreciate it as I am very stuck here in Boston Massachusetts!
Thanks much!
Ruthie
any info on family of Marlene O’Brien of Newcastle, previously of Aberdeen. related to Paul O’Brien the muso.
Hi James I have been reseaching my family tree and Iwas wondering if in your research if you have uncovered anything on the O’briens of toowoomba Bell and Dalby regions.My Grandmother was Ellen Bridget Born to Hugh O’brien and Mary Beverick.The Family were farmers around Bell Dalby Cecil Plains .They owned O’Brien Family Mill Later Known as Defiance Flour.I’m curios as to any links you may know of especially as her brothers were Hugh James? Luke Thomas .She was born in 3 dec 1899
Hi Mark
I’m not directly related, so don’t have a lot of detail.
HOWEVER, I do know the American broadcaster and journalist, Soledad O’Brien has a connection to the mill people.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soledad_O%27Brien
I was a fan of hers when she used to present the Today show on NBC, and so was interested to discover her Australian connection.
According to Wikipedia, “Her father Edward, an Australian (from Toowoomba, Queensland) of Irish descent, was a mechanical engineering professor.”
I remember doing a bit of research on her Australian connection a few years, and she was definitely descended from this family.
Hello Mark. I’m a direct descendant of the Defiance O’Briens, and Soledad is a first cousin of mine. The O’Briens were never farmers. But their customers did from around Bell, Dalby and Cecil Plains. Ellen O’Brien who was linked to Defiance was in fact born Ellen Fitzgerald. She was born in 1857 in Bantry County Cork and married Patrick O’Brien in 1884. I can’t even place Hugh O’Brien in our very extensive research but I am more than happy if you would like to contact me to discuss it.
Hello Loma
I am interested in Ellen Fitzgerald from Cork. Do you have any knowledge of her parents names or that of her uncle? I also have Fitzgerald ancestors from Cork. I know it is a common name but worth asking. I have an Ellen Fitzgerald from Cork in 1836, I figure it is a family name.
Hi James
I’ve been researching my family tree and it traces back to an Irish man from Australia by the name of Jack O’Brien. I am Tuvaluan a, from my researches the O’Brien family is the biggest Tuvaluan family which is scattered all over the pacific (Tuvalu, New Zealand, Fiji and Australia). I was just curious if you had any information on Jack O’Brien???
Cheers
Hi Noel
Have had a couple of comments on my blog about this man. I personally don’t know of a connection, but maybe someone else can help?
James
Thomas O’Brien, came out as 1st settler, from Tyronne, Ireland, marine on the Scarborough.
He lived for 3 years Sydney Cove as a marine, and transferred as a farmer to Norfolk Island 1791.
1908 transferred to Glenorchy, Tasmania (O’Briens bridge). He married Susannah Mortimer, and they had 9 children. Namely, James, William, Thomas, Elizabeth, Agnes Therese, Catherine, Mary Ann, Margaret, Susannah.
Have not been able to locate birth or death certificate for Thomas O’Brien, but beleived to be born 1762-65. Believed died 1819, Tasmania. I note in one of your families, a lot of the above names, are similar to another family, and wondered if any connection. barbara Burdon
Hi Barbara
Not sure if there’s a connection, but hopefully someone else will be able to help.
James
Hello James. Martin O’Rourke here. My grandmother was Rachael Collins, daughter of David Collins and Catherine O’Brien. As I am sure you know, Catherine was a daughter of James and Mary O’Brien.
It is interesting that Rachael married Michael O’Rourke, the son of Patrick O’Rourke and Anne Marie (Nanny) Daly. Both Patrick and Nanny came from close to Culmullin Co. Meath in Ireland. So it intrigues me how close the O’Brien, Smith, O’Rourke and Daly families were. The O’Rourke’s and Daly’s were and are farmers in Ireland.
Congratulations for your work with this family history.
Best wishes, Martin.
Hi Marty, it is a great read. I need to put time aside to take this all in. I want to understand all aspects. Already, I find this famiglia in parts and my intetest is amounting. As Dad would have said, this has wet my whistle. Congratulation to all who have taken part in collecting this valuable information. Xxx Maureen.
LOOKING FOR A PATRICIA O’BRIEN who worked at Sigma….Collins Street, Melbourne, late 1950 to 1960″s this enquiry is from a friend who worked with her,CATHY KEENAN who later married MAX BURGIN. Pat you were at her wedding….she would love to make contact……..
Hi there,
Thank you for your research. This maybe the same Jack O’Brien I’m interested in finding more about . There does’nt seem to be much on him. From any other records except for the information you have provided. My grandma is from a small island in the South Pacific called Tuvalu formerly known as the Ellice Islands. She is a descendant of an Irish trader by the name of Jack O’Brien who married the king’s daughter and populated the village. To this day there are a vast number of Jack or ‘Siaki’ (Tuvalu) from Funafuti to live abroad, mainly in New Zealand. My grandma was a great-grandchild of Jack, she recently passed away last year, but his legacy in Tuvalu and his descents are many. You can find a photo of him in Tuvalu in 1897. I have attached a url below:
http://www.tuvaluislands.com/history.htm
Hi James- Something to ass and the result of the trial of William Allen as reported in one local newspaper – Twelve months in Bega Gaol.
Regards
Brett
Bega Standard and Candelo, Merimbula, Pambula, Eden, Wolumla, and General Advertiser (NSW : 1876 – 1884), Saturday 8 July 1882, page 2
THE SESSIONS.
Before Judge McFarland
The following Magistrates sat on the Bench : —Messrs. Broad, Jauncey, Sten nett, and Kerrison. William Allen, a mere lad, pleaded guilty to obtaining goods under false pretences from Messrs. A. J. Cook, and Co., of Candelo. Sentence, 12 months in Bega gaol.
Emily Wintle pleaded guilty to at-tempting to commit suicide, and was bound over for good behaviour, herself in £40, and one surety in £40. William Collins, or Butler, was charged with committing wilful and corrupt per jury. Mr. Backhouse prosecuted; and Mr. Rawlinson defended. Jury : — Messrs D. Clark, A. McNaught, Levy, Armstrong, H. Cole, M. Donaldson, J. V. Griffiths, J. Gannon, D. Langan, J. Malcolm, Joseph Keys, andj. Bateman. The case arose out of certain evidence given in defence of an affiiliation case, defendant swore he was working at Edpn at. a certain time, whereas he was not. It was proved that he had appealed to his employer, R. Atfield, for the date, and it appeared, had been unintentionally misled. The jury retired for half-ah-hour, and brought in a verdict of not guilty, and the accused was discharged.
Hi James,
I have written to you before. I am the granddaughter of Theresa Anne O’Brien daughter of Luke O’Brien who m. Roy Joseph Ziegler.
I have been been researching the family history on Ancestry.com.au (whilst having regard to your information and that of Barry O’Brien and Kevin Maddern.
According to Ancestry records.
Mary (no Ann) recorded McGorisk was born in 1812 and baptised 1812 at Kelsaran Louth Ireland. Place of residence on this certificate is Kelsaran Louth and her parents are recorded as Patrick McGorisk and Anne Waters.
James and Mary were married in 1832.
Her death certificate states that she died on 30 August 1837. This information is registered in the parish of Nobber in County Meath. Therefore the marriage was 5 years duration. I have not found my records of children boring to this union although it is possible that there were.
In 1841 James (according to Ancestry ) married Mary Ann Smith. The census in 1851 has the family living in Knockerk and confirms James a property owner who both farmed and rented land.
The children that I could find birth certificates for (registered by the father) most certainly belong to James and Mary Ann as they were born after this marriage. Ellen 1847, Luke 1851,Eliza 1853, John 1856, Catherine 1859, Mary 1861 and Patrick 1862.
I can’t comment on the validity of the information other than I have documents in my Ancestry tree to support what I have told you.
Regards Janice.