Hello;
My maiden name was CAREY and it took me several years of family research to
learn the name was originally KEARY.
Patrick KEARY married Ellen (Nellie) BYRON about 1851, probably in Co. Galway
IRE. They had children Lawrence, Margaret (Maggie), Michael and Thomas;
then a son named Patrick was born in Co. Galway, March 1864. Father's
residence was given as "Dangan".
I have found no death record for baby Patrick, but he was apparently not with
the family when they immigrated to the US about 1865. Another son, Martin,
was born 1867 in Covington, Kenton Co. KY. In the 1870 census the surname
is still spelled KEARY, but Ellen is listed as "widow". I have also not yet
found a definite record of death of father Patrick KEARY.
The only child of this couple I have any marriage information on is my
great-grandfather, Lawrence. Margaret died 1939 single, Thomas and
Michael also were single when they died. Ellen/Nellie died in 1909,
father's name given as Patrick Byron, mother's name not given.
Son Martin showed up again in the 1880 census, same place, family surname by
then was spelled CAREY. Nothing further has appeared for this son Martin;
however, Lawrence named a son Martin Norwood CAREY and the name continued for
two more generations.
Although I know there were KEARY/KEIGHREY families in Co. Galway and have
seen the name Lawrence there, I have no proof of my ancestors' existence,
any siblings, parents, grandparents, etc.
All suggestions will be appreciated. Does anyone have any ideas also on the
origin of the name "Norwood"?
Will share whatever details I have.
Ann Bergelt
Florida