Elizabeth Keegan 1855 : Short Biography

Elizabeth, known as Bessie, was my Great Grandmother. She was the daughter of Michael Keegan and Mary Smyth who were married at Killucan in October 1845. Siblings were Bridget (b.1846), John (1848-1908), Patrick (1850-1929), Michael (1852-1907) and William (1857-1895).

Elizabeth married Edward Walsh in Killucan on the 29th February 1892. Edward was from Dungarvan, Waterford but living in Dublin. The witnesses were Matthew and Bessie Kelly who were the children of Mary Keegan whose relationship to Elizabeth is unknown. Perhaps they were cousins.

Elizabeth moved to Dublin with her husband, a tailor, and her mother Mary. Her mother died in 1895 and is buried in Glasnevin.

At some time, Michael and Mary's relationship had broken down. Petty session records in 1872 and 1873 show Michael as defendant accused of threatening Mary and his brother Darby. It is believed Michael died in Mullingar Asylum later in 1873. He is recorded as deceased at John's marriage in 1874.

Elizabeth's relationship to Derby (niece) is recorded in Probate records. Darby died in Killucan on 1st February 1888 though probate wasn't granted until 1911. He was unmarried.

Of her siblings, I have no record of Bridget beyond her baptism. John moved to England where he married. Patrick moved to Cork where he married. Michael died in Dublin, he was unmarried. William joined the RIC, was married. His daughter was Molly Keegan, a noted Mezzo Soprano. He died in Dublin.

Elizabeth is buried at Glasnevin.

My father spent many summers in Killucan as a boy staying with (I believe) the Brien family at what is now a pharmacy.