There are some branches of the family that I have researched way less than others. I recently realised that I knew very little about the family of my great, great grandfather Arthur Helferty. He was my maternal grandmother's maternal grandfather. I have never found a birth record for Arthur but I know that he was … Continue reading Bernard Helferty 1884-1916
Walking In Their Footsteps
This morning I was awake early so I went for a walk while no one was around. While we are social distancing it can be difficult to find a quiet spot so an early rise is the best solution. Living close to where my grandparents, great grandparents and great great grandparents lived I am aware … Continue reading Walking In Their Footsteps
Hannah Keenan 1860-1938
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
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
