Michael Stenson : Short Biography

Michael Stenson

Michael Stenson and Bridget Gleeson were probably married in 1856 because their first child, William, was baptised on 16 August 1857 at Rathdowney, County Laois, Catholic diocese of Ossory. His godparents were James Nolan and Peggy Gleeson.

I assume he had to be at least 20 year old when he married.

On 1 April 1859 Bridget gave birth to twins, John whose godparents were John Stenson and Margaret Gleeson, and Mary whose godparents were John Hearn and Mary Bancarick (not sure if this is the correct surname). 

Alexander was baptised 7 April 1861 and his godparents were Pat Dunne and Bridget Stenson. 

Bridget was baptised 8 October 1863 and her godparents were William Fry and Mary Dunne.

Their sixth and last child, Michael, was baptised 4 April 1865. His godparents were Pat Phelan and Mary Forbes. Michael emigrated to Australia, arriving in Melbourne in 1889.

According to my aunt (grandchild of Michael junior) Michael and one of his brothers emigrated from Ireland. As Michael arrived alone from Mauritius. It must be assumed that his brother had not stopped off at Mauritius. My aunt says that some years later they were made aware of a newspaper notice about a brother seeking news about Michael Stenson. Sadly, by that time the brother had departed. She thinks he went to America.