I grew up just outside Ballymoney and from an early age was always interested in family history. I kept notes of some of my conversations with my great aunts. My ancestors are buried in the Old Churchyard in Ballymoney and I have spent many hours reading the graves. When I got as far as I could with my own family tree I started helping others with theirs as I had accumulated a considerable amount of information on the families around Ballymoney. A few years ago, I thought it would be a good idea to publish my research and try to help other people looking for their Ballymoney ancestors.
Researching family history in Ballymoney
The Old Churchyard is cared for by Ballymoney Borough Council. Among their records is a map and headstone listing which has been of great benefit to my work. For consistency, I have adapted this map for the purposes of this book. Irish records tend to be poor due to the loss of so many in Dublin at the time of the troubles in the twenties. However, we are lucky in the Ballymoney area as some of the church records go back to the 1700s. In addition, we have the 1901 census, an 1803 agricultural census, 1825 Tithe Applotment records, 1859 Griffith valuation and street directories of 1824, 1846, 1856, 1864, 1905, and 1952. All these archive documents give valuable information for researchers.
Church Records
1st Ballymoney Presbyterian Church has part of an old Baptismal register from the mid 18th century. The records of this church were held in the house of Hugh Orr and the majority of them were destroyed in a fire. Rev. Robert Park kept very accurate records of baptisms and marriages of this church during the time of his ministry. He also carried out a census of his Congregation at the start of his ministry in 1817. It lists all the families with their children in order of birth, and where they lived.
The records of St. Patrick’s Parish Church are relatively complete and go back to the early 19th century. They include a book which list both the Presbyterian and Established Church (or
Church of Ireland) burials from 1807 – 1825 in the Old Churchyard. From 1825 to present day, the Presbyterian burials are no longer noted. Baptisms and marriages are recorded also from 1807.
There is also a census of the congregation taken in 1871.
St. James Presbyterian Church has baptismal and marriage records from 1835 with a census of the congregation in 1837. Unfortunately early records from Trinity Presbyterian Church are missing with only marriages from 1845 and baptisms from 1869. A fortunate discovery was records from the Unitarian Church in Ballymoney. This church no longer exists. As well as baptisms and marriages, there are several censuses of this small congregation and notes of members deaths and emigration.
George Millars’s list
George Millar, who was born in Ballymoney in 1797, and lived there until 1837 when he moved to Belfast, compiled a list from memory in 1871 of the inhabitants of Ballymoney between 1804 and 1811. This is referred to Millar’s list throughout the book.
The Graves
It is interesting that not all the graves in the Old Churchyard belong to people who lived in Ballymoney. There are Hunter and Moore families from Dunluce, with more of these Moore families also found in Kilraughts Old Graveyard. McKighan is another Kilraughts family. There is a Craig from Islandbuoy which is closer to Ballycastle, with no known links in the town.
There are over four hundred graves in the churchyard, many of them completely illegible and some partly readable. I have used different approaches and techniques to try and transcribe them. Many of the gravestones have been vandalised in the last few years. A 1960s survey of the Old Churchyard is included in the McClay collection, which is held in the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI).
The survey has been very useful although parts of it are missing. I have used church records to try and piece together a small history of each family as reading a list of inscriptions doesn’t really tell much about the families, their lives and occupations.
Some of the graves have only a name and no other details. This seems to be a trend of the trades families in the town. Not all graves were of wealthy people. It seems that some of these have been erected by their children who have emigrated and achieved success in their new lives overseas.
There was an attempt to close the graveyard for any further burials in 1938, but this created some dispute and the last known burial was in 1975.
Sources used for local research
1660: Hearth Money Rolls
1740: Protestant Householders’ Returns
1766: Religious Census
1803: Agricultural Census
1804-1810: Millers list
1825: Tithe Applotments
1859: Griffith Valuation
1882- 1932: Old Graveyard Internment Register
1901: Census
Street Directories
Ballymoney Graveyards and North Antrim Research 
Can’t wait!
Looking forward to meeting Dorothy on Saturday.
By: Ruth Westerhuis on October 28, 2008
at 11:08 pm
Dorothy, I think you should put up a sample page from the book to give readers of your website a flavour of the contents.
By: Nevin on November 5, 2008
at 1:39 pm
Congratulations Dorothy and a picture of you to boot. I should reciprocate to see if there is any family resemblance through the generations. Did I tell you I found living McKinney relatives in the States? How do we get a copy of the book?
By: Raymond Tompkins on November 7, 2008
at 8:15 pm
Very meticulous and informative,Dorothy.No more than I would have expected from you! Good luck with the book.
By: Ray Head on November 23, 2008
at 2:44 pm
I couldn’t resist saying congrats.
Best of luck from Sue in Canberra
By: Sue Edwardson on January 12, 2009
at 10:07 am
Today I recieved my book from Dorothy the Ballymoney Old Church Graveyard and what a fantastic book it is, well worth every penny.
So much research has gone into this book I am amazed at the price.
Well done Dorothy
June
By: June Lidgard on January 16, 2009
at 9:09 pm
Dorothy,
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I found two of my ancestors in your book (Murphy and Dunlop), and clues to possible other relations. Do accept my congratulations and many thanks for your obvious hard work. If you have designs on doing one for Finvoy, I’ll be first in line 🙂
Simon
By: Simon Sheppard on April 16, 2009
at 5:28 pm
I notice that you have only one Swan listing. Is there further information available on the family if I purchase the book? Thanks also for your taking up this kind of work. It is so valuable!
By: Anita Swann on January 7, 2010
at 6:43 am
I have ordered a copy of your book; you mention marriage records starting in 1807 for Ballymore; are they included in your book?
I am looking for marriage of William Gamble and Ellen Brown ca 1829
By: William Robey on March 2, 2010
at 7:44 pm
Hi William,
I couldn’t find a marriage of William Gamble and Ellen Brown. Can you give me any more information about the families. I am happy to try and help with some queries.
There were a lot of Gamble and Brown families around Ballymoney which I have information about.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on March 2, 2010
at 8:27 pm
Great stuff ballymonyegraveyard.com is my favorite site.
http://clipsgoaltender.blogspot.com/2010/03/presumption-anglicised-adverts-clips.html
By: Elton on March 13, 2010
at 2:57 pm
Have just discovered your site. Too late for me to buy book as I will be in Ballymoney on either 7th, 8th or 9th April. Interested in Moore, Hanna, Glenn, Knox and Henry families. Note with much interest that Moore and Glen have grave 109. Can you contact this week please? Would love to purchase your book when in Ballymoney. Do you take visitors on tours of the area? Would possibly like to hire you for a day if possible? Leaving Australia on Sunday 4th April.
By: Sharon Brennan on March 28, 2010
at 11:07 am
I’ve literally, just stumbled across this website by googling ‘Mullans, Ballymoney’ as I’ve only recently, finally, discovered a bit more information about my late Dad’s Antrim heritage. My g.g.grandfather was Alexander Reid b.abt.1829 Belfast who married Margaret McCaughan b.abt.1831 Belfast. They married in 1849 @ Registrars Office, Ballymoney dist and both gave their address as Mullans.
From the marriage document I’ve also learned that my g.g.g.grandparents were Patrick Reid b.c.1804, a Cooper and Andrew McCaughan b.c. 1805 a Soap Boiler.
I’m very much interested in finding more about them and am glad I found this website. I notice, though, that the books covering the Graveyard is out of stock. Can anybody tell me, please when it will be back in stock and the cost. Kind regards, Maureen, born, Liverpool but living in Norfolk, England.
By: Maureen on June 26, 2010
at 4:42 pm
Hi, The books are definitely not out of stock.You can contact me directly on dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com Dorothy http://www.ballymoneygraveyard.com/
By: Dorothy Arthur on June 27, 2010
at 12:46 am
Hi Dorothy,
Sorry the weather has disrupted your recent travel plans. I’m getting in touch to ask about several 18th century ancestors based on just now seeing your note above of March 2, 2010, which mentions you have information about Browns and Gambles. 1) From the Descendants of Robert Nevin you sent me several years ago, anything to further identify/connect Jinnat Brown (1939-01/Sep/1811) (wife of John Nevin, 1840-31/Jan/1814) and her father Samuel Brown (no dates)? 2) From Lisnabragh leases of 1763 (McAuley-Nevin) and 1786 (Nevin-Nevin), anything to further identify Memorial witnesses Peter Gamble, gentleman (died prior to July 20, 1786), and William Gamble of Dervock, Innkeeper (alive on July 20, 1786)?
Best regards, Hugh
By: Hugh Nevin on December 4, 2010
at 3:20 pm
Hi Hugh,
I haven’t found anything new on the Nevin family. However, I have started research for my next book on Derrykeighan Old Churchyard where Nevins and Gambles are buried. I will have to wait to April to get into PRONI to source the local records. I will certainly keep you informed if I find anything.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy on December 4, 2010
at 9:44 pm
Hi Dorothy, well would you believe that i’m called Dorothy Budu-Arthur? yea i just goggled my name and i came across yours, and the impact you’ve made by the book you’ve written. i just read the introduction and what really fascinated me was how you kept record of family history through conversations when growing up. i guess it’s true that we need not undermine small beginnings. Did you ever have it in mind to come up with this book when growing up? Though i’ve not gotten the chance to read your book, you’ve made me understand that things we discover in our youthful ages can really take us far in the future, and also it’s good to keep record of events. THANKS A LOT!
By: DOROTHY BUDU-ARTHUR on December 16, 2010
at 2:37 pm
I’m trying to buy the new book, but due to the ‘grave’ limitations of google checkout I can’t do so with my Northern Bank Maestro card as it doesn’t support it. Which isn’t good. Is there any other way I can pay for this, was looking forward to the free search mentioned in the times if bought online 😦
By: Michael on January 5, 2011
at 4:21 pm
p.s. can post you a cheque if that’s ok?
By: Michael on January 5, 2011
at 4:40 pm
Searching for my g-g-g-g grandparents. My g-g-g grandfather was David Stirling who came to the United States from Ireland about 1790-1799. He married a “Martha” and they were Presbyterian. That is all we know. He was born about 1761 and Martha was born about 1774. I see most records start in the 1800’s in Ireland. Is there any mention of a “Stirling” family in the mid-1700’s that had a son named David or where do I begin to research.
By: Bonnie Sterling Groff on April 12, 2011
at 2:27 pm
Hi Bonnie,
There are quite a few Stirling or Sterling families in the Ballymoney area and quite a few Davids. I would have to do a bit of “digging ” to try and find out if there is any connection. Can you email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com with any data you may have no matter how insignificant.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on April 18, 2011
at 10:04 am
Did you have any luck with finding graves for members of the Henry family?
Very interested.
By: GIFFORD, Kay on May 10, 2011
at 3:30 am
Hi Kay, You will have to be more specific as there as many Henry families in the area. Email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com with your query and I will try and help.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on May 10, 2011
at 12:51 pm
I am also researching the Sterling line. My Ancestor is Hugh Sterling born March 1785 and his father born before that in Ballymoney. I will send you some info to the above email.
Any help you cn give will be greatly appreciated.
John Sterling
By: John Sterling on May 17, 2011
at 3:11 am
Hello Dorothy
I have a birthday coming up and wondered if either of your books would be useful to me. I am looking for information about my father’s family. My Dad James Taggart was born in 1916 and came to North Yorkshire, UK.
I have found my grandparents James George Taggart (farm labourer)(Roman catholic) who married Susannah Simpson (shon in 1901 census as church of Ireland)in 1903 and were in the 1911 census as living in The Vow with their 5 children.
Discrepencies between the census and marraige details show that James George was born either 1872 or 1877. Susannah was born 1878.
My paternal Gt Grandfathers name was George Taggart. My grandmothers father was John Simpson (farmer) her mother may be Elizabeth (domestic servant)
My father’s siblings that I am aware of are Elizabeth, Mary Ann, Susan Matilda, Kate and half brother Thomas Stevenson Taggart.
I have also heard that there is a Taggart’s yard in ballymoney and am interested in the origin and possible connection.
Are there any links between my family and the taggarts in your book/s?
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Linda
By: Linda Taggart on May 20, 2011
at 9:49 am
I can’t find a link with your Taggarts to the families in my books. I can’t find a marriage of George Taggart senior so he may have come from outside the Ballymoney area.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on May 20, 2011
at 1:10 pm
Can you tell me whether persons who lived in the townland of Drumreagh might be buried in the Ballymoney Parish churchyard? I found the two relevant surnames in the name index, but of course not first names. I’m especially looking for Stewart Lynn and Thomas Scott, both of whom are last known to be living in 1861 in Drumreagh, Ballymoney Parish. Thank you for any assistance you may be able to give.
By: Loretta Lynn Layman on July 14, 2011
at 8:58 pm
Hi Loretta,
can you give me some details as I have quite a few Thomas Scotts in my database. Could your Lynn also have been spelt Linn. If so I have details on a Linn family who attended st. Parick’s.
Email me directly dorothy@ballymoneygraveyrd.com
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on July 16, 2011
at 2:46 pm
Dorothy, I just saw this posting and wondered if you would send my email address on to her (Loretta Lynn). The Thomas Scott in Drumreagh that she mentioned is from my Scott family, and I have just located his greatgrandson. I would love to find out how she is related to this family and share info.
Hope you and Kathleen have a profitable and fun time researching Kilraught’s this week. I look forward to seeing your new book, you ladies are fantastic!
Mary Post
By: Mary Post on August 7, 2011
at 6:01 pm
Hello,
I am new to this site and my interest is Townsends and Atkinson of Burnquarter and Garryduff.
Would appreciate help on this research.
Eileen
By: Eileen Campbell on September 6, 2011
at 3:36 pm
HI Dorothy, I’m trying to find my ancestors and wonder whether you could tell me of the four BIGGART graves you have listed in your book. My Gggfather WILLIAM BIGGART hailed from Ireland ( somewhere ) and married in Glasgow in March 1841. He was about 20, so too was his wife, MARY-ANN BRADSHAW, who also was born in Ireland. Whether they emigrated together I know not but they remained in Scotland all their lives. However, It is possible that William’s parents were ROBERT & HELEN (ELLEN) BIGGART. If either of these names register with you I would be most interested. Thanks for your time. Malcolm
By: Malcolm Biggins on October 5, 2011
at 5:11 pm
Hi Malcolm,
I have a lot of William and Robert Biggarts in my database but none seem to match with yours.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on October 7, 2011
at 8:10 pm
Hello Dorothy,
One of my ancestors, William Simpson, who married Martha Orr, was born in Ballymoney in 1752. He and his family immigrated to North Carolina prior to the American Revolution. I wonder if there are Orr and/or Simpson graves in the Ballymoney Graveyard. Perhaps they’re in your book, which I plan to buy today!
Thank you,
Michelle Johnson
By: Michelle Johnson Vela on November 4, 2011
at 4:19 pm
There are several old Orr graves in the Churchyard. There are no Simpson graves but they are married into many of the families in the churchyard.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on November 5, 2011
at 8:50 pm
Hi Dorothy. I found your website while searching for my family members. I’m interested in any Biggart family information that you have. my website is: http://cherylsteffler.tribalpages.com if you have a couple of minutes please take a look. Thanks for your time. Cheryl (Biggart) Steffler
By: Cheryl on November 20, 2011
at 3:55 am
Hi dorothy, i have tried to purchase the ballymoney old graveyard book but am having no luck. Can payment be made using a visa electron card? I am interested in the keers family who married into the mccandless and McIlreavy family etc, and wonder if you have information on the Keers? Also A robert Lithgow Keers the son of william keers. Thankyou x
By: j grebby on January 3, 2012
at 8:35 am
Payment should be easy – if you are asked if it is a trusted site – say yes and proceed. Let me know if you are still having problems.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on January 3, 2012
at 5:47 pm
Hello and Good Evening,
I am descended from William Simpson and Martha Orr who evidently came from Balleymoney Ireland to Mecklenburg County, NC. I am interested in contacting living relatives in Ireland and possibly corresponding with them. I am also interested in purchasing on of Dorothy’s Books. Are they still available? If so, how to I contact her to purchase.
Best Regards,
Kat Jordan
By: Kathy Brooks Jordan on February 25, 2012
at 4:22 am
Dear Dorothy
I am looking for my great grandfather John Dunlop in the Ballymoney area. We think he may be buried in The Vow Presbyterian churchyard? He and his first wife Sarah came from Scotland in the 1870’s with their six children, but she died at age 34 and John married again, which caused a rift in the family and my grandfather James emigrated to USA and as far as we know never spoke to his father again. There is no trace of John or his sons and daughters on either the 1901 or 1911 censuses. Do you have anyone who fits the description in your books? Is there a separate Presbyterian Church in The Vow?
By: Valerie Burrows on March 16, 2012
at 7:00 pm
Hi Valerie,
Email me on dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com as I have a lot of info on Dunlop families in the Ballymoney area. Let me know what you do know and I will see if I can find more.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on May 1, 2012
at 7:38 am
Hi Dorothy, I am seeking information on the Biggart family from Beith. My GGrandfather Thomas Biggart emigrated to Melbourne Australia from Beith. I can trace back to my gggg grandfather David Biggart 1750 who married Margaret Speir. Perhaps you or someone might have information on them?
By: Michele Williams on May 13, 2012
at 12:34 pm
Dorothy: Just a note on the person interested in the Taggarts of Ballymoney.
This is one who immigrated to Nova Scotia in 1847:
TAGGART, Daniel; Ballymoney
Martha;
Mary;
on the following list…………….JOHN CLARKE 1847 Ireland to St.John
These Irish passenger lists and more can be found in D.2892/1/1-14 Passenger Books of J & J Cooke, Shipping Agents. Sailings from Londonderry to Philadelphia, Quebec, St. John New Brunswick and Louisiana 1847 to 1871 (see also MIC.13) in the PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE of NORTHERN IRELAND
I am interested in the McAlonan families of Ballymoney. Do u have many listed in your book??
By: Sandra Carr Dunphy on June 19, 2012
at 9:44 pm
Hi Dorothy: We had many McAlonan males immigrated in the mid 1800s. My direct ancestor is Daniel McAlonan (spelled McAloran) on the immigration List. McALORAN, Daniel; Ballymoney
Ellen;
James;
Alexander; 12
Robert; 8
Sarah; 7
John; 5
Archy; 2
He immigrated on the same list as above in 1847. There were others, probably brothers, but not on the same list: John, James, William, Alexander, Archibald. Wondering if you have any info on their families of Ballymoney.
They all resided in Parrsboro, Nova Scotia, Canada.
By: Sandra Carr Dunphy on June 23, 2012
at 8:34 pm
hi was given your name by Eringobragh1916 advising me to contact you wealth of knowledge of so many Norht Antrim families. I went to school with her spends most of her time in genealogy. She has hundreds and hundreds of North Antrim families all amazingly linked on her computer and was able to give me information on hundreds of my relatives!! I know for a fact as part of that she has taken photographs of ALL the headstones in Ramoan Pres church. I could guarantee she has information on your relatives! She does do individual reports so email her and tell her i sent you”
my family are conners and mackay or maccay from toberbilly in parish or ramoan
By: isobel fraser on September 1, 2012
at 8:02 pm
Hi, do you have anything on Hugh Stevenson, his wife Mary Stevenson Ballymoney, Ireland. My line goes from their daughter Martha Stevenson b abt 1828, she married William John Mcintyre on 20 nov 1849 Ballymoney.
By: Keira Berryman on October 28, 2012
at 2:32 am
I have been researching my family of Adams and Workman of Ballymoney, but I am stuck and cannot get any further, I wonder if you can help. My G Grandfather was John Adams b;1843, Profession:Labourer. His father John Adams was also a Labourer: I cannot get any information on him. My G Grandfather first married Ester Irwin in Ballymoney COI, she died and then he married Sarah Workman again at Ballymoney COI. I am decended from the marriage with Sarah Workman. Sarah was born in Ballymony 1866, her father was a William Workman, a Weaver: again I cannot find any information on William. I have lots of addresses of my G Granfather John Adams in Ballymoney town. any information would be greatly appreciated.
Thank You
By: Christine Sterritt on November 3, 2012
at 10:42 am
My G.G.grandfather Denis married Ann Kelly in R.C. church in Ballymoney,Co,. Antrim in 1939 before moving to Glasgow,Scotland in 1840. Unable to proceed any further.Denis,s father was James, Ann,s father was Patrick.
By: John McCafferty on November 9, 2012
at 9:09 pm
Sorry the year of their marriage was 1839 not 1939. John
By: John McCafferty on November 9, 2012
at 9:16 pm
Just rec’d your book Ballymoney Old Church Graveyard. It was very satisfying seeing the pictures of my Love Ancestors headstones. Where would I find burial records for Loves that resided in Craigatempim prior to 1770?
Thank you
Marion Love
5th ggdaughter of Robert Love, Taghey, Ballymoney.
By: Marion Love on December 11, 2012
at 11:37 pm
Did you know that ‘wow’ was first recorded in Scots as a ‘natural exclamation’ in the early 16th century, according to my OED? So it’s a not inappropriate reaction to your book, which has just arrived.
I had to post this message just to say how impressive it is — miles ahead of so much that passes for ‘genealogical’ resources these days. It’s the sheer person-hours I can see behind it that immediately impress. What a labour! And so worth the effort.
I’m not usually the sort of person who pores over lists of names and dates of the kind that pepper the ancestry forums — but ‘Ballymoney Old Church Graveyard’, by assembling such a detailed historical snapshot of a community, has definitely succeeded in transcending pure genealogy, becoming in its accumulation of personal detail a repository of a whole community’s existence. And excellent photographs as well!
df (New Zealand)
By: Dan Fleming on January 14, 2013
at 12:30 am
Looking for information on the McArthur (M’Arthur) and Lilley families, have one daughter as Jane. Your Ballymoney graveyard book is wonderful, looked at it when I was in Salt Lake City last year.
Ann
By: Ann Hunt on January 23, 2013
at 10:07 pm
Dorothy, I hope to find your book when I visit Ballymoney in May. Is it availaqble at the Ballymoney History Museum? I am first generation American, both parents came from the Ballymoney area Have visited many times. Anna Irot
By: anna c. irot on January 26, 2013
at 10:12 pm
Just discovered your great site…interested Archibald Graham wed Ann Henry Ballymoney 1844..havent got a ” plastic card” to pay you ( I am OLD !!!) but can send cheque if you advise cost of any cost advice available.
annie fraser Peterborough Vic Australia
By: annie fraser on February 4, 2013
at 2:35 am
To Kat Brooks Jordan: I am also descended from William Simpson and Martha Orr. My grandmother was Kate Mae Simpson from Matthews, NC. I assume they were Scots-Irish, given that they were Presbyterian. I also would love to get more information on our relatives in Ireland and hear their stories. If you have more information on their (our) history, I would love to hear more. If you’re interested in contacting me, my e-mail address is: michellervela@gmail.com.
By: Michelle Johnson Vela on April 19, 2013
at 10:25 pm
Hi Dorothy, does your book cover the Moore’s of Kilraughts and Dunluce? I would like to get a copy. John Moore
By: John Moore on September 5, 2013
at 5:24 pm
My name is David Hair. My gg grand father wasThomas Cochrane from mavemuculline his wife was Rachel Ellis. Therir daughter was born 1825 her name was beth, she had a sister Agnes born 1828. Then they left to arshyre scottland. Thomas fathers name was Samuel and his wife was Elizabeth they show up in Ballymoney with a son born in 1808… can you help with any of these names? I will be glad to pay for a book or any help. Thank you…
By: David Nephi Hair on October 6, 2013
at 9:13 pm
Samuel and Elizabeth’s son name was John Cochrane born in1808
By: David Nephi Hair on October 6, 2013
at 9:17 pm
Hello David, my grandfather was George Cochrane, his father Robert Cochrane. Lived in Portrush George was born about 1900 cir . There was connections with Scotland but that is all I know.
By: Brenda Clifford on October 6, 2013
at 9:26 pm
Hello Keira Berryman. My family has a connection with Macintye through marriage during 1930’s cir.
By: Brenda Clifford on October 6, 2013
at 9:33 pm
Hi David, There are two Cochrane graves in Ballymoney Old Churchyard, a couple more in St. Patrick’s Parish Churchyard and a lot in Derrykeighan Old Churchyard. I will get back to you in a couple of days and let you know if I find any more about your family. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on October 7, 2013
at 9:06 pm
Thank you so much.. for even replying. It means allot..
David Hair
Date: Mon, 7 Oct 2013 20:06:35 +0000 To: dshair2@hotmail.com
By: David Hair on October 8, 2013
at 4:09 am
Hello David. It could be a possible side that my gg grandfather could be the son of your John Cochrane born 1808. It just is a possibility. I do not have any papers but my mother thinks that Scotland has a part in the family.
By: Brenda Clifford on November 16, 2013
at 3:49 pm
Dorothy, I have just purchased your book on the Ballymoney Old Churchyard. I am so excited and can’t wait to receive it. I had written before and you had informed me that there were members of the Love Family buried in this old cemetery. What I would like to know is there also members of the Love Family buried in the St. Patrick’s churchyard and if it would be beneficial to also purchase that book?
Thanking you in advance,
Judy Love
By: Judy Love on March 30, 2014
at 8:07 pm
Hi Dorothy, John Moore here. Your new book is out I presume does it cover my family or is this in an up coming edition . Regards
By: John Moore on March 31, 2014
at 4:46 pm
Hi Dorothy, I am researching the McAuley family, of Ballymoney, Thomas McAuley was my great grandfather and a capenter ,small farmer in the area, he was married to Ellen madden, both were born around 1832. Are there any of this family in your book. I live in England.
Many Thanks anne clark
By: Anne Clark on April 4, 2014
at 3:12 pm
Hi Dorothy I am researching The Richmond family in Ballymoney my dad was born there I know my grandparents had a sheep farm John & Margaret (Thompson) Richmond I am trying to find out more about them I am sure they are buried in Ballymoney I have a Aunty in Ballymoney when I write to her for answers I think she forgets what questions I have asked her by the time she replies back so I am wondering if there is any books with information on RICHMOND family I live in Australia I would be grateful on any information Michelle Truscott thank you
By: Michelle Truscott on April 12, 2014
at 11:27 am
Yes – I can help me you. Email me at dorothyaa@ballymoneygraveyard.com with your query. I have quite a bit on Richmond and Thompson families in the area. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on April 15, 2014
at 10:14 am
Hi Anne, I have been having a few problems with my computer but this is just to let you know that I can help. I can also put you into touch with another McAuley researcher. email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on April 15, 2014
at 10:18 am
Hi John,
I am busy working on my book on Old Kilraughts and there are lots and lots of Moores in it. The book is due out at the end of September to coincide with the Route back Home genealogy conference. I will be in touch soon.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on April 15, 2014
at 10:20 am
Hi Dorothy I have attempted to contact you a few times with the email I finally found a bit more information when & where my G parents John & Margaret (Thompson ) Richmond were married
By: Michelle Truscott on October 17, 2014
at 12:47 am
They were married in Ballyweaney in 1920. I will email with further info. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on October 20, 2014
at 9:29 pm
Hi Dorothy, I am researching the Hamilton/Given/Givin/Simpson families
in the Ballymoney area.
James Hamilton married Matilda Given/Givin on 22 April 1905 at the 1st
Presbyterian Church in Ballymoney. and James Hamilton (his father) married Sarah Jane Simpson on 24 September 1868 both aged 23.
Bride’s Father was William Simpson, Brides Mother could be an
Isabella/Julia or Margaret. Do not know which church is involved or
even any addresses of where these families came from.
All appear to be Presbyterians if it helps.
Thank you in advance.
By: James Harris on November 10, 2014
at 1:43 pm
Hi James, I haven’t been able to find out much more where these families came from. I checked some of the local churches and all I found was a baptism of a son to James and Matilda in 1st Ballymoney. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on November 12, 2014
at 10:40 pm
Thanks Dorothy, I think the baptism was for their first son James.
By: James Harris on November 15, 2014
at 5:44 pm
Hello Dorothy. I am researching my Meeke family line and I am just trying to figure out which of your books to start with? My gggrandfather William Meeke was born in Coleraine in 1863 but died in Ballymoney (Church Lane) on May 8, 1929. I believe his wife Susan would be buried with him. She was born abt. 1859 and died 1931. Is the Meeke name familiar to you at all? Any info would be greatly appreciated. Also, when I click to purchase your books, it takes me to Amazon. Is this correct? Thanks so much.
Debbie Blake
By: Debbie Blake on January 17, 2015
at 1:30 am
I found my great-grandparents in your book on the Ballymoney old churchyard. It is Grave no. 379. I noticed that you had the birth years of all of the children of James and Mary Clements except their daughter Mary Clements who married James McCaughern. I have found a marriage record for Mary Clements of Ballymoney to James McCahon but she would have been born in 1859 – the same year as Annie. Do you know if they were twins? Your help is very much appreciated and thank you for compiling these records.
Shirley Fehr
By: Shirley Fehr on May 4, 2015
at 4:27 am
Mary wasn’t baptised in Ballymoney so unless her baptism is recorded in a church – her age has to be guessed. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on May 7, 2015
at 8:34 am
Simon and others
I am looking for someone to help me research George Dunlop b c 1700 owned the ship Wiiliam and George sailed out of Larne. Allied families MAXWELL CUNNINGHAM MONTGOMERY
Don Maxwell
dmaxwelljr@hotmail.com
By: dmaxwelljr on June 4, 2015
at 12:51 pm
I am looking for my grandfathers birth( late 1800’s) His name is William Brown his father was a Brown who was a station master in Ballymoney in the late 1800’s or early 1900????? who was shot to death at work. I am purchasing your book to hopefully find out more. His widow left after his death to Canada. Any help would be appreciated ThanksVal
By: Val Villeneuve on June 18, 2015
at 3:16 am
Do you know anything else on your Brown family as what you have given isn’t enough to do a search for you. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on June 21, 2015
at 10:07 am
Sorry I do not have much more. His mom was Margaret Murray and his 4 siblings Jim, Margaret , Susan, Don. After his fathers death his mother and siblings all came to Canada around 1908 to Marwayne, Alberta, Thanks for any assistance
By: Val Villeneuve on June 22, 2015
at 6:24 pm
I think I may have found some information for you. Please email me dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on June 26, 2015
at 1:46 pm
Hi Dorothy, Thank you for helping others connect with their ancestors. It is a great gift.
My third great grandfather, William Cunningham was born in Tyrone about 1772 and died in Ballymoney in 1866. His wife was Frances Noble born 1772 in Tyrone and died in 1863. We are coming to Ballymoney from Northern Idaho, USA, in Sept. I am hoping to find more information about him and hopefully his grave. I also have two other third great grandfathers from Northern Ireland. John Peacock born 1805 in Meath, & died in Ontario, Can. in 1805. His wife was Mary Peacock, born 1776 in Meath. The other third great grandparents were Mathew Orr McKee 1812-1888 and Ann Wilson 1825-1891.
I am hoping to buy your book when we arrive. Thank you for any help or sources that you may know of. I have been searching for a very long time to make these connections.
Respectfully, Wilma
By: Wilma J. Wallace on September 13, 2015
at 1:56 am
Greetings,
My ancestor, John Wallace 1695-1777 might have been born in Ballymoney. Do you have any Wallace’s buried there.
Thankvyou,
Michael Wallace
By: MichaelWallace on October 8, 2015
at 1:51 am
There were a lot of Wallace families in the Ballymoney area, especially Kilraughts. What do you know about your ancestor. Records are very poor for the 17th and eighteenth centuries in N. Antrim. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on October 8, 2015
at 8:04 am
Good Morning Dorothy,
I am amazed at the number of queries that you take the time to answer. You must be very busy. Now I will add to the queries..Robert Mc Collum married Letitia Money[Mooney] in 1850 in Ballymoney, RC Church. Robert died 17.1.1894 and Letty died 9.9.1889 in Ballymoney but they had converted to the Church of England by this time, so it is possible they were buried there. Also, where would I find their birth details, please. They lived in Castle St, Ballymoney.
Thank you so much in anticipation,
Anne
By: Anne on October 12, 2015
at 1:10 am
Hi Anne, I have checked the records for St. Patrick’s C of I Church in Ballymoney and there are no burials there for them. Unfortunately if you want me to do further research I have to charge a small fee. You can email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on October 13, 2015
at 8:17 am
Hi Dorothy I did try to reply back to you a couple of times last year but never heard back plus I had been in hospital 2 times from October last year I am still interested in finding out about my RICHMOND families in Ballymoney how much for information do you charge & how do I pay from Australia
Thank you
Michelle
By: Michelle Truscott on November 8, 2015
at 5:26 am
I will email you separately with details on payment. I hadn’t heard from you for ages. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on November 8, 2015
at 10:19 pm
Hi Dorothy, I am researching a branch of the McCurdy’s and family stories infer that came from the Ballymoney area. So far I have found reference to a John McCurdy born in Ederoan, near Moss Side and family connections in Drumcrottagh, Croagh, Gracehill and Carnkirn. They were Presbyterians. Does any of your research cover this area or do you think I should really be looking more towards Ballcastle? If your books cover any of the McCurdy’s I would be happy to buy them. Thanks. John McCurdy
By: John McCurdy on December 29, 2015
at 7:17 pm
Hi Dorothy,
I am Michael Wallace who contacted you in October. Thank you for your reply. My ancestor John Wallace was born in Coleraine, County Antrim, Ireland. And left in1719/20 after Rev. James McGregor, the head of the congregation at Aghadowey, Ireland and that a portion of the congregation left for New Hampshire in 1718 and 1719. John’s brother Thomas Wallace given a letter of character by Robert Higginbotham.
The bearer hereof, Thomas Wallace, has lived in this congregation, from his infancy to the date hereof, and has always behaved soberly and honetly, and is now free from all public scandal known to this session, is certified by
Robert Higginbotham
Coleraine, May 9, 1726.
I realize information at this time is scarce but I hope this will he[p someone.
Mike
By: mawallace48 on December 29, 2015
at 8:53 pm
To John McCurdy
I have extensive data on many McCurdy families in N. Antrim. Email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com so I can try and help you.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on January 1, 2016
at 9:13 am
Hitting s huge brick wall trying to find out more of my Taggart ancestors who lived in Donegore. Co Antrim. Have a lot more information I could send if you have time to write me so that I can invite you to see my data.
Am a senior now and just can’t get anyone to hell me and time us running out. Valerie. Canada.
Hope to hear from you
By: Valerie poole (nee Taggart) on February 2, 2016
at 7:23 am
Unfortunately most of my research is in North Antrim and doesn’t extend to Donegore. I have extensive research done on various Taggart families around Ballymoney, Ballycastle and Bushmills area. You can contact me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com
Where did you Taggarts come from? Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on February 19, 2016
at 12:30 pm
Dorothy, I have order all of your books and have enjoyed them very much. I am researching the Love Family. There are three graves of Love’s buried in the Kilraughts Old Church Graveyard. I am interested in finding out more about this family. Adam & his brother Gabriel Love immigrated to the New England Colonies in or around 1730. Adam’s birthdate is around 1702 in Ballymoney, Antrim, Ireland. He is our ancestor. His father, John was born in 1645 in Ballymoney County, Antrim, Ireland. He died Dec. 4, 1729. John’s father, Adam’s Grandfather, Robert died August 3, 1722. I believe that Adam married Mary ? about 1727 and she probably delivered their first child, Elizabeth, in Ballymoney, Antrim, Ireland. What would you charge to do some further research? I would like to know Robert’s birthday. Also, a last name for Mary, Adam’s wife. It is possible that she may have been from the Stewart or Moore family, but this is just speculation on my part. I would be interested if Adam & Gabriel had siblings. Really, just any information that you could find would be well appreciated. I believe that Robert Love or his father may have been a protestant minister. Thanking you in advance for any help you may be able to give me.
Judy Love
By: Judy Love on March 11, 2016
at 10:31 pm
I would love to know more about the family my Great Great Grandfather, Constantine Dougherty left behind. He settled in Horsham, Victoria Australia and became one of its most important pioneers.
Loretta Edmonston (nee Dougherty)
By: Loretta Edmonston on April 10, 2016
at 3:43 pm
Before I can try and assist you, I need to know dates, places etc. Was your ancestor from the N. Antrim area. I have not come across the name. My charges for research are on my web site. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on April 11, 2016
at 12:26 pm
Dorothy, just a thank you for all you do to help people find their ancestors.I emailed you several years ago, and all I can say is “Bless you”, and I hope you are having a good day health wise.
By: Trish McClelland on April 19, 2016
at 12:36 am
Dorothy I am wondering if you can help me I am tracing my husbands family.I believe his maternal great grandparents are Jane Usher born 1851 in Antrim and James Morrison born 1847 in Donegal .They married in 1872 in Ballymoney I dont know which church or their parents names .Any info would be very helpfulThank you for your time Anne Eales
By: AnneEales on July 1, 2016
at 11:30 pm
Email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com
I have information on James and Jane’s parents. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on July 4, 2016
at 12:04 pm
Hi Dorothy, I am trying to track down the parents of our ancestor, John Knox, of Greenville, Ballymoney, He had a plantation in Jamaica also. He was born around 1799. We believe he had children with a “free woman of colour” in Jamaica and then married Eliza Park, daughter of John Park (they were married by Rev Robert Park on Nov 3 1838. I am guessing that he wound up his affairs in Jamaica then while his wife maybe lived in Belfast – then they sailed on the Tancred to Adelaide, South Australia, arriving in January 1853, together with his 2 coloured sons and his daughter Eliza’s husband, James Stuart Loughhead & their two children. Any information would be appreciated thanks.
By: Margaret Brown on July 19, 2016
at 12:32 pm
PS Reverend Robert Loughhead of Presbyterian Church Ballymoney was James Stuart Loughhead’s father.Thanks
By: Margaret Brown on July 19, 2016
at 12:36 pm
Email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com as I might be able to help.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on July 19, 2016
at 1:09 pm
Hi, My name is Debbie O’Bryan Burow. My Grandparents, George O’Bryan /O’Brien & Mary Ann Mitchell are from Dervock and Ballymoney. My G Great Grand Parents also come from their. I’m trying to find out More on my Family’s . How would I be able to buy this book. Sarah Ann Daly & Thomas O’Brien have many Family members and I would like to connect to All I can.And Learn where my Grandparents came from. Than-You Cheer’s Debbie
By: Debbie O'Bryan Burow on August 6, 2016
at 3:06 pm
Sorry – your family gravestones are notin my books but I do know a bit about your family. Email at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on August 8, 2016
at 11:11 am
Hi Dorothy,
My name is Mark Smith from Canberra, Australia. My wife’s g-g-grandfather, Joseph Connor b.1841, was one of seven children born in Ballymoney to Charles Connor and Ellen Wilson. I think that Charles Connor was born about 1798 and died in Ballymoney in 1878. Does you book make any reference to the Connor family?
Kind regards,
Mark
By: Mark Smith on August 26, 2016
at 7:16 am
I have checked my records and have found baptisms in St. Patrick’s C of I Church. There are 2 Connor graves in the churchyard but they are more modern. Email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on August 29, 2016
at 9:23 am
Hi Dorothy I live in New Zealand and am descended from the Coopers of Lower Kilmoyle. My 3 X great grandparents were William Cooper and Jane Preston. And with the wonders of Ancestry DNA I have just been matched with the US based 3X great grandson of William’s brother Thomas who was married to Mary Greer. Does your book have any references to my Coopers and their descendants through the years? There were an awful lot of them!
Regards from way down under – Phillippa Kidd
By: Phillippa Kidd on November 13, 2016
at 12:39 am
Hi Phillipa, I have done a lot of research into the Coopers of Kilmoyle. Can you email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard with dates of what you know. Who were William’s parents and siblings? Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on November 13, 2016
at 5:17 pm
Dear Dorothy
I was fascinated to find this website. My late mother was originally from Ballymoney and my aunts and grandparents are all buried in the churchyards. How can I get hold of a copy of your book?
Regards
Anne
By: Anne Wilson on November 13, 2016
at 9:12 pm
Wow My heritage is from their also, could we find more information. And how can I do that.
By: David Hair on November 13, 2016
at 9:36 pm
Hi Anne, What are the names you are looking for. If you email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard I can see if any of my books are relevant and send you a price list. You can buy directly from me using paypal.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on November 14, 2016
at 8:03 am
Hi David, What is the family name that you are looking for. If my books aren’t relevant, I do research for a very modest price. I have a huge database of N. Antrim families.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on November 14, 2016
at 8:05 am
Hi Dorothy,
I wish to purchase your Ballymoney Old Graveyards book. However, can it be shipped to the U.S.?
Cindy
By: Cindy on December 11, 2016
at 6:14 pm
Yes it can be posted to the US. It can be purchased either directly through me using PAYPAL or Amazon which is more expensive due to their commission.
Email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com
Dorothy
By: akismet-3e06ff9e4b825f8971eeefac806f5061 on December 11, 2016
at 6:20 pm
Hi Dorothy
I’m looking to find out more about family line in Antrim.
My Great Grandfather John Kinlay was born in Ballymoney in 1878, he moved to Scotland at some point and was married in Haddington 1898.
Hoping that you can help.
Regards
John Kinlay
By: John Kinlay on January 27, 2017
at 3:27 pm
Can you email at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com with any other information that you may have so that I can check if I can help. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on January 30, 2017
at 3:39 pm
Hi Dorothy
Thanks for getting back to me. I believe my Great Grandfather John Kinlay born 1876 came from Ballymoney…need it confirmed. Research( don’t know who did it) previously done 10 years back indicated that he probably came over to Scotland(Edinburgh) before he was twenty years old…more than likely from Ireland and probably from Ballymoney. His occupation was a Skinner -Journeyman
MyGreat Grandfathers(John) parents followed him to Scotland(Francis born about 1842 and Mary Kinlay nee Marrs born about 1839, …..both died in Haddington…Francis March 10th 1905 and Mary March 3rd 1908 both assumed to be from the Ballymoney area) seemingly on their death certificates it states that Francis parents were John Kinlay and Mary Smith, while Mary’s parents were Jeremiah Marrs and Catherine Cassidy presumably all from Ireland.
My great grandfather John was married in Haddington on 14th May 1898 to Margaret M’Kay who was born in Haddington, her parents came from Ireland(parents William and Margaret M’Kay (nee Degnan) both born in Ireland about 1853/4).
Great grand parents John and Margaret moved to Glasgow at some point. John died age 56 on 21st Sept 1932 in Duke St Hospital(where I was born) and Margaret died 23rd Sept 1946.
My Grandfather,also John was born in Haddington dec 4th in 1907 and died in Glasgow 1960/61.
I would like to trace the family back to Ireland, coincidentally I’m coming over to The Hedges Hotel just outside Ballymoney on the 23rd of this month for a few days, so I plan to visit the graveyard and purchase your book.
Regards
John Kinlay
Sent from my iPad
>
By: John Kinlay on February 8, 2017
at 1:00 pm
Hi i stumbled onto your web page searching for a link to my ancesters William tweed and his son james and sister isabella.I had saw mention of them in ballymoney c 1780 in Griffith’s Valuation for Ireland. And was trying to find anything else that I can by searching the area. If you have any information i would love to hear it because they are as far back as i can go . William Tweed (c1744-1844) arrived in America from Ireland around 1795. He came to America with his daughter Isabella, and son James; the family eventually settling in Western North Carolina
Thank you and i hope you have a lovely day
By: John Cottle on May 23, 2017
at 12:04 pm
What more information do have on him and his family? I have a couple of William Tweeds in my database which may be relevant. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on May 24, 2017
at 12:51 pm
Hi, My Great and Great Great Grandparents are in Ballymoney Grave Sites I believe. Alexander Mitchell , Aug 1868-May 1893, who married Agnes Chistie , 1867-1935. Also Thomas O’Brien / O’Bryan, 1852-1928, who married Sarah Ann Daly, 1855-1966. Most of the Mitchells and O’Brien and Christie and Daly FAMILY OR THEIR IN BALLYMONY, Dervock Resting Sites. Thank-You from Canada, Debbie O’Bryan Burow.
By: Debbie O'Bryan Burow on May 24, 2017
at 9:03 pm
Please get in touch with me if you want further information. I have information on the parents of Alexander Mitchell and Agnes Christie – also the O’Brien children. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on May 29, 2017
at 3:47 pm
Hello, I just found out my great x 5 grandfather is from Balleymoney Ireland. His name was Robert Love. I was wondering if you ever happen to come across any Love family information.
Apparently, Robert Love and his wife had moved over here to the USA. I recently got my results back from AncestryDNA showing my results of 35% Western Europe, 25% Ireland, 25% Eastern European, 9% UK…
By: Tracey Boykin Trosterud on July 24, 2017
at 3:09 am
Tracey, Robert Love is my husbands 7th g grandfather, I would love to share information.
Judy love
jdlove1969@yahoo.com
By: Judy love on July 24, 2017
at 4:15 am
hi there, I’m a descedent of the Hargys of Ballymoney (the signwriters/painters) we don’t know a great deal about them – are they mentioned in your book? and can it be bought as an ebook?
By: maddyh15 on July 24, 2017
at 3:26 pm
Tracey -I researched the Love families in great detail in the Ballymoney area as there are Love graves in 2 of my books – Old Ballymoney and Old Kilraughts Graveyards.
If people buy my books – I send my research in detail to them.
If not – I charge for sending the research. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on July 24, 2017
at 4:05 pm
To Tracey and Judy – I have 20 different Robert Love’s in my database. – 16 from N. Antrim. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on July 24, 2017
at 4:19 pm
Hi Maddy,
I have quite a bit on the Hargey families the Ballymoney area.
What do you want to know and do you want to buy a book?Sorry – I haven’t done the books as ebooks yet.
Where does your family fit in?
Best wishes, Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on July 24, 2017
at 4:24 pm
How do I get this book to see if my McCullough family is in it?
By: Rosemarie McCullough on August 16, 2017
at 7:40 pm
Hi, awesome site you have! Anything on a John Mullins that Left Antrim with Pastor William Martin’s group in 1772. Its my 5th Great Grandfather. If you have a book on it please let me know, Thanks so much!
By: Johnny Mullins on August 16, 2017
at 8:06 pm
Sorry – I have nothing on your Mullins family.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on August 18, 2017
at 9:38 am
Have you any info on Blairs of the Killins- I am from the family of John Blair,d 1912 = Ann Cunningham. Next door was another Blair family -James Blair in the 1960s who had a son William (Bill) who went to Drumlee.
Allan Blair
By: Allan B Blair on September 15, 2017
at 1:04 am
Yes – I have information on this Blair family. Email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com if you want some information and research.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on September 15, 2017
at 9:35 am
Hi Dorothy. Kathleen “McLean” again. Do you have info on the Sam & Kathleen (“Katie”) Blair family? Thanks.
By: Kathleen "McLean" Wells on October 4, 2017
at 7:49 pm
Have you any information on WILLIAM BIGGART husband of MARGARET BIGGART ( ROSS)
By: C. MARSHALL on November 15, 2017
at 1:16 pm
What dates are you talking about? Even roughly would help. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on November 19, 2017
at 1:58 pm
i too am researching the Richmond family of Ballymoney. Joseph Richmond was my greatgrandfather, wife Elizabeth Young Waddell
By: Dail Norrie on January 12, 2018
at 6:07 am
I haven’t found a Joseph Richmond living near Ballymoney. ho were his parents and what was his date of birth? Dorothy
By: akismet-3e06ff9e4b825f8971eeefac806f5061 on January 12, 2018
at 10:41 pm
Dorothy:
My wife’s family were Calderwood’s who were Grocers in Ballymoney.
Other names:
O’connor
Connor
O’neill
Wales (Rasharkin Dirrection)
Wallace
McMullen (Rasharkin Direction)
Which books should I order?
My family were:
Montgomery Garvaghy Portglenone area
McCoy
Mooney
Scullion
Dysart
Kilpatrick
Many Presbyterian in Portglenone area
Which books for that area?
By: Joe Reiley on February 8, 2018
at 6:09 pm
Hi Dorothy,
I ordered your book, Kilraughts Old Church Graveyard, and I believe I found some Johnston relatives, Mary and her brother James Johnston, Grave 89 on page 83. You state that James Johnston died in 1846 and that his death was reported in the newspaper. Do you have any more information on him or his sister? I was very happy to find this information in your book and I hope they are related to the Johnstons (Archibald Harvey Johnston b. 1765 and his wife, Martha Orr) who came to America by 1821. It has been reported by descendants that two children, James and Mary were left behind in Ballymoney.
There may have also been a cousin, Robert Johnston (who probably changed his name to Johnson) who was married to a Mary McClure. She died 28 November 1897 but I can’t find her nor her daughter, Tillie or Lillie (married to Clarke Murphy) in this particular book. I located these Johnson descendants through DNA results that matched my Johnston line.
Thank you,
Kathy Johnston kjohns7900@aol.com
By: Kathryn Johnston on February 17, 2018
at 7:16 pm
I have replied to you through your personal email.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on February 20, 2018
at 2:04 pm
Looking for information on John Boyd. Military records indicate he was born in Ballymoney in 1811. Any information would be appreciated
By: Sharon Hayman on March 19, 2018
at 2:15 am
There are so many Boyd families in the Ballymoney area so it would be difficult to narrow down without further information. There are very few baptismal records available for that period as civil registration did not start until 1864.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on March 19, 2018
at 9:13 am
Thanks. I will try to pull together some of the info I have.
By: Sharon Hayman on March 19, 2018
at 2:30 pm
HI, DOROTHY. THIS IS RITA TAGGART AGAIN. WE COMMUNICATED I BELIEVE EARLY IN 2017 IN RE: SAMUEL TAGGART, MY GGRANDFATHER, B: 1822 DIED 1902 IN LISNISK, LIVING WITH HIS DAUGHTER. I WOULD LOVE TO KNOW WHO HE MARRIED AND IF HE HAD ANY SIBLINGS, WHERE HE’S BURIED, HIS SON ALEXANDER WAS BORN IN 1852/53, AND I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF HE HAD ANY SIBLINGS. I’LL BE HAPPY TO PAY YOU WHATEVER IT COSTS TO DO THE RESEARCH. YOU CAN REACH ME AT ritataggart@gmail.com. I LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU. SINCERELY, RITA
By: rita taggart on April 17, 2018
at 9:29 pm
My Gt.Gt.Gt. Grandfather was Constantine Dougherty, Townhead St. Ballymoney. He settled in Horsham Victoria Australia. He began the pony-express, the Wimmera Star newspaper and the Fire Brigade where a large photo of him resides. He was on the hospital board and many other committees etc. He is always the one mentioned when they talk of the pioneers of Horsham. He had six children, one Cahir, which has gone down in the family. He also has a street named after him there.
I am hoping to visit Ballymoney in 2020.
Loretta Edmonston nee Dougherty.
By: Loretta Edmonston on June 6, 2018
at 2:32 am
Dorothy, just found your website. We are visiting Ireland and traveling right through Ballymoney. I have been able to trace an ancestor, John O’Neill who married a Margaret Shields and had a son born in Ballymoney, Ireland in 1829. I have been unable to unearth a copy of your book on the Ballymoney Old Church graveyard. Can you tell me if it’s still possible to purchase, or if you would have any info on these people—would it be worth our while to visit the graveyard? Can you tell me if there is a gravestone for them?
Many thanks
By: Mary Ellen Simmons on July 16, 2018
at 5:12 am
Iam an Australian with my ancestors coming from Ballymoney. I hope to visit some of the graves to see if I can see any of my ancestors. Their names were Boyland.
Cheers Maria
By: Maria on July 24, 2018
at 11:22 am
Looking for a marriage between a John Irwin who married a woman named Mary Jane or Margaret or Lavinia Forsythe in 1845 in Ballymoney.
By: Tony on July 27, 2018
at 5:22 pm
Sorry. I checked alley records and couldn’t find anything. Dorothy
By: akismet-3e06ff9e4b825f8971eeefac806f5061 on August 1, 2018
at 9:42 am
Maria – re Boyland. Get in touch with me directly as I have information on Boyland families in the N. Antrim area. dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com
By: akismet-3e06ff9e4b825f8971eeefac806f5061 on August 1, 2018
at 9:44 am
thank you for checking
By: Tony on August 1, 2018
at 4:21 pm
Would you have any information on a John O’Neill who married a Margaret Shields and had a son born in Ballymoney, Ireland in 1829. We will be travelling through Ballymoney on our way to Bushmills on August 9th and will be in the area until August 11.
Many thanks.
By: MARY ELLEN SIMMONS on August 2, 2018
at 9:18 pm
Sorry. I haven’t found anything. What was therir son’s name? What religion were they? Any idea of where exactly they lived? Dorothy
By: akismet-3e06ff9e4b825f8971eeefac806f5061 on August 2, 2018
at 9:50 pm
Nope. That’s about all I know at this point. Thanks, though. I appreciate your info.
By: MARY ELLEN SIMMONS on August 2, 2018
at 10:37 pm
Hi Dorothy, My ancestors Charles Campbell (b.1783) and Margaret Lamont (b. 1790) along with their seven children immigrated to Canada from Balleymoney in 1830. Would you have any information on the Campbell and Lamont families in Balleymoney? Thank you KC Campbell
By: KC Campbell on August 4, 2018
at 1:07 am
I do have some information on Charles Campbell and his family. Email me and I will try and help.
Dorothy
By: akismet-3e06ff9e4b825f8971eeefac806f5061 on August 5, 2018
at 8:51 pm
Thank you Dorothy. I look forward to hearing from you.
By: KC Campbell on August 6, 2018
at 12:07 am
Hi my family are from Ballymoney, my sister, aunts & uncles still live there. The Tweed family, my mum who past away in 2002 is buried with her mother Annie Reid & father Daniel & Annie Tweed. My mum had 6 brothers & 1 sister, also there was a set of twins. They died not long after they were born, my mum was born in 1937 & it was after that but not after 1946. We don’t know where the twins are buried, they are not in my mums grave & there not in my mums grandmothers grave Annie & Daniel Ellison in Mosside. The only thing I can think of is there buried with my mums grandmother & grandfathers grave in Ballymoney. They are called Hester & william Tweed, I once asked my uncle & he said I at Trinity but didn’t if they were buried with anyone. I don’t know how to find out as I have to proved dates, names & addresses. How would I find out or can you help thank you.
By: Tracy okane on September 8, 2018
at 2:09 am
Hi my family are from Ballymoney, my sister, aunts & uncles still live there. The Tweed family, my mum who past away in 2002 is buried with her father Daniel who was born 1911 & died 1984 & her mother Annie Tweed who was born in 1910 & died in 1991. My mum is called Annie Reid & she had 6 brothers & 1 sister, also there was a set of twins. They died not long after they were born, my mum was born in 1937 & it wasn’t before that & not after 1946. We don’t know where the twins are buried, they are not in my mums grave & there not in my mums grandmothers grave Annie & Daniel Ellison in Mosside. The only thing I can think of is they’re buried with my mums grandmother & grandfathers grave in Ballymoney. They are called Hester & william Tweed, I once asked my uncle & he said they were buried at Trinity but didn’t say if they were buried with anyone. I don’t know how to find out as I have to provide dates, names & addresses. How would I find out or can you help thank you.
By: Tracy okane on September 8, 2018
at 2:20 am
I am on holiday at the moment and will check on my return. Dorothy
By: akismet-3e06ff9e4b825f8971eeefac806f5061 on September 11, 2018
at 3:01 pm
Thank you I live in ballymena
By: Tracy okane on September 18, 2018
at 6:44 pm
Hello Dorothy, I emailed a month or so ago but I can’t see my email here so will try again. My ancestors were Gilmour from Ballymoney, Robert Gilmour born 22.8.1831 Co Antrim. He married Annie McElroy 1858 in Aghadowey but they farmed and raised a family of 13 children and farmed in Ballymoney. I am mainly interested in other Gilmores that maybe related to Robert. His father was Matthew, born c 1800 and died before 1858. My father matches Robert Gilmour through DNA and I am trying to connect to my Gt Gt Gt Grandfather Col. Joseph Albert Gillmore born 1787 Co. Antrim, he died Green Is. Carrickfergus 1863 but there is no burial for him there. I want to find his parents names. I need to find more about Matthew Gilmour to do that so anything is helpful. I am also interested in buying your book if it will be helpful so if you can advise me how I go about it, I will get going on it. I am in Australia. Any help you can give me would be wonderful. Many Thanks, Vicki
By: vickicooper56 on September 19, 2018
at 9:45 am
Hi Dorothy
Wondering if you have any McIntrye (McEntyre) in your burial? Looking for Andrew Mcintyre/ Ann McLeish and any family
many thanks Keira
By: keira berryman on November 25, 2018
at 6:49 am
Can you give any more details? eg where they lived and approx dates?
Dorothy
By: Dorothy AA on November 28, 2018
at 4:09 pm
Hello Dorothy,
I’m a descendant of a John (b. 1710) and Rachel (b. 1724) BORLAND of Kilraughts, Antrim. Interested to hear if you had any info on these two or who their parents were. Much thanks!
By: jomabo on January 10, 2019
at 3:28 am
G’Day Dorothy,
my name is Scott TAYLOR and I am from Merbein in North Western Victoria in Australia.
I am a decedent of Daniel TAYLOR and Jane MARTIN who were married in the Ballymoney 1st Presbyterian Church on the 22nd of October 1857.
They had six children:-
William TAYLOR 1863 was my great grand father and he immigrated to Australia in 1890. He married Emily MATTHEWS in Ballarat in 1894.
David TAYLOR 1864
Joseph TAYLOR 1865
Jacob TAYLOR 1867
Mary TAYLOR 1869
James TAYLOR 1871
When William came to Australia one his brothers Jacob or James came with him but continued on to New Zealand. I am still researching this.
I am planning to travel to Ballymoney in the next 12 months and would appreciate any help that you can give in tracking down other decedents of Daniel and Jane.
By: Scott TAYLOR on January 28, 2019
at 4:54 am
Hello, Dorothy,
Greetings from McAlonan’s in Ohio, USA! We are so grateful to habe found your website.
We’re hopeful that your knowledge of the Ballymena graveyards might include Clough, where our McAlonan ancestors did reside.
My sister Shirley MacAlonan Koth and I (Kay MacAlonan Almy) have been tracing our Ulster McAlonan relatives, some buried in the old Clough cemetery. We’re planning a trip to County Antrim and Scotland the summer of 2020 to explore our Ballymena area and Scottish/British roots (likely mid-end July).
We know from Y-DNA research that our McAlonan’s (likely originally Macalonies or other derivative) lived in the Lochaber, Scotland area, then emigrated to N. Ireland/Antrim. (Not quite sure when; we think possibly sometime in the mid-to-late 1700’s.)
Our MacAlonan’s are descended from Thomas McAlonan (b. 1786) and Nancy Blair (b. 1789) – born somewhere in Antrim. They are mentioned as living at 3 Ballycregagh Townland, Dunaghy parish, Co. Antrim in the 1851 census. Tom and Nancy had son James (b. 1819-20), daughter Margaret (who married a James Boyd). Unclear, but possibly there was a daughter Mary (who married a McCleary) and a son John, b. cir. 1831.
Our lineage is derived from the above mentioned James. James McAlonan married Margaret. They had six children: Peggy Jane (Margaret or Margret) b. 1845; Elizabeth (Eliza or Lizzie) b. 1847; Thomas b. 1850; Matthew b. 1853; James b. 1853; and William Blair b. 1859. Thomas married a Margaret Patton (they are buried in Clough); Eliza married a Robert Templeton and had two children, Margaret Jane and Thomas (all are buried in Clough); Matthew moved to Detroit, MI as did Willaim Blair (they came to the US around 1885). William Blair is my great-grandfather. He married Lizzie Caldwell McFetridge (in Detroit); they had sons William Torrens and Matthew Walter (my grandfather). Matthew Walter, “Mickey,” my grandpa, moved to N. Ohio where our leg of the family has remained rooted for all these years. It is said that he changed the surname McAlonan to MacAlonan because mail was getting sent to the wrong relatives. We are the only “Macs” among our “Mcs” — my dad never changed it!
Here’s a link to cemetery records that show some McAlonan’s from County Antrim. We have 7 relatives buried in Clough: cemetery.https://www.findagrave.com/cemetery/2278131/memorial-search?firstName=&lastName=McAlonan&page=1#sr-65162179
We’ve seen info from Antrim’s 1741 Protestant Roll, 1803 Agricultural Census and the 1851, 1901/1911 censuses. There are several McAlonan’s (and derivatives) listed that live in close proximity, but we have not been able to make any connections, other than following our Thomas and Nancy McAlonan lineage in Clough. We know that many valuable birth, marriage and death records were destroyed. We’re hoping that you will have access to some of the invaluable church records that might help us fill in some of the blanks.
Would any of your books help us? Thank you for all you do, and for listening. Warmest regards!
Kay (and Shirley)
By: Kay MacAlonan Almy on March 9, 2019
at 5:21 pm
Hi I was wondering if you could help me find the grave of my grandfathers sister. She’s called Mary Tweed & was born on 27/7/1900 & died on 24/11/1900 in roddenfoot ballymoney. Her mother was Hester Tweed & father William Tweed but I’ve no record of there death date. Around 80% of my family are buried in ballymoney knock road cemetery. Also I was looking for a Annie Clyde Tweed, Trinity church said this was the only baptism of her that died & was born on 29/3/1936. My mum was born the following year & was called the same name, they didn’t know where she was buried & she wasnt buried in rose yards grave yard on the Kirk road. This would be of great help to the rest of the Tweed family. Thank you
Tracy
By: Tracy Okane on April 15, 2019
at 6:18 pm
hi, DOROTHY, I LAST EMAILED YOU ON APRIL 17, 2018, IN RE: SAMUEL TAGGART, MY GREAT GRANDFATHER, 1822-1902, I’D STILL LIKE TO FIND OUT IF HE HAD ANY SIBLINGS AND WHERE HE CAME FROM ORIGINALLY. ALSO MY GRANDFATHER, ALEXANDER, 1853-1921, I BELIEVE HE HAD THREE SISTERS, CATHERINE, ELIZA AND SARAH (SERAH). I’D LIKE TO KNOW ANY INFORMATION THAT YOU CAN FIND PERTAINING TO THEM. I’M HAPPY TO PAY FOR ANY RESEARCH YOU CAN DO. I’M COMING UP WITH DEAD-ENDS MYSELF. ANY HELP YOU CAN GIVE ME WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED. SINCERELY, RITA TAGGART
By: rita taggart on May 9, 2019
at 5:32 pm
Interested in any further details of Samuel Gilmore married (1836) Matilda Pinkerton & had son George (1837). Possible death for Matilda Gilmour in 1892 at Tullaghgore & Samuel Gilmour 1903 in Workhouse (from Newbuildings North).
Graveyard book says Samuel Gilmore from Aghadowey and if correct he may be related.
Any help appreciated.
By: Linda Gilmore on June 4, 2019
at 1:16 pm
Hi Linda, Apologies – I was having problems with my website but my son has sorted it. On Samuel’s marriage record – it stated that he was from Aghadowey but I am fairly sure it was Carnrallagh.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy AA on June 16, 2019
at 10:54 am
Message to TracyO’Kane. I have replied to you through your email address.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy AA on June 16, 2019
at 10:58 am
Hi, Dorothy, Messaged you on March, but see you have had website troubles. Trying again, hoping you might have some insight or info on our McAlonan’s. Warmest regards! Kay & Shirley
Hello, Dorothy,
Greetings from McAlonan’s in Ohio, USA! We are so grateful to habe found your website.
We’re hopeful that your knowledge of the Ballymena graveyards might include Clough, where our McAlonan ancestors did reside.
My sister Shirley MacAlonan Koth and I (Kay MacAlonan Almy) have been tracing our Ulster McAlonan relatives, some buried in the old Clough cemetery. We’re planning a trip to County Antrim and Scotland the summer of 2020 to explore our Ballymena area and Scottish/British roots (likely mid-end July).
We know from Y-DNA research that our McAlonan’s (likely originally Macalonies or other derivative) lived in the Lochaber, Scotland area, then emigrated to N. Ireland/Antrim. (Not quite sure when; we think possibly sometime in the mid-to-late 1700’s.)
Our MacAlonan’s are descended from Thomas McAlonan (b. 1786) and Nancy Blair (b. 1789) – born somewhere in Antrim. They are mentioned as living at 3 Ballycregagh Townland, Dunaghy parish, Co. Antrim in the 1851 census. Tom and Nancy had son James (b. 1819-20), daughter Margaret (who married a James Boyd). Unclear, but possibly there was a daughter Mary (who married a McCleary) and a son John, b. cir. 1831.
Our lineage is derived from the above mentioned James. James McAlonan married Margaret. They had six children: Peggy Jane (Margaret or Margret) b. 1845; Elizabeth (Eliza or Lizzie) b. 1847; Thomas b. 1850; Matthew b. 1853; James b. 1853; and William Blair b. 1859. Thomas married a Margaret Patton (they are buried in Clough); Eliza married a Robert Templeton and had two children, Margaret Jane and Thomas (all are buried in Clough); Matthew moved to Detroit, MI as did Willaim Blair (they came to the US around 1885). William Blair is my great-grandfather. He married Lizzie Caldwell McFetridge (in Detroit); they had sons William Torrens and Matthew Walter (my grandfather). Matthew Walter, “Mickey,” my grandpa, moved to N. Ohio where our leg of the family has remained rooted for all these years. It is said that he changed the surname McAlonan to MacAlonan because mail was getting sent to the wrong relatives. We are the only “Macs” among our “Mcs” — my dad never changed it!
Here’s a link to cemetery records that show some McAlonan’s from County Antrim. We have 7 relatives buried in Clough: cemetery.https://www.findagrave.com/cemetery/2278131/memorial-search?firstName=&lastName=McAlonan&page=1#sr-65162179
We’ve seen info from Antrim’s 1741 Protestant Roll, 1803 Agricultural Census and the 1851, 1901/1911 censuses. There are several McAlonan’s (and derivatives) listed that live in close proximity, but we have not been able to make any connections, other than following our Thomas and Nancy McAlonan lineage in Clough. We know that many valuable birth, marriage and death records were destroyed. We’re hoping that you will have access to some of the invaluable church records that might help us fill in some of the blanks.
Would any of your books help us? Thank you for all you do, and for listening. Warmest regards!
Kay (and Shirley)
By: Kay MacAlonan Almy on June 16, 2019
at 3:58 pm
Hi Do you have anything on a David Dysart marriage to Annie Maria Dysart
By: Mark Dysart on July 22, 2019
at 9:37 pm
Sorry – don’t have any David Dysart names in my database. Can you give me some indication of dates and places? Dorothy
By: Dorothy AA on July 24, 2019
at 10:05 pm
My relatives were the Dysart’s’. I had connections to those in Co. Antrim Near:
Garvaghy, Names in Garvaghy:
Ezeikiel Dysart b. 1777 At Garvaghy, Ahoghill Parish, Ballymena PLU, Co Antrim, NI
Siblings of Ezeikiel are:
William b. 1769, Archibald b 1775 (Possible Sister Elizabeth)
Children’s Names:
Henry 1798, Archibald 1799, James 1804, Harry 1808, John 1810, Hugh 1813,
In Mullinsallagh there was another Dysart that was related it is said:
James, John, and William Dysart (Born late 1780-1800)
In Breaknamuckey there was other Dysart’s by the name of Andrew and John and It was said that is where the Dysart’s were from originally (Do not know if this is true but it was a Dysart family tradition)
In Garvaghy there is a Dysart’s town (Named Dysart-town on the MAP) just south of McCloskeytown group of Houses… This McCloskeytown area is where Ezeikiel had property… If you know that they were from Co. Antrim this may be the family.
I do have records [All from Co. Derry} of one David Dysart born the Son of Robert Dysart baptized on 24 Feb 1850. David was said to be from Drumalief, Co. Derry, NI and David was baptized at the Presbyterian Church in the Parish of Derramore, Co. Derry, NI (Looked up Dremalief is a Townland in Aghanloo Civil Parish, Co. Derry, NI) (Griffith’s does show a Robert Dysart there also)
I also have a David Dysart born the Son of Robert Dysart and Rebecca Long from Artikelly In Co. Derry, NI and he was baptized on 2 Nov 1891 and born on 12 Sep 1891. (I looked it up and Artikelly in Co. Derry, NI [Aghanloo Parish])
I had the records from Rootsireland.ie and rechecked the information against my account with Rootsireland.ie and it is correct…
FYI, I did not have this but the Civil on David Long Dysart gives his birth on 13 Sep 1891 and His address as Tullyarmon, Aghanloo, Co. Derry, NI. Robert his father is listed as a farmer and the Registration District/Parish was listed as Bellarena, Co., Derry, NI (I looked it up and Tullyarmon is a Townland in Aghanloo Civil Parish, Do. Derry, NI.
(I looked it up and there is a location named Bellarena, in parish of Tamlaghtard, Co. Derry, NI.
I do know that I have a Cousin by the name of David Dysart….
I do not know if this is useful, I give the names as some of various Dysart Children or Grandchildren just in case they may run in your family too…
Hope this might be of Help,
You can contact me via e-mail [Dorothy has it] and / or look at the connections of Dysarts that are related to my family by looking at Ancestry.com Reiley Master Related (2) (1) under jpreiley19. [about 60-70 Dysarts show with their families…
By: Joe Reiley on July 25, 2019
at 4:19 am
Hi, Dorothy, this is a follow up message to a post sent in June 2019. I believe you were having website problems at the time, so just checking to see if you received our inquiry. We are researching McAlonan’s from the Balllymena/Ballymoney area. My great-great grandfather James and great uncle Thomas and some other family members are buried in the Old Dunaghy Cemetery – all part of the Thomas McAlonan fam (b. 1796, m. Nancy Blair) from Ballycregagh Townland/Dunaghy/Clough. My sister Shirley and I will be visiting Antrim this summer. Hoping to gather as much information I can And make some connections. Please let me know if you can’t find the past post and I will resend it. Thank you! Kay MacAlonan Almy
By: nanolacamaolcom on January 4, 2020
at 11:07 pm
I have some McAlonans in my database. Email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com with what you have already and I will try and help. Dorothy
Sent from my iPhone
>
By: Dorothy AA on January 5, 2020
at 7:25 am
Hello I’m looking for information on my great great grandfather rober t cairns who was married to Mary. They had three girls margaret, Roshine and Mary and theay lived in castle street balleymoney. I keep hitting brick walls.
By: Denise on February 23, 2020
at 1:27 pm
My great great grandfather was Constantine Dougherty, Townhead St. Ballymoney, Antrim. He came out to Australia in the 1860’s along with brothers Hugh, Dennis and Michael and settled in Horsham Vic. He was the unofficial Mayor of the town, forming the Fire Brigade, the Wimmera Star newspaper the pony express and was on the hospital board. He had six children and died in his 80’s.
By: Loretta nee Dougherty on March 21, 2020
at 9:24 am
Hi Dorothy;my great great grandparents buried in ballymoney 1874 and1873 Thomas and Mary neely (McAllister) from Tivaconway, I wonder if you had information or photos of headstone as I
live in Australia cheers robyn
By: Robyn markey on April 7, 2020
at 8:10 am
Sorry I have checked my records and can’t find any gravestones in the Ballymoney area relating to your ancestors. I suspect that they could be in the Ballymena area.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy AA on April 13, 2020
at 12:41 pm
To Lorretta – Sorry I have checked and can’t find any record of your ancestors.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy AA on April 13, 2020
at 12:42 pm
I would like to know if Maryann Dougherty my gt gt gt grandmother is buried in the old Ballymoney Graveyard. They lived in Townhead St. Ballymoney. Her son was my gt gt grandfather Constantine Dougherty, who came over to AUSTRALIA with brothers Denis, Hugh and I think Michael. Thank You.
By: Loretta Edmonston new Dougherty on April 25, 2020
at 12:12 pm
Hi Lorretta, I checked and sent you an earlier message. I have checked thoroughly and can find no record of your ancestors.
Dorothy
By: Dorothy AA on April 28, 2020
at 8:53 am
Hi Dorothy,
I wonder if you could somehow alert Scott TAYLOR (Merbein, Vic, Australia) who wrote to you on 28 Jan 2019 looking for descendants of Daniel TAYLOR and Jane MARTIN as I think we are looking at the same family.
I am helping my father in law find his MARTIN relatives – he was adopted out at birth in NZ, and we have not yet found the exact connection, but I have identified John Martin d. 30 Dec 1887 and buried in St. Patrick’s Parish Church Cemetery in Ballymoney, his wife Martha Moore (d. 1882) and their son John (d. 1888). Jane Martin is a daughter of John and Martha, but isn’t on their headstone – perhaps she was buried in Ballymoney Old cemetery in 1872?
Thanks, Kerryn
By: Kerryn C on June 29, 2020
at 12:45 pm
I have a friend in Ballymoney who is related to this family. I will send her your details. Dorothy
By: Dorothy AA on August 29, 2020
at 9:22 am
thanks!
By: Kerryn C on September 5, 2020
at 7:37 am
Hello
I was wondering if you still have any copy’s of you book, Ballymoney, Old Church Graveyard.
I would like to buy a copy if so.
By: Kristin Stephen on September 15, 2020
at 2:30 am
If think my great grandfather and his father owned this land Francis
By: Marvin francis on November 25, 2020
at 6:58 pm
My Ballymoney ancestor was Thomas Millar
By: Charlotte Winstead on March 19, 2021
at 10:43 pm
What dates do you have for Thomas Millar? Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on March 20, 2021
at 10:39 am
I still have lots of copies of my books. Amazon has made it impossible to sell my books due to new Brexit rules but I use PayPal. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on March 20, 2021
at 10:42 am
Hi Dorothy. Planning to visit early next year and interested in the following my 3 and 4 GGG. James Richardson died 14/12 1874 in Ballymoney Parish from my Ancestry research. His son John Richardson born 13/2/1824 in Ballymoney Parish. James wife Mary Richardson (Nichol) shows as dying in 1865 in Ballymoney parish. I am looking to see if I can visit a grave in the Parish when we visit and any help you can give me would be great !!
By: Paul Richardson on May 19, 2021
at 1:04 pm
HI Dorothy. This website is so amazing, thank you. I am interested in Brown (e), Shannon, Wiley, Wilton but especially Wilson. I have found a lot Wilson/Shannon/Wilton in Coleraine Cemetary but my dad seems to think Ballymoney was where they originated. 1888 is my last Wilson entry, but wondering if you have any information before that date?
Thank you so very much in advance…
By: Sue Faubert on May 21, 2021
at 10:12 pm
Get in touch with me via dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com with what you know and what you are looking for? I will then see if I can help. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on May 25, 2021
at 10:10 pm
To Paul Richardson – Can you email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com and I will check my notes. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on May 25, 2021
at 10:18 pm
Hi Dorothy any luck with my request?
Get Outlook for iOS ________________________________
By: Paul Richardson on June 22, 2021
at 2:18 pm
To Sue Faubert – if you email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com with what you know already – I will see if I can help. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on June 30, 2021
at 11:33 am
Hi my name is Suzanne McComb grandaughter of Mary Shannon (nee Taggart).
I know it’s a long shot since Linda taggart commented here 10years ago but I have information on her Taggart family from the vow.
Her grandparents James George Taggart and my namesake Susannah Simpson are my great great grandparents, their daughter Susan Matilda Taggart is my great grandmother who died in 1990 and is buried at Drumreagh Presbyterian Church having married a man called Samuel Murphy. She had a child prior to her marriage called Mary Taggart who became Mary Shannon, my own grandmother (Linda’s cousin) who inherited the house at the vow and lived there til her death in 1994. Her son my uncle lives there now.
They were indeed Catholic although Susannah may originally have been church of Ireland and returned to CoI after being widowed as this is listed as her religion in the 1911 census. My grandmother was raised by her since she had been born out of wedlock. James and Susannah are buried at Rasharkin Chapel and I have personally gone in search of their grave which I’m told is ‘along the wall closest the road’ but none of those graves have legible headstones anymore so I was unsuccessful in my search.
Linda’s father had many more siblings than those listed in the available census’ and still has living 1st cousins in Ballymoney to this day, my mother has made them aware of Linda’s message on here and they are keen to hear from her as from our point of view her father went to England and simply ‘disappeared’ and was never heard tell of again, so they would love to know the story. There was a woman he left behind here although I am not sure if they were married or not.
We are not related to the Taggart’s of Taggart’s yard, my mother says that at one point we were “McTaggarts” and later became Taggart though this must have happened prior to 1901.
It would be nice to hear from Linda 😊
By: Suzy Snail on August 10, 2021
at 5:05 am
I have managed to contact Linda and will email you.
By: Dorothy Arthur on August 10, 2021
at 7:11 pm
Thankyou Dorothy much appreciated 🙂
By: Suzy Snail on August 14, 2021
at 8:08 pm
Could you email me at dorothy@ballymoneygraveyard.com
I can’t find an email address for you. Dorothy
By: Dorothy Arthur on August 14, 2021
at 8:15 pm
In 1914 my grandfather saved the life of a girl named Taylor I still have the heartfelt letter that her Father wrote to my granddad the girl was drowning at the blue pool Portrush and my Granddad who also happened to be a. doctor gave her first aid thought this might be of minor interest
By: Wanda Lockhart nee Nesbitt also grandads name on December 8, 2021
at 12:36 pm
Ps that Taylor lived in High Street
By: Wanda Lockhart nee Nesbitt on December 8, 2021
at 12:45 pm
Hello everyone! I am trying to find more about my Great Great Grandfather Constantine Dougherty’s family (Doherty originally) from Townhead Stl Ballylmoney. Her came out to Australia and became an important man in the town he eventually settled in, Horsham Victoria Australia. He began the local paper, fire brigade and pony express. I would love to know where his people are buried there and who his ancestors were. Any information would be just wonderful! Thank youi so much and good luck with all your searches!
By: Loretta on May 20, 2022
at 7:10 am
Hello everyone! I am tracing Constantine Dougherty (some brothers spelled their name Doherty) from Townhead St. Ballymoney. I think he was Presbyterian. He was my Great Great Grandfather. He and brothers Michael and Denis came out to Australia and became an important pioneer in Victoria Australia. He began the local paper, fire brigade and pony express. I would love to know where his ancestors are buried and anything you could tell me about his family there.
Thank you and good luck to everyone in their family search!
By: Loretta Edmonston nee Dougherty on May 20, 2022
at 7:15 am
I have just arrived at your post. I am having Debretts research my mothers Stewart ancestry in Ireland and currently Balleymoney seems promising.
I really need to begin my Miller ancestry sometime soon.
By: James P Miller on October 5, 2022
at 10:18 pm
Trying to trace details on Hugh Orr.
Born 1799 and died 1869 and was buried at Ballymoney.
Thanks for any info
By: David Orr McMillan on October 23, 2022
at 9:42 am
Im looking for info on Hugh Orr born 1799 died 1869.
Scatty Aghadowney is birth area I believe
By: David Orr McMillan on November 13, 2022
at 4:57 pm
No such place in Aghadowey as Scatty. The townland is Scalty- https://www.townlands.ie/londonderry/coleraine/aghadowey/agivey/scalty/
http://www.census.nationalarchives.ie/pages/1831/Londonderry/Coleraine/Aghadowey/Scalty/
Orrs married into the Shirley family of Rhee.
By: Margaret Gardner on November 13, 2022
at 5:40 pm
Hi Margaret
thank you for the reply and apologies for misspelling Scalty.
I have a James Orr marrying Jane Shirley in 1845, they are possibly my connections.
Hugh Orr is listed as the father of James.
The only Hugh I can trace in the year span was born in 1799 and died 1869…..any assistance is appreciated
many thanks
By: David Orr McMillan on November 13, 2022
at 10:18 pm
Seeking information on Elizabeth ‘Liza’ Brown Letty born 1838 County Antrim near Ballymoney. Do your books reference that family?
By: Deborah Anne Letty Dennis on January 4, 2023
at 6:13 pm
Seeking the family name of Lusk.
Wondering if you know this sir name.
Any help appreciated.
By: Angela Makin on March 14, 2023
at 1:46 am
Hi,
I have traced my ancestors to 1769 in Derrykeighan. The names are James Faddes and Margaret McCallum.
I cannot go back any further than that date and was wondering if there is any info that goes further back?
By: Ian Faddes on June 10, 2023
at 10:31 pm
I am a Miller. I believe a Samuel Miller who lived in Virginia USA is a relative. I think that I have seen references that he was there in mid to late eighteenth century.
My maternal line is Stewart and we believe that a Robert Stewart migrated to the US on the Ship Wilmington from Belfast in 1803.
My DNA is heavily Irish/English with smaller amounts European etc.
Debretts has done a lot of research for me but got stuck when searching at PRONI where some records have to be reconstructed. They believe but without proof so far that my Stewart’s were from the Ballymoney area.
By: James P. Miller on June 13, 2023
at 1:31 am
Hi Dorothy- we are looking for any information regards the ancestry of William James Flax McLean (born 26/7/1938) whose birth mother was Kathleen McKean , believably from Ballymoney or Ballycastle area.
William James Flax McLean was my wife’s father who was adopted as a child and name changed by his new family to John Lovell.
There was no birth father registered on his birth certificate.
Many thanks in anticipation for your help. Kind regards Paul
By: Paul Atteater on June 26, 2023
at 10:04 pm
I wrote to you in 2016 and you responded but I missed it. I am still interested in Gray family from 1780-1800. The children were Thomas b 1880 and sisters Eleanor and Margaret. Thomas’s certificate of US Citizenship stated that he was from Ballymoney. and birth 1780. First male child was James. They were Presbyterian. They are friends of John Gibson who came to America with them. Are you still helping with genealogy? Thank you.l
By: Marilyn Gray Smith on July 21, 2023
at 6:01 pm
Put me on your list to purchase this book. I have McCurdys in this cemetery. Mary Risch mary.risch@gmail.com
By: Mary A Risch on February 17, 2024
at 2:41 am
hi I am looking to find where my biological grandparents are buried,my dad was adopted and brought to Barnsley but born in Ireland,all I have is the name marie shackleton and Patrick mclements,any help would be much appreciated
By: David on September 8, 2024
at 7:08 pm
Looking for Thomas Gray, born in parish of Bally money (last part of name of parish is slurred on request for naturalization in US) . Moved to US in June of 1800. Was Presbyterian. Do not know parents name. Had a sister Eleanor who also came with him. Marilyn Smith megs6884@gmail.com. His first son was named John.p
By: Marilyn Smith on September 20, 2024
at 4:23 pm
Unfortunately there are very few records available before 1800. Sorry I can’t help you.
By: Dorothy Arthur on September 22, 2024
at 12:22 pm
Hi Dorothy, trying to trace family history, obviously and stumped, I know my 2nd great grandfather married on 20/11/1857 in Dunloy Presbyterian Church, his name Charles Cairns and married Martha Tweed and I know their fathers names William Cairns and Robert Tweed but apart from Martha possibly died before 1901 (both born 1839ish) is there any way of finding out if the family’s originated from Ballymoney
By: Deannie on October 28, 2024
at 8:36 pm
Hi Dorothy,
RE: Thomas Sterling & Matilda (McLaughlin) Sterling
I have only found one document linking my great great grandmother Nancy Anne Sterling to Ireland which names her parents. She was born in Quebec in 1823 however her parents would have immigrated from Ireland. Her death certificate indicates that her father was Thomas Sterling and her mother was Matilda McLaughlin (maiden name). Both were from “Bellymoy”, Ireland. Keep in mind that the individual filling out the death certificate would be French speaking so the spelling led me to Ballymoney. Could it be another town or area? Thomas and Matilda may or may not have already been married when crossing the Atlantic. Do you have any record of them or their trip? Most of my ancestors are French so this is the first Irish one I come across. Thanks for your help!
By: rosannecan on February 6, 2025
at 7:54 pm