Hello
Along with others in the UK & NZ I am researching the family of John Jackson & Rachel nee Kean/Cain/ Kane who emigrated to Liverpool c1860 ( Everton) where John became a Town Missionary. (It is possible they may have gone to Scotland initially). John & Rachel had a large family some of whom were born in Co Down, Ireland - William c1840, James Cain, Charles Stewart, John Wesley c1848, Sarah who was born in Drumgath (Rathfriland) & Rachel. According to extracts from a census return of 1851 they lived at Main St and Castle St, Rathfriland.If anyone can help with any further information about this family and /or descendants we would be extremely grateful. We would also appreciate any information about Drumgath & Rathfriland at this time or any other local possible sources of information eg cemetery contacts.
Any help at all will be most appreciated.
Jill in New Zealand
Saturday 2nd Aug 2014, 11:08AM
Message Board Replies
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The most detailed description of the Rathfriland area around that time is probably in the Ordnance Survey memoirs. These were compiled around 1836 and cover each parish in the county. Typically 20 to 30 pages per parish. Describes the geography, any ancient monuments, people, the main and minor buildings, occupations, hobbies, pastimes, emigration, diet, schools, and often has names of people who have recently migrated.
The Ulster Historical Foundation printed them about 10 years ago. You should contact them to see if they can provide you with a copy. (PRONI in Belfast will also have a copy but you need to call in person to access it.) You may need to contact UHF to identify the relevant volume that contains Drumgath. To complicate matters, part of Rathfriland is in the parish of Drumballyroney. Hopefully that will be in the same volume as Drumgath.
Ahoghill Antrim
Saturday 2nd Aug 2014, 01:03PM -
Thank you so much for your prompt and helpful reply. I will contact the UHF. Wish me luck!
Jill
Monday 4th Aug 2014, 11:47AM