Hi Sheila,
My edition of
Gone With The Wind has only 719 pages, I checked, since I was very slow to pick up that "1001 pages" was an example of the Irish love of hyperbole which might fly right past Americans. I reckon you'll enjoy the novel
Gone With The Wind, which has many more Irish and Irish-American references and themes compared to the film. As an example, I don't recall the film ever mentioning that Gerald O'Hara, the father of Scarlett, was forced to flee Ireland because he had murdered the rental land agent in County Meath who had insulted him by whistling the opening bars of "The Boyne Water". If you tire of the book at least read until chapter three.
Upon further research into the "Black McNamara's", Patrick H. McNamara was one of four brothers living in Lexington. In order of birth: Thomas, John, Michael, and Patrick. Their sibling relationships were documented in several obituaries. The baptism and marriage records of St. Paul's Church in Lexington provided further clues to their relationships since they were often marriage witnesses and baptism sponsors for each other's family members. Many uncle / aunt and cousin relationships of the "Black" McNamara's were also revealed in the "visiting" news found in every newspaper of the South. Sharon found one such snippet which she noted in her first posting about the McNamara's of Lexington. Sheila, you previously mentioned having American relatives from Northern cities visit in Ireland, and, after reading the below description, no doubt feel quite fortunate that your relatives were not from the South:
When a Southerner took the trouble to pack a trunk and travel twenty miles for a visit, the visit was seldom of shorter duration than a month, usually much longer. Southerners were as enthusiastic visitors as they were hosts, and there was nothing unusual in relatives coming to spend the Christmas holidays and remaining until July. Often when newly married couples went on the usual round of honeymoon visits, they lingered in some pleasant home until the birth of their second child. Frequently elderly aunts and uncles came to Sunday dinner and remained until they were buried years later. Visitors presented no problem, for houses were large, servants numerous and the feeding of several extra mouths a minor matter in that land of plenty. All ages and sexes went visiting, honeymooners, young mothers showing off new babies, convalescents, the bereaved, girls whose parents were anxious to remove them from the dangers of unwise matches, girls who had reached the danger age without becoming engaged and who, it was hoped, would make suitable matches under the guidance of relatives in other places. Visitors added excitement and variety to the slow moving Southern life and they were always welcome.
Gone With The Wind, Margaret Mitchell, 1936, chapter VIII, page 104 of 719
The census reports also reveal that the mother of the four "Black" McNamara brothers, Honora Anne McNamara, also lived in Lexington. The death record for Patrick reported his mother as "Honora Sheehan", but his father only as "Mr. McNamara".
There is no USA record stating the name of the father of the four McNamara brothers nor their Irish county of birth. However, each of the four brothers had a son named "Denis", and he was the first born son of two of the four (for whom the baptism sponsor was grandmother Honora McNamara). One first born son, named Francis Xavier, was perhaps born sickly and did not survive, allowing flexibility perhaps in Irish naming traditions. Their second born son was named after his maternal grandfather, and third born son named Denis, after his paternal grandfather.
Searching via the ancestry website for a McNamara born to a father named Denis McNamara and mother named Honora Sheehan led to the baptism records for the youngest two sons, both perfect matches, in the Catholic Parish of Watergrasshill in County Cork. No specific townland was reported in the Watergrasshill baptism records. However, Denis McNamara, the only Denis McNamara in County Cork in Griffith Valuation, was living in Mountcatherine townland in the Civil Parish of Kilshanahan, as noted in last posting, which falls within the boundaries of Watergrasshill Catholic Parish. One neighbor in Mountcatherine, Garrett Cotter, was the baptism sponsor for Michael McNamara baptized in 1836. There is no indication that Denis McNamara ever left Ireland; nor is there any evidence from Irish civil records or census, that his wife or two known sons (born in 1837 and 1844) remained in County Cork. If "Denis" had been a "Patrick", "Michael", or "John", I would be less confident having successfully traced the "Black" McNamara's of Lexington back to Mountcatherine townland in County Cork. However, with having not one but two of the sons of Denis McNamara (presumed) and Honora Sheehan of Lexington match perfectly to the Watergrasshill baptism register, I'm very confident. And just one more thing, the surname "Sheehan" is a very popular County Cork surname; using Sheila's GV methodology: Cork (1,621 names), Limerick (458), and Clare (103).
The number of family trees on the ancestry website reflect the number of grandchildren of the four "Black" McNamara brothers. Thomas and John: none. Michael: about 5 or so family trees. Patrick: about 15 or so family trees. While Honora Sheehan is known to the descendants of Patrick McNamara, none made the connection between the four brothers, which could have led to how common the name "Denis" was to the "Black" McNamara's of Lexington, and led finally to Plot 1 of Mountcatherine townland in the civil parish of Kilshanahan:
- Mountcatherine Townland, Plot 1, Kilshanahan Parish, County Cork.jpg (133.04 KiB) Viewed 47130 times
From the 1846 field book description of Mountcatherine townland, see prior posting, the top section of Plot 1 must be "moory arable" and the bottom section "coarse pasture". The arable portion of tilled land appears to have expanded south a bit over time. Thus, where Denis McNamara's house was located on the old 1842 map has likely been tilled over for 100 years or so.
There is an interesting history of Watergrasshill at the School's Collection at the Dúchas website:
https://www.duchas.ie/en/cbes/4921856/4896694/5189998
Family of Denis McNamara and Honora "Annie" Sheehan (≈1800 - ≈1884) of Mountcatherine Townland, Civil Parish of Kilshanahan, County Cork and later Lexington, Kentucky
In the 1870 census in Lexington, living in the Patrick H. McNamara household was an "Annie McNamara", age 70, born in Ireland (relationships are not shown in the 1870 census). In the 1880 census in Lexington, living in the Thomas McNamara household, a brother of Patrick H. McNamara, was an "Anora McNamara", age 78, born in Ireland, relationship of "mother". "Honora Sheehan" was identified as the mother of Patrick H. McNamara on his 1926 death record. She appears to have been a baptism sponsor for three, and possibly four, grandchildren between 1863 and 1883; one child of each of her four sons. No death record available, but likely Honora Anne Sheehan McNamara died about 1884.
1.0 Thomas McNamara (≈1833 - ≈1884), was born about 1833, prior to the January 1836 start of baptism records for Watergrasshill Catholic Parish of County Cork.
Thomas McNamara married
Ellen McGovern (≈1834 - prior to 1884) on 6 November 1859 at St. Paul's Catholic Church in Lexington; witnesses Patrick McGovern and Eliza Murphy; by the Rev. H.G. Allen (per on-line marriage register).
Civil marriage license on 5 Nov. 1859:
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QG1D-5VXX
In July 1863, a Thos. McNamara, age 30, so born about 1833,
grocer,
married, was registered for the Civil War draft, living at Lexington, Kentucky. Included on the same military register were two other McNamara's, likely his younger brothers, both single laborers: John McNamara (age 28) and Michael McNamara (age 26). There is no indication that any of the three McNamara's, who all lived in Lexington, actually fought in the Civil War.
Thomas McNamara had the occupation of grocer in 1870 and baker in the 1880 census; according to the city directory his bakery and confectionery was located at 216 S. Broadway in Lexington.
1870 "McNamara":
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MXWM-DBS
1880 "McNara" :
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MCCF-MH3
Lexington court proceedings indicate that both Thomas and Ellen McNamara had died prior to July 1884 (from research done by a reddit contributor 1 month ago), this would be prior to the Fayette county death register or death records, as well as availability of on-line Lexington newspapers.
Thursday morning July 3 1884
Thos J McNamara [his son, who would be age 23] this day came into court and was appointed administrator of the estate of Thos McNamara deceased intestate of Fayette county. Wherefore ... he took oath and made bond with John McNamara [his brother] and James McCormick as sureties, approved by the court.
Pat McNamara [his brother] approved in open court and was duly qualified as appraiser of the estate of Thos McNamara dec'd.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903 ... cat=430365
https://www.reddit.com/r/Genealogy/comm ... ggestions/
............ 1.1 Thomas McNamara (1860 - 1942), was born on 26 August 1860; baptized on 27 August 1860 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors John McNamara (his uncle) and Anne McGovern; mother reported as "Helen McGovern".
Thomas McNamara, upon the death of his father about 1884, obtained guardianship for his youngest three siblings:
Thomas J. McNamara administering for Thomas McNamara, deceased. It is ordered that the estate of Luke McNamara, John McNamara and Ellen McNamara, minors . . hereby placed in the hands of Geo B Kinkead Public Administrator and guardian for Fayette county.
Saturday morning Sept 13, 1884
In 1910, his younger brother, John McNamara, sought to force the sale of their father's property, so he could obtain his inherited share. His siblings objected. "Thomas, Nannie and Ellen McNamara filed suit in Circuit Court Saturday against John McNamara" [as well as a revenue agent and the city of Lexington] in order to block the forced sale of their house at 322 Chestnut street. "They say irreparable injury will be done them by said sale if allowed" (
Lexington Leader, 10 July 1910). At the time of this court action, the McNamara siblings were not aware that their brother John McNamara had sadly died in Washington state on 22 June 1910. The three McNamara siblings were still living at 322 Chestnut in the 1920 census.
............ 1.2 Denis McNamara (1863 - prior to 1870), was born on 8 October 1863; baptized on 12 October 1863 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors Patricius McNamara (his uncle) and Gbonora (Latin sp?) McNamara (Honora, his grandmother). A twin, died prior to 1870, possibly in infancy.
............ 1.3 Brigida McNamara (1863 - 1921) was born on 8 October 1863; baptized on 12 October 1863 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors Goannis McNamara (John, her uncle) and Goanna Levin (sp?). A twin. There are no other baptism records of a daughter of Thomas McNamara and Mary McGovern between 1861 and 1864 besides this "Brigida". Therefore, in later years she must have been called
"Hannie" (age 8 in 1870),
"Nancy" (age 18 in 1880), later
"Nannie" and
"Anna". Possibly named after her grandmother, Honora Anne, but not when baptized.
............ 1.4 Luke McNamara (1865 - 1887) was born on 17 July 1865; baptized on 23 July 1865 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors Luke McGovern and Mary Ann McGovern. (age 5 in 1870; age 15 in 1880)
Lexington, Aug 14 [1887].—Luke McNamara, better known as "Sonny Mac," of this city, was killed in Atlanta, last night, so states a telegram just received by his relatives here. His body will be brought home for burial.
The Courier Journal, Lexington, 15 August 1887
............ 1.5 John McNamara (1869 - 1910), was born on 14 October 1869; baptized on 24 October 1869 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors William McGovern and Mrs. Bridget McGovern. (age 7 months in 1870; age 12 in 1880)
John McNamara would leave Kentucky and in the 1910 census was a railroad laborer in Yakima, Washington. About this time, John sought to force the sale of the shared inherited McNamara residence in Lexington lived in by his three siblings. Unbeknownst to them, John McNamara died one month prior to his siblings going to the Lexington court to block the sale:
Thomas McNamara, of 322 Chestnut street, received a letter Saturday from W.L. Lachlin, announcing the death of Mr. McNamara's brother, John A. McNamara, at Prosser, Washington. His death occurred June 22.
Mr. McNamara was a former resident of this city, where he was born. He was a plasterer and about 35 years old. No particulars of his death were given in the letter and his brother has written to Mr. Lachlin to ascertain the circumstances surrounding his demise.
He is survived by his brother, Thomas McNamara, and two sisters, Misses Nellie and Annie McNamara, all of this city.
Lexington Leader, 17 July 1910
............ 1.6 Ellen McNamara (1873 - 1949), was born on 7 February 1873; baptized on 9 February 1873 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors Michael Shannon and Mrs. Mary Shannon. (age 7 in 1880, age 45 in 1920)
Miss Nellie McNamara, of Lexington, spent Saturday and Sunday in this city, the guest of her aunt, Mrs. K.B. McNamara.
Kentucky Irish-American, Louisville, 1 September 1900
Funeral services for Miss Nellie McNamara, a bookkeeper with the Lexington Telephone Company for 25 years who died Monday will be held at St. Peter's Catholic Church . . . Calvary cemetery. . . . a daughter of the late Thomas and Ellen McGovern McNamara. . . . Survivors include three cousins, Miss Catherine B. McNamara and Miss Marie C. McNamara, Frankfort, [daughters of John McNamara] and Mrs. Mary Roesler, Lexington [a McGovern cousin] . . .
The Lexington Herald, 8 June 1949
2.0 John McNamara (≈1835 - 1889), was born about 1835, prior to the January 1836 start of baptism records for Watergrasshill Catholic Parish of County Cork.
In July 1863, a John McNamara, age 28, so born about 1835, laborer, single, was registered for the Civil War draft, living at Lexington, Kentucky.
In 1870 census, a John McNamara, reported age 30, single, was a laborer living at boarding house in Lexington owned by Martin Fitzgerald, along with seven other mostly Irish boarders.
John McNamara married
Kate Regan (born October 1849 in Kentucky per 1900 census - 5 September 1932) on 20 February 1871 at a Catholic Church in Franklin County according to civil marriage license documents. Reported witnesses were Michael McNamara (his brother) and Mary Regan; and priest was Rev. Lambert Young, a Catholic priest in Louisville:
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:Q2QD-3C1L
John McNamara and Catherine Regan McNamara were the parents of three children baptized in the St. Paul Church register of Lexington between 1875 and 1883. And John also appears in the 1881 Lexington city directory, as a well borer, residing at "e s Broadway south of Bolivar". In the 1880 census, John McNamara was reported as "M McNara", age 38, laborer, born in Ireland, living at South Broadway street; along with his wife, "K.B", age 33, born in Kentucky; son Denis, age 5; and daughter Marie, age 8 months.
1880 "McNara":
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MCCF-M1P
John McNamara, driller of wells, died on 15 June 1889 per the Fayette County death register (1886 - 1902; the year 1889 is not in chronological order); name of parents reported as "don't know". Individual death records for Lexington, which typically include parents, don't start until 1894. After his death, the widow Catherine Regan McNamara and three children moved to Frankfort.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903 ... cat=222614
FUNERAL NOTICES. The funeral of John McNamara will take place at 4:30 this afternoon from the residence of his brother, P.H. McNamara, at 106 Dewees Street.
The Kentucky Leader, Lexington, 23 June 1889
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/969 ... n-mcnamara
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/812 ... e-mcnamara
Mrs. Kate B. McNamara and daughter, Miss Catherine, are visiting relatives in Lexington this week.
Kentucky Irish-American, Louisville, 8 July 1899
Mrs. Katie B. McNamara and daughter, of Frankfort, Ky., are spending a few days with their cousins, Misses McNamara [Annie and Nellie], on Chestnut street.
Lexington Leader, 19 August 1912
............ 2.1 Denis Joseph McNamara (1875 - 10 January 1929), was born on 19 March 1875, and baptized on 25 March 1875 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors Thomas McNamara (his uncle) and Mrs. Margaret Sullivan.
D.J. McNamara, K.C. District Deputy, Dies
Frankfort, Ky., Jan 9.—Dennis Joseph McNamara, 53 years old, died at 7 o'clock this morning at his home, 515 Ann Street. He was employed as a bookkeeper for the M.G. Sullivan Oil Company. Mr. McNamara was district deputy of the Knights of Columbus Council, composed of the cities of Lexington, Winchester, Paris and Frankfort. He was a member of the Frankfort Council, No. 1483, Knights of Columbus, of which he had served as a grand knight.
He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Catherine McNamara, and two sisters, Misses Marie C. McNamara and Catherine McNamara. Funeral services . . . Good Shepherd Catholic Church. . .
The Courier Journal, Louisville, Kentucky, 10 January 1929
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/812 ... j-mcnamara
............ 2.2 Mary McNamara, was born on 27 September 1879, baptized on 5 October 1879 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors Bartholomew Regan and Anna Regan.
............ 2.3 Katie McNamara, Katherine was born on 7 August 1883, baptized on 19 August 1883 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors Pat McNamara (her uncle) and Hanora McNamara (her grandmother).
3.0 Michael McNamara (1837 - 1902), Michael was baptized on 22 September 1837, at Watergrasshill Catholic Parish in County Cork;
father Den. McNamara; mother Hona. Sheehan; sponsors Gar. Cotter and Marg. Hexxxly (unclear). Garrett Cotter, a neighbor of Denis McNamara, was leasing plot 4 in Mountcatherine townland, civil parish of Kilshanahan.
In July 1863, a Mike McNamara, age 26, so born about 1837, laborer, single, was registered for the Civil War draft, living at Lexington, Kentucky.
Michael McNamara married
Mary Kane on 14 February 1867 at St. Paul's Catholic Church in Lexington; witnesses Patrick McNamara and Winnie Lorne/Lowe (sp?); by the Rev. J.H. Bekkins (per on-line marriage register).
Civil license on 14 February 1867:
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:Q28D-D2DR
After his marriage in 1867 to a young Mary Kane, Michael McNamara will slightly fudge his age: age 28 (≈1842) in 1870; age 42 (≈1838) in 1880; age 59 (August 1840) in 1900; age 60 (≈1842) in 1902 obituary. The Civil War registration in July 1863 was most accurate.
1870 (Lexington):
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MX71-13G
1880 (Newport):
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MCCW-RHC
1900 (Newport):
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:M9WK-5GT
THE DEATH ROLL: Michael McNamara, age 60, brother of Patrick McNamara, of the fire department, is dead at his late home in Covington, of Bright's disease. Mr. McNamara leaves a wife and five children. His funeral will take place at 9 o'clock Saturday morning in Covington. Capt. Denis McNamara [son of Patrick McNamara], of this city will attend his uncle's funeral.
Lexington Leader, 21 February 1902
The "Registry of Deaths" of the city of Newport in Campbell County, Kentucky (adjacent to Covington) states that Michael McNamara; married; age 58; ironworker; parentage Irish; nativity "Newport"; last residence, 605 Elm in 4th Ward [in Newport]; 32 year residency in city; prior residence, Ireland; burial St. Stephen's; died of Bright's disease on 20 February 1902. This is a death registry, and not an individual death record, neither parents or informant are listed (image 528 of 888, #126):
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903 ... GGBG?i=527
............ 3.1 Mary Ann McNamara (1867 - died prior to 1870), was born on 30 December 1867, and baptized on 1 January 1868 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors Patrick McNamara (her uncle) and Bridget Kain.
............ 3.2 Dennis McNamara (1869 - 1952), was born on 5 November 1869, and baptized on 7 November 1869 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors Peter Cain and Honora McNamara (his grandmother).
The funeral of Dennis McNamara, former resident of Kentucky . . . Requiem High Mass . . . at Immaculate Conception Church, Newport. Burial at St. Stephen Cemetery, Fort Thomas. . . . Surviving him are a brother, Peter McNamara, Cincinnati, and several nieces and nephews.
The Cincinnati Enquirer, 4 August 1952
............ 3.3 Thomas Henry McNamara (1871 - 1904), was born on 11 October 1871, and baptized on 22 November 1871 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors John McNamara (his uncle) and Mrs. Mary Lynch. "Thomas McNamara, 30, died suddenly at his home, 605 Elm Street, Newport, Wednesday night . . . ",
The Kentucky Post, Covington, 11 February 1904.
*** MOVE: The Michael McNamara family moved in the early 1870's from Lexington, Fayette County, to Newport, Campbell County, which is adjacent to Covington, Kenton County. Both Newport and Covington in Kentucky are across the Ohio River from Cincinnati.
............ 3.4 John Francis McNamara (age 6 in 1880, ≈1874 - 1904).
In 1900, John McNamara was a "rolling mill worker" living in Newport with Bridget Kane, born August 1849, age 50, widow, born in Ireland, arrived in USA in 1861; and Thomas Kane, born December 1824, age 75, single, born in Ireland, arrived in USA in 1848, a pensioner. Surely, relatives of his mother.
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:M9W2-MTM
DIED IN FLORIDA. A telegram was received in Newport yesterday afternoon concerning the death of John McNamara at the naval hospital at Pensacola, Florida. He was a seaman on the torpedo boat Worden. He was also a veteran in the Spanish-American War, having served in the Cuban and Puerto Rican campaigns. He became ill some time ago with pneumonia, and was sent to the hospital. The remains will be brought to Newport for burial. His brothers are Dennis, Peter and Joseph McNamara, of 605 Elm St.
The Kentucky Post, Covington, 14 December 1904
............ 3.5 Peter McNamara (age 3 in 1880, ≈1877 - 1958)
Requiem High Mass for Peter J. McNamara, 81, who died Monday [1 September 1958] at his home in Newport, will be sung . . . at Immaculate Conception Church, Newport . . . Burial will be in St. Stephen Cemetery, Ft. Thomas. Mr. McNamara was a retired shoe worker for the old Krippendorf-Dittman Shoe Co., Cincinnati. He leaves a widow, Mrs. Lena Gebhardt McNamara; two sons . . . three daughters . . . eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
The Kentucky Post and Times-Star, Covington, 3 September 1958
............ 3.6 Joseph McNamara (age 8 months in 1880, ≈1879 - 1917). "Joseph McNamara, 36, died Thursday at Speers Memorial hospital, Dayton. The body was removed to the home of a brother, Peter McNamara, of 705 Isabella street",
The Kentucky Post, Covington, 8 March 1917.
4.0 Patrick McNamara (1840 - prior to 1844), Pat was baptized on 6 December 1840, at Watergrasshill Catholic Parish in County Cork;
father Den. McNamara; mother Hon. Sheehan; sponsors Pat. Burke and Mary Cotter (a common surname in Mountcatherine townland).
5.0 Patrick H. McNamara (1844 - 1926), Pat was baptized on 24 March 1844 (transcribed as 4 March), at Watergrasshill Catholic Parish in County Cork;
father Denis McNamara; mother Hona Sheehan; sponsors Mich. Roche and Mary (surname too dark).
Patrick McNamara married
Mary Anne McGovern (19 December 1849 - 6 October 1910 in Norfolk, VA) on 20 February 1870 at St. Paul's Catholic Church in Lexington; witnesses John McNamara (his brother) and Anne McCloskey; by the Rev. John H. Bekkers (per on-line marriage register).
Civil license on 18 Feb. 1870; required consent of Mary Anne McGovern's guardian, Luke McGovern, who was likely a relative (her father was Thomas McGovern per her death record)
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:Q28D-DMFY
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:Q28D-DQWH
In the 1870 census, Patrick and Mary McNamara were living with "Annie McNamara", age 70, born in Ireland. Relationships are not reported in the 1870 census, but she was likely the mother of Patrick H. McNamara. They were at House #39 per the census taker count, which followed #38 Timothy Daly and #37 Mathew "Red Mack" McNamara. In Patrick McNamara's 1926 death record, his mother was reported as "Honora McNamara".
1870:
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MCCF-X7P
1880:
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MCCF-X7P
1900:
https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:M949-NRH
Appointments to the city fire department were made by the Lexington mayor and appear to be based upon political friendships, leading perhaps to high turnover when a new mayor was elected. P. H. McNamara was appointed as a fireman in 1900 and was discharged in February 1903. "Mayor Duncan is having an up-hill time of it with his police and fire departments. . . . Only a few days ago one of Mayor Duncan's new appointees, Patrick H. McNamara, of No. 2 hose company, turned a hose wagon over and smashed it to pieces, almost killing himself and others on the wagon, and now the public is waiting to see what else is to happen. Rumors of scandal . . . " per
The Daily-Leader, Lexington, 5 March 1900.
Mr. P.H. McNamara has returned from Frankfort, where he was visiting his son, Captain D.J. McNamara and family.
Lexington Leader, 11 August 1907
SUDDENLY: The distressing news was received here Thursday night by Mr. P.H. McNamara that his wife, Mrs. Mary McNamara had died suddenly Thursday at the residence of her daughter, Miss Kate McNamara in Norfolk, Va., where she was visiting. Mrs. McNamara is survived by her husband, two daughters, Mrs. J. Latham and Miss Kate McNamara, and one son, William.
Lexington Leader, 7 October 1910
Kentucky 1910 death record: father Thomas McGovern, mother Catherine Lyons; born in Kentucky on 19 December 1849.
Patrick H. McNamara, age 80, died yesterday afternoon at 6:30 o'clock at the residence, 1400 Holland avenue, Winona [Norfolk, Virginia]. Mr. McNamara was a native of Ireland and had been a resident of Norfolk 11 years. Before coming to Norfolk, he had lived 63 years in Lexington, Ky. He is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Carroll Emley, and a son, W.I. McNamara, both of Norfolk also by seven grandchildren. He was a member of Norfolk Council No. 367, Knights of Columbus, and held membership in St. Mary's Catholic Church. Funeral Services . . at St. Mary's Church . . burial in St. Mary's Cemetery.
Virginia Pilot and Norfolk Landmark, Norfolk, Virginia, 28 May 1926
Death Record: Patrick H. McNamara, age 80, born on 17 March 1846, spouse "Mary A McNamara", died on 27 May 1926 in Norfolk, Virginia;
father reported as "Mr. McNamara" and
mother "Honora Sheehan".
............ 5.1 Francis Xavier McNamara (1870 - prior to 1880), was born on 2 December 1870, baptized on 4 December 1870 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors Thomas McNamara (his uncle) and Mrs. McNamara (either wife of uncle Thomas, or his grandmother). Appears to have died prior to 1880 census, perhaps in infancy. First born son was
not named after his paternal grandfather.
............ 5.2 Thomas Francis McNamara (1873 - prior to 1880), was born on 21 March 1873, baptized on 29 March 1873 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors William McGovern and Bridget Lyons. Appears to have died prior to 1880 census, perhaps in infancy. The second born son, named after his maternal grandfather.
............ 5.3 Dennis Joseph McNamara (1874 - 1910), was born on 8 May 1874, baptized on 14 May 1874 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors Michael Shannon and Mrs. Anna Welch.
Sergeant D.J. McNamara, of Lexington, a member of Company B, Second Kentucky, arrived in the city [Frankfort] Monday and will spend ten days with relatives. Sergeant McNamara is a thorough soldier, having spent seven years in the State Guard prior to entering the volunteer army, and is delighted with soldier life. He has never been sick a day since he left Lexington last May. . .
Kentucky Irish-American, Louisville, 24 September 1898 (the Frankfort gossip section)
NUPTIAL KNOTS: The announcement of the wedding of Captain D.J. McNamara, of this city, and Miss Mary Reagan, of Frankfort, Ky., will be made at the morning service at St. Paul's Catholic Church today. The marriage will take place at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Frankfort on Thanksgiving Day. The bride and groom to be will make their home in Lexington. The prospective groom was formerly captain of Battery B, Kentucky State Guard and is popular in his home town. His bride to be is a beautiful young woman . . .
Lexington Leader, 9 November 1902
...................... 5.3.1 David Patrick McNamara, born 22 November 1906, per WW2 enlistment record.
...................... 5.3.2 Margaret Mary McNamara, born 30 April 1908, died 5 October 1913 in Franklin County (per Kentucky death record).
Mr. Denis McNamara died at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. P.H. McNamara, 162 East Short street, Tuesday morning by tuberculosis. He is survived by his wife and two children, one brother and two sisters—Mr. William McNamara of this city, Mrs. O.B. Latham of Washington, D.C., and Miss Catherine McNamara of Norfolk, Va. The funeral services will be held at St. Peter's Church . . . and the interment will follow in the family lot in the Catholic cemetery.
Lexington Herald, 9 March 1910
............ 5.4 Luke McNamara (1876 - 1904), was born on 31 December 1876, and baptized on 7 January 1877 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors Thomas Sheehan and Mrs. Mary Reynolds. A twin. Luke McNamara died on 27 January 1904, at the age of 27 years (per Copy of Certificate of Death).
............ 5.5 Kate McNamara, was born on 31 December 1876, and baptized on 7 January 1877 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors John McNamara (her uncle) and Mary Shannon. A twin. "Mrs. Carroll Emley" per father's 1926 obituary.
............ 5.6 Mary "Mayme" McNamara, was born on 5 July 1880, baptized on 18 July 1880 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors Andrew Haunifal (sp?) and Lydia Faul (sp?).
Miss Mayme McNamara and brother, D.J. McNamara, spent Sunday with relatives [aunt Catherine McNamara] in this city [Frankfort].
Kentucky Irish-American, Louisville, 11 March 1899 (the Frankfort gossip section)
Miss Mayme A. McNamara, formerly of this city, has received an appointment in the Government Printing Office in Washington DC. Miss McNamara, who is the daughter of Mrs. P.H. McNamara, is a bright, clever young woman, completed a course in the Lanston Monotype School in Philadelphia, Pa., and has since held a position in that city. Her many friends wish her much success in her new undertaking.
The Lexington Herald, 14 April 1907
McNamara-Latham. One of the interesting weddings of the week will be that of Miss Mayme A. McNamara, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. P.H. McNamara, of this city, to Mr. O.V. Latham, of Greenville, S.C., but now a resident of Washington D.C. The marriage will be solemnized with a nuptial mass on April 21 [1909] at 10 a.m. at St. Aloysius Church in Washington, D.C., Rev. Rector Charles Lyons officiating. . . . Miss McNamara is a very charming girl and has many friends both in this city and Washington, where she has visited for over two years, being one of the force in the Public Printing Office . . .
Lexington Leader, 18 April 1909
............ 5.7 William McNamara (1885 - 1944), was born on 6 October 1885, baptized on 8 October 1885 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors John Kelly and Johanna Cronin.
Tingle—McNamara. The marriage of Miss Virginia Tingle to Mr. William I. McNamara, of Norfolk, Va., was solemnized Tuesday morning at St. Peter's Church, the Rev. Father Punch officiating. . . . Mr. McNamara, formerly of Lexington, has been making his home for sometime at Norfolk, holding a position in the navy yards . . .
The Lexington Herald, 7 July 1915
. . . Mr. McNamara formerly lived in Lexington and was a student at Kentucky University. He now holds a position in the Navy Yards of Norfolk. His father, Mr. P.J. McNamara, of this city, will go to Virginia soon to make his home with them. . . . Among the relatives here for the wedding was Mrs. Dennis McNamara of Frankfort (his sister-in-law, a widow).
Lexington Leader, 7 July 1915
Death record: William Ignatius McNamara, age 59, died on 29 December 1944 in Norfolk, Virginia; spouse Virginia Tingle McNamara; father Patrick McNamara; mother Mary McGovern.
............ 5.8 John McNamara (1888 - 1900), was born on 30 September 1888, baptized on 14 October 1888 at St. Paul's Church in Lexington; sponsors John Lynch and Anna McNamara. Died in Lexington on 29 October 1900 of meningitis.
Master John C. McNamara, of Lexington, is visiting his aunt, Mrs. Kate McNamara, on North St. Clair street.
Kentucky Irish American, Louisville, 26 August 1899
............ 5.9 Margaret Ellen McNamara (1892 - 17 September 1892)
Was there any connection between "Red Mack" (including in-laws, the Daley and Williams families of Dromcolliher, County Limerick) and the "Black McNamara's" of Lexington?
The "Black McNamara's" were from County Cork. The birthplace in Ireland of "Red Mack" is still unknown. On the plus side, as Sheila noted in her recent posting, Mathew "Red Mack" McNamara and Patrick H. McNamara (1844 - 1926), a "Black McNamara", were neighbors in Lexington in the 1870 census. However, in the St. Paul's baptism register, not one of the "Red Mack" clan (including the Williams and Daleys) appear as a baptism sponsor for a "Black McNamara".
Only one time does a "Black McNamara" appear as a baptism sponsor to the greater "Red Mack" clan. Patrick H. McNamara (1844 - 1926) was a baptism sponsor for "Honora", born in 1873, the daughter of James Williams (a brother-in-law of "Red Mack") and Mary Coughlin. "Honora" will later be called "Anne" (similar to the mother of P. H. McNamara, Honora Anne Sheehan McNamara).
Kentucky is famous for their family feuds lasting generations. Reading between the lines, very closely, there appears to have been some tension between the "Red Mack" and the "Black McNamara" families of Lexington:
An Explanation.
The LEADER is requested to make the statement that Miss Mary McNamara, who is one of the young ladies participating in the Maccabee's piano contest, is a daughter of Mr. Patrick McNamara of Constitution street, and not of Mrs. B. McNamara, as erroneously reported.
Lexington Leader, 15 May 1904
SIMILARITY IN NAMES LED TO CONFUSION
Miss Mary McNamara, whose name is entered in the piano contest conducted by the Maccabees is the daughter of Mr. Pat McNamara, of Constitution street, and not Miss Mary McNamara, of Loudon avenue, the similarity of names having led to some confusion.
Lexington Herald, 15 May 1904
Could the mysterious John McNamara (≈1884 - 1947) be descended from one of the four "Black McNamara's"? Three of the four McNamara's already had a son named John. John McNamara and Catherine Regan were the parents of three children, but none were named John. John McNamara, the husband of Catherine Regan, died in 1889. One reddit contributor suggested to Barbara Jean that they were the parents of the mysterious John McNamara born about 1884. Perhaps Catherine Regan McNamara, as a widow with three other young children, sent John to live with relatives in Ohio? But there was no son named John McNamara in the St. Paul's baptism register with parents John McNamara and Catherine Regan? And the McNamara's of Lexington never visited any relatives in Ohio. Plus, the mother of John McNamara was said to have died when he was young, Catherine Regan McNamara died in 1932. This scenario is very unlikely.
Could the "home folks" in Kentucky of John L. McNamara (1870 - 1963) of Oliver Springs, Tennessee, who he visited (or were visited by) in 1910, have been the "Black McNamara's" of Lexington? John L. McNamara's father was the galvanized Yankee, Thomas McNamara, born in Ireland about 1837. One of the "Black McNamara's" was a Thomas born about 1833. So for John L. McNamara of Oliver Springs, the "Black McNamara's" of Lexington could be second cousins at best. The McNamara's of Tennessee were brick masons, the "Black McNamara's" of Lexington were bakers, well drillers, grocers, fireman etc, but not masons. The "Black McNamara's" of Lexington were from County Cork, there is some evidence that the McNamara masons of Tennessee were from County Clare, which will get to later. This all leads me to believe that there was no connection between these two families.
There is one more McNamara family of Lexington that has yet to be researched.
To be continued.