Burke Family

Nicholas (Nikolas) BURKE b. c1832 - (on each of his childrens b.c.'s his place of birth alters between Galway, Westmeath & Ennis).

He married Mary MALONEY, definately born in Ennis c. 1837, parents names likely to be Patrick K. (Peter) MALONEY & Mary JOHANNA.

They were married on 28.02.1854 in the RC Church, the Diocese of Killaloe, which to my understanding was then located in Ennis (or Drumclift which it was at that time).  I have a microfilm number 02472/05 from Diocese Killaloe, Parish Drumcliff, dates 03.04.1837-01.12.1880. Ennis Ireland.  The wedding was witnessed by James HALPIN and Bridget PURCELL.

The newly weds sailed for Hobart Tasmania Australia that same year, as free immigrants under the indenture scheme. They sailed from Plymouth on 10.08.1854 aboard the Duchess of Northumberland, arriving 06.12.1854. I would love to know how they got from Ireland to Plymouth.

On the shipping documentation it is stated that Nicholas was 26 (though I'm sure he was 22) and Mary was 21 (but I'm sure she was 17), they have both altered their ages by 5yrs.  Also that they were both from Co. Clare, Nicholas a Coachmaker and Mary a Dressmaker, both of RC Religion and that Nicholas was a very religious man. They could both read & write.  On board there was also a Bridget & Elizabeth BURKE but as yet I am unable to make a connection.

I know all of their Australian movements but nothing of their Irish life.

A notice appeared in an Australian paper searching for him;

Searching for my brother BURKE, Nicholas formerly of O'Briens Castle, Inchicronan or island, county Clare.

Notice was put in by his sister Mrs Mary WALSH of Reserve Town, St. Paul, Minn USA and his cousin Francis NEELON.

I wonder if any body out there could help me piece together Nicholas's family and life in Ireland prior to his emmigration.

My cousin is going to visit Ireland in May and she is planning on trying to find out any available information, any help would be so very gratefully appreciated.

Thank you in advance,

Jen Harris (nee BURKE)