Gortachalla

Information from Logainm.ie:

Irish Spelling: Gort an Chalaigh

Genitive: Ghort an Chalaidh

English Spelling: Gortachalla

Gort and gart in Irish translate to field in English.

This is a validated name – “Placenames or geographical names whose official, legal Irish versions are specified in various Placenames Orders in accordance with the Official Languages Act 2003. Certain placenames in Northern Ireland are also included in this category, such as counties, cities, towns and various other population centres.”

Information from O’Donnovan’s Field Name Books – (places.webworld.org database).

Standard Name: Gortachalla

Irish Form of Name: Gort a’ Chaltha

Translation: field of the callows or holm

Description: A great portion of this townland along the northern boundary is bog. The middle and along the southern boundary are fields of lime stone rocks and underwood. All the N.E. part is Lough Gurtaghholla in which are some Islands. At the E. boundary is Gurtaghholia Village and South of it is a well called Tubberbredia. Some scattered portions in cultivation.

Situation: N. of the parish. Bounded on the N. by Killannin Parish and part of Tullakeeraun townland, on E. by Gurtaghokerra, Cartoor and part of Tullakeeraun and on S. and W. by Ballynahallia.

Other placenames in this townland:

• Gurtaghholla Lough (lake)
• Gurtaghholla Village (village)
• Illaunagilky (lake)
• Illaunapurtee (lake)
• Illaunfare (lake)
• Illaunpreaghaunnagark (island)

Information from Moycullen and its People

Tagann an t-ainm Gort an Chalaidh as an bhfocal caladh. Ciallaíonn an focail seo cluain nó móinéar na habhna, áit atá íseal agus a théann faoi uisce go héasca. Bíonn an áit báite fós, ach ní tharlaíonn sé chomh minic le Scéim Draenála na Coiribe.

The name Gortachalla comes from the word “callows”, which means low-lying land that is liable to flooding. It also means a riverside meadow. The place still floods, but it’s not as noticeable today, because of the Corrib Drainage Scheme.

Gortachalla is mentioned by Treasa Mhic Mathúna in her account of the Townland of Cartoon

“…Brigid’s Well in Gortachalla was a place of Pilgrimage in the Tullokyne area.” 

-Treasa Mhic Mathúna

                                  Blake Census 1793-1813

Moycullen and its People records the Blake Census data for this townland. 

Gorticalla: James Cottenham (D.’02), Hubert MacDonogh (R.’00), Mark Laffy (D.’05), Michael Conneely, Patt Conneely, Mathew Walsh (W.’05), Thomas Walsh, Jno. Walsh Richard, Martin Cottenham (R.’04), Michael Joyce (R.’99), Thomas Connor (D.’94), Patt Joyce, Jno. Conneely tailor (D.’05), Mark Walsh,

Mark Barrett (N.’09), Thomas Mulloy, Jno. Conneely Davy (W.’97), Myles Connor (M.’10), Thos. Cottenham (N.’05), Jno. Conneely shoemaker (P.), Thomas Swanwick (M.’94), John Walsh Mathew (M.’95), Bart. Connell (M.’94),

Patt Mulkirane (M.’95, R.’97), Martin King (M.’95), Martin Corkan (N.’96), Michael Walsh (M.’97), Thos. Walsh Mathew (N.’00), Thos. Conneely (M.’00), Jas. Connell (M.’08, R.’11).

Gortachalla also has multiple holy wells within its bounds. Further information on these Holy wells can be found here.

 

       Griffith’s Valuation 

Griffith’s valuation was a land and property survey conducted from 1847 to 1863. Its purpose was to determine taxes based on land value and soil quality. In the absence of most pre-20th Century census data, Griffith’s can provide crucial insight to those interested in genealogy. The survey was conducted in Moycullen from 1853 to 1855. Gortachalla in Griffith’s valuation here.

The land in Gortachalla was collectively leased by seventeen people. The immediate lessor/landowner was Lord Campbell. The plot was 404 acres, 1 rood, and 8 poles/perches of land, as well as 47 acres, 3 roods, and 4 poles/perches of water. The renters and their reported ratable property/ features as well as valuation amounts were as follows:

Note: £ = pounds , /- = shillings

 Michael Walsh, – House, offices, & land, Land 4 £ 10 /- Buildings 1£ 5/-

John Walsh, – House and land, Land 1 £ 10/- Buildings 10/-

James Walsh, – House, office, & land, Land 4 £ 10 /- Buildings 1£

Richard Walsh, – House, office, & land, Land 4 £ 10 /- Buildings 10/-

Thomas Walsh, House and land, Land 4 £ 10 /- Buildings 8/-

Patrick Halloran, –  House, office, & land, Land 8£ Buildings  10/-

Michael Conneely, –  House and land, Land 41£ 10 /- Buildings 6/-

James Downes, –  House and land, Land 3£ Buildings  7/-

Bernard Connell, –  Land, Land 2£ 5 / (had two holdings, unless there were two of them) 

David Malia, –  House and land, Land 2£ 5 /- Buildings  7/-

Thomas Malia, –  House, offices, & land, Land 6£   Buildings  12/-

Margaret Connelly, –  House and land, Land 4 £ 10 /- Buildings 7/-

Myles Connor, –  House, offices, & land, Land 4 £ 10 /- Buildings 15/-

John Connell, –  House, office, & land, Land 3£ Buildings  12/-

Bernard Connell, –  House and land, Land 1£ 10 /- Buildings  8/-

Michael Conneely, –  Land, Land 1£ 10 /-

James Mullowney, –  House, offices, & land,  Land 1£ 10 /- Buildings  15/-

 Water,

Total annual valuation of land in Gortachalla: 54 pounds.

Total annual valuation of buildings  in Gortachalla: 8 pounds, 12 shillings.

Total annual valuation: 62 pounds, 12 shillings.

 

The 1901 Census

According to the Enumerator’s abstract (Form N), Gortahallia (spelling used on the 1901 Census) only had two buildings which were all inhabited houses. All are marked as single family homes. Everyone in Gortahallia was Roman Catholic. There were forty-nine people residing in the townland at the time of census collection; twenty men and twenty-nine women. The Information on the House and Building Return ​​(Form B1) was collected for all households on the 4th of April, 1901. Most of the dwellings in Gortahallia were built of stone or brick, with thatched roofs or other natural materials. According to the Out-Offices and Farm-Steadings Return (Form B2) there were fifty-six additional structures in the townland used for storage and farming; the structures associated with each household will be elaborated on in the relevant writeup. Individuals recorded in each household (Form A information) for Gortahallia “slept or abode in this House on the night of Sunday, 31st of March, 1901”. The Enumerator was Constable Matthew Moore. 

Mary Conneely Household – Form A 

Mary Conneely was the head of House 1 in the townland of Gortahallia (spelling used in the 1901 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the

The House and Building Return (Form B1) the dwelling was a second class home, with three windows, and three rooms.The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2): stable, cow and calf houses, piggery, and a barn.

The home was occupied by a multi-generational family and two others. All individuals were Roman Catholics born in County Galway.

Mary Conneely (60) was a Farmer. She could not read and spoke both Irish and English. Mary was a widow. Because she could not read, Form A signed for Mary by Const. Matthew Moore. 

Laurence Conneely (40) was Mary’s son. His occupation is listed as Farmers Son {sic}. Laurence was married, presumably to Mary Anne Conneely (26), who is listed as Mary’s daughter in law. Mary Anne worked as a housekeeper. Both individuals could read and write, and spoke both Irish and English.

Mary Anne (2 months) was Mary’s granddaughter. On Form A, Mary Anne is listed as being able to read and write. Her occupation column was left blank, and no language proficiency is marked. 

The two other individuals in House 1 were listed as servants of Mary Coneely.

Patt Reilly (11) in his relational column, Patt is listed as a servant. However, in his occupation column it says he was a Scholar, meaning he went to school.  He could read and write.

Kate Reilly (38) is listed as Servant Domestic {sic} in her occupation column. She could not read, and was a widow. Both individuals spoke Irish and English. 

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Mary Coneely herself. The census return for the household was collected on 4th of April, 1901.

Nichaloes Walsh Household – Form A

Nichaloes {sic} Walsh was the head of House 2 in the townland of Gortahallia (spelling used in the 1901 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1) the building was a second class home, made of stone and a thatched roof, with three windows and three rooms.The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show that the property had a cow house, a piggery, and a barn.

The home was occupied by a Roman Catholic family. All members were born in Co. Galway, could not read, and spoke Irish and English.

Nichaloes Walsh (80) was a Farmer. Because he could not read, Form A signed for him by Const. Matthew Moore. The occupation of his wife, Bridget Walsh (60), is somewhat unclear. Her occupation column has two quotes, possibly indicating that she was also a Farmer.

One of Nicholas’s children resided in his home at the time of census collection. Mary Walsh (30) has her occupation listed as a Farmers Daughter {sic}. Mary was not married.

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Nicholas Walsh himself (spelled correctly on this form). The census return for the household was collected on 4th of April, 1901.

Patrick McDonagh Household – Form A 

Patrick McDonagh was the head of House 3 in the townland of Gortahallia (spelling used in the 1901 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the building was a second-class structure, made of stone or concrete and a slate or tile roof, with five windows and six rooms. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property had a stable and a cow house.

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Patt McDonagh {sic} himself, and the census return for the household was collected on 4th of April, 1901.

The dwelling was occupied by an extended Roman Catholic family.

Patrick (56) was a Farmer and Publican. His wife, Bridget (56), has no occupation listed. The couple was born in Co. Galway. Both could read and write and spoke Irish and English.

Allice McDonagh (17) was Patrick’s daughter. Written in her occupation column is the word “None” underlined. Allice was born in America. She could not read and was not married. English was listed in her language proficiency, then crossed out. She was labeled an “Imbecile”. Outside of the relevant column, 10 yrs {sic} is written.

Joseph McDonagh (10) was Patrick’s son. He was born in America and was not married. He could read and write, and is listed as a Scholar, meaning he attended school. Like Allice {sic}, his language proficiency is unclear; the word English was written in, but then also crossed out. 

Bell Agnes McDonagh (9) was Patrick’s daughter. She was born in America, could read and write, and is listed as a Scholar, meaning she attended school. Like her siblings, Bell’s language proficiency is unclear; English was written in, but then also crossed out. She was not married.

Thomas Walsh (15) was Patrick’s nephew. His occupation was listed as General Servant {sic}. He was from Co. Galway, and could read and write. Thomas’s language proficiency is unclear; “do” was written in the column, but then crossed out. He was not married.

 James Melia Household – Form A

James Melia was the head of House 4 in the townland of Gortahallia (spelling used in the 1901 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a third-class structure, made of stone or cement with a thatched roof; five windows and six rooms. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property had a fowl house.

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was James Melia himself, but the landholder is unclear. The census return for the household was collected on 4th of April, 1901.

The dwelling was occupied by a single Roman Catholic family, all individuals could not read and were born in Co. Galway.

James Melia (78) was an Agricultural Labourer who spoke both Irish and English. Julia Melia (79) was James’s wife. Her occupation was listed as a Seamstress, and she spoke Irish only. Andrew Melia (72) was James’s brother. He also worked as an Agricultural Labourer. He spoke Irish only and was not married.

 Margaret Connor Household – Form A 

Margaret Connor was the head of House 5 in the townland of Gortahallia (spelling used in the 1901 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a third-class structure, made of stone or cement with a thatched roof; one window and two rooms. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property had a cow house and a piggery.

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Richard Connor of Gortachallia {sic}. The census return for the household was collected on 4th of April, 1901.

Margaret Connor (69) was a Retired Farmer and widow who lived alone in House 5 at the time of census collection. She was Roman Catholic and born in Co. Galway. She spoke only Irish and was able to read. Because of this, Form A was signed for her by Constable Matthew Moore. 

 Richard Connor Household – Form A

Richard Connor was the head of House 6 in the townland of Gortahallia (spelling used in the 1901 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a third-class structure, made of stone or cement with a thatched roof; one window and two rooms. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property had a cow house, a piggery, and a barn.

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Richard Connor himself. The census return for the household was collected on 4th of April, 1901.

The home was occupied by an extended Roman Catholic family, all individuals were born in Co. Galway

Richard Connor (37) was a Farmer. He could read and write. His wife, Margaret (39), has her occupation listed as Farmers Wife {sic}. Margaret could not read. The couple spoke both English and Irish.

Mary Hurney (9) is listed as Richard’s cousin, lived in House 6 at the time of census collection. She was not married and was listed as a scholar, meaning she attended school. Mary could read and write. “English” is written as her language proficiency but it is crossed out.

Richard Connor’s birth record shows how he was connected to the Hurney family. He was born 8th April, 1864 in Gortacalla {sic}, Moycullin. His parents were Tom Connor and Margret Mullin.

Catherine Connell Household – Form A

Catherine Connell was the head of House 7 in the townland of Gortahallia (spelling used in the 1901 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a third-class structure, made of stone or cement with a thatched roof; two windows and three rooms. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) shows the property had cow and calf houses, a piggery, and a fowl house.

The dwelling was occupied by an extended Roman Catholic family, all individuals were born in Co. Galway and spoke Irish and English.

Catherine Connell (60) was a Farmer. The word “Labourer” was also written as her occupation, but then crossed out. She was a widow, and could read only.

Two of Catherine’s sons resided in their mother’s home. Patrick Connell (26) and Michael Connell (18) both worked as a Farmers Son {sic}. The word “Labourer” was also written as their occupations, but then crossed out. They could read and write and neither were married.

Mary Connell (20) was a Farmers Daughter {sic}. She could read and write and was not married.

Maggie Connell (70) was Catherine’s sister in law. Her occupation is listed as a Knitting labourer {sic}. She could not read or write and was not married.

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Catherine Connell herself. The census return for the household was collected on 4th of April, 1901.

 Margaret Walsh Household – Form A

Margaret Walsh was the head of House 8 in the townland of Gortahallia (spelling used in the 1901 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1) the dwelling was a second-class building, with three windows and three rooms. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) shows the property had cow and calf houses, a piggery, and a barn.

The dwelling was occupied by a multigenerational Roman Catholic family, all of whom were born in Co. Galway.

Margaret Walsh (80) was a Farmer and widow. She could not read and spoke Irish only. Margaret’s son, Edward Walsh (40) had his occupation listed as Farmers Son {sic}. His wife, Bridget Walsh (40), has no occupation listed. The couple could read and write, and spoke both Irish and English.

Three of Margaret’s grandchildren were occupants of her home at the time of census collection. All were unmarried, listed as scholars, and spoke both Irish and English.

Michael Walsh (8) could read and write. Martin Walsh (6) could read only. John Walsh (5) could not read.

The house and landholder recorded on the House and Building Return was Margaret Walsh herself. The census return for the household was collected on 4th of April, 1901.

 John Reilly Household – Form A

John Reilly was the head of House 9 in the townland of Gortahallia (spelling used in the 1901 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1) the dwelling was a second-class building, with three windows and two rooms. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) shows the property had a stable, a cow house, a piggery, and a barn.

The dwelling was occupied by a single Roman Catholic family, all of whom were born in Co. Galway and speakers of both Irish and English.

John Reilly (32) was a Farmer. His wife, Bridget (44), has no occupation listed. Both John and Bridget could read and write.

Two children are recorded as occupants of their father’s home at the time of census collection. Both are listed as not married and as scholars, meaning they attend school. John Reilly (6) could read only. Margaret Reilly (5) could not read.

The house and landholder recorded on the House and Building Return was John Reilly himself. The census return for the household was collected on 4th of April, 1901.

 Peter Fahy Household – Form A

Peter Fahy was the head of House 10 in the townland of Gortahallia (spelling used in the 1901 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1) the dwelling was a third-class building, with two windows and three rooms. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) shows the property had a cow house, a piggery, and a barn.

The house and landholder recorded on the House and Building Return was Peter Fahy himself (spelled “fahey”). The census return for the household was collected on 4th of April, 1901.

The dwelling was occupied by a single Roman Catholic family, all of whom were born in Co. Galway. All the adults and children spoke both Irish and English.

Peter Fahy (36) was a Farmer. His wife, Mary Fahy (39), has no occupation listed. Both Peter and Mary could read and write.

Seven Fahy children were recorded at the time of census collection, all were listed as single.  Mary (10), Nora (8) and Margaret (6) could all read and write and were listed as scholars, meaning they attended school. Bridget (5), was also listed as a Scholar, but could not read.

​​Ellen (4) could not read. Julia (2): could not read, and has a dash in language proficiency column. Anna Maria (six months) could not read and also has a dash in her language proficiency column.

Anna Maria “Anne” Fahy died in Gortahallia on the 19th of June, 1909 from Acute Myelitis which she had suffered from for one month. Her sister Margaret was present at her death. Her death record can be viewed here.

Patt Melia Household – Form A 

Patt Melia was the head of House 11 in the townland of Gortahallia (spelling used in the 1901 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1) the dwelling was a third-class building, with two windows and three rooms. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) shows the property had a cow house, a piggery, a barn, and a shed.

The dwelling was occupied by an extended Roman Catholic family, all of whom were born in Co. Galway and unable to read.

Patt Melia (68) was a Farmer and a widow. He could speak Irish only. His son, John Melia (34), had his occupation listed as Farmers Son {sic}. John’s wife, Mary Melia (29), has her occupation listed as “house work”. The couple spoke both Irish and English. 

The house and landholder recorded on the House and Building Return was Patt Melia himself. The census return for the household was collected on 4th of April, 1901.

James Melia – Form A

James Melia was the head of House 12 in the townland of Gortahallia (spelling used in the 1901 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1) the dwelling was a third-class building, with two windows and three rooms. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) shows the property had a stable, cow and calf houses, a piggery, and a shed.

The dwelling was occupied by a Roman Catholic family, all of whom were born in Co. Galway.

James Melia (75) was a Farmer. His wife, Margaret Melia (65), has a dash in her occupation column. Both James and Margaret could not read, and spoke only Irish.

James’s son, Michael Melia (30) lived in his father’s home at the time of census collection. His occupation was listed as Farmers Son {sic}. He was not married, spoke both Irish and English, and could read only. 

The house and landholder recorded on the House and Building Return was James Melia himself. The census return for the household was collected on 4th of April, 1901.

William Walsh Household – Form A

William Walsh was the head of House 13 in the townland of Gortahallia (spelling used in the 1901 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1) the dwelling was a third-class building, with two windows and three rooms. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) shows the property had cow and calf houses, a piggery, a barn, and a shed.

The dwelling was occupied by a Roman Catholic family, all of whom were born in Co. Galway.

William Walsh (50) was a Farmer. He could not read. His wife, Mary Walsh (50), has a dash in her occupation column. She could read only. Both William and Mary spoke both Irish and English.

Three of William’s children resided in House 13 at the time of census collection. They were not married, could read and write, and spoke both Irish and English. Maria (20) and Kate (17) both have their occupations listed as Farmers Daughter {sic}. Michael’s (19) occupation was as Farmers Son {sic}.

The house and landholder recorded on the House and Building Return was William Walsh himself. The census return for the household was collected on 4th of April, 1901.

Julia Connor Household – Form A

Julia Connor was the head of House 14 in the townland of Gortahallia (spelling used in the 1901 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1) the dwelling was a second-class building, with three windows and three rooms. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) shows the property had a stable, cow and calf houses, a piggery, a barn, and a shed.

The dwelling was occupied by a multi-generational Roman Catholic family, all of whom were born in Co. Galway. All individuals spoke both Irish and English, except for the youngest and oldest family members. 

Julia Connor (60) was a Farmer and widow. She could not read and spoke Irish only. Her son, Myles Connor (42) had his occupation listed as a Farmers Son {sic}. Myles could read and write. His wife, Bridget Connor (40), had her occupation listed as farm work {sic}. She could read only.

Six of Julia’s grandchildren resided in her home at the time of census collection. All were not married.

Julia (19) had her occupation listed as Farm Work{sic}. She could read and write. 

Mary (17) was a Seamstress. She could read and write. William (15) was a Farmer, and could read and write. James (13) and Kate (10), could read and write and were both listed as scholars, meaning they attended school. Delia (3) could not read or write, and spoke English only.

The house and landholder recorded on the House and Building Return was Julia Connor herself. The census return for the household was collected on 4th of April, 1901.

The 1911 Census 

According to the Enumerator’s abstract ( Form N pg. 2), Gortachalla (spelling used on the 1911 Census) only had two buildings which were all inhabited houses. All are marked as single family homes. Everyone in Gortachalla was Roman Catholic. There were sixty-three people residing in the townland at the time of census collection; thirty men and thirty-three women. The Information on the House and Building Return ​​(Form B1) was collected for households on the 6th of April, 1911. Most of the dwellings in Gortachalla were built of stone or brick, with thatched roofs or other natural materials. According to the Out-Offices and Farm-Steadings Return (Form B2), there were fifty-nine additional structures in the townland used for storage and farming; the structures associated with each household will be elaborated on in the relevant writeup. Individuals recorded in each household (Form A information) for Gortachalla “slept or abode in this House on the night of Sunday, 2nd of April, 1911”. The Enumerator was Constable Michal J. Lyster. Form N, pg. 1 gives an overview of the townland at the time of collection, which was 17th April, 1911 (Form N pg. 2).

John Flaherty Household – Form A

John Flaherty was the head of House 1 in the townland of Gortachalla (spelling used in the 1911 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a second-class house, made of stone or brick with a slate or tile roof. With four rooms and four front windows, this was a comfortable home at the time for a family of the Flaherty’s size. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property also had a fowl house and a shed. 

The home was occupied by a newlywed couple. John Flaherty (25) and worked as a rural postman. Catherine Flaherty (32) has no occupation listed. The couple had been married less than a year by the time the census had been taken. The couple were both Roman Catholic, could read and write, and spoke both Irish and English. They were both born in Co. Galway. 

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Lord Campbell, and the census return for the household was collected on 6th of April, 1911.

William Walsh Household – Form A

William Walsh was the head of House 2 in the townland of Gortachalla (spelling used in the 1911 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a second-class house, made of stone or brick and a thatched roof. With three rooms and three front windows, this was a standard home at the time. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property also had a stable, cow and calf houses, a piggery, a fowl house, and a barn. 

 The home was occupied by a Roman Catholic family. All individuals were born in County Galway and spoke both Irish and English.

William Walsh (74) was a Farmer who could not read. His wife, Mary Walsh (69) has no occupation listed, and could read. The couple had been married fifty years and had seven children. Both of their age columns have something written, then erased in them, which is now illegible. 

Two of the Walsh children were occupants of their parent’s home at the time of census collection. Bridget (42) has no occupation listed. She had been married for ten years, however her husband is not recorded. In the column for children born alive, the census take has written “None”. Michael Walsh’s (28) occupation is listed as a Farmers Son {sic}. He was unmarried. They both were able to read.

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was William Walsh himself, and the census return for the household was collected on 6th of April, 1911.

 Michael Melia Household – Form A

Michael Melia was the head of House 3 in the townland of Gortachalla (spelling used in the 1911 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a third-class house, built of stone with a thatched roof, and contained three rooms with two front windows, reflecting the modest but functional housing typical of rural Moycullen at the turn of the twentieth century. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property also had a stable, cow and calf houses, a piggery, and a fowl house. 

The home was occupied by a mother and son, both Roman Catholic and born in Co. Galway. Michael Melia (44) was a Farmer. He was unmarried, and spoke both Irish and English. Michael was only able to read, so Form A was signed for him by Constable Michael Lyster.

Margaret Melia (80) had no occupation listed. She could not read and only spoke Irish. Margaret was a widow. Widows were not required to report how many years they were married or how many children they had, however in this case that information was recorded. Margaret was married for fifty years. She had given birth to seven children, five of whom were alive as of 1911.

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Michael Melia himself, and the census return for the household was collected on 6th of April, 1911.

 John Melia Household – Form A

John Melia was the head of House 4 in the townland of Gortachalla (spelling used in the 1911 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a third-class house, built of stone with a thatched roof, and contained three rooms with two front windows, reflecting the modest but functional housing typical of rural Moycullen at the turn of the twentieth century. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property also had a stable, a cow house, and a calf house. 

The home was occupied by a single Roman Catholic family. All four members were born in Co. Galway. 

John Melia (47) was a Farmer. His wife, Mary Melia (40) has two marks in her occupation column. The couple could not read, and spoke English and Irish. They had been married for 10 years as of 1911 and had two children.

Patrick (8) and Michael (6) were both marked as scholars, meaning they attended school. Both spoke only English. Patrick could read, and Michael could not. Both boys are listed as single.

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was John Melia himself, and the census return for the household was collected on 6th of April, 1911.

Peter Fahy Household – Form A

Peter Fahy was the head of House 5 in the townland of Gortachalla (spelling used in the 1911 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a third-class house, built of stone with a thatched roof, and contained three rooms with two front windows, reflecting the modest but functional housing typical of rural Moycullen at the turn of the twentieth century. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property also had a stable, cow and calf houses, a piggery, a fowl house, and a barn. 

  The home was occupied by a Roman Catholic family, all members were born in Co. Galway.

Peter Fahy (50) was a Farmer. He could read, but could not write. His wife, Mary Fahy (49) has a dash in her occupation column. She could read and write. The couple spoke Irish and English. The couple had been married twenty-one years and had nine children, eight of whom were alive in 1911. 

Seven of the Fahy’s living children resided in House 5 at the time of census collection. Noragh’s (19) and Maragret’s (17) occupations are listed as a Farmers Daughter {sic}. Bridget (15), Ellen (14), Julia (13), and John (8) are all listed as scholars, meaning they attended school.

All of the Fahy children were single, able to read and write and spoke Irish and English, except for the youngest daughter. Kathleen’s (4) language proficiency is unclear, as there is a dash in her language column. 

In the column for recording permanent mental infirmaries, all of the Fahy’s have dashes except for Bridget, whose column appears to be blank.

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Peter Fahy himself, and the census return for the household was collected on 6th of April, 1911.

 John Reilly Household – Form A

John Reilly was the head of House 6 in the townland of Gortachalla (spelling used in the 1911 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a third-class house, built of stone with a thatched roof, and contained three rooms with two front windows, reflecting the modest but functional housing typical of rural Moycullen at the turn of the twentieth century. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property also had a stable, a cow house, a piggery and a barn.

 The home was occupied by a Roman Catholic family, all members of whom were born in Co. Galway.

John Reilly (42) was a Farmer. His wife, Bridget Geraghty (54) does not share her husband’s surname. She had no occupation listed. The couple had been married seven years and had two children. John Reilly (16) and Maggie Reilly (15) are both listed as scholars, meaning they went to school. It appears that Maggie Reilly was listed as married, but this was crossed out. Above the scribble, the word {sic} single is written. John was listed as single. All four members of the Reilly family could read and write and spoke both Irish and English. 

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was John Reilly himself, and the census return for the household was collected on 6th of April, 1911.

 Edward Walsh Household – Form A

Edward Walsh was the head of House 7 in the townland of Gortachalla (spelling used in the 1911 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a second-class house, built of stone with a thatched roof, and contained three rooms with three front windows, reflecting the modest but functional housing typical of rural Moycullen at the turn of the twentieth century. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property also had a stable, a cow house, a piggery and a fowl house.

The home was occupied by a single Roman Catholic family. All members were born in Co. Galway, and spoke both Irish and English.

Edward Walsh (50) was a Farmer, he was unable to read. His wife, Bridget (49) has no occupation listed. Unlike her husband, she was able to read. The couple had been married twenty-two years. They had six children, five of whom were still living as of the 1911 census collection. 

Walsh’s five remaining children all resided in the family home. Michael (20) and Martin (18) had their occupations listed as a Farmers son {sic}. John (15), Matt (8), and James (7) are all listed as scholars, meaning they went to school. They all were able to read and write, and were all labeled as single.

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Edward Walsh himself, and the census return for the household was collected on 6th of April, 1911.

 Laurence Connelly Household – Form A

Laurence Connelly was the head of House 8 in the townland of Gortachalla (spelling used in the 1911 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a second-class house, built of stone with a thatched roof, and contained three rooms with three front windows, reflecting the modest but functional housing typical of rural Moycullen at the turn of the twentieth century. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property also had a stable, a coach house, cow and calf houses, a piggery, a fowl house, and a barn.

The home was occupied by a single Roman Catholic family. All members were born in Co. Galway. 

Laurence Connelly (50) was a Farmer. His wife, Mary Ann (37), has no occupation listed. The couple had been married eleven years and had five children. Laurence and Mary Ann could read and write, and spoke both Irish and English.

The three oldest Connelly children were Mary Ann (10), Michael (8), and Kathleen (6) are all listed as scholars, meaning they went to school. They could read and write and spoke both Irish and English. The two youngest, Bridget (3) and Anne (2) could not read and write. Their language proficiency is unclear. For both girls, the language column was filled in but crossed out, and is now illegible. All of the children were single.

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Laurence Connelly himself, and the census return for the household was collected on 6th of April, 1911.

 Bridget Walsh Household – Form A

Bridget Walsh was the head of House 9 in the townland of Gortachalla (spelling used in the 1911 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a second-class house, built of stone with a thatched roof, and contained three rooms with three front windows, reflecting the modest but functional housing typical of rural Moycullen at the turn of the twentieth century. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property also had cow and calf houses, a piggery, and a fowl house

The home was occupied by a multi-generation Roman Catholic family. All members were born in Co. Galway, and spoke both Irish and English. 

Bridget Walsh (74) was a Farmer and a widow. Widows were not required to report the number of years married, number of children born alive or how many were still living. However, this information was recorded in Bridget’s case. The document is faded or was erased, but is still legible. She was married for forty years and had six children, all of whom were alive as of 1911.

Pat Conneely (50) was the son in law of Bridget Walsh and was also a Farmer. His wife, Mary Conneely (48) was Bridget’s daughter. Mary has no occupation listed. The couple had been married four years. It is unclear if Mary was ever pregnant, or how many times, but the response recorded in the column for number of children born alive, the word “none” is written.

The three members of House 9 were unable to read or write. Therefore, Bridget’s signature was written by constable Michael Lyster. 

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Bridget Walsh herself, and the census return for the household was collected on 6th of April, 1911.

 Catherine Connell Household – Form A

Catherine Connell was the head of House 10 in the townland of Gortachalla (spelling used in the 1911 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a second-class house, built of stone with a thatched roof, and contained three rooms with three front windows, reflecting the modest but functional housing typical of rural Moycullen at the turn of the twentieth century. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property also had cow and calf houses, a piggery, a fowl house, and a barn. 

The home was occupied by a multi-generation Roman Catholic family. All of the members were born in Co. Galway. 

Catherine Connell (70) was a Farmer and a widow. She could read and write and spoke both Irish and English. 

Catherine’s daughter, Maggie (35), has no occupation listed. She was unmarried, and spoke both Irish and English. 

Catherine’s son, Patrick Connell (37) was a Farmers Son {sic}. His wife, Sarah (37), has no occupation listed. The couple had been married for six years and had five children. The couple could read and write, and both Irish and English. 

Patrick and Sarah’s children were all five or younger. Thomas (5), Kathleen (4), Sarah (3), Michael (1), and Martin, who was less than one year old. Thomas is listed as a scholar, meaning he went to school. All of the children are listed and single. None of the children could read or write, and their language proficiency in Irish or English is unclear. 

The last member of House 10 listed is Peggy Connell (73). She is only referred to as a relative of Catherine and has no occupation listed. Peggy was unmarried, and could not read. She spoke both Irish and English.

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Catherine Connell herself, and the census return for the household was collected on 6th of April, 1911.

Richard Connor Household – Form A

Richard Connor was the head of House 11 in the townland of Gortachalla (spelling used in the 1911 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a third-class house, built of stone with a thatched roof, and contained three rooms with two front windows, reflecting the modest but functional housing typical of rural Moycullen at the turn of the twentieth century. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property also had a cow house, a piggery, a fowl house, and a barn. 

The home was occupied by an extended Roman Catholic family. All of the members were born in Co. Galway. 

Richard Connor (48) was a Farmer. He could read and write. His wife, Margaret (52), has no occupation listed, and was unable to read or write. The couple had been married eighteen years as of 1911. It is unclear if Margaret was ever pregnant, or how many times, but the response recorded in the column for number of children born alive, the word “none” is written. Richard and Margaret spoke both Irish and English.

Living with them at the time of the census was Richard’s cousin, Kate Hurney (15). She can read and write, and was unmarried. She is listed as a scholar, meaning she went to school. 

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Richard Connor himself, and the census return for the household was collected on 6th of April, 1911.

 Matthew Connolly Household – Form A

Matthew Connolly was the head of House 12 in the townland of Gortachalla (spelling used in the 1911 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a third-class house, built of stone with a thatched roof, and contained three rooms with one front window, reflecting the modest but functional housing typical of rural Moycullen at the turn of the twentieth century. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property also had a piggery and a fowl house. 

The home was occupied by a single Roman Catholic family. All of the members were born in Co. Galway. 

Matthew Connolly (24) was a Farmer. He signed his first name as “Matt” on the Census declaration. His wife, Margaret (36), has no occupation listed. The couple had been married for four years as of 1911. Margret had given birth to two children, only one of whom was still alive at the time of census collection. The couple could both read and write, and spoke Irish and English.

Their living son was Patrick Connolly (2). He could not read or write and his language proficiency is unclear. Patrick is listed as single. 

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Matthew Connolly himself, and the census return for the household was collected on 6th of April, 1911.

 Laurence Hurney Household – Form A

Laurence Hurney was the head of House 13 in the townland of Gortachalla (spelling used in the 1911 Census)  in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway. According to the House and Building Return (Form B1), the dwelling was a second-class house, built of stone with a slate or or iron roof, and contained six rooms with five front windows, this was a comfortable home at the time for a family of the Flaherty’s size in rural Moycullen. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) show the property also had a stable, a coach house, a cow and calf house, a piggery, a fowl house, and a barn. 

The home was occupied by a single family and two other individuals whose relations to Laurence Hurney are unclear. All of the individuals in House 13 were Roman Catholic and born in Co. Galway. 

Laurence Hurney (36) was a Farmer and Publican. His wife, Isabella (21), has no occupation listed. The couple had been married two years as of 1911 and had one child. Both Laurence and Isabella could read and write and spoke both Irish and English.

Their son, Patrick, was just two months old at the time of census collection. Interestingly, the infant is marked as being able to read and write.

Bridget McDonagh (68) is listed as a widower as her relation to Laurence Hurney. She has no occupation listed. She could read and write and spoke both English and Irish. Widows were not required to report the number of years married, number of children born alive, or how many were still living. However, in Bridget’s case, this information was recorded in and then erased. It is still somewhat legible. She was married for twenty-something years and had possibly six children, five of whom were alive as of 1911.

 Martin Walsh (12) is listed as “visitor” as his relation to Laurence Hurney. He could read and write and spoke both English and Irish. Martin is listed as a “scholar”, meaning he attended school. 

The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was Laurence Hurney himself, and the census return for the household was collected on 6th of April, 1911.

The 1901 census and further records give a clearer picture of the lives of the Hurneys, and their relation to other Moycullen families. Isabella was Laurence’s second wife. His first wife, Maggie/Margaret Bohan were married on 26th of January, 1891. Laurence was 28 and Maggie 23. Both of their fathers’ professions were listed as nil {sic}. They married at the Roman Catholic chapel in Moycullen. Their marriage record states that Laurence was born in the townland of Clooniff {sic}, Moycullen. His father was Thomas Hurney. A Mary Mullin was a witness as was another Hurney, their first name is illegible. 

Maggie Bohan was born 6th April, 1867 in the townland of Curragh {sic}, Moycullen. Her father was Thomas Bohan. Her mother’s maiden name was Mullin. The Curragh connection is what links the Bohans of Curra with the Connors and Hurneys of Gortachalla (the writeup for Curra townland can be found here.)

There is no death record for Margaret/Maggie Hurney in/around Moycullen or the greater Galway city area from 1891-1909.

Laurence Hurney does not appear in Gortachalla, Clooniff, or the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne in the 1901 Census. The only Hurney in the 1901 Census in Gortachalla is a Mary Hurney (9), who lived with Richard Connor (see the write-up for the Richard Connor household above). Mary is listed as Richard’s cousin. On the 1911 Census, Kate Hurney (15) also lived with her cousin Richard. 

Laurence Hurney Married his second wife, Isabella Mcdonough on January 25th, 1909 (marriage record here). Laurence was 32 and is listed as a bachelor. Isabella was 18. Laurence’s residence at the time of marriage was listed as Clooniffe {sic}. Interestingly, his father was listed as Joseph Hurney, not Thomas Hurney as it is on his first marriage record. Isabella’s place of residence at time of marriage was Gortacalla {sic} Her father, Patrick McDonough, was a Publican. It is possible that Laurence took over/joined in his father-in-laws’ business, as his profession is as a Publican in 1911. The witnesses to the marriage were Michael Hurney and Bridget Donagh {sic}. 

Interestingly, Laurence and Isabella were married on the same date and in the same chapel as Laurence and Maggie, eighteen years apart.

Unoccupied Home – 

House 14 was a private dwelling in the townland of Gortachalla (spelling used in the 1911 Census) in the District Electoral Division of Tullokyne, County Galway that was unoccupied on the 1911 Census. The House and Building Return (Form B1) gives no description or classification of the dwelling. The householder recorded on the House and Building Return was a John Walsh. The Out-Offices and Farm Steadings Return (Form B2) gives no indication of any other facilities connected to the property.

link to holy wells….