Rochestown Glenmore
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From Glenmore to Ontario, Canada: Maurice Denn (1825-1873)
Today, we are going to outline the life of a Rochestown, Glenmore man who was born just over 200 years ago. Maurice Denn was baptized at Rochestown, Glenmore on 16 January 1825. According to Danny Dowling (1927-2023) the Denn’s were major local landholders before Cromwell, however Maurice Denn was born into more humble circumstances. We know very little about Maurice Denn’s early life except what can be gleaned from parish records.
Parents & Godparents
Maurice Denn was the son of Morgan Denn and his wife Margaret Mullally of Rochestown, Glenmore. Maurice, and particularly Morgan, are not common Glenmore first names. It may be the case that the names passed down from more affluent times. Maurice’s godparents in 1825 were Patrick Dollard and Catherine Mullally. We believe that Maurice’s godfather was later to become Rev. Patrick Dollard (1804-1868) who went to Kingston, Ontario, Canada, and built St. Mary’s Cathedral. See our post of 23 February 2025 regarding Rev. Patrick Dollard.
We believe that Maurice’s godmother Catherine Mullally, of Rochestown, married Garrett Murphy on 18 February 1828 at Slieverue. The witnesses to the wedding were Daniel Sullivan and Morgan Den (sic) Maurice’s father. Per the baptismal records of their two eldest children, Garret and Catherine Murphy resided at Glasshouse in Slieverue. In 1838, the address for their third child was recorded as Newtown, and Mary Denn was her godmother. The following year their address was Ferrybank. In 1841 their address was Slip, Ferrybank. In reviewing Kingston, Ontario mid 19th Century records all of these surnames are present.
Siblings
Morgan Denn and Margaret Mullally of Rochestown were married on 11 January 11, 1822 at Glenmore. The following children were found in parish records.
[1] Mary Denn, bapt. 11 May 1823
[2] Maurice Denn, bapt 16 Jan. 1825 (mother recorded as Mary Murry)
[3] Elizabeth Denn, bapt. 12 Aug. 1827
[4] Ellen Din (sic), bapt 21 May 1831 (Ellen Denn married Patrick Henneberry & was the mother of Maurice Henneberry (1859-1917). See our post of 14 Dec. 2025 for further information).
[5] Catherine Denn, bapt. 1834
Emigration to Kingston, Ontario, Canada
It isn’t clear when Maurice Denn emigrated to Kingston, Ontario, Canada, but he did marry Ellen Brennan (c.1816-1892) on 5 February 1852 in Ontario, Canada. The priest performing the marriage ceremony was Fr. Patrick Dollard (1804-1868) another Rochestown, Glenmore native, and we believe was Maurice’s godfather. The bride was the daughter of Patrick Brennan (deceased) and Mary Healy from the Parish of Ballyragget, Co. Kilkenny.
Although we located Mary Brenan (sic) (b. 1802), at Byrnesgrove, Ballyragget, for this couple we could not locate Ellen. Our date of birth for Ellen is solely based on her published obituary although we note the 1871 Census states that she was 35 or born around 1836. However, the 1871 Census also provides that Maurice was 38 or born in 1833 and we know he was actually born in 1825. The 1871 Census also reveals that Ellen Denn née Brennan could not read or write and this may have hampered her recall of her birthdate and/or age.
Employment
The Kingston, Ontario City Directory 1857-1858 (p. 34) provides that Maurice was employed for a time as a guard at the Provincial Penitentiary and resided on Block Street. There are only three entries for Denn in the City Directory.
Denn, M.H., Brock St.
Denn, Maurice, guard, Provincial Penitentiary, Brock St.
Denn, William, gentleman, 30 Gore Street
In reviewing the 1873-1874 Kingston City Directory and Vicinity (p. 16) it soon became apparent that William and Maurice Denn were not probably related.
Denn, Maurice, res. Bay St., Grocers and Provisions
Denn, William, res Sydenham St., Sexton W.M. Church [Wesleyan Methodist]
William was a Sexton for the Sydenham Street Methodist Church, which was established in Kingston in 1852. By this time Maurice was living on Bay St. and was employed with respect to “grocers & provisions.” Contemporary newspapers report that Maurice Denn owned a tavern (Kingston Whig Standard, Thur. 18 April 1872, p. 3).
1872 Publications
Maurice Denn was 47 in 1872 and the following newspaper articles show one of his interests. This year also represented the last before the family experienced an era of tragedies.
The British Whig (Tue. 16 Jan. 1872, p. 3) reported that Mary Connell was charged with vagrancy and larceny. She admitted that she stole two buffalo robes from the sleigh of Mr. Maurice Denn. The robes were not recovered because the prisoner would not tell how she disposed of the robes.
The British Whig (Mon. 26 Aug. 1872, p. 2) under the title Aquatics reported that a four oared race of three miles for $40 a side was to take place on Monday evening at five o’clock in the harbour, providing the water is till. The strokes of the crews are Messrs. Maurice Denn and John Dacey. The amateurs are practicing up for the contest, with the two outrigger boats lately stored at O’Gorman’s. The course was from Cataraqui Bridge to the buoy off Morton’s Wharf and back.
Death of Maurice Denn (1825-1873) and Ellen Denn née Brennan (c. 1816 -1892)
The following short newspaper death notice was found in The British Whig (Thu. 18 Dec. 1873, p. 2). “In Kingston, Dec. 17th Mr. Morrice (sic) Denn, aged 45 years. The funeral will take place on tomorrow (Friday) afternoon at 2:30 o’clock from his late residence, Bay Street, to St. Mary’s Cemetery. Friends and acquaintances are respectfully invited to attend.”
Almost twenty years later Maurice’s widow died. The following death notice was published inThe Weekly British Whig (Thu. 9 June 1892, p. 1). “Denn—In Kingston, on June 1st, Ellen, relict of the late Maurice Denn, native of the county Kilkenny, Ireland, aged 76 years.” At the time of Ellen’s death only her daughter Margaret survived her.
Children of Maurice Denn & Ellen Denn née Brennan
Three children were found in the Denn household in the 1871 Census. Two were born to the couple, and the third child was recorded as adopted. Although recorded as adopted the child retained the surname Burke.
[1] Patrick Denn was born on 30 Oct. 1852 and died from drowning on 3 July 1879 at the age of 27. The British Whig (Fri. 4 July 1879, p. 3) “SAD DROWNING CASE—Last evening about 9 p.m. an accident of a very painful character occurred just after the barge “Minnie” loaded with cordwood had passed through the locks at Kingston Mills. A young man named Patrick Denn, aged about 22 years, was busily engaged in coiling some rope near the cabin; while engaged in pulling the rope it came too suddenly and he slipped, tumbling overboard.”
“A board was thrown from the barge to him, but he was so much exhausted as to be unable to reach it. The barge was stopped and an active search made for the body which was found about an hour afterwards. He was brought to the city and tenderly carried to the home of his widowed mother, on Bay Street. The young man was well known in the city, and was highly respected by his companions. He was formerly employed in Conroy’s store on Market Square. His sister left this morning on the ‘Maud’ for Watertown, and has been telegraphed for.”
[2] Margaret Denn (1854-1892)–On 9 February 1880, William McQuaid and Margaret Denn were married in Kingston. The groom was the son of Wm. McQuaid and his wife, Mary O’Neil. Three years after their marriage, Margaret and William McQuaid were witnesses when her adopted sister Mary Burke married.
In the 1891 Census Margaret and William McQuaid had four children comprised of one girl and three boys. William was employed as a “Miller of Sounding Boards for Pianos.” [2a] Mary McQuaid was born about 1883; [2b] Parnell McQuaid was born about 1884; [2c] Maurice McQuaid was born about 1885 and [2d] John McQuaid was born about 1888. Also in the household in 1891 was Margaret’s mother, Ellen Denn née Brennan, who reported that she was 78 years of age. A fifth child was recorded in the 1900 U.S. Census [2e] Katie McQuaid who was reported as having been born in May 1890.
Margaret McQuaid née Denn died on 2 November 1892 of TB in Kingston, Ontario. Margaret died just 5 months after her mother died. Margaret McQuaid née Denn had in 20 years suffered the loss of her only brother, her father, her sister and her mother. Her husband was left with 5 young children under 10 to rear.
Apparently soon after his wife’s death, William moved with his children to Chicago Illinois. The 1900 U.S. Census provides that he was a 48 year-old widower born in Canada and both his parents were also born in Canada. We know this is not correct. He alleged that his youngest child, Katie was born in May 1890, but the child is not reflected on the Canadian 1891 Census. All four of the other children are present in Chicago, and Parnell, Maurice and William are employed as piano makers. William recorded that the family immigrated in 1892 and he was a naturalised citizen.
William McQuaid apparently died on 7 October 1904 in Chicago and at that time his occupation was saloon keeper. For further information see William McQuaid’s grave information available at findagrave.
[3] Mary Burke (1857-1889) per the 1871 Census, was adopted by Maurice and Ellen Denn. Mary Burke was born at Kingston on 15 April 1857. Her parents were John Burke and Margaret Delaney. Her parents were married on 17 April 1856. Fr. Patrick Dollards performed the marriage and noted that the witnesses were George Russell, James Burke, and Mrs. Ellen Denn (née Brennan). The groom was the son of James Burke (stone mason) and his wife Bridget Brennan and the bride was the daughter of James Delaney and Mary Brennan.
Mary Burke was born one year after her parent’s marriage. Her godmother was Mrs. Ellen Denn née Brennan. Her mother Margaret Burke née Delaney (c.1834-1859) died on 14 July 1859 at the age of 25. Her mother’s death notice states that she was a native of County Kilkenny (The Kingston Whig Standard (Sat. 16 July 1859, p. 2). Fr. Patrick Dollard conducted Margaret Burke née Delaney’s funeral and noted that she was interred in the presence of John Burke, George Russell and Maurice Denn and others. A headstone in St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Cemetery of Kingston provides that Margaret Delaney died 14 July 1859 at the age of 25 and was a native of Toor Parish, Ballyragget, Kilkenny, Ireland. See findagrave to view the headstone.
Mary Burke married Patrick McKenty on 16 April 1883. Her parents were listed as John Burke and Margaret Delaney. Witnesses to the wedding were Wm. McQuade and Margaret McQuade (née Denn). Patrick McKenty was 33 years of age and the son of John McKenty and Mary Carr. The groom was born on Amherst Island, Canada.
After only six years of marriage, Mary McKenty née Burke tragically died on 23 June 1889 of Consumption [TB]. She was just 31 years and 9 months old when she died, and we believe she left three small children. The Kingston Whig Standard (Wed. 10 July 1889, p. 2) published a short article. “Much regret is expressed in Kingston circles over the untimely death of Mrs. P. McKenty, (nee Mary Burke) in your city. The deceased lady was not only well known but highly thought of by a multitude of former Kingstonians, now citizens of Chicago.”
Other Family Deaths
In the course of trying to unravel Maurice Denn’s family we came across a two related notices or obituaries.
Margaret Delaney née Brennan (c. 1834-1859) [mother of Mary Burke] The Kingston Whig Standard (Sat. 16 July 1859, p. 2) published “Died—In Kingston, on the 14th of July, Mrs. Margaret Delaney, wife of Mr. John Burke, aged 25 years a native of the County Kilkenny, Ireland. The funeral was held from the residence of Mr. John Burke on William Street.”
Patrick McKenty (c.1847-1912) (widower of Mary McKenty née Burke died 23 years after his wife)The Daily Standard (Mon. 30 Dec. 1912, p. 2) published a short obituary. “The remains of the late Patrick McKenty, who died in Hamilton last week, were brought to this city on Sunday afternoon for burial. The late Mr. McKenty was well known in Kingston, where for many years he resided and where he was accustomed of late to spend his winters. He was 65 years of age and always enjoyed the best of health. His death was quite unexpected. Survived by son John of Hamilton and two daughters. Mrs. V.C. Joyce of Fort William and Mrs. (Dr.) Keating of Chicago.”
Please send any corrections, further information or photos to glenmore.history@gmail.com .
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
The feature photo is an old postcard of St. Mary’s Cathedral of Kingston, Ontario.
The postcard of Kingston Market Square is c. 1902 and is courtesy of The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Photography Collection, The New York Public Library. “Market Square and City Hall, Kingston, Ont.” New York Public Library Digital Collections. Accessed February 8, 2026. https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/9fca5540-c62c-012f-9bb0-58d385a7bc34
Kate Raftice née Gahan (1854-1925) of Rochestown, Glenmore
Today, we feature a woman who died in 1925 and is still spoken about among the older Glenmore residents. Kate or Kit Raftice, as she was known, had and has the reputation of having been a very difficult woman. In a time when men, particularly the eldest son inherited the farm, she obtained the family farm over her brothers. She is reported to have had a young man working on her farm who died from ringworm. Her husband of only a few years was dead in the house, and she never told his brother who came to cut the corn that he was dead. She put a curse on her neighbour who was married to her cousin or niece. Kate Raftis died a horrible death in 1925 and that is our starting point.
Horrible Death in Rochestown, Glenmore
At about 11in the morning on Saturday the 19th of December 1925, John Murphy, a labourer, called to Kate Raftice’s home in Rochestown. It was reported in the Cork Examiner that Kate Raftice was a 70 year-old widow who lived alone on her 50 acre farm. John Murphy found Kate Raftice unconscious. She suffered terrible burns on her head, face and body. “Her features were almost unrecognisable.” It was opined that she fell into her open fire and “being very feeble” she was “unable to render herself any assistance.” She died within an hour of being found (Cork Examiner, Tues. 22 Dec. 1925, p. 7). Her death was widely reported in other Irish newspapers including Irish Independent (Tues. 22 Dec. 1925, p. 8).
Dr. Denis J. Walsh, of Graigenamanagh, in 1925 was the Coroner for South Kilkenny. Dr. Walsh decided that an inquest was not necessary (Irish Times, Sat. 26 Dec. 1925, p. 6). While a Coroner was not required to hold an inquest, the Coroner did have to hold an inquiry. At an inquiry a Coroner had to listen to or read the evidence the police provided (Dr. Ian Walsh, BL (2026)). Dr. Walsh apparently was satisfied that there was nothing suspicious and issued the death certificate for Kate Raftice.
A death was recorded in the Registrar for Kate Raftice. However, her death is incorrectly recorded as 19 December 1926. It is stated that she died of shock four hours after suffering extensive burns. Her age at death was recorded as 65. Her brother-in-law Edward Phelan of 24 John’s St., Waterford is recorded as being present when she died. There was no electricity or telephone in the Raftice home. It is assumed that the nearest telephone was at the Aylwardstown train station. If not, John Murphy had to go to the Gardai barracks in Glenmore Village. It is difficult to see how Edward Phelan was present by noon when Kate Raftice died.
In examining the death register it appears that the date may have originally been recorded as 1925 but the 5 in the entry was overwritten as a 6. The death was recorded on the 14th of May 1926 (7 months before the recorded date of death) which should have alerted the clerk that the correct year of death was 1925.
According to the Annual Report of the Registrar-General of Marriages, Births and Deaths 1925 for Saorstát Éireann (p. xxiii) there were 149 deaths in Ireland in 1925 caused from burns and scalds. This number reflects 65 males and 84 females. Of the 149 deaths 88 were children under 5 years of age. Unfortunately, the number of deaths due to burns and scalds of elderly persons is not recorded. See page 33 for the statistics dealing with County Kilkenny deaths.
The Husband, John Raftice (1862-1905)
John Raftice was a native of Davidstown, Glenmore. As a young man he went to California. He worked in a remote area and saved his money. John Raftice returned to Ireland, and on 17 February 1900 married Kate Gahan of Rochestown. The groom’s father was Robert “Robin” Raftice (c. 1826-1908) (farmer) and the bride’s father was Joseph Gahan (c. 1809-1891)(deceased farmer). (See our post of 4 March 2024 for details regarding John Raftice in California.)
1901 Census
Successive searches have not revealed a record or obituary reflecting when John Raftice died. He was married in 1900 and is present in the 1901 Census living in Rochestown. His age is recorded in the 1901 Census as 36. Kate is recorded as being 30 and her sister Ellen Gahan is 26 years of age. Also present in the house is a 12 year-old boy named Richard Dwyer.
Richard Dwyer (b.c. 1889)
In the 1901 Census Richard Dwyer was recorded as being born in Waterford, and he is listed as being a servant. No record could be located for Richard Dwyer born in Waterford circa 1889.
In 1958, Ned Roche of Rathinure told Statia Walsh née Kennedy that a young fellow died of ringworm at Kit Raftice’s. Was Richard Dwyer the young man who died of ringworm? We searched death records to no avail. Checking the 1911 Census Richard was no longer in Rochestown. However, we found a Richard Dwyer aged 22 living with the Wallace family in Ballyhack, Wexford as their servant. However this Richard Dwyer is recorded as having been born in Wexford.
Death of John Raftice
John Raftice is not found in the 1911 Census. The only clue we have as to when John Raftice died was provided by Danny Dowling (1927-2021). Danny copied the diary of James Aylward of Ballyhobuck, Glenmore. In his diary James Aylward recorded local deaths, births and marriages. James Aylward recorded that John Raftice died in September 1905. Rochestown is near Ballyhobuck. Even armed with a month and year of death we were unable to locate a death record for John Raftice. Using the death date of another Glenmore resident that died in 1905 we learned that this other person’s record is unavailable because there are quality issues with the original. We have sought further clarification.
The Gahan Family of Rochestown, Glenmore
Finding a baptismal record for Kate Raftice née Gahan was problematic. Every record provided a different year of birth. Thanks to Danny Dowling’s (1927-2021) interview of Nicky “the Miller” Forristal in 1969 we have quite a bit of information concerning Kate’s siblings and of course we then obtained her mother’s maiden name. The original interview of Nicky the Miller Forristal can be viewed on our G surname page under Richard Gahan.
Joseph Gehan (sic) (c. 1809-1891) married on 15 February 1844, in Mullinavat, to Bridget Bourke (c. 1822-1896) of Ballynacooly. The couple resided in Rochestown, Glenmore and had at least 9 children.
[1] Richard Gahan (1845-1927) of Scart, Glenmore, in 1908 married Anastatia Grace of Listerlin. He was over 60 when he married. The fathers of the bride and groom were Joseph Gahan (deceased farmer) and Patrick Grace (farmer). The couple lived in Listerlin and had at least two daughters (1a) Bridget Gahan born in 1909 and (1b) Ellen Gahan born in 1910.
[2] Walter Gahan (1846-1904) Never married.
[3] Mary Gahan b. 1848;
[4] Thomas Gahan b. 1852;
[5] Catherine Gahan b. 1854 to James (sic) Gahan & Bridget Rurk (sic) of Rochestown, Glenmore
[6] Bridget Gahan (1857-? ) married Edward Phelan of John St., Waterford, on 30 September 1900. She was residing on Beau St., and her father was Joseph Gahan, farmer. Her sister Ellie Gahan was the maid of honour. They were married in Waterford City.
[7] Johanna Gahan (1859-1882) Never married.
[8] Michael Gahan (1862-1892) died in Australia per the family headstone.
[9] Ellen Gahan (1864- ?) married her widowed brother-in-law Edward Phelan, publican of John St., Waterford, on 1 September 1908 at Mount Melleray, Waterford. Strangely in the 1911 Census Edward Phelan stated he was a widower and that Ellen Gahan was his sister-in-law not his wife of 3 years.
In the interview Nicky the Miller while discussing the Gahan siblings also listed Joseph Gahan who married a Fitzgerald of Moulerstown. The couple only had one child Ellen Gahan (c. 1884-1965) who was called Clara. Ellen Gahan (c. 1884-1965) married Laurence Walsh (1881-1959) of Smithstown, Tulloagher. The couple farmed in Rochestown. We could not find a baptismal record for Joseph Gahan, the son of Joseph Gahan and Bridget Bourke. Was Thomas Gahan (b. 1845) called Joseph perhaps? Neither name is reflected on the family headstone.
The Rochestown, Glenmore Farm
No Glenmore story involving a farm would be complete without accounting for the farm. Kate Raftice had no children and after her death arrangements were made to sell the farm. Thomas Walsh and Son, auctioneers, sold the Rochestown farm “containing 62 acres S.M., subject to £27 1/4 per annum. The auction was by directions of the executor of the late Mrs. Kate Raftice. The bidding was brisk. Mr. C. Quinlan, solicitor, Waterford, was declared the purchaser in trust for 825 guineas. Messrs P.A. Murphy and Co., Solicitors, Waterford, had carriage of sale. Immediately after the sale of the farm the cattle, horses, crops and farm implements were disposed of at satisfactory prices” (Waterford News & Star, 26 Feb 1926 p. 5).
A guinea was 21 shillings, so the farm sold for £866 5s or just short of £14 per acre. Ironically, it is reported that the land was purchased by the man upon which Kate Raftice placed a curse, Larry Walsh (c. 1884-1959) of Rochestown. Larry or Laurence Walsh was the father of Glenmore character Martin Walsh (1918-1996). See our post of 31 December 2023 regarding Martin Walsh.
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Special thanks to legal historian Dr. Ian Walsh, BL for explaining the Coroner issues.
If you have any additional information, corrections or photos etc. please email glenmore.history@gmail.com .
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
James O’Neill (1857-1933) native of Rochestown, Glenmore [Updated]
The National Archives has the Irish Merchant Navy Crew Lists 1857-1922 and the index is available on line. The list has the names of two sailors who listed Glenmore as their place of birth. Today, we are going to highlight James O’Neill who provided to the authorities that he was born in Rochestown, Kilkenny in 1853 or 1858 depending on the various crew lists for ships upon which he worked. James O’Neill provides a perfect example of Glenmore people moving to an urban area for more opportunities.
The O’Neill Family of Rochestown, Glenmore
The name Neil/Neill (locally pronounced nail) or O’Neill was not a common name in Rochestown in the mid to late 19th century. Bridget Walsh of Rochestown on 20 August 1855 at Glenmore, married Richard Neil. The witnesses to the marriage were James Murphy and Mary Ryan. This marriage produced seven sons. Their baptisms allow us to track the family from Rochestown Glenmore to Ferrybank. The family moved sometime between 1869 and 1873 to Ferrybank.
[Update–Per the 1957 obituary (below) of James’s son Richard O’Neill (1890-1957) his father and grandfather worked on the Suir Ferry that plied between Ferrybank and Waterford City. Thus it appears that his grandfather moved the family to Ferrybank between 1869 and 1873 to take up a job as a ferryman.]
Their eldest child, [1] James Neil was baptized on 15 January 1857 at Rochestown. His Godparents were James Neil and Margaret Maher.
[2] John Neill was baptized at Rochestown on 11 October 1859 at Rochestown. His Godparents were John Doyle and Margaret Kennedy.
[3] Michael Neill was baptized at Rochestown on 22 June 1862. His Godparents were John Haberlin and Mary Gahan. Michael O’Neill (labouer) married Margaret Burns on 6 September 1903 at Trinity Without, Waterford.
[4] Daniel Neill was baptized on 18 May 1865. His Godparents were William Walsh and Judith Malone. Daniel Neill (labourer) married Joanna Power on 10 May 1890 at Trinity Within Waterford. Her father was John Power (labourer).
[5] Richard Neil was baptized on 11 August 1867. His Godparents were Thomas Connolly and Maria Gahan. Richard Neil married Ellen Frisby at Ferrybank on 23 October 1894. At the time of the wedding Richard was employed as a sailor. A Richard Neil was located on the Irish Merchant Navy Crew Lists 1857-1922, however this Richard Neil stated in December 1885 that he was born in Waterford in 1863.
[6] Laurence Neill was born on 25 June 1869 at Rochestown. His Godparents were James Walsh and Mary Hennebery.
[7] Thomas Neill was born on 15 April 1873 at Ferrybank per the Civil Birth Register. His mother, Brigid Neil née Walsh registered his birth and made “her mark” on the Register rather than signing it. The Slieverue Church records reveal that Thomas was born on 29 January 1873 and was baptised on 31 January 1873. His Godparents were Michael Walsh and Ellen Dargan. Thomas Neill, of Ferrybank, married Bridget Sutton on 27 June 1900. The bride’s father was John Sutton (labourer).
Richard Neil and Bridget Neil née Walsh
It was difficult to locate birth or death records for Richard Neil and his wife Bridget Walsh. A Richard Neil was baptized 23 September 1832 at Ballahabuck (sic) Glenmore to Daniel Neil and his wife Mary Warran. A Richard Neil was baptized 24 March 1840 at Rahanure (sic) Glenmore the son of Laurence Neil and Ellen Kennedy. Rathinure is adjacent to Rochestown, but given Richard married Bridget in 1855 it is unlikely he was born in 1840.
In terms of Bridget Neil née Walsh a death record was found for a Bridget Neil who died 24 August 1888 at Kilmurry, Slieverue. She was a 74 year old widow of farm a labourer. Her son James Neil was present at her death. This may be Bridget Neil née Walsh except her age would be incorrect. Bridget Neil née Walsh had her last son in 1873. If she were 74 in 1888, she was born about 1814 and she would have been 59 when she gave birth to Thomas in 1873.
A Richard Neill died 29 January 1873 at the Waterford workhouse hospital. He was a married labourer 60 years of age. He died of chronic bronchitis. If this is Bridget Neil née Walsh’s husband he was born about 1813 and died the day their youngest son Thomas was born.
James O’Neill (1857-1933) Native of Rochestown, Glenmore
As stated above James O’Neill was born in Rochestown in 1857 per his baptismal record. When signing on as a crew member James gave different years of birth. For example, in 1881 he gave his birth year as 1853, yet the previous year he gave his birth year as 1858. What is consistent in the records is his place of birth, Rochestown, Kilkenny.
Able Seaman
James O’Neill (b. 1853 at Rochestown, Kilkenny) signed onto the Geraldine at Waterford on 9 May 1881 as an able seaman. He was required to be on board at 6 a.m. It was agreed that he would be paid £3 per month and was given an advance of 1/10. There was no agreed weekly or monthly allotment to be paid. He was discharged at Waterford on 3 September 1881. He was paid the balance of his wages or £9 10d at his discharge (Ireland, Crew Lists & Shipping Agreements, 1863-1920).
James O’Neill (b. 1852, Kilkenny) joined the Lynwood (Vessel Number 73993) on 4 July 1888 at Waterford as an able seaman and reported his age as 36. He left the ship on 15 October 1888 (Aberystwyth, Wales, Index to Crew Lists, 1850-1914).
James O’Neill & Annie O’Neill née Butler
On June 23, 1886 James O’Neil (sailor) married Anne Butler, of the Mall, Waterford. The couple were married in Trinity Within, of Waterford City. The bride’s father was John Butler, the Mall, Waterford City.
The 1901 Census provides that James had given up being a sailor and was employed as a general labourer. The family was residing on the Lower Yellow Road, Waterford City. James and Annie were both 40 years of age, and they had 7 children. Helpfully Annie’s surname was recorded as Butler in the census. In 1901 the couple had five boys and two girls. Their son John O’Neill was 13; Richard O’Neill was 12; Mary O’Neill was 10; Thomas O’Neill was 7; Laurence O’Neill was 5; George O’Neill was 3 and Annie O’Neill was 1.
The 1911 Census finds the family living at 23 New Ports Lane, Waterford City. James O’Neill reported his profession as “boatman.” He was 49, but his wife Annie was only 46. Their children who were still at home included: John O’Neill, aged 23 was employed as a van man; Richard O’Neill was 21 and was a van man; Thomas O’Neill was 18 and also a van man; Laurence O’Neill was 15 and employed as a messenger; George O’Neill was 13 and still at school; as were Annie O’Neill, aged 11 and Bridget O’Neill aged 8.
We believe in 1911 their daughter Mary O’Neill was working as a domestic servant for Alderman Richard Hearne, J.P. and family at 5 William St., Waterford City. She gave her age as 17 and recorded that she had been born in County Kilkenny. We know from her father’s obituary below that he was employed by the Waterford Corporation as a ferryman for over 40 years at the time of his death in 1933.
[Update–Their son Richard O’Neill (1890-1957) also worked on the Suir Ferry until it stopped operating. Obituaries for Richard (1890-1957) and his brother Thomas O’Neill (c. 1893-1980) are below.]
Deaths
James O’Neill, of Newport Lane, Waterford died 11 July 1933, aged 70 years at the County Hospital. His profession was listed as labourer, he was married and died of bronchitis and senility. His widow, Anne O’Neill died 15 November 1940 at 24 Newport Lane, aged 70. Their son Richard O’Neill, of 19 Morrison’s Road, was present when she died of cardiac failure.
James and Annie O’Neill must have lived a quiet life as no local newspaper articles could be located regarding them. A short obituary was located for James O’Neill.
“FERRYMAN’S DEMISE—The death occurred on Wednesday morning at St. Patrick’s Hospital, of Mr. James O’Neill, Newport’s Lane, who had been ferryman at the Corporation ferry for over forty years. The late Mr. O’Neill was well known among a wide circle, particularly devotees of boating, and although 70 years of age, he was working as usual up to nine months ago, when he was first stricken with illness” (Munster Express, Fri. 14 July 1933, p. 2). According to my calculations James O’Neill was 77 years of age when he died in 1933.
From a quick review of local newspapers it appears that the Waterford Ferry was in operation since ancient times. At some point the ferry service was purchased by the Waterford Bridge Committee. By 1920 it was reported that the service needed an update to meet the needs of the new meat factory being built at Cromwell’s Rock (Waterford News & Star, Fri. 19 March 1920, p. 2). In 1925 it was reported that the Sunday Service was operating at a loss. The receipts on the Sunday Ferry Service for the 4 weeks ending 8 February were £4 19/3 and wages £5 12/-, leaving a loss of 12/9 (Munster Express, Fri. 13 Feb. 1925, p. 5).
For a fascinating short article on the Waterford Ferry see, P.J. Ryan (1997) “Memories of the Old Waterford Ferry” Old Kilkenny Review 1997, p. 163-165. Interestingly, two cousins named John and Dick O’Neill worked as Waterford ferrymen in the 1930’s and 1940’s. Hopefully further research can confirm if they were sons or nephews of James O’Neill (1857-1933).
Further Research
[Thanks to a Waterford reader who was a neighbour we learned that Dick O’Neill was the son of James O’Neill and Dick died about 1955 at his home on Morrisson’s Road, Waterford. Two obituaries were located for 1957.]
Obituary for Richard “Dick” O’Neill (1890-1957) Suir Ferryman
The Munster Express (Fri. 17 May 1957, p. 2) provided, MR. RICHARD O’NEILL—a retired Corporation worker, of Morrisson’s Road, Waterford, who fell down the stairs in his home yesterday (Thursday) fortnight, and sustained severe head injuries, died at St. Patrick’s Hospital, John’s Hill, on Tuesday. He was removed to the hospital in an unconscious condition and passed away without regaining consciousness.
Husband of the late Mrs. Ellen O’Neill (nee O’Riordan), deceased was for a long number of years employed on the Waterford Corporation ferry service before it was discontinued some years ago. Mr. O’Neill’s father and grandfather before him were also employed in a similar capacity. On the dissolution of the ferry service, Mr. O’Neill was appointed caretaker of the John’s Lane Park, and subsequently was employed in different capacities by the Corporation. He retired last September.
Father of Messrs. James O’Neill, Morrisson’s Road, attached ot the Waterford G.P.O.; Sean O’Neill, Convent Hill, Waterford-Massey Ironfounders, Ltd.; Thomas O’Neill, Armatage Staffs, England and Mrs. Kathleen Walsh, The Aviary, Marian Park. He was brother of Mr. Thomas O’Neill, Newport St., Waterford Accompanied by a large and representative cortege the remains were conveyed to the Church of the Holy Faith on Tuesday. (Munster Express, Fri. 17 May 1957, p. 2).
The Waterford News & Star, (Fri. 17 May 1957, p. 3) provided further information, “The name of O’Neill in Waterford was synonymous with the Suir ferry, which was operated by the Corporation up to some years ago. Richard O’Neill, his father, and his grandfather, each in turn, ran the ferry service.”
Obituary for Thomas O’Neill (c. 1893-1980)
While looking for the ferryman John O’Neill we came across the obituary for James’s son Thomas (c. 1893-1980).
The Munster Express (Fri. 17 Oct. 1980, p. 2) published, “Mr. Thomas O’Neill, of 24 Newport’s Terrace, Waterford, whose death took place recently in Ardkeen Hospital, was in his earlier years employed by Messrs. M. O’Sullivan and Sons Ltd. Ballinaneeshagh and formerly of High St., Waterford. He was aged87 and was pre-deceased by hi wife, Mrs. Agness O’Neill. He was father of Mr. Martin O’Neil, Gracedieu Road, Waterford and Mrs. Nan Power, Doyle Street, do. His remains were removed to Ballybricken Church ad following Requiem Mass, the funeral took place for interment in St. Otteran’s Cemetery, Ballinaneeshagh.” The Waterford News & Star (Fri. 3 Oct. 1980, p. 19) listed a second son Mr. Thomas O’Neill, England and noted that his daughter Mrs. Nan Power, Shopkeeper, Doyle Street. He left 9 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.
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The featured drawing above is “The Ferry Boat,” an engraving from Lady’s Own Paper, Sat. 8 October 1870, p. 4.
Please send any corrections, further information or photos to glenmore.history@gmail.com .
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Thatched Houses in Glenmore at the End of WWII [Updated]
Danny Dowling (1929-2021) made lists of various local things including: local Irish words, Mass Paths, elderly parish residents and thatched houses in Glenmore at the end of WWII. Thatch was the traditional roof in Glenmore prior to the twentieth century. The Second World War ended in 1945, and it appears that thatch roofs were then in the minority. Below is Danny’s list of the 35 houses identified and their respective townlands. The list is not dated. We note that several townlands are not included. The entire original list with notes from Danny is included. Any comments or additional houses that have been added are is square brackets [ ].
- Jack Forristal, of Cappagh (Bolger’s) [today Frankie Kirwan’s].
- Greene’s, of Jamestown
- Wattie Power, of Jamestown
- Anne Gaule, of Busherstown
- Johanna Closh Walsh, of Busherstown
- Main Gaule, of Busherstown
- Neddie Power, of Busherstown
- Anne Doherty, of Busherstown
- Doherty’s, of Milltown (part of)
- Haberlin’s, of Forristalstown
- Grace’s, of Forristalstown
- Jimmy Doherty’s, of Forristalstown
- Statia Butler, of Ballycroney
- Seamus Fitzgerald, of Ballycroney
- Luke Murphy, of Ballybrahee [See our post of 15 Aug. 2021 for more information on Luke Murphy]
- Dick Power, of Ballybrahee
- Dick Murphy, of Robinstown
- Pat Grant, of Robinstown
- Reddy’s, of Robinstown
- Neddie (Watts) Fitzgerald, of Ballinaraha
- Brophy’s, of Ballinaraha
- Moran’s, of Ballinlammy
- Doherty’s, of Ballinlammy
- Gahan’s, of Rochestown
- Shawn’s, of Rochestown [nickname for 1 of the Forristal families of Rochestown. We believe that this was the home of John Forristal (c. 1838-1915) and his wife Mary née Reddy (c.1851-1917). The couple were married at Glenmore on 31 Aug. 1880 and had five children; Bridget, James, John, Thomas and Patrick.]
- James “Browley” Walsh, of Rochestown
- Larry Walsh, of Rochestown
- Foran’s, of Kearney Bay
- James Phelan “The Walker”, of Ballyhobuck
- Larry Kirwan, of the Shanty [Scartnamore]
- John Kennedy, of Rathinure [Sean Óg where Johnny Garvey lives today]
- Pat Kennedy, of Rathinure [The Faddies]
- John Haberlin, of Aylwardstown
- Jim “Brien” Fitzgerald, of Aylwardstown
- Ryan’s, of Kearney Bay
- Pat Ryan, of Kearney Bay (Cousin of Mike Ryan, went to Ringville)
The following not on Danny’s original list
[37] [Johnny “Billy” Roche, of Rathinure] [Thatched house remained until 1972]
[38] [Holden’s, of Clune, Jamestown]
[39] [Paddy Kennedy, of Newtown]
[40] [John Power, of Newtown]
[41] [Martin Forristal, of Rochestown]
[42] [Paddy Mullally, of Ballyhobuck] [Later Walsh’s of Ballyhobuck]
[43] [Condon’s of Mullinahone (part thatched)]
[44] [Pat & Jimmy McDonald of Ballyfacey]
[45] [Kitty Murphy of Mill Road, Mullinahone (part thatched)]
[46] [John Power, of Newtown, lived in until the mid-1970’s; last coat of thatch by Murty Kearney with rushes.]
[Update of 9 Oct. 2025–Jimmy Roche (1927-2018) of Rathinure often told the story of when he was a young fellow helping to rid the Faddie’s of rats in their thatch roof. A ferret was placed on the roof, and soon rats were attempting to escape by leaping from the roof. Jimmy and a number of young men armed with hurley’s dispatched the rats as they leaped from the thatch.]
Please send any corrections or additional information to glenmore.history@gmail.com
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Trial for the Killing of Catherine Hanrahan (c. 1798-1822) of Rochestown,Glenmore
On 6 November 2022 we published newspaper accounts of the manslaughter of Catherine Hanrahan in July 1822 at her home in Rochestown, Glenmore. While transcribing another Danny Dowling (1927-2021) notebook we discovered that Danny recorded articles from the Waterford Mirror that outline the testimony presented during the murder trial. These newspaper accounts provide more detail including the testimony of the landlord Pierse Edward Forristal, Esq. and conflicting testimony of other witnesses. It appears that the testimony of Pierse Edward Forristal, Esq. influenced the jury that only considered the case for a few minutes before returning its manslaughter verdict.
The Arrest
Danny recorded the following from the Waterford Mirror (Sat.20 Aug. 1822). Thomas Marks was charged with the murder of Catherine Hanrahan, at Rochesstown, in Co. Kilkenny. Thomas Marks was taken without resistance at a house in Kilmacthomas. Marks when arrested stated that he was on his way to surrender. He was transmitted to the County Kilkenny gaol.
The Waterford Mail on Wednesday the 14th of August 1822 provided an account of day three of the Kilkenny Assizes. In this account Thomas Marks was indicted for the murder of Catherine Hanrahan and the assault of Luke Power “by presenting a pistol at him.” Hereafter Marks is described as the prisoner.
The Testimony of Luke Power
Luke Power was sworn and testified. Unfortunately, the newspaper account does not provide his relationship, if any, to the deceased Catherine Hanrahan née Power, his occupation or residence. Later in defence testimony it appears that Luke and Thomas Power are brothers. Luke Power testified that he knows Rochestown and was there the Monday after the fair of Thomastown. He knows Thomas Power who lives at Rochestown. On that Monday, very early in the morning, he saw the prisoner at Rochestown.
Luke Power testified that the dog barked at the prisoner. Luke Power got up and asked who was there. The prisoner responded that he was distraining for Mr. Forristal. Luke Power testified that the prisoner was armed. Witness shut the door and would not let the prisoner in. Luke Power then went down to where the cows were and saw three bailiffs there, but the prisoner was not with them.
Luke Power heard a shot and returned to the house and saw Catherine Hanrahan “kilt” on the floor. She died six days after being shot. Luke Power went out to the road where some of the neighbours were gathered. The prisoner said “here’s the man was going to kill me,” and cocked his pistol at Luke Power. It was an hour before sunrise when the prisoner came with six men.
Cross-Examination of Luke Power
Luke Power testified that Mr. Forristal was his landlord. He stated that he paid some rent to Mr. Sherlock and owed Mr. Forristal one hundred pounds “or that way rent.” His brother was his partner in the land. He first saw the prisoner and his assistants in the yard, it was not then 3 o’clock.
Sherlock distrained Luke Power four weeks earlier, but he did not think there was a reason at that time. He did testify that a horse had been taken away to the bog at that time. The prisoner distrained Luke Power before for Mr. Forristal, but could not say how long before. At the time the shot was fired Luke Power was four or five fields away and had not walked a step with the prisoner that morning.
The Testimony of Alicia Power of Rochestown, Glenmore
Alicia Power testified that she was the daughter of Thomas Power and the sister of the deceased Catherine Hanrahan. She remembered people coming to her father’s on the first of July last before sunrise. She saw the prisoner there. She testified that her sister was driving pigs out of the bawn. The prisoner desired that her sister leave them there. When she refused Alicia Power testified that the prisoner ran over and caught her sister by the neck and “squeezed her.” Her neck was cut by his “iron hand.”
Alicia Power stated that she could hear “all that occurred” between the deceased and the prisoner. The prisoner said, “Come leave the pigs there.” Deceased answered, “How do you know who owns them?” Prisoner then struck the deceased and was choking her. Prisoner lifted his foot on a stone and saying, “by G-d I’ll shoot you,” and then fired his pistol. Deceased was then running away and was shot 6 yards from the prisoner. She fell at the door, the ball entered her back. There was another man there minding the pigs where the deceased left them.
Her sister was “shot on Monday morning and died the Sunday following.”
Cross Examination of Alicia Power of Rochestown, Glenmore
Alicia Powers was driving the pigs with her sister the deceased. “They had been in the cabin and were driving them out of the bawn.” Deceased had a stick in her hand. She usually brought a stick to drive the pigs. The deceased did not strike the prisoner and Alicia Power never saw a stone in the deceased’s hand. Alicia Power testified that she never saw the prisoner fall or see any stone thrown at him. She testified that the deceased could not have thrown a stone without her seeing it. Alicia Power was at the prisoner’s side when he fired.
Alicia Power said that the prisoner had only one pistol. She saw Luke Power come up. But never saw the prisoner “present a pistol at him.” Alicia Power swore information against prisoner before Mr. Snow. She did not swear against any other person except the prisoner. She did not hear the deceased, or any other person calling out, “kill the black protestant,” and firmly stated that she did not say it either.
Examined by the Bench—Alicia Power clarified to the judge that the prisoner had six or seven men in his party, one of whom was present when the shot was fired. Bridget Cashin was present but no boys or men. They were down on the land where the cows were.
The Testimony of Bridget Cashin
Bridget Cashin was present when Catherine Hanrahan was shot. She saw the prisoner that morning and saw him fire a shot at Catherine Hanrahan. The deceased was Bridget Cashin’s cousin. She observed the deceased driving the pigs out of the bawn. Only her sister was with the deceased. None of the men of the house were present. She testified that the prisoner had two men with him. She denied that the deceased struck the prisoner or threw stones at him. “He cursed G-d, he would fire at her in a minute.”
Bridget Cashin testified that the prisoner caught the deceased by her neck and choked her. The prisoner laid the pistol on his left knee and fired. The deceased walked four steps and fell. “She did not get up since.” Deceased was 24 years of age, was married 2.5 years, and had one child. Interestingly the Waterford newspaper did not acknowledge that the deceased was pregnant when she was shot in the back.
Cross Examination of Bridget Cashin
Bridget Cashin could not identify the two men with the prisoner. The house was distrained for Mr. Forristal’s rent, but she could not say whether the men were “keepers.” Deceased refused to leave the pigs and was driving them away. The deceased said she would drive them in spite of the prisoner. Bridget Cashin stated that she did not say anything, and the deceased did not say “kill the bloody or the black protestant.” She did not see Luke Power come up. She went to Mr. Snow’s and swore information about six days after “the business occurred.”
The Testimony of Dr. John Briscoe of Waterford
Dr. Briscoe testified that he attended Catherine Hanrahan at Rochestown on the second of July. She had received a gunshot wound in the lower part of the back “of which she afterwards died.”
Cross Examination of Dr. John Briscoe
The wound was horizontal in the lower part of the spine on the right side near the hip. The doctor did not see a mark of bruises or a cut on the deceased’s neck.
The Crown rested and the defence began.
The Testimony of William Cooney
William Cooney testified that he knew the prisoner and went with him to Rochestown on the first of July to distrain for Mr. Forristal. The distraining party consisted of: Thoman and John Marks; William and Richard Jeffers; —Lonergan and himself. They first went to the fields where they collected three horses and some cows. Three men were left in the field to guard the animals. Prisoner then brought Lonergan and William Cooney to the house and told them to take charge of all the property there both inside and outside. He testified that they never entered the house. The pigs were seized in the lane. Prisoner brought William Cooney down towards the fields and they met Luke Power and his brother Thomas.
Prisoner advised the Powers to get bail to release the cattle. Thomas Power had a wattle and struck at Lonergan. The blow was prevented by Luke Power. Prisoner went down to Mr. Forristal’s which was about a field away. Lonergan and Cooney were left in charge of the house. Whilst prisoner was away the two Powers and a woman (not the deceased) pushed Lonergan out of the yard. Lonergan left to tell the prisoner. Cooney was alone and went out onto the road.
Power’s two daughters and another girl were driving the pigs out of the bawn. Deceased had a wattle in her hand. When Lonergan returned one of the girls said, “Mr. Forristal knew nothing of the pigs and for God’s sake let them go.” Lonergan and Cooney refused and the deceased then said, “she would have them (the pigs) or she would knock one of their brains out sideways with the wattle.”
Cooney testified that the wattle was heavy and two and a half yards in length. Prisoner returned and upon hearing the deceased told her, “for God’s sake go in and be quiet and all will be well.” Cooney stated that deceased advanced toward prisoner and said, “you black protestant are you come again to rob us?” She made a blow of the wattle at him. She said the words in Irish. Prisoner gave the deceased a shove and said, “go in God’s name and don’t be aggravating me.”
The deceased raised the wattle and struck the prisoner two or three times. She called out for someone to come “knock the black protestant’s brains out.” The deceased then took up a stone according to Cooney and struck the prisoner in the knee. The other two women were running with stones in their hands. Cooney and Lonergan went between the women and the prisoner. Cooney saw and heard the shot fired. The deceased when shot was stooping for a stone.
The prisoner when he fired was down, “having dropped down sideways when hit on the knee with the stone.” The prisoner was not flat on the ground. He was supported by his elbow. A quarter of an hour later Luke Power came up. The prisoner only had one pistol and it was re-loaded. Luke Power was very angry and was according to Coney going to injure them if he could. Luke Power called the prisoner a “bloody rogue” and “all of them robbers.”
Cross Examination of William Cooney
Cooney was asked to repeat what the deceased had said in Irish and he did. No men of the Power family were present from the time the pigs were driven out first until after the shot was fired. Cooney admitted that he and Lonergan had sticks, but were not otherwise armed. He continued to assert that the three women were very violent, but admitted that the three men could have defended themselves without a shot.
It was daylight when they came on the ground. They left Waterford at 11 o’clock at night. They stopped at Mackey’s on the way and too refreshment. They remained at Mackey’s until “clear daylight.” Cooney described Mackey’s as 4 or 5 miles from Rochestown. Deceased had not run from the prisoner she was sideways, stooping for a stone, about 6 or 8 yards from prisoner.
When the prisoner fell his pistol went off. Cooney stated that the prisoner had not aimed at the deceased. Cooney stated his belief that the prisoner did not intend to fire at the deceased or to pull the trigger. About an hour after the shooting the prisoner said that the pistol went off by accident. Although Cooney stated that the prisoner’s life was in danger, if Cooney was in the same situation he would not have fired at the deceased. Cooney could not say how the pistol went off.
Dr. Briscoe Recalled
Dr. Briscoe was asked about the wound. He testified that it was horizontal. He stated that if the deceased was stooping he could not conceive how she received such a wound unless she and the shooter were both kneeling. Thus Dr. Briscoe did not find injuries on the deceased’s neck and ruled out that the deceased was stooping when shot.
The Testimony of Pierse Edward Forristal, Esq. of Rochestown, Glenmore
“Recollected the morning when this transaction happened.” He saw the prisoner 6 or 8 minutes after the shooting. Prisoner was distraining for Forristal and had frequently before acted as bailiff on his lands. He had distrained them a short time before. The prisoner had “always behaved himself well, and if he had a bad character, he would not have employed him.” Forristal stated that the prisoner is a pensioner and lost his hand “on service.” He went on to testify that the prisoner “frequently interfered” with Forristal in favour of the tenants by always speaking kindly of them and “procured time for them.”
Cross Examination of Pierse Edward Forristal, Esq.
Forristal testified that he sent for the prisoner to act as bailiff and bring 5 men with him. He also instructed that they should be very early on the land “as the Powers had removed their cattle on a former occasion.” Prisoner called to Forristal about 3 o’clock in the morning and told Forristal he had affected the distress. Forristal ordered his horse to be got ready. Jeffers arrived and said that the Powers had taken away horses and cows. The prisoner returned to Power’s. When Forristal arrived he learned of the shooting.
Forristal asked the prisoner why he fired. Prisoner responded that “he’d rather he had wounded himself than the girl.” Forristal testified that Tom Power said to the prisoner, “you have murdered my daughter.” The prisoner replied, “I did not intend to shoot her, but if I did it was her own fault.” The prisoner then unbuttoned the knee of his breeches and showed a large mark on his knee saying, “See Mr. Forristal, how I have been used.” [Of course he could have injured his knee at any time stumbling around in the dark after leaving Mackey’s where they had “refreshments.”]
The prisoner did not tell Mr. Forristal that the pistol went off by accident and Forristal never heard that it did.
The last witness called was Rev. Francis Reynett who testified that he knew the prisoner for about 18 years. He considered him a well conducted man and never heard anything against his character.
Jury Decision
The Lord Chief Justice charged the jury and they retired, “and in a few minutes they returned with a verdict, acquitting the prisoner of murder, but finding him guilty of manslaughter. They also acquitted the prisoner of presenting the pistol at Luke Power.”
The Chief justice sentenced the prisoner to be burned on the hand and imprisoned for 6 months.
What Happened to the Power Family of Rochestown, Glenmore?
We know that no one by the name of Power or Hanrahan were listed as tenants in Rochestown in the 1829 Tithe Lists. We are currently searching Prof. Mannion’s Newfoundland records of Irish emigrants 1750 to 1850 because several Rochestown families moved there in the early 19th century.
For some information on Rochestown see our post of 3 December 2023.
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Please send any corrections or additional information to glenmore.history@gmail.com
Dr. Kathleen Moore Walsh
Photo of the Tom & Eliz. Gahan Family of Rochestown, Glenmore
Thanks to Martin Gahan of Ballinamona, Slieverue for sharing this lovely photo of his grandparents and their children.
For further information concerning Elizabeth Gahan née Forristal (1875-1929) and the Forristal family see our last post.
Please send any corrections, further information or photos to glenmore.history@gmail.com.