My Pritchard and Wright lines have a history in County Cork that may have started in the late 17th century. Several of my ancestors appear to have benefited from Williamite Wars, obtaining land confiscated from Irish landowners that was sold or given to mostly English Protestants. The Pritchards and Wrights thrived as farmers and tradesmen, … Continue reading County Cork
Between two hills sits the town of Bandon dissected by the River Bandon. Founded in 1604 during the Plantation of Munster, the town was originally called Bandon Bridge, the translation of the Irish name, Droichead na Bandan, or Bridge of the Bandon. Arriving in Bandon from the north. © Julie Medlock Flake The earliest known … Continue reading The Bridge of the Bandon
On a wooded section of road, an iron gate stands at the entrance of a driveway that climbs to the right, up a small hill. Peeking out behind trees and bushes stands Chequer Hall, a house built during the Plantation of Ulster during the 17th century and the home of my 7th great-grandfather, John Adams, … Continue reading Chequer Hall
One of my favorite things in Ireland was meeting people. Everyone was so nice and helpful and willing to talk. Our visit to the Kilraughts Reformed Presbyterian Church was no exception. We hadn't planned on attending the meeting there, but we were happy we did. The greeter at the door helped us get hymnals and … Continue reading Talking to Strangers
One of the first Presbyterian churches in Ireland, established during the Plantation era in the early 17th century, was built in the townland of Kilraughts, County Antrim. The congregation later moved 1.5 miles east, but burials still took place at the old churchyard. My ancestors, John and Elizabeth (Borland) Adams, likely attended this congregation. The … Continue reading Old Kilraughts Churchyard
As my kids have gotten older, I've been able to get back to reading for fun. I'm the type that you'll find reading at 2 am because I keep saying to myself, "just one more chapter." I love lots of genres, but especially enjoy historical novels. Last summer, I read "The Invention of Wings" by … Continue reading The Invention of Wings
Sarah (Eve) Adams, my 5th great-aunt, married an Irishman by the name of John Strong Adams on 2 March 1803. He was a clerk to her uncle and she thought he had exceptional taste in literature. Sarah and John made trips to Ireland to visit his family in Randalstown, County Antrim, Ireland. On one of … Continue reading The Old Presbyterian Churchyard
Heart Genealogy 