I've learned that my grandfather, William Joseph Maher, was born at Rathmacan in Co Kilkenny in 1863. He emigrated to Omaha, Nebraska, USA in the mid-1880s. He married there in 1891 to Catherine McShane from Loughross/Crossmaglen in Co Armagh. They had seven children and I have been fairly successful in tracing their decendants. Questions still are always relative to who were his parents (my g-grandparents). Family stories are that his parents were Michael Maher and Mary (nee Maher). Attached is a portrait that is believed to be of Michael and Mary. Would like to validate that story or find out that it is inaccurate. Also would like to learn if there were any siblings. Or even g-g-grandparents! Or more! Thank you in advance for any and all assistance in this effort. I really will appreciate it. Direct contact can be made via mjmjcm @ gmail.com (without the spaces).
Mike Maher - Jacksonville, Florida [USA]
mjmjcm
Friday 15th Mar 2013, 05:34PMMessage Board Replies
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Mike:
The Griffiths Valuation survey in Kilkenny was conducted in 1848. The head of household data shows over 20 Mahers in the parish of Tullaroan including three who lived in Rathmacan: James, Patrick and William. Not sure how they connect to your grandfather William born in 1863. Possibly,if he was the oldest, he may have been named after his grandfather. I would check www.irishgenealogy.ie and www.familysearch.org to see if you can find any younger siblings to William. Note: Civil registration began in 1864.
Roger McDonnell
http://www.failteromhat.com/griffiths/kilkenny/tullaroan.htm
Castlemore Roscommon, IrelandXO Volunteer ☘
Friday 15th Mar 2013, 08:11PM