Hannah Keenan was the third child of my great great grandparents Patrick Keenan and Agnes Haughey. Her sister Helen, who was always known as Ellen, was my mother’s paternal grandmother. Hannah was born on 29 September 1860 in the town of Cleland in Shotts Parish, Lanarkshire. Her father was originally from Clonallon in County Down. … Continue reading Hannah Keenan 1860-1938
Author: Shaking The Branches
A New Life in Australia- Grace Halliday Rae 1861-1945
My great great grandmother Grace Halliday Rae was born in Scotland but died thousands of miles away in Australia. She had left behind her parents, siblings and even her first born child. During her life she faced many hardships, rejection and abuse. It wasn't until later in life that she found some peace and happiness. … Continue reading A New Life in Australia- Grace Halliday Rae 1861-1945
A Family History Coincidence
I grew up in Newmains, Lanarkshire as did my mother and her parents before her. I knew that I had strong family ties to the village. My husband, however is not from North Lanarkshire and prior to meeting me had only ever driven through Newmains on the way to somewhere else. Having listened to me … Continue reading A Family History Coincidence
An Illegitimate Child – James Calderhead 1855-1893
When my great great grandfather was born in 1855 civil registration had just started in Scotland. The register changed over the years but having a standard form rather than relying on Church records usually means better information for the genealogist. However, if the mother is not married to the father of the child and no … Continue reading An Illegitimate Child – James Calderhead 1855-1893
A Less Than Perfect Ancestor
There are times when it is hard not to feel a bit disappointed in your ancestors. I have written about my great grandfather Patrick Cosgrove before. He died when my granny was just a baby so she never got to know him and so none of the family ever knew much about him. I've learned … Continue reading A Less Than Perfect Ancestor
The Alexander Brothers
Today I read of the death of Tom Alexander. Tom was one half of the singing duo, The Alexander Brothers. He and brother Jack, who died in 2013, had a musical career spanning over 50 years. They were awarded the MBE for services to entertainment. They took their brand of Scottish folk music across the … Continue reading The Alexander Brothers
Shaking The Branches 