Commander Thomas McDonnell (1788-1864)

Commander Thomas Mcdonnell (1788-1864) Michael O’Halloran’s wife Mary McDonnell is believed to have been connected to one of the two lines of the Antrim clan of McDonnells who were living in Clare at this time. Both were Church of Ireland and both regarded themselves...
Théophilus Desbrisay (1662-1767) & the Corkagh Deed of 1743

Théophilus Desbrisay (1662-1767) & the Corkagh Deed of 1743

Recounting the story of one of the more colourful families to take an interest in Corkagh House, Clondalkin, Co. Dublin. The Desbrisays claimed descent from a warrior whom Charles the Bald entrusted with defending France against Viking and Breton assaults in the 9th...

The Musgrave Migration from Leitrim to Cork

THE MUSGRAVE MIGRATION FROM LEITRIM TO CORK A Report by Turtle Bunbury (2012) It was my ambition with this study to trace the Musgrave family of Derrinasoo (and by extension of Cork) back to the 18th century. The earliest forebear I’ve found is William Musgrave...

The Kinnears from Balmerino to Ballybay

THE KINNEARS FROM BALMERINO TO BALLYBAY Arms: Sable, on a bend or, three martlets (or canary birds) vert. Crest: Two anchors, saltier ways, proper. Motto: I live in hope. WHAT’S IN A NAME? There have always been numerous variations to the spelling of the name with de...

The O’Halloran’s

THE O’HALLORAN’S MERCHANT MEN OF ANTRIM & NEW ZEALAND EARLY ORIGINS Family lore holds that the O’Halloran’s emigrated north from County Clare on the west coast of Ireland to County Antrim at the north of the island in the late 18th century. This appeasr to be due...