My 2X great grandfather was Tole Harken/Harkin from Donegal. I have very little information on him. He migrated to Scotland sometime in the 1840's with his brothers John and Peter. He was born about 1832. His marriage certificate states that his father's name was Patrick and his mother was Ann Roarty. In the 1851 census of Scotland he is listed as a travelling cloth salesman as were his brothers Peter and John. It may be possible that he was part of a community of travellers but I cannot be certain of this. Any information on the Harken family from Donegal would be appreciated. I also have no idea about the name Tole and were it originated. He was illiterate and so on records there are differences in spelling.. Tole, Toll, Toal, Teral etc. In my various searches I have never come across this name. I assume it must be an old Irish name ?
mazthomas
Wednesday 29th Feb 2012, 05:29AMMessage Board Replies
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Hi there,
Thank you very much for your query to Ireland Reaching Out. The name Tole is not one I have heard of myself, but perhaps it is a name known in County Donegal.
You have his parents names which is good, but unfortunately you do not have a location in Donegal. You could try checking the land records called the Tithe Applotment Books (1823-38).
Hopefully, someone in the community in Donegal will be able to offer you more information.
Kind regards,
Sinead Cooney
Wednesday 29th Feb 2012, 10:39AM