My spouse and I are traveling to Ireland this coming summer (June 2013), a trip we've waited decades for and am interested in learning more about my specific past. My father's mother's maiden name was Carey and she actually left Ireland to come to America during the late 19th century. Unfortunately, my father was an only child and this is all the information I have. Her name was Mary Carey (maiden) and married a man (my grandfather) named Robert Beyer in New York City, N.Y. My father was an only child and both my grandparents had died before I as born. It is all I have. Not sure this is helpful at all but any assistance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, John Beyer
Thursday 27th Dec 2012, 02:14AM
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Dear John, how lovely to hear that you and your wife can make this trip home.
The Carey name is prolific in Ireland and this link will give you some idea of the group of Irish names of which it is a version. http://www.careyirish.com/
I don't know how much research you have done already so I will list the basics and then suggest some off the wall suggestions that have worked for others.
Marriage Certificate may name the parents
US Census, take note of employers or neighbours who may be from the same area in Ireland as your mother.
Letters, bibles, memorial cards or any other papers surviving. One person was able to identify a possible county because the writer talked about going to market in Tralee, Co. Kerry. Another found an Irish Landowner's name which narrowed down the search.
Passengers lists again did she travel alone or with companions whose names are more unusual and may be easier to trace.
Naturalization records/citizenship applications
Family friends/neighbours/ godparents or their children may remember stories your parents told.
Where your parents met may tell you something. My parents met in a London Dance Hall frequented by Irish people from Kerry.
These are just a few thoughts which will hopefully spark a possile avenue.
Let us know how you get on John. if you concentrate your efforts on digging in on the U.S. side I do believe you will find a clue.
Best of luck
Martine
Saturday 5th Jan 2013, 01:11PM