Reaching out from Maryland, USA to find information on a John Maxwell who was supposedly married at the first Presbyterian Church in Boardmills in 1800. His marriage was "rebuked" by the Boardmills Session for being "irregular" on July 13, 1800.Do you have records of this and who the bride was? What is an "irregular" marriage? If this is my John Maxwell, he came to American shortly after this. If you find him, please see if his parents are listed? Hope to visit you soon--- thank you.

Researching me great grandfather and his first wife. Reverand Thomas Edward Turner and Abigail Hinds. They were married in the Broomhedge methodist church in 1885 They had one daughter who survived and I suspect One who died at Birth as Abigail died at 25 and a babe died at the same time. Thomas was a supply Minister to lisburn and Ballinderry in 1899 and 1901. He was born at Hillsborough but very little is known about her. I was wondering if she would be buried at the church she married in and if the babe is also buried there. If anyone can help me in any way I would be very grateful Thank you Joanne

My Great Grandparents married in Derryaghy Parish Church in 1854. They were William Neill and Frances Maxwell. I am looking for any information on where they lived, born etc. I know William was born in 1831 and emigrated to Canada in 1902 were he died in 1925. Children that I know of are Isaac, William, Minnie Agnes and Albert Edward. Would anyone have any information?

I am trying to find the parents of Margaret Bone. She married Joseph Milligan in Magheragall Antrim in 1846. Her parents are James Bone and Margaret (? surname). Any help on this family appreciated. Margaret and Joseph moved to Ayrshire Scotland shortly after they were married.

I am trying to contact the former Frances Vivian Hodgen, formerly of Barrack Street, Lisburn, Northern Ireland. If anyone has any information i would appreciate their help.

Can anyone help me to find family connections in Lisburn. My grandfather came to scotland, and settled in Coatbridge, Lanarkshire. My grandfathers name was James Kerr and his wife was Sarah. I think they came to Scotland about the turn of the century, but cannot be sure on this. My mother was born in Scotland in 1917 and she had three older brothers, Harry, John and Pat. If anyone could give me anymore information that would be great. Thanks Tommy Elliott.

I am trying to find more information about my mother and grandparents who lived in Lisburn around the 1920s 1930s.I think they may have lived on the LAMBEG ROAD. My mothers name was MARY JOSEPHINE GOLLOGLY. She was born in KEADY in 1921 and moved to lisburn some time after that. Her fathers name was MICHAEL GOLLOGLY and he was a SHOEMAKER. Her mothers name was EMILY GOLLOGLY nee FITZSIMONS and she had a sister MARTHA. I think they may have worked in the HILDEN MILL or somewhere similar in the area.Does anyone have any knowledge of this family or know where I could find records of the employment of mill workers around this time? Many thanks Jackie R

I am in Melbourne, Australia and researching the CRAIG line of my family tree. I would love to know if you can confirm Rev James Meeke was married to Margaret (nee CRAIG)? If so, do you have any information about this family, obituaries, photographs, weddings/burials etc ? Margaret CRAIG was older sister of my greatgrandmother who left Belfast in 1885. Thank you for any help you can give me.

My father Raymond Sr. lived around Lisburn growing up and we moved back to the area in 1975 and stayed for two years at which time I attended Lisnagavey. I am trying to reconnect with some of my old class mates. This seams like a long shot but I thought I would give it a try.

I am looking for information on the Meek family. In particular, I have a letter which is embossed - The Manse, Ballycairn, Lisburn. in the content which was written by Sam Meek it says "we are looking forward to building a new church next year (1922-1923 but construction could have been years). There was a new Presbyterian Church built in Ballycairn in 1926 but I'm wondering if there were any other new churches in that period. If Sam is using embossed letterhead,from The Manse, I'm thinking he is closely associated with the church. I have had NO luck finding any records for Sam or Samuel Meek, nor for his sister Moyra (Mary, Moira?) Any thoughts would be welcomed. I am seeking information on Moyra (possibly Moira, sometimes later called Mary, Moriarty) Meek and/or her brother Sam (Samuel?) Mary was born in 1886 +/- in Ireland. I'm told that Sam was older but not necessarily correct. Mary was an educated Nurse who did advanced studies in Germany in dietetics and additional studies in music in France. She travelled with a Lady Peel (don't know who this is)in Europe and then in Canada. I have found one ships record for a Mary Meek ariving in Canada in 1909 but it states that she was born in 1883. In a later census she declares she was born in 1886. Probably two different Marys and the 1886 one I know to be the woman I'm researching. If it helps anyone, there is a Mrs. Campbell mentioned in teh Ballycairn letter. So, early County Down historians, what can you tell me about the area, the churches, the Meeks, and about record sources for Ballycairn, Lisburn area around 1880-1930. THANKS.

Can you provide any info on Ramsays Funeral Home in Lisburn which was around in the early 1940's. Name of the owner/funeral director.

I am looking for any information on WILLIAM JOHN McMASTER born Feb 1 1897 Lambeg Lisburn. He was the son of John McMaster and Lizzie Moore. He was in WW1 and had some boxing training. He ended up in Alberta Canada. He also left a wife and 2 children in Ireland when he came to Canada before 1934. This is the family that I am looking for descendents from, any little tidbit will help. I am also trying to find regiment # or boxing club. Many thanks…

Hi all, I am referring to a message left on this forum back in 2005, from Andrew Maze, his e-mail doesn’t seen to be operating any longer. I have a connection to a Maze family who lived on the Lisburn road. Do get in touch if Andrew or anyone who may be able to help. Also curious if anyone can shed any light on the Kirkwood's to whom the Kirkwoods Road in Lisburn may be named after. Some of my ancestors farmed at Magheralave in the 1800's and I am keen to know if there is a connection. Many thanks William

I am looking for information about my second cousin GEORGE GILMORE 1898-1985 He was the protestant Revolutionary leader in 1935-1938 in Ireland. I would love if someone has a photograph of him to see what he looked like as I met him a couple of times when I was very young but forget what he looked like, so can anyone help me, with information or a photograph or both. Thanks

I was born in Corby, northants, lived in Fraserburgh, Scotland. I am looking for information on my father's family (Andrew Francis Murphy, born 3rd July 1924 to Frank and Lizzie Murphy) who are registered as living at Back Lane, Lisburn. Can find no information anywhere regarding the family.

Searching for information on William McVicker born around Hillsborough in about 1798. He married Mary Graham born in DownPatrick about 1802 they were married in 1822, I believe in the Anahilt Presbyterian Church. Their eldest son Robert married Margaret McKee in the same church in 1849 and came to America shortly after. William died about 1846 and his wife Mary came to America with their other 8 children in 1850. Robert, William II, James (my g grandfather) and Matthew all homesteaded in Nebraska I would like to know if William had any siblings and where he was buried. We think it was at Anahilt Presbyterian. There are a large number of McVickers in the Belfast area but we have no way of knowing if any are decendents of Williams siblings. Dean McVicker

Hi I am seeking information on my husbands family - Beattie- who lived at Drum House (or perhaps called The Drum) Lisburn

Hi I'm looking for any info on my grand and great grand parents. First Hugh and Margaret Devlin married hillsbourgh 18?. John Divers (Scottish spelling) father John mother Mary Doherty. John Crossley (scottish spelling) Margaret Lundy, their son John Bernard Patrick, daugthers Margaret Mary also Elizabeth Jane Devlin all born in Ireland can anyone help please

Any information on Robert Woods and Clara nee Howes. I have finally traced my Great Grandfather to the 1911 Census of Ireland and found him in Largymore, Blaris, Co Down with Clara, his second wife. He had been in Liverpool since at least 1877 when he married my Great Grandmother, Eliza nee Lindsay but both had been born in Ireland. Eliza died and in 1894 he married Clara, a widow. They left Liverpool to return to Ireland some time after 1901 probably with her daughter, Dora who we believe died in a drowning accident around 1906. Roberts sons, James and David are not living with him in 1911 but may have stayed in England. His other children, Robert and Mary Elizabeth definitely stayed in Liverpool. Another son, William possibly died shortly after birth in 1891. Robert died in his home town area but we don't know when or where he is buried. Any information about the family would be appreciated. Jean

I am looking for a Louise Johnson from Ballinderry, she got married about 1985/86 can you help? Thanks Ian.

I am trying to locate all living relatives of Samuel Crone and Marjorie Fox (my grandparents). Some of the family names are McClintock, James Crone, Samuel Crone. James Crone moved to Cardiff Wales in the early '40 and left one daughter. Samuel Crone married May Tavern and left Lisburn in the late 50's, moving to Belfast. Some of the family immigrated to Australia and I believe one of that family, Heather Harkness is living in Lisburn. I would really like to have a Reunion of all of the Crone family and am trying to locate as many as possible.

My GGF Thomas MOORE was born in Motalee, (near Magherafelt) Co.Derry 1857 his parents were John Moore and Sarah ?. He married in Toronto, Canada 1884 but left shortly after for Liverpool. My GGM was Eliza KENNEDY born Newtownards, Co.Down 1858 her parents were Hugh Kennedy and Margaret ? Mary Kennedy was a witness at the marriage (possibly Eliza's sister) - I know nothing of either GGP prior to them settling in Liverpool c1885/6. I am looking for any siblings that went to Canada or remained in N Ireland. I have searched for years for birth records and the parents' marriage, other children and death records without success. Any information, no matter how small, would be really appreciated.

My name is Martin I am trying to find some info on one of my wifes ancestors hopefully his death or burial his name was William Allen he was born about 1830 in lisburn his father was john allen he joined the british armyin 1847 where he fought in the crimean war and indian mutiny he won medals for both wars he left the army in 1870 to become an army scripture reader he wrote a few poems and books one was called rescue 'The Perishing' he is on the 1911 census for Co. Down his age is 84 he is living with his 2nd wife Eliz. Ann she is 64 at Castlereagh St. regards Martin

I am researching my family history (McCoombe, McCoomb or McCombe) and have hit a wall with my great-great grandfather John McCoomb, born in 1819 (in Ireland I think)...any help would be great, either info or where to look via the internet as I cannot get to Ireland at the moment... Karen

I am tracing the Gardner family who to my earliest research come from the Aghalee/Ballinderry/Lisburn area. The aforementioned earliest Gardner family were as follows;- Parents John Gardner & Eliza nee Watson Children Eliza baptised at Magheragall 1827 James baptised Ballycarrickmaddy 1830 Ann Jane baptised Augnacairn 1833 John born Lisburn 1836 Amelia Watson born 4.3.1839 at ? Samuel Watson born 1855 at ? I am a descendant of Samuel Watson Gardner who to my knowledge married a Mary Johnston in 1874 in Belfast, they had 5 children William Henry Dean, Thomas James Johnston, Albert Haithwaite, Lilly Manley and Samuel Caldwell. The family had a Linen Drapers shop in Arthur St, Belfast, Mary died and Samuel W Gardner died in Belfast workhouse in 1897. The 3 eldest boys of the family went on to be Merchant Sea Captains, Lilly married a James Boyles in Belfast and my grandfather Samuel Caldwell Gardner came to Dewsbury to be raised by his paternal uncle John Gardner a retired Army Soldier, I see from the Liburn Societys Web pages that the surname Gardner is thriving in that area, could we be related? I look forward to making contact with anyone connected to my ancestors. I can be contacted on 01924 493331 or at 169, Crossley Lane,Mirfield, W Yorks WF14 0NY.

My mother was brought up by her maternal grandparents at 56 Llewellan Avenue, Lisburn. Her Maiden name was Rafferty (her father was Edward 'Ted' Rafferty) and her mother was Mary (Minnie) Reynolds. Mary died when my mum was just three - Edward went to Liverpool (with his brother Hugh I believe). Would love to hear from anyone who knows of the Reynolds connection. My mother was born in 1913 (Lisburn) & died 1980 - Belfast

Vera Hall would like information about her mother Lily Beckett or Elizabeth Topping as is on her birth records. She would also like information about about the other girls are in this photo. Please click on the web link for more information

I am looking for any information on the ALEXANDER family who lived in the Hillsborough area. They had connections with Loughaghery Presbyterian Church. JOSEPH ALEXANDER who was born in Belfast was my Great Grandfather, he married a Sarah Jane TOLLERTON who is buried in LPC Yard. He was killed on the Somme 01/07/1916. There are also links with Co. Tyrone. If any one can help it would be appreciated.

My name is Elizabeth Jane Taylor. I was born in Lisburn in 1961 and emigrated to Canada with my family a few years later. I’m on a mission – I inherited a silver trowel originally given to my great-great grandmother in 1893, when the corner stone was laid for the Osborne Methodist Church on Balmoral Avenue in Belfast. There were six other identical trowels handed out the same day. I know the church was eventually decommissioned and taken down. I’ve always wondered what happened to the other six trowels. I think it would be a neat project to try and find them and document how they’ve been passed down through the families. I’ve created a web page with details about the trowel, the original ceremony, etc. www.TheFlyingScotsman.ca/methodist.htm Do you have a website, guestbook, newsletter or blog where I could put a listing of my page, to see if I could find some of the other six trowels or in actual fact, the current owners of the six other trowels could find me!? I’ve had great fun finding the Stafford’s & Pratt’s in all the directories on the LennonWylie site. I’ve also found the 1911 census record for the Pratt family (my mother’s mother was 3 at the time of the census!) I’ve also contacted the Irish Methodist organisation, PRONI and the West Belfast Historic Society. I also remember my grandmother having an article on the 50th anniversary of the church, but we can’t find the article. The photos at the bottom of the web page were taken at the 50th anniversary. Any help or leads you could provide would be appreciated. Sincerely, Mrs. EJ Taylor Mactaquac, New Brunswick Canada

BARBARA WILSON c1927-2005 SUMMER OF 1949, WHO WAS BARBARA'S LOVER? (She was about 21yrs old). Barbara was packed off to London Autumn 1949 to hide her 'shame'. Barbara's mother's name was Agnes. Can anyone help solve mystery? Any clue at all/info on Barbara, her lover or her family most gratefully received.

am looking for Geordie, Frank, Brian Hamilton or any of their family. Last known abode was Hillsborough. Father worked in Hillsborough Castle. I would love to hear from anyone that knows their whereabouts.

I'm rearching the surname Pelan and would very much like to hear from anyone with that surname that would like to share some information about their family history. I have a moderate amount of information gathered already about many Pelan families in Lisburn and Belfast and I may be able to help you too. The reason I am asking in this forum is that the Pelans appear to orginate from the Lisburn/Lambeg/Tullynacross area. As an added element of research, I'm trying to encourage male Pelans to participate in a DNA study which may help determine the origin of the surname and the deeper history of our male lineage over many thousands of years. This is the kind of study featured on the BBC series "The Incredible Human Journey" - which is on tonight; http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00klf6j I can be contacted at dna @ pelan.org . Thank-you.

Rev. John Gayer d 1745, his son Rev. Phillip Gayer d. 1755. His sons Dr. William Watts Gayer d. 1798 (married Catherine Jones) and Edward George Gayer d. 1799 (married Henrietta Jones), both Clerks of Parliament. Specifically seeking information on Edward Gayer's son John Gayer who m. Olivia Henderson, and their progeny, and any information at all on this family. Many thanks, Anthea

Hi, I'm looking for information based on the Lisburn Historical Society on-line information regarding a Lt. Thomas Conway of Derriaghy: http://www.lisburn.com/books/historical_society/volume9/volume9_3.html "In 1692, some thirty years after the return of these two members, Jeremy Taylor's son in-law, Edward Harrison of Magheralave (Note 18) was returned as one of the two members for Lisburn in the first Parliament of William III." Note 18: "Son of Michael Harrison of Belfast by his wife, a daughter of Theophilus Sandford of Moyglare, Co Meath; born 1644, a deputy governor of the County of Antrim, Sovereign of Belfast 1695, his [Edward Harrison’s] only sister was the wife of Lieutenant Thomas Conway of Derriaghy, a kinsman of Lord Conway.” My father was a direct descendant of a Thomas Conway who married Elizabeth Mauzey Markham in Virginia and who died there in 1784. All we have is his will. Some researchers have tied him to Lt. Thomas Conway. I'm looking for records that would prove any connection. Have the Derriaghy parish records from the late 1600s been abstracted? Would Lt. Thomas Conway have been married there? Given the time frame and his kinmanship with Lord Edward, I assume that he was in Ireland to help subjugate the Irish, so I am unclear on where to look for records! Many thanks for any help, Laverne Conway

Hi my grandfather allways told me stories of wee Davy Jones, he would say that he would sit on his shoulders and sit on his fathers sweet shop counter, the name of the shop I do not know. My grandfather was called Charles McComb, if anyone can help with info on my grandfather that would be great.

I'm seeking information about any relations of George Frederick Alderdice, an RAF pilot from Lisburn who was lost in July 1943 on his first operation with Bomber Command 106 Squadron. My father, now aged 89, was a very close friend of George, having trained to fly with him in the United States. George Alderdice's father was a Captain of Lisnagarvey Hockey Club during the 1920s, and George had a brother called Gerald who replied to my father's letter after he wrote to him when George's Lancaster went missing. Dad has very fond memories of George and many stories of their time together in the USA, which would be good to share.

I am looking for people with the surname Pelan who are interested in genealogy and/or the origins of their surname and are willing to share ancestral information. Any male Pelans willing to participate in a genetic study of the surname are also sought. Many thanks.

Hi, I'am looking for a old Friend. The last time I saw him was ten years ago when I was over there. He lived in Lurgan, Co. Armagh. His name is Adrian goodfellow. I would highly appreciate if you could help me find him, his parents lived in the same area. Thanks so very much Marie seymour Worcester Mass, USA

I would like to contact a friend of mine who went to the U. S. A.. Her name was Jane Heekin, she was from Tonagh estate. She has a nephew listed on the exiles page.

Nancy Wilson would like some help My grandfather William Ernest Watson, who was originally from Hillsborough, left Ireland in 1922. He was the son of a man named Tommy Edward Watson who lived at Walnut Hill in Hillsborough. He married Emma McKenna from Lisburn. Some of the Watsons stayed on in your area. The latest information I have is that one of the Nephews still lived at Walnut Hill in l978. Do you have anyone in your area that might know of this family. Thank you.

I am researching my Creighton Family. The story is told that Samuel Creighton moved to Drumalla, Ireland, then to Dromore to get land. He rented a large stone house form the Marquis of Downshire. Samuel left Ireland and sailed for America about 1818/1819. Samuel had 11 children all born in Ireland. His daughter Elizabeth died at the age of 12 in Ireland, and his daughter Charlotte died in Ireland of smallpox. I am just trying to verify the stories and document what information that I have.

My great-grandfather was John Lyness.He was born in Lisburn in 1875. I found him in the 1901 English Census in Oxford,St. Mary Magdelene Parish, at the age of 26. He was employed as a service at that time. Shorty after he emigrated to America and married Katherine Moore and woked for the Long Island RR. I am Looking for any Lynesses that can help me trace his history. Thank you!

Stephen Lyttle is looking info on the Lyttle family and the Roberts family. This is for my sons school project and he needs to research his family tree. LYTTLE: I know the my Great Granny Louisa Lyttle lived in 8 Wesley Street most of her life but I don't know much about my Grand Father. They had 3 Children Lorenzo, Kathleen and Jack. ROBERTS: I know my Granda Leonard and my Nanny Elizabeth lived in Milltown Estate for 30 years or so and they have 6 children. I think they were orginally from the Magaberry/Moria area. Leonard came from a large family of 9 Girls and 4 boys and Elizabeth had 1 brother called Thomas.

Johnny Graham is looking for information on his Great Uncle the boxer Jim (Isaac) Keery. As he would love to know more about him and his life. Also about a man called Ernie Graham who died a while ago but his death was a mystery he jumped of a boat that was heading to England or it was to a place in that direction but he was never found after that.

Gail Fishman is looking for information on James McGovney (McGoveney) who immigrated from Lisburn, Ireland in 1782, aged 18. Later fought in the American Revolution and settled in southern Ohio. I live in Tallahassee, Florida. Effie Jane McGovney was my grandmother. I also have a great grandmother named Jane (Collins) Fitch. Her family came from Ireland around 1848-1849 (father James McGovney) and settled in Cincinnati, Ohio where he ran a furniture store. I've not determined what part of Ireland they came from. Thanks for your help! Gail Note. Hi Jim, a few months back I posted a note on your Lisburn Web site looking for information on James McGovney. I've received e-mails from John McGoveney Phillips who lives in England and I believe we may be cousins. Thanks for allowing me to post the note and connecting with a probable relative, Take care, Gail Gail Fishman

Sole Family Mrs. A. E. SOLE, Greenview Stores, 108 St. Stephens Green W., DUBLIN, C. 2. If anyone has any information about this family would they please get in touch with Jim Collins.

Wane Hardman I'm looking for some relations I have in Lisburn. They are Gary, Tracey and Alan Hardman, children of Patricia, she would be about 65 now. The 'kids' would be in their 40s. My father's also their father, but since he moved away from Northern Ireland (was in the army) he's had no contact with them. I reckon it'd put a smile on his face if anyone could find them.

Man seeks help to find grandfather A RESIDENT of Eastbourne is looking for information about his paternal grandfather who was born in Lisburn during the last decade of the 19th century. Glen Coates knows his grandfather George Edward Coates was born around 1894/95 and his father, Thomas, was a farmer. Either his mother or sister was called Sarah and he may also have had a cousin called Jack (John) Lavery who came from Newry. Mr. Coates also knows his grandfather married Doris Small in Plumstead, London in 1922. His life ended at the age of 58 three decades later in 1952. However, as Mr. Coates explained, obtaining information about his grandfather's later life has proved difficult. "Unfortunately due to family circumstances of which I am not clear, he was not part of my father's life towards the end of his own life as my grandmother remarried when he was very young." If you can help please get in touch with Neil Greenlees at the Star on 9267911 or e-mail: neil.greenlees@jpress.co.uk or info@lisburn.com

Beth Hall from Gooseberry Hill, Perth, Western Australia. Researching GGGrandfather William Smith parents David Smith and Harriet Shillington. William was a weaver who joined British Army at Lisburn in 1820. I have the full history of him and his family from that point. Apart from being more exciting why would a young weaver at the age of 17 join the army. There was a bounty. William ended up in NZ and died there aged 83 after serving with the 63rd Regt of Foot in Portugal, Van Diemen's Land, India, England, Newry and then as a Fencible going to NZ in 1849. Grateful for any assistance anyone can give. Great website and have really enjoyed reading it. Kind regards Beth Hall

Ann Clark from Sidney, BC, Canada V8L 4J5 is looking for any connections to the family of Andrew Morrow and Phoebe Shilcock who were married in 1840 in Waringstown. The family included 7 sons & 1 daughter - David, John, James, William, Hamilton, Andrew (my great grandfather) and Mary Elizabeth. My mother's family came from Lisburn.

Steve Hart from France would like some information I'm a WWI enthusiast and have been asked by a close friend to help get some info on her grandfather WILLIAM HOLMES. He served in WWI with the Irish Guards and was awarded the DCM by the King personally. She believes he was or ended up as either a Regimental Sergeant Major or a Sergeant Major. As a result of the act that brought him the DCM medal he was also given the Freedom of Lisburn. Not sure if that means he was a resident of the city? The only other thing that she thinks she knows about him was that around 1918-1919 he was stationed and billeted in the Tower of London. The family story is that he got the DCM for rescuing or bringing back a badly wounded officer in France. What she'd like to know is: Did he get the freedom of Lisburn. What battalion Irish Guards did he serve in. What was the story behind his DCM and where did the action take place. ANYTHING you could do to point us in the right direction of getting some answers to these questions would be very much appreciated. Thanks for responding.

Anne Rose Botha (nee Rawlings) from Durban, South Africa would like some help. I have a copy of the Obituary of Samuel Keightly J.P. who passed away on 11-8-1900. I have a copy of a marriage certificate of Joseph Carl Keightley to Janet Doherty, in King Williams Town, Cape Province, South Africa dated 1-1-1843. Present was Elizabeth Keightley. I am LOOKING to link the two Keightley men. Be them brother's or cousin's or whatever next of kin. Please see my email address to contact me.

Joe d'Annunzio: From Liverpool England now living in Canada. I need info on my 4G-grandfather James McFarlin/McFarland married in 2nd Boardmills church in 1790. Can anyone tell me where I can view a copy of the marriage details, I'm looking for his parents or where he was born. Thanks

Rosemary Totton from Auckland, New Zealand. Totton family appear to originate from the Lisburn district…I believe my forebears lived at Deerpark (Totten household 1851 Census) Interested in obtaining the book "Heterogenea or Medley" by J M Johnston (1803)….Also would like to make contact with any Totton/Totten/Tottin, Tottons/Tottens/Tottins..etc descendants in the area. They may be interested to know a yDNA test shows the Totton forebears had Anglo-Saxon roots. Most important of all - want to find when our Totton "clan" first came to the area, and why. Many thanks for any info re Lisburn

John Nelson Born in Bangor but family emigrated to Australia. Now living in New Zealand and trying to research my deceased Grandmother's history. My Grandmother "Maria Jane Thompson" is registered as born in Armagh in 1901. I believe she came from Aghalee. Her father was John Mulholland. Her Mother was surnamed Lonsdale? Or Glover?. If anyone can help with some detail. I understand life was very hard then and her mother died when she was 11. She then entered into service as scullery maid? Possible sister/brother was Margaret/Billy I would be most grateful for any help. I have loved reading the "Rambler" articles on this site. Regards John Nelson

Peter J  Smith from Christchurch, South Island, New Zealand now living in Timaru, South Island, New Zeala Seeking information on my 2 x Great Grandfather Samuel ROSS born 1790 at Hillhall, Drumbo, County Down. Samuel went to sea in 1812 and in the 1820s was a Coastguard at Muckross and Killybegs,Donegal. He married Jane BROWNE and had two daughters Jane and Ellenor. They moved to Lossiemouth, Moray, Scotland where Jane died in 1831. Samuel then married a local lass Agnes MENZIES and had further children. Any assistance appreciated, Regards Peter

David Jefferson from Derriaghy Northern Ireland now living in Kandanga, Queensland, Australia. Would like some information: my brother and sister who both live in the north of Ireland have searched the family tree and the records stop around 1800 could you please tell me why Morrow is mums maiden name

I currently live in Bloomington Illinois. I am the daughter of Teresa bray and looking for information about her father Vernon camp and some information about my deceased mother.

Sally Cordner (nee McCartney) is interested in finding anything about the Lavery family from the Old Hillsborough Rd, Lisburn, then went to Australia in the early 50s there was Mr & Mrs Lavery Betty, Sheila & Jim. Sheila & I were friends but lost contact many years ago. Thanks Sally Cordner (nee McCartney)

A WOMAN from New Zealand has recently been in touch with the Star seeking information about her ancestors. Pauline Dann is hoping to contact descendants of Charles Alexander McNickle, the son of George and Agnes (nee Doherty) McNickle, who was born in 1906. She is the descendant of George's sister Margaret McNickle who married William Kennedy. Both Margaret and William died in New Zealand while their children were still young. This has caused Pauline great difficulty in trying to trace her family tree, so she now wishes to hear from any relatives interesting in contacting her. Pauline's address is 10 Swansea Place, Tamatea, Napier, New Zealand.

Brian Law from Glasgow would like some help. My gt grandfather Michael Sloan came from Lisburn district, his father was Bernard Sloan, he came to Govan Glasgow about 1870, I believe there is still family there, they had kept contact to early 50's my gt uncle father Michael Sloan used to be a visitor to the family I believe Michael had a brother called James, his mothers name was Rose McCoey? Michael was a seamen and he died at sea early 1900's we had a large extended family in Govan and I believe the same in Ireland. Michael married my gt grandmother in Govan 1872, she also came from the Lisburn area, her name was Sarah Dowdall, and her father was Henry Dowdall, and her mother was called Sara Dunbar Dowdall, the names Bernard, Barney, John, Michael Patrick, and Mary, and Joseph, are all handed down through the Sloan's. They also had family in Motherwell and Dundee, Sloan, Davy's and Ponsonby's I was always told that my family came from Lisburn district or townlands, I hope that some body from the area my have some knowledge of the Sloan's and may be able to help me fill in the spaces of my family tree, all old folk have passed on and taken the knowledge with them .my grandfather in Govan was also named Michael Sloan, and he married my grandmother Maggie Ryan, and her family came from Sligo, as I said I hope that someone may be of help to me .

Appeal from Down Under to help find family of RAF man AN AUSTRALIAN had made an appeal to local people in a last ditch effort to find out about an RAF Sergeant from Hillsborough who died on the same flight as his older brother during the war. Ray Collins, who is 74 and lives in Mebourne, is trying to locate family, friends, or acquaintances of Sergeant John Ritchie McDowell (Jimmy), attached to the 101 Squadron at Ludford Magna, Lincolnshire. For more info please click here

Ellie from Philadelphia Pa. USA. was wondering if anyone had any information on a family by the name of Gribbin. John Gribbin Jr was my great grandfather . I know he had a sister and I believe a brother Francis. He was baptized in St Patrick's Aghagallon. His parents were John Gribbin and his mother was Catherine (nee Downey ) thank you for any help

IS your name Lane, Irvin(e) or Irwin? If so, then you may be able to help a mother and daughter seeking information about their ancestors. Suzanne Stephens who lives in Kuerten, Germany and her mother lone Harriet Irvin Stephens of Fairfax, USA visited Ireland three years ago and traced family roots in Co.Down. Two years ago Suzanne visited the Dumfries area of Southern Scotland and traced their path from there across the Irish sea. However, she is not sure when they left Scotland for Ireland or when they left Ireland for the USA. Mrs. Stephens Senior has been carrying out genealogy research for many years and knows her grandfather James Irvin was born in Co. Down in 1836. His wife Lizzie Lane was born in Co. Antrim in 1856 or 1859 and the couple were married on March 8, 1855 in Bushmills. Mrs. Stephens great-grandfather John Irvin was born in Co. Down in 1804 as was his wife Mary in 1800. Other ancestors were also born in Co. Down and research carried out by the two ladies at the Public Records Office in Balmoral Avenue has shown there may well be strong family ties with the Ballynahinch area. If you can help in any way please' contact Neil Greenlees at the Ulster Star on 02892679111. Alternatively you can email neil.greenlees@jpress.co.uk.

Casey  Mulcaster whose Mother's family is from Belfast and Lisburn and living in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada would like some help. I am trying to locate my uncle, Vernor McAfee. I am the great-grand daughter of Vernor McAfee, chief of the Lisburn Fire Brigade 1936. I believe my uncle still resides in Lisburn. Thank you.

Ronnie McComb would like some information about his Dad Jim. This is the photo of my dad, Dennis McComb I think he is about 17 or 18 in this photo. I know that he joined Lisburn A. B. C. in 1953 along with his brother Eric McComb. I have been told that they both started boxing at an early age in a small gym somewhere around the chapel hill area I think it was behind Haig's pub but I am not sure If we could find any photos and information regarding their time boxing I would be grateful.

Roger Thompson Hi I am trying to get information on my Grandfather John Pyper who was head of Craigmore school up to 1935. He was active in the Methodist church. He married a Dinah McCord who was the daughter of George and Elina McCord (nee Bunting) I am looking for details of them and trying to get details of John Pyper who was born in 1874. I believe he was born in the Lisburn area. Thanks Roger

Craig Gaston from Gatineau Quebec, Canada  would like some help. Father born in Portrush, Co. Antrim. I was very interested in reading The Huguenots of Lisburn by by E. Joyce Best. There is a reference in this book to a "denizations list". We are researching our early Gaston ancestors, mentioned in the book. Apart from the Lisburn Gaston family there are a couple of others around Ballymony and further north that we know of from the hearthmoney lists. It would be helpful to find when they arrived in Antrim. Any information you could provide would be very much appreciated. Thank you, Craig Gaston

Maureen McBride (nee Hopcroft) has been trying to get in touch with a long time friend called Ethel Carinduff formally Ethel Martin, Last known address was Hartford square Knockmore. Any information you can supply would be most appreciated

Gavin Bamford would like some information on North Circular Road. I moved into North Circular Road a few years ago now and am very interested in the old road.  I would love to know its history and also if anyone has any old photos of the houses at my end (the park).I have seen moving film images taken in 1897 from a train as it passes through Lisburn of the whole road behind the big railway wall.  My group of 3 Victorian terrace are there to see.  It's in the library under Digital Fim Archive for all to see, just search under Lisburn.  I think my block may have been built in 1870 with the 4 semi-detatched ones on either side possibly later in the new century.Hope you can help. Regards & thanks, Gavin Bamford

Isabel Begley from Lisburn/Dundalk now living in Manchester. I used to live at Kitty Molloy's in Market St (c1934) -love to see any photos of her shop if anyone has them and that part of town. Anyone who knew her or even me feel free to get in touch in particular : Lorna Kerr daughter of Kathleen Kerr or any relatives of ! Lovely to see old and new Lisburn. Isabel (Irish dancer !)

Willie Hutchinson Greenisland Co Antrim I'm wondering if anyone can help me? I'm doing a family tree for the FLEETON /TOTTEN family who lived in the BALLINDERRY area and came across the photo in your memories photograph section of Lisburn College taken in 1930 with the name of ? Fleeton sitting in the front row and would like to know if anyone can help me with his first name or were he lived. Photograph of Lisburn College taken in 1930

THE daughter of a man who left Dunmurry more than 60 years ago to start a new life in England has appealed for information about her father's extended family. Jean Tarr of Chesterfield in Derbyshire explained her Dad, William John McDonald who was also known as Jackie, left Northern Ireland in 1944 at the age of just 20. He now lives in Darleston in the West Midlands and as he approaches the age of 83 Jean is keen to hear from anyone who can help locate the people he knew as he grew up.

Tom Henderson from Belfast  now living Colchester Essex Hi, great site. I was wondering if anyone out there had info on a Mckeown family. My Great Grandfather was Jonas Andrews of Blaris Lisburn, he married Minnie Mckeown daughter of John Mckeown of Lisburn who was a Publican. I have been able to trace back a few Andrews but I can get no further than John on the Mckeown side. Any help would be appreciated. Regards Tom

Kay Allen from Panama City Florida, USA I am looking for any information of my GG Grandfather, Joseph Patterson Greenlee born in 1802 in Lisburn. I am planning a trip to Northern Ireland in the near future and would like to visit Lisburn.

Judy Morris from Weston, Ontario, Canada now living Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada I am looking for possible cousins or second cousins. My grandfather was Samuel James Totten who came to Canada and settled in Weston, Ontario around 1892. His younger brother Jack came with him. He went to Moira School which I understand is in Lisburn. If anyone knows of this family I would be delighted to hear from you.

Bert McGarry 31 Murray Court, Paraparaumu, New Zealand would like to find some information of his descendants I am looking for anyone who may have connections with descendants of Lawson McGarry, Wife Sarah Dillon their children Mary b 2/2/1829, Jacob my G Grandfather 3/1/1832, George b 12/6/1834, Joseph b 7/10/1836. John b 1845. Jacob joined the British Army, fought in Crimean and China wars, Married Louisa Blakemore 14/9/1867, came to New Zealand 1874 Jacob and George birth registered in Moira, Family lived Ballyknock, Barnsly Row and old warren town, can anyone help, what happened to the other siblings of Jacob. Children of Lawson Mc Garry and Sarah Dillon, Jacob their eldest son my G Grandfather what happened to his other brothers George, Joseph, John.? May have been others.

A LOCAL man is searching for information about a set of old photographs that were given to his father. Leonard Cree is keen to hear from anyone who knows the man in the photographs or has any information about him. The three pictures, which have the inscription 'Love from Jim, Jerusalem, Palestine, 24/9/42' on the back, show a gentleman in what is thought to be a Royal Military Police uniform. Leonard's father, Leonard senior, was given the photographs between 10-15 years ago and also served in Palestine. Anyone who has any information on the man in the photos can contact Stacey Heaney in the Star on 92679111 or email stacey.heaney@jpress.co.uk.

Daphne Tkachuk (nee Martin) From Lisburn now living in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada would like information  on the "Blakney Family" from Lisburn. "One name that I remember was Sam Blakney. My grandfather Martin's mother name was Bakney and that is a side of the family that I have totally lost contact with. Please help if you can."

Robyn Hogan from Sydney Australia Information: My great-grandfather was Thomas Rossbotham, born 17 March,1854 - perhaps in Ballymacarret or Lisburn, and he named John Rosbotham and Catherine Clark(e) as his parents on his marriage certificate. He was Presbyterian and I know had siblings, Matthew, John, William and George and perhaps a half-sister or cousin Eliza. If anyone is a researcher in this area of Belfast, I would love to hear from them with a view to engaging them in some genealogical research. Or, if anyone can help me with any information I would be extremely grateful. Thank you, Robyn

Emily Streett from Washington, DC, USA I'm trying to get information on family members of Henry Monro(e), a Lisburn linen merchant who was hanged in the Rebellion of 1798. He is said to be an "uncle by marriage" to the first immigrant to the USA from my Irish ancestors, the Gormans. The Gorman family was probably living in or around Lurgan at the time.

Allen Harrison from Llewellyn Ave. Lisburn now living in South Carolina. USA. Information: Would like to get in touch with Billy Lowry…who wrote the article in the Star about Llewellyn Ave.

I was born in Belfast (Dorothy Elizabeth Joan Allen) now married and living in Torquay, Devon Information: I am interested in tracing the history of the Huguenots in Ireland as my paternal great, great grandmother was called Anna Clokey (Cloquet) from Ireland. Been told she was descended from the French Hugeunots.

Marjorie Lane from Wasaga Beach Ontario Canada (Born in Barrow-in-Furness Cumbria). I am looking for info on my great grandfather Isaac Gorman born 1841 Aghalee, he married a Mary Toye born 1840 moved to Cumberland England had 5 boys William b.1871, Francis b.1874 Phillip b.1875, Isaac, b 1878 Daniel (my grandfather) b.1879 any help on knowing if Isaac had any brothers or sisters would be greatly appreciated or any other family connection. Regards Marjorie Lane (nee Gorman)

Jon Nesbitt from Brooks, Alberta, Canada would like to find his Lisburn relatives. "I understand we have a large family still in Lisburn but I have unable to find them. My grandmother was a Lindsay and grandfather was James Nesbitt"

I'm looking for a man named Timothy (Tim) O'Sullivan, from what I know I think his family came from Lisburn. If anybody could help me in any way I'd be much obliged! Thanks

Hi, recently I started researching the Andrews side of my family and discovered that they were from Blaris Lisburn. My Great Grandfather was Jonas Andrews and he married Minnie McKeown also of Blaris in 1901. Minnies father was John McKeown a Publican in Lisburn. I have been able to trace back as far as 1787 on the Andrews side but I'm not having the same good fortune on the McKeown side. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Regards. Tom Henderson

I am doing a site about the history of Glasgow zoo where Davy Jones worked for a while and your help with any info about Davy would be greatly appreciated. I have attached the photo on the back it says roughly in pen "The Irish Colonel Tom Thumb Glasgow Zoo 1938" I would greatly appreciate it if you can confirm it is Wee Davy Jones any info and pictures you can give me about Davy would be great I have heard about his wee car would you be able to get me some pictures of it? I hear it is in the Ulster transport museum I hope we can work together to make sure Davys isn't forgotten Stiofain

Linda McKinstry is seeking information. Some of my family came over from Ireland to Canada in the mid 1800's. And some stayed in the area of Mullaghglass. Robert McKinstry and Jane (nee Waring) had 6 children. The two oldest stayed in Magheragall area. The younger ones John, David, Elizabeth Jane, and James went to Ontario Canada with the parents. I do not know where they landed in North America or on what ship they travelled. The oldest Anne McKinstry born about 1833 married 1856 John Cox born 1831 both from Mullaghglass. They had 4 children Ann Jane, Mary Elizabeth, John Waring, and James. The second child Henry McKinstry born 1837 Mullaghlass Lisburn, married 1860 Mary Smylie born 1840 in Slievenacloy. They had 7 children Anne, Henry, Phillip, John, George, Francis, and Mary. I am sure I must have cousins in the area and would love to get to know them. I also would really like to know more on my Family. I hope someone can help. Thanks Linda

Kate Smyth is seeking information. I am from Devon but my two of my great aunts were born in Lisnagarvey one on the 28th May 1878 and the other on 9th July 1876 Their names were Mabel and Clementina Caroline Irvine. I believe that their elder sister might have died there a one, Williamina Irvine born in Monifieth in 1870. I am not sure what my ggrandfather was doing there. His name was Duncan Irvine. After leaving Ireland he appears to have gone to England with his family. He was a Master Gardener.

1898 Joseph Holland Dickson was born in Lisburn, Union of Lisburn, County of Antrim & Down. Searching for some information as it gives Largymore/Blaris county of Down on his birth registry #194. Thanks for any assistance.

Seeking George McBratney and further information on George Rawdon. Especially any way of getting a list of names of people who came from Yorkshire to settle in Lisburn with him.I have info from the Rawdon end. What happened to Brilliana ? If I say my pen name is Charlotte Rawdon you may see how interested I am. SB

Australian woman seeks help in tracing Lisburn ancestors LOCAL people are being asked to help an Australian woman search for her ancestors. Cynthia Hull, who lives 'down under' in Victor Harbour is searching for the family of her ancestor, Samuel Hull and his wife Agnes (nee Smyth). Samuel and Agnes had 13 children. They were John Willard Hull, Elizabeth, William, Mary, Anna, Louisa, Robert, Harry, George, Alfred (Fred), Samuel Edwin, Emma and Agnes Sarah. John Willard Hull retired to either South Africa or North America. He had a daughter Melissa Stodart Hull and a son Frederick George. However, Cynthia doesn't know if there were any other siblings.

William Dunshea-Fleming from Sydney Australia now living in Geelong Australia would like some information on a William Dunshee(a) born in Lisburn and married Jane Fleming who also came from Lisburn.

'Hello! I am writing because I found a posting by another person named Adrienne Carson on this website. I am interested in contacting her because of the coincidence. I am Irish/ Scottish American but know little about my family tree. Would love any information that might point me in the direction of my ancestry. (USA/ New Jersey)

My name is Charlotte Curry Gribben Levy from Glasgow and I am looking for the descendants of my grandparents charlotte Jane Currie and George Gribben married in Lisburn cathedral on 31/04/1904. at that time they lived George at 20 Millbrook charlotte at 30 low road. My ggandparents had three children Samuel, Seline, Charlotte when they came to live in Coatbridge in Scotland. Charlotte Jane died in 1915 George in 1932. This is all I know about my Irish family except that my aunt visited Lisburn up until the 1940s  

My name is Rosemary Bidgood from New Zealand and I am seeking Decendants of Samuel James Duffy Johnston born in Belfast in 1800's. My grandfather James Johnston was born in Lisburn 1862. I would like to contact any descendants as I plan to visit and work in Ireland. Regards  

I have just been reading your "can you help" page and wonder if anyone can help me with my family tree. I seek any info on Peter Breakey born about 1880 and his father Patrick Breakey. I believe Peter was born in Lisburn but any information such as the parish would be much appreciated. I know it's a long shot. I come from England but now live in Australia. Great site by the way.  Jim Wright

My name is John P. Garrett and I live in the US. I am in the process of researching my family history and recently learned that my 7th great grandfather , Robert Garrett (Garret) likely came to the US from Lisburn around 1740 - 1760. I was told that there are still Garretts living in the Lisburn Area and I am hoping you may be able direct me to a way to make contact with them ? I am hoping that if any Garrett family is in the area that I may be related. I think the Spelling could be different? I would appreciate any help or possible suggestions as to where I might be able to get further information. Sincerely,  4000 Woodcove Lane, Williamston, Michigan 48895 USA

Anne Nokes from Georgetown, Ontario, Canada My Grandfather Bryans was from Lisburn, and I know I still have family there. My mom was in Lisburn 40 years ago visiting and has since lost touch with the family. Would like to hear from anyone who knows of them. Some family names are: Josephine Heasley (I don't know her married name, her parents were Sam and Charlotte Heasley) I look forward to coming over some day, I have never heard anything but wonderful stories about the town.

A NEW Zealand man is keen to trace the history of his ancestors who came from the Lisburn area. Robert Wallace would like to make contact with any of his distant relatives still living in the city. Mr. Wallace explained he is a fourth generation New Zealander who has been given the task of satisfying a 'great desire' within his family to establish a connection with this area. So far, he explained, he has found out his great great grandfather was James Wallace, son of James Wallace of Dunmurry who married Eleanor Allen, daughter of George Allen of Ballylesson on March 23, 1826.

My family name "Maze" is obviously tied into the history of Lisburn and the areas north-east of Belfast (Newtownards, Bangor etc). My ancestors settled in Lisburn some time during the mid-late 1600's as, like many, they fled France. As far as I can trace - they were also weavers or lace-makers. Are there any well kept records from Lisburn that would date from the 17th century - indicating any links our family may have had with the town. We have some pre-1860 information, where the Maze's who emigrated came from, but very little data early in the piece. Would anyone be able to help point me in the right direction? Kind regards,

I am trying to make contact with any relatives of Wilfred Ernest Gibson who died on 30th January 1944, then aged 31. He was serving with the Irish Guards in Italy and is buried in the Anzio War Cemetery. I understand that he originated from the Lisburn area. Peter Evison

Wonderful web page, so important to keep the old photos and they are so interesting. I am seeking the following lady, any help would be gratefully received. Louisa Ann LAMBERT (formerly PHILLIPS) born about 1913. Kind regards, Brenda MacCulloch, 2 Hilling Street, Titirangi, Auckland 1007, New Zealand ph. 0064 9 817 3403

Hello. My name is Megan Ruckriegel. I have tried looking through so many sites and emailing different people to try to get some help or information on Lisburn and it doesn't seem to be working. I was wondering though if you could possible help me and give me information on census records from around 1790-1850. If you are not able to find anything like that could you possibly find an old map of what Lisburn was like around that time. I am trying to find out more information on my ancestors who were Craney's that I found was also spelled Creaney. I would greatly appreciate anything you could do for me. Please send any information to Megan Ruckriegel Thank You,

Searching the net for references to my great-grandfather, Alexander King, coal importer of Belfast,I came across your piece on Alexander Boyd, with a reference to coal received from Alexander King, Ltd., my great-grandfather's company. I am having difficulty finding any information about my family in Belfast, and indeed, the business, which became John Kelly, Ltd., I believe in the late 1950's. I have recently retired to Westport, from Scotland.Thanking you, in anticipation, for any information you might be able to give me.

Researching Leathem family from the Maze and Largymore also Mercer St. Lisburn.

My grandfather, Henry Stevenson McKeag, was a Linen Importer, with offices in Linen Hall in Belfast and in New York City. He was born in Ballybuttle in 1859, baptized at Carrowdore, immigrated to Brooklyn in 1884 and died in Montclair, New Jersey in 1928. I've been to PRONI, but I haven't been able to figure out how he was educated or why he was the only member of his family to leave Ballybuttle. His mother, Martha Beattie McKeag, listed York Street Spinning Company stock in her will and his older brother, Alexander McKeag, is listed as a York Street "manager" from 1884 to 1899. I grew up in Montclair, N.J. with a Bill McBratney in my class. I remember my mother talking about McBratney Linens and that my grandfather knew them.. In the endless surfing we all do I plugged it in after having no success with "McKeag Linens". The Thomas McKeag farm in Ballybuttle was sold in 1899 to the Garretts and that family still owns it, but I haven't been able to find out more about my grandfather by visiting. Any suggestions?

Looking for the Hale Family I'm hoping someone can help me out here. I'm doing a genealogy site and can't seem to find out anything about the family of R.W. Hale and Nan (Woods). I know he was a lecturer at Queens but moved to Lisburn after that. If anyone can help me out I would be very grateful.

Kathryn Fortescue would like any information you may be able to give her about Hill family records. She  would particularly like to find photographs and find out more about Annie Fortescue Harrison's musical career - she wrote other songs apart from "In the Gloaming". Any leads, including local historians would be great although I think that she and her husband, Lord Arthur Hill lived at Easthamspted Park and in London rather than in Ireland.

I've just come across the page on your website concerning James Logan, who was born in Lurgan in 1674. I know something of this story, as we are both descended from the same mad Sir Robert Logan, Baron Grugar, 1555-1605! Also, James and his father Patrick were probably the only Quakers in the Logan clan before myself. But I am particularly fascinated by Patrick, and how he, as an established church minister, came to be so convinced by Quakerism in its earliest form, and in Scotland to boot. Do you have any other information about him? By the way, I know that James' home at Stenton, Philadelphia, was standing a few years ago and open the public. yours sincerely,

I wonder if you can help me, I am trying to find out more information about my girlfriends father, His name is Desmond Douglas and his father was Frank Douglas of Lisburn. His father once owned the 'Hayloft Inn' on bridge street and I am trying to find out A: What has become of the pub, and B: If there are any photographs of the pub, past or present. I look forward to hearing from you and thank you in advance for your kind help.

I know that Magheragall is in or near Lisburn. However, I cannot find a map that shows it. I would like to purchase an Ordnance Survey map, but don't know which one to buy. They are expensive in the U.S. so I'd like to make sure I'm getting the right one. Is there anyone there who could tell me which map I should order, or if not, then which direction from Lisburn is Magheragall? Also, how many miles or kilometres? Could you mention a few smallish townlands that are near it? (An ancestor of mine has come down to me as John Gaston of Magheragall. He was a Huguenot said to have come to Co. Antrim about 1668 by way of Scotland. He had three sons that I know of, named William, Hugh and Joseph.) Many thanks. Chris Gaston -- Seattle, Washington USA

I don't know if you can help but I have come across an ancestor, one David Carlisle, who used to live in what looks like Munce's Row Lisburn. Do you have any idea where this used to be. I have tried the Lisburn Library but although they looked in a number of sources, couldn't find any reference to it. Any help would be gratefully appreciated. Allyson Jardine Dumfries

I am doing family research on the McADAM side of my family. I would like to hear from McAdams whose ancestors lived in the Dromore/Hillsborough/Lisburn areas. Given names in my files include John(Jack), Dinah, Hugh John, Sydney, William and Ruby. Thank you in advance.

Hi. I am the daughter of Sergeant Jack Lloyd Snider who was killed during a training mission on July 29 1944. I am interested in finding out anything regarding the accident or contacting anyone else who has a relative killed in the same accident. I will be visiting Northern Ireland in Sept. of this year to visit my Dads grave for the first time. Thanks to Mr Collins who took the time to research the area of the cemetery I now have the exact site of the grave as well as pictures. I look forward to our visit to Ireland. I was born in Hamilton Ontario Canada and now live in Clinton Massachusetts U.S.A.

I have acquired what I believe to be a scent fountain. It stands about 5 ft 6 ins high and is a small scale replica of the drinking fountains presented by Sir Richard Wallace to Paris. From the Internet I understand that there is at least one such fountain in Lisburn. On researching the designer whom I believe to be Charles Lebourg, I came across the references to the these drinking fountains in the Lisburn Historical section. The fountain I have acquired has no provenance. I am beginning to think that it may well have been a model for the drinking fountains but cannot get any facts to support my theory. If you can put me in touch with anyone from the Lisburn Historial Society, I shall be greatly obliged. Many thanks, John Waring

Hello: I am trying to find where I can check on a possible ancestor, to see where she got her name as it is almost the same as my Great Granduncle. In some listings for Blaris, Lisburn, for KIDD, WILLIAM, there is a daughter KIDD, ANNA FULTON, b. 3/16/1870 (mother SARAH LIVINGSTON). My Great Uncle was KIDD, ELIJAH FULTON, he was born in Rochester, NY, US, in 1842. Thank you for your help.

Hello, I am looking for information of my Conway family in Ireland, especially for the one who came to America circa mid and early 1600.  Would there be any place you would recommend I look?  I believe he was a sea Captain Thomas or Edward Conway (brothers) and sons of Edward 1st Viscount Conway of Killultagh who died 163l.  Much thanks,

Hello, I found your email link on Lisburn.com. I actually am trying to reach anyone who might help me in regard to your local history. In researching my family's genealogy, I found reference to the head of the transplanted BLAKENEY family as "governor of Dering's castle in Northern Ireland." This was prior to Cromwell's acts of settlement, but I'm not sure if it was the late 1500s or early 1600s. I do know that by 1600, all the Blakeneys were gone from their home in Norfolk and living in Ireland. I just don't know WHERE in Ireland prior to 1660, and this is my only clue. I'm taking a stab in the dark in thinking this refers to Sir Edward Dering. If so, perhaps someone who knows the local history could tell me if his "castle" was a property in Lisburn. Any ideas on a source for me to contact? Many thanks, Rhonda Jordan Rhonda if you read this would you please get in touch as your email is not working Jim Collins

John Lord, Ocean, NJ, USA. Good day. I am interested in tracing some of my family which left Derriaghy in the late 1880s. My great grandfather was William Partridge and his wife was Susan MacHenry. Supposedly the family owned a pub/tavern in the area. Do any Partridges still live in the area? Or can you direct me to someone who may have more information? Thank you so much.

David McCambley would appreciate any information you can give about the McCamley/McCambley family who looked after the the old Blaris graveyard for more that 150 years. Can you sequence the names of the caretakers in charge over the years ? I know that they lived in the house that once stood at the gates of the graveyard This photo is of a graveheadstone in Old blaris graveyard. The name McCamley changes halfway down to McCambley. The men of this family looked after the graveyard for over 150 years .Can anyone give me more information about John McCamley who died 16th August 1851 aged 68 years? There is also a Lambeg drum(known as 'Elvis' somewhere in the Lisburn locality with a portrait of a John McCambley. Is this a son of the John McCamley? Any lead to sources about the Family or surnames would be very much appreciated/ George McCambley 17/05/2008

AN English woman researching her family tree is keen to hear from anyone in Lisburn who can help her with information on her grandfather, David Frazer. Deborah Frazer knows little of her ancestor except that he was born in Armagh and lived in Lisburn for most of his life. He was born in 1872 and is believed to have died in 1951. The only information the Frazer family have is that he worked for a newspaper which the family believe may have been the Daily Sketch. Deborah, who is tracing her family roots, says most of her relatives now live in England.