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
Author: Shaking The Branches
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
Stories From The Poorhouse (Part 4) Joseph Calderhead
A conversation with an old school friend led me to look more into the Calderheads who are on my paternal grandmother's side of the family. It turns out they are also part of my friend's family tree. The name Clayton Calderhead features in both of our families. It's quite an unusual name and I thought … Continue reading Stories From The Poorhouse (Part 4) Joseph Calderhead
My Family History Review of 2019
First of all I'd like to wish you all a very happy new year. I hope that 2020 brings happiness and success in all you do. The start of a new year is always a time to look back on the previous year and think about what we've achieved. It's also a time to look … Continue reading My Family History Review of 2019
Margaret Brawley – Convict
I first came across Margaret Brawley on the baptismal register of my 3x great Uncle, John Brawley. She is listed along with Peter McColl as godparent. That was in 1833. From there I looked for her in other records and found a marriage record from 1825. Margaret Brawley and Peter McColl were married in St … Continue reading Margaret Brawley – Convict
A Festive Treat – The Keenan Sisters
The Christmas lunch for the senior citizens of St Brigid's parish in Newmains takes place this weekend in the parish centre. My mum will be there along with her sister, my aunt Mary. For the older members of the community it's a great chance to get together to enjoy a meal, some festive entertainment and … Continue reading A Festive Treat – The Keenan Sisters
Shaking The Branches 