Write a commentAre you a Devaney or O’Hanlon living in the Newry locality? You may be able to help a couple who are visiting Newry this coming October.
Maria Guarino of New Jersey, USA has contacted Newry and Mourne Museum in the hope of finding her relatives who she believes still live in the area. Maria’s father, Thomas Devaney was born in 1926 at No.2 Monaghan Row, Newry. His father was Patrick Devaney and his mother was Esther O’Hanlon.
The Devaneys can be found on the 1911 Census when they lived in Maghernahely, Bessbrook. The family, many of whom worked in Bessbrook Linen Mill, consisted of parents Thomas and Mary and children Sarah Jane, Patrick, John, Bridget, Margaret and Elizabeth.
The O’Hanlons in 1911 lived at No. 2 Monaghan Row and included parents Felix and Ellen and children Mary Ellen, Thomas, Patrick, Essie, Felix, Sarah Ann and nephew Phillip Craven. The O’Hanlon family were still there until at least 1930.
As for Thomas Devaney and his parents, they later emigrated to America and settled in Camden, New Jersey. Maria remembers Irish relatives coming to visit but was too young to remember their names and as her parents have unfortunately passed away she has no leads to help her.
If you think you are related, Maria and her family would be delighted to hear from you. If you have any information please contact Newry and Mourne Museum by email shane.mcgivern@newryandmourne.gov.uk or by telephone 028 3031 3173.
