Hi Roisin:
Many thanks for your query to Ireland Reaching Out.
Yes, there were indeed the various family names that you mentioned in your above query. In addition, there are other people researching the same names and more than likely relations to you. If you like, you can message me at: tulla@irelandxo.com and I will share their contact information with you.
As to your query with regard to online newspaper resources and historical references, there are a number of very good books about that the 18th century in Ireland and particularly the Famine in the greater Ennis area. One of those books which is very informative is "On Saber's Wings Over the Land" by Ciaran O'Murchadha. In addition, there is also a book "A Pride of Paper Tigers" by Michael O'Gorman which chronicles the effects of the Famine in relation to the Scariff Workhouse in Clare. Both books give graphic examples of the hardships that many people faced and the reason why so many left.
In addition, you can access online newspaper resources through the Irish Newspaper Archives, however that site is a pay-site.
If you have any further questions or comments, please contact me.
Kind regards,
Jane.