As we’ve been rebuilding our family tree, we’ve discovered some wonderful articles, items and details that help us piece together a narrative of our ancestors. An example?
James O’Reilly, my 3rd great grandfather, was born in Cragan, County Clare in 1827. The family immigrated to Canada in 1845 landing first in Quebec, then moving on to Kingston before permanently settling in Toronto. The family immediately established themselves in St. John’s Ward, a notorious neighbourhood in Toronto, first stop for many immigrants hoping for a better life. There, he quickly gained respect as a fine tailor and would move several times to larger quarters to accommodate both his growing family and bustling business.
Married to Margaret McDonald in 1860, the marriage wouldn’t last long. She would die before 1870 leaving James with her daughter Margaret Jane. He’d already lost his brother Michael, a sailor, in 1866, and would lose his mother, Ellen “Nelly” McNamara O’Reilly, in 1875.
Despite his losses, sunnier days were up ahead. He would marry again in 1871, this time to a young Irish tailoress who’d emigrated from Tipperary, in 1855. Bridget Landy would welcome step-daughter Margaret Jane as her own, and she and James would go on to have 7 children of their own.
From the pieces we’ve assembled, James and Bridget seemed to have a happy life centered around marriage, family and the church.
James O’Reilly died in Toronto in 1899. His obituary from The Globe and Mail, Canada’s oldest national newspaper, reports that he was “one of the oldest and most respected residents.” Mass was sung by Reverend Father John Hayden, CSSR, at St. Patrick's Church.
My only regret is we have no pictures of him. Perhaps another relative or descendant has some tucked away, waiting to be re-discovered and shared.
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| Obituary for James O'Reilly FULL GandM 16 Nov 1899.jpg (451.46 KB) | 451.46 KB |
| Additional Information | ||
|---|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 1st Jul 1827 | |
| Date of Death | 13th Nov 1899 | |
