The McGreal / McGrail family motto is "Per Virtutem Scientamque" By Virtue Knowledge.

The name McGreal is a variant of McGrail, which comes from the name Macneil. The Macneil name came from the dialects of Ulster and Connacht. Here they were of gallowglass heritage, being heavily armed fighting men. They most likely were of the Hy Brune tribe.

As legend has it, originally there were seven McNeill brothers who were landholders in Co Armargh. When the English invasion tried to force them to renounce Catholicism, they refused and fought them off. Eventually they were outnumbered by the English, and to save their families, they split up and went to various parts of Ireland, where they had to change their names. Two of the brothers made it to Co Leitrim, and changed the spelling to McGrail. This line is from the island of Barra.

The earliest known member of my McGrail family is a Mrs. McGrail, <1797--8-20-1836. Mrs. McGrail, maiden name unknown, died in the townland of Tullycorka. Her husband, the unknown McGrail was most likely born in the townland of Lisfuiltaghan, civil and Catholic parish of Inishmagrath, Diocese of Kilmore, Barony of Drumahaire, Poor Law Union and Superintendent Registrar's District of Manorhamilton, Dispensary District and Registar's District of Drumkeeran, Probate District of Ballina, Connacht, West Brefine, Co. Leitrim. Tullycorka is located at Longitude W 08.07"30" and Latitude N 54.08'30", NW of Loch Allen.

The McGrail house on the left with its beautiful view in the townland of Lisfuiltaghan, 1999 photo supplied by Greg McGrail.

The McGrail home on the left in the townland of Lisfuiltaghan is located at W 08.09'30" and N 54.08'30", west of the northern part of Lough Allen and southwest of the town of Drumkeeran. The root word of Lisfuiltaghan is Lis which means earth fort.

Counties in Ireland began with King John in 1210 when he constituted twelve counties that still exist today. Kings Co and Queens Co were constituted during the reign of Queen Mary while the rest were formed during the reign of her sister, Elizabeth I. The four current Provinces of Ireland were named after the ancient kingdoms, Uladhm, Laighean, Connacht and Mumha.

Local Tullycorka records refer to her as Mrs. McGrail. The term Mrs., when used in the olden days referred to someone with substantial means. Mrs. McGrail's date of death, 8-20-1836, was taken from the Inishmagrath parish records. The Ancient Abbey of Tarmon is the ancestral burial site for many of the McGrails from Lisfuiltaghan. It is unknown weather or not Mrs. McGrail is buried there.

Mrs. McGrail's first name and maiden name and her husband's first name is unknown, but most likely he was from the townland of Lisfuiltaghan. Tullycorka is also a possible townland of origin. Both are in the civil and Catholic parish of Inishmagrath, Barony of Drumahaire, Co Leitrim.

Heads of Households in Lisfuiltaghan from Griffith's Valuation in 1857 & the 1901 Census, 69 total
[The connection between the non McGrail individuals in 1857 and 1901 is not known]

Head of Household Griffith's Valuation 1857	Head of Household 1901	Number in Household 1901	Names of others in 1901 Household	Relationship to Head of 1901 Household
Patrick Higgins	Owen Mcgowan	7	---	---
Stephen McGrail	Honor McGrail, nee Devitt	5	Patrick McGrail	Son
---	"	---	Ellie Devitt McGrail	Daughter- in-law
---	"	---	John McGrail	Grandson
---	"	---	Stevie McGrail	Grandson
James McHugh	John McHugh	9	---	---
Francis Nesbit Cullen	Catherine Creamer	5	---	---
Francis Kelleher	Anne Keleagher	2	---	---
Bartley McGrail	Michael McGrail	9	---	---
Thaddy Flynn	James Flynn	7	---	---
Patrick McPartland	Myles McPartland	5	---	---
William McNiff	Peter McNiff	7	---	---
Hugh McNiff	Michael McNiff	7	---	---
---	Patrick McNiff	6	---	---
Margaret Fury	---	---	---	---

It is not clear what the connection is between Bartley and Michael McGrail in the chart above.
Bartley McGrail Jr.'s wife was Mary Bryne. Mary's first husband was a Joseph Kellagher

Lisfuiltaghan and Tullycorka are in a valley surrounded by the hills of North Leitrim. The area is referred to as the area of "The Wild Rose". The other inference is that it is the area of the "Howling Dog". It is not clear what the "Howling Dog" means, what it symbolizes or where it comes from. The "Wild Rose" might come from a book by Patrick G. Smith, "The Wild Rose of Lough Gill" where the heroin was at last freed due to some extraordinary efforts on her part. Most likely it comes from the necklace-like layers of white and pink dog roses that festoon the local hedgerows. Today, the Manorhamilton summer festival is called "The Wild Rose Festival". The "Howling Dog" might be from the two well known hills known as Dog Little and Dog Big, which refers to a stretch of hill between Kiltyclougher in North Leitrim and Derrygonnelly across the Co Fermanagh border.

Mrs. McGrail, <1797--1836, had at least six children,

# in history	Children	Birthplace	Married on / in	Spouse	Birthplace
1.	John McGrail --1856	---	---	---	---
2.	Hugh McGrail <1818--<1856	---	2-26-1838 Inishmagrath Parish	Mary Gilhooly	---
3.	Owen McGrail --1876	---	---	---	---
4.	Michael McGrail --1835	---	---	---	---
5.	Stephen McGrail 1811--1899	Lisfuiltaghan	---	Norah Devitt 1825--1911	---
6.	Bartley McGrail Sr. 1817--1876	Lisfuiltaghan	<1834 Inishmagrath Parish	Mary Flynn <1819-->1834	Tullycorka?

All of Mrs. McGrail's six children would have lived through the famine times.

Mrs. McGrail's six children are,

1. John McGrail, --1856, the first of six known children of Mrs. McGrail listed as living in Tullycorka in the Griffith's Valuation of 1848 to 1864.

2. Hugh McGrail, <1818--<1856, the second of six known children of Mrs. McGrail married Mary Gilhooly on February 26, 1838, in Inishmagrath parish. The witnesses at the wedding were Bartley McGrail Sr. and John McGrail.

3. Owen McGrail, -->1876, the third of six known children of Mrs. McGrail was living in the townland of Lisfuiltaghan in 1876. Owen was the registrar at his brother, Bartley McGrail Sr.'s death in 1876.

4. Michael McGrail, --11-23-1835, the fourth of six known children of Mrs. McGrail. Inishmagrath parish records state that Michael died in Tullycorka on November 23, 1835.

5. Stephen McGrail Sr., 1811--10-1-1899, the fifth of six known children of Mrs. McGrail born in Lisfuiltaghan, Barony of Drumahaire, civil parish of Inishmagrath. Stephen married Norah Devitt, 1825--11-25-1911, or Honor as she was called. Stephen and Honor and many of their children are buried in the Ancient Abbey of Tarmon. This is the beginning of Greg McGrail's line from Staten Island, NY.

Stephen McGrail, appears to have been Bartley McGreal Sr.'s, 1817--1876, brother and shared a farm in Lisfuiltaghan in 1857. (according to "Griffith's Valuation") Michael McTiernan's branch descends from Bartley. "Michael McGreal" also lived in Lisfuiltaghan which had a total of 12 families and is 6.1.1.8.1. Hugh McGrail's grandfather.and had moved from MA to Flordia.

It seems at this point that Patrick and Michael were cousins. Patrick did have a brother, Michael McGrail, but he immigrated along with the remaining 10 siblings, and settled in Boston.

Stephen is listed as the head of the household in Lisfuiltaghan in the 1857 Griffith's Valuation. Honor Devitt McGrail is listed as living on Lisfuiltaghan in the 1901 census as the head of household with nine in the family.

While the majority of the ten brothers and sisters immigrated to the Boston area, Stephen and his brother, Edward some how wound up out in Montana, where they worked as cowboys in the 1870-1880's. Supposedly, Edward spent some time in Scotland with relatives, when he was a boy, before coming to America.

Stephen McGrail Jr., 1858--1905, (according to Greg McGrail's father) remained in Montana where he was a rancher, and died in 1905. Greg McGrail's grandfather, Edward, moved to Chicago in the 1890's and worked in the meat processing industry. According to his marriage certificate in NYC, when he married Gerg's grandmother in 1906, it was his second marriage. It is assumed that his first wife died in either Montana or Chicago, but it's all just speculation at this time.

Stephen McGrail Sr., 1811--1899, and his wife Honor Devitt had the following twelve children.

5.1. Hugh McGrail, 10-1-1847--7-1-1899, the first of twelve children of Stephen McGrail Sr. and Honor Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Barony of Drumahaire, Inishmagrath civil parish, Co Leitrim. Hugh who died in Maynard, MA married Susan Coffee, 1858--1907, and had one child.

5.1.1. Rev. William F. McGrail, --1923,

5.2. Michael D. McGrail, 10-1-1870--12-15-1925, the second of twelve children of Stephen McGrail Sr. and Honor Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Inishmagrath, Co Leitrim, Ireland. Immigrated and died in Roxbury, MA, USA. Michael may be the one listed in the 1901 census as the head of the household living on Lisfuiltaghan.

5.3. Rev. John McGrail, 1857--9-5-1892, the third of twelve children of Stephen McGrail Sr. and Honor Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Barony of Drumahaire, Inishmagrath civil parish. Rev. John died in Brockton, MA.

5.4. Stephen McGrail Jr., 1858--10-21-1905, the fourth of twelve children of Stephen McGrail Sr. and Honor Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Barony of Drumahaire, Inishmagrath civil parish. Steven settled in the old West as a cowboy and died in the state of Montana.

5.5. Bartholomew McGrail, 1861--6-6-1910, the fifth of twelve children of Stephen McGrail Sr. and Honor Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Barony of Drumahaire, Inishmagrath civil parish. Bart died in Ayer, MA.

5.6. Delia McRay, nee McGrail, 7-24-1855--6-16-1911, the sixth of twelve children of Stephen McGrail Sr. and Honor Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Barony of Drumahaire, Inishmagrath civil parish. Married James McRay. Delia died in Waltham, MA.

5.7. Nora McGrail, 1-31-1866--3-25-1869, the seventh of twelve children of Stephen McGrail Sr. and Honor Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Barony of Drumahaire, Inishmagrath civil parish. Nora died in Drumkeeran and is buried at the Abbey of Tarmon.

5.8. Anne Desmond, nee McGrail, 1866--1934, the eighth of twelve children of Stephen McGrail Sr. and Honor Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Barony of Drumahaire, Inishmagrath civil parish and died in Maynard, MA, USA. Anne McGrail married John H. Desmond, 1861--1929 and died in Ayer, MA. They had the following five children.

5.8.1. John Walter Desmond, 1896--1967,  married Myra Alice Credit, 1895--1996.  had the following two children. 

 Helene B. Desmond, 1899--1948, the first of two children of Anne McGrail married John H. Desmond

5.8.2. Lt Col. Madeline Desmond, 1905--1961, the second of two children of Anne McGrail married John H. Desmond

5.9. Catherine Shaughnessy, nee McGrail, the ninth of twelve children of Stephen McGrail Sr. and Honor Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Barony of Drumahaire, Inishmagrath civil parish. Catherine married a man by the name of Shaughnessy and is buried in St. Mary's in Ayer, MA. Catherine lived in Marlboro, MA.

5.10. Mary Gilhooly, nee McGrail, the tenth of twelve children of Stephen McGrail Sr. and Honor Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Barony of Drumahaire, Inishmagrath civil parish. Mary McGrail married Patrick J. Gilhooly and is buried in Maynard, MA. They had at least one child.

5.10.1. Mary Agnes Gilhooly, married and had at least one child.

5.10.1.1. Unknown, and had at least one child.

5.10.1.1.1. Sheila Hall,

Edward and Jane had three children.

5.11.1. Edward C. McGrail Jr., 1907--1989, [photo on left] the first of three children of Edward McGrail and Jane Mullany. Edward C. McGrail Jr. married Eileen Gottlieb, 1915--1983, and had the following four children.

5.11.1.1. Greg McGrail, 1950--8-2001, the first of four children of Edward McGrail, 1907--, and Eileen Gottlieb. Greg has been a cop for more than 25 years in NYC and lives in Staten Island, NY with his wife, Karen Goodman, 1953--. Greg and 6.5.4.3.1. Michael McTiernan met for the first time in NYC for St. Patrick's and had a great time at the NYCPD piper band party at O'Reilly's pub. This was the first time the McGrail line has met since the 1880s. Greg McGrail and Karen Goodman have the following three children.

5.11.1.1.1. Tara Shannon Holcomb, nee McGrail, 1977--, the first of three children of Greg McGrail and Karen Goodman born in Staten Island, NY and recently graduated from Notre Dame. Tara married Robert Holcomb, 1977--, in San Jose, CA on 6-24-2000.

5.11.1.1.2. Daniel Patrick McGrail, 1978--, the second of three children of Greg McGrail and Karen Goodman born in Staten Island, NY and attends the University of Buffalo.

5.11.1.1.3. Richard Lawrence McGrail, 1979--, the third of three children of Greg McGrail and Karen Goodman born in Staten Island, NY and attends The City University of NY.

5.11.1.2. Richard L. McGrail, 1952--1978, the second of four children of Edward McGrail, 1907--, and Eileen Gottlieb born in Staten Island, NY.

5.11.1.3. Stephen McGrail, 1954--, the third of four children of Edward McGrail, 1907--, and Eileen Gottlieb born in Staten Island, NY.

5.11.1.4. Kenneth Robert McGrail Sr., 1951--, the fourth of four children of Edward McGrail, 1907--, and Eileen Gottlieb born in Staten Island, NY. Ken is an attorney and works in NYS Supreme Court as a trial referee. Ken and his wife, Digna Rodriguez, 1949--, have the following four children.

5.11.1.4.1. Christopher Ian McGrail, 1978--, the first of four children of Kenneth Robert McGrail Sr. and Digna Rodriguez born in Staten Island, NY and attends West Point.

5.11.1.4.2. Kenneth Robert McGrail Jr., 1980--, the second of four children of Kenneth Robert McGrail Sr. and Digna Rodriguez born in Staten Island, NY.

5.11.1.4.3. Patrick Gregory McGrail, 1982--, the third of four children of Kenneth Robert McGrail Sr. and Digna Rodriguez born in Staten Island, NY.

5.11.1.4.4. Michael Stephen McGrail, 1984--, the fourth of four children of Kenneth Robert McGrail Sr. and Digna Rodriguez born in Staten Island, NY.

5.11.2. Genieve Gottlieb, nee McGrail, 1908--1987, the second of three children of Edward McGrail and Jane Mullany born in Staten Island, NY. Genieve McGrail married John Gottlieb, 1900--1959, and had the following two children.

5.11.2.1. Geraldine Gottlieb, 1936--1953, the first of two children of Genieve McGrail and John Gottlieb born in Staten Island, NY.

5.11.2.2. Genieve Brennan, nee Gottlieb, 1936--1997, the second of two children of Genieve McGrail and John Gottlieb born in Staten Island, NY and married Michael J. Brennan I, 1932--. Genieve Gottlieb and Michael Brennan I had the following six children.

5.11.2.2.1. Michael J. Brennan II, 1957--, the first of six children of Genieve Gottlieb and Michael Brennan I born in Staten Island, NY, Michael J. Brennan II married Carol Formica, 1956--, who was born in NJ and had the following two children.

5.11.2.2.1.1. Michael J. Brennan III, 1986--, born in S.I.N.Y.

5.11.2.2.1.2. Brian Brennan, 1989--, born in S.I.N.Y.

5.11.2.2.2. Kevin Brennan, 1958--, the second of six children of Genieve Gottlieb and Michael Brennan I born in Staten Island, NY. Kevin Brennan married a woman by the name of Linda and had the following four children.

5.11.2.2.2.1. Kimberly Brennan, 1982--, the first of four children of Kevin Brennan and Linda born in S.I.N.Y.

5.11.2.2.2.2. Kelley Brennan, 1984--, the second of four children of Kevin Brennan and Linda born in S.I.N.Y.

5.11.2.2.2.3. Lisa Brennan, 1986--, the third of four children of Kevin Brennan and Linda born in S.I.N.Y.

5.11.2.2.2.4. Laura Brennan, 1986--, the fourth of four children of Kevin Brennan and Linda born in S.I.N.Y.

5.11.2.2.3. Colleen Sorge, nee Brennan, 1961--, the third of six children of Genieve Gottlieb and Michael Brennan I born in Staten Island, NY. Colleen Brennan married William Kneriam II and had three children. Colleen then married John Sorge who was born in S.I.N.Y. and had two children. Colleen's five children are,

5.11.2.2.3.1. William Kneriam III, the first of five children of Colleen Brennan and the first of three by William Kneriam II born in S.I.N.Y.

5.11.2.2.3.2. John Kneriam, the second of five children of Colleen Brennan and the second of three by William Kneriam II born in S.I.N.Y.

5.11.2.2.3.3. Steven Kneriam, the third of five children of Colleen Brennan and the third of three by William Kneriam II born in S.I.N.Y.

5.11.2.2.3.4. Melanie Sorge, the fourth of five children of Colleen Brennan and the first of two by John Sorge born in FL.

5.11.2.2.3.5. Chrystal Sorge, the fifth of five children of Colleen Brennan and the second of two by John Sorge born in FL.

5.11.2.2.4. Diane Cychowski, nee Brennan, 1962--, the fourth of six children of Genieve Gottlieb and Michael Brennan I born in Staten Island, NY. Diane Brennan married Steven Cychowski from Harrison, NJ and have the following four children.

5.11.2.2.4.1. Patrick Cychowski, the first of four children Diane Brennan and Steven Cychowski born in S.I.N.Y.

5.11.2.2.4.2. Connor Cychowski, the second of four children Diane Brennan and Steven Cychowski born in S.I.N.Y.

5.11.2.2.4.3. Daniel Cychowski, the third of four children Diane Brennan and Steven Cychowski born in S.I.N.Y.

5.11.2.2.4.4. Erin Cychowski, the fourth of four children Diane Brennan and Steven Cychowski born in S.I.N.Y.

5.11.2.2.5. Thomas Brennan, 1964--, the fifth of six children of Genieve Gottlieb and Michael Brennan I born in Staten Island, NY. Thomas Brennan married Lynn Lepardo who was born in S.I.N.Y. and had one child.

5.11.2.2.5.1. Laurie Ann Brennan, 1996--, born in S.I.N.Y.

5.11.2.2.6. Brian Brennan, 1963--, the sixth of six children of Genieve Gottlieb and Michael Brennan I born in Staten Island, NY

5.11.3. John McGrail, 1912--1981, the third of three children of Edward McGrail and Jane Mullany born in NYC, NY. John McGrail married a woman by the name of Elizabeth and had a daughter. Soon thereafter, c. 1960, he married Elizabeth Price, --1967. He then married a woman by the name of Kathleen.

5.11.3.1. Joy McGrail, 1945--, born in Brooklyn, NY, the daughter of John McGrail and his first wife, Elizabeth.

5.12. Patrick J. McGrail, 3-14-1868--2-24-1949, The 12th of twelve children of Stephen McGrail Sr. and Honor Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Barony of Drumahaire, Inishmagrath civil parish. Patrick J. McGrail married Ellen K. Devitt [Davett], 1874--7-28-1954, from the townland of Corchuill on 2-21-1898 in Drumkeeran. Ellen's father was James Devitt from the townland of Corchuill. Patrick McGrail and Ellen stayed in Ireland and had the following nine children, some staying in Ireland and some emigrating to America. He lived with his wife, Ellie, and his mother, Norah, in the ancestral home in the townland of Lisfuiltaghan. According to the 1910 Irish Census, his occupation was "farmer". Patrick McGrail and Ellen are buried in the New Church graveyard in Drumkeeran. Their nine children are,

5.12.1. Rev. John McGrail, 1899--, the first of nine children of Patrick McGrail and Ellen K. Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Barony of Drumahaire, Inishmagrath parish. John was listed in the 1901 census as living on Lisfuiltaghan. John was a priest and died in Ireland.

5.12.2. Stephen McGrail, 1901--, the second of nine children of Patrick McGrail and Ellen K. Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Barony of Drumahaire, Inishmagrath civil parish. Stephen was listed as an infant in the 1901 census as living on Lisfuiltaghan. Settled in the Boston, MA area.

5.12.3. Arthur McGrail, --9-24-1950, the third of nine children of Patrick McGrail and Ellen K. Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Barony of Drumahaire, Inishmagrath civil parish. Arthur died in Drumkeeran and is buried in the New Church graveyard in Drumkeeran.

5.12.4. Rev. Hugh McGrail, 1909--4-18-1988, the fourth of nine children of Patrick McGrail and Ellen K. Devitt of Lisfoltoghan [Lisfuiltaghan] born in the parish of Inishmagrath. He was ordained in Maynooth in 1937. His first two appointments were to parishes in England: Brentwood 1937 and Birmingham 1940. He was appointed C.C. Drumreilly Lower 1943; Cavan 1945; Glanade 1949; Doobally 1950; Derrylin 1945; P.P. Killesher 1958 and P.P. Drumahaire-Killargue 1969 where he ministered until his death on 4-18-1988.

5.12.5. Joseph McGrail, 1905--1976, the fifth of nine children of Patrick McGrail and Ellen K. Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Inishmagrath and settled in the Boston, MA area. Joseph married Anne Callahan, 1916--2004, born in Williamstown, MA. They had two children.

5.12.5.1. Joeanne Devitt McGrail, 1953--1988, born and died in Boston, MA.

5.12.5.2. John Joseph McGrail, 1955--, born in Boston, MA and known as Sean. Sean married Janet Leary, 1961--, born in Cambridge, MA. They have the following four children.

5.12.5.2.1 Jared Patrick McGrail, 1985--, the first of four children of John Joseph McGrail and Janet Leary born in Lawrence, MA.

5.12.5.2.2. Colin Joseph McGrail, 1991--, the second of four children of John Joseph McGrail and Janet Leary born in Nashua, NH.

5.12.5.2.3. Brendan Michael McGrail, 1993--, the third of four children of John Joseph McGrail and Janet Leary born in Nashua, NH

5.12.5.2.4. Julianne Margaret McGrail, 1996--, the fourth of four children of John Joseph McGrail and Janet Leary born in Nashua, NH.

5.12.6. Patrick McGrail, the sixth of nine children of Patrick McGrail and Ellen K. Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Inishmagrath, Co Leitrim and never married.

5.12.7. Lenna Burchill, nee McGrail, the seventh of nine children of Patrick McGrail and Ellen K. Devitt born in Lisfuiltaghan, Inishmagrath, Co Leitrim. Lenna McGrail married George Burchill and settled in the Boston, MA area.

5.12.8. Vera McGrail, the eighth of nine children of Patrick McGrail and Ellen K. Devitt died young in Ireland.

5.12.9. Michael McGrail, 1909--, the ninth of nine children of Patrick McGrail and Ellen K. Devitt born in Drumkeeran, Inishmagrath, Co Leitrim and died in Boston, MA. Michael married Mary Flaherty and has two daughters. They are,

5.12.9.1. Anne Marie McGrail, born in Boston, MA.

5.12.9.2. Veronica Blum, nee McGrail, born in Boston, MA. Veronica is married to Steven Blum, has a son and lives in the Boston area.

5.12.9.2.1. P.J. McGrail, 1979--, is a college student in Maine.

6. Bartley McGrail Sr., 1817--7-9-1876, the sixth of six known children of Mrs. McGrail was most likely born in the townland of Lisfuiltaghan or Tullycorka, Barony of Drumahaire in the parish of Inishmagrath, County Leitrim, Ireland. The word Leitrim means "gray ridge" in Gaelic. Bartley McGrail Sr. is my direct ancestor and also the direct ancestor of 6.1.1.8.1. Hugh McGrail from Boston, MA. Bartley Sr.'s exact date of birth is unknown. The name of Bartley Sr.'s wife was Mary Flynn, <1819--. Mary Flynn's exact date of birth is unknown. Most likely, Mary Flynn was born in the townland of Tullycorka, parish of Inishmagrath. Mary McGrail, nee Flynn, <1819--, had at least two brothers and one sister. They were,

1. Laurence Flynn, <1839--,
2. Rose Flynn, <1839--,
3. John Flynn, <1839--,

The 1834 Tithe list of the parish of Inishmagrath states that a Mrs. McGrail, Michael McGrail, Hugh McGrail, and John McGrail were renters of 15 acres of land. The 1856 Griffith's Valuation of Inishmagrath list John McGrail as renting the land from Humphrey Butler. Mrs. McGrail having died in 1836, Michael in 1835, and Hugh McGrail having died between 1834 and 1856.

In the same 1856 Tithe list of the parish of Inishmagrath, the names of Flynn and McTiernan are listed several times as neighbors to the McGrail's in the townland of Tullycorka.

Bartley McGrail Sr., 1817--7-9-1876, and his wife Mary Flynn, <1819-->1834, were married sometime before 1834, most likely in the parish of Inishmagrath. Mary Flynn died sometime after 1834. Bartley Jr.'s marriage license in 1869 states that his dad was dead at the time of the wedding. It is not certain if this is true or not. They had at least seven children, they were,

6.1. Owen McGreal, married Bridget McNiff, 1826--1905, the first of seven known children of Bartley McGrail Sr., 1817--7-9-1876, and his wife Mary Flynn. Owen McGreal and Bridget McNiff had at least four children.

6.1.1. Michael McGrail, 1861--1-19-1939, [photo on the left] was born in Lisfuiltaghan, Barony of Drumahaire, Inishmagrath civil parish. The first of four children of Owen McGreal and Bridget McNiff, 1826--1905, was baptized on 9-16-1861 in the parish of Inishmagrath. The sponsors were Hugh McGrail and Honor Devitt. Michael married Anne Kellagher, 1871--1904. Anne died of Pneumonia. When the Coffin maker was in the home making the coffin for Anne, apparently, Myles (6.1.1.3.) started playing with the wood scrapes from the coffin and the coffin maker exclaimed, "Oh my God, he is playing with the coffin wood," and fell dead on the spot from a heart attack. Around 1882, Michael came to America when he was about 21 to spend three years learning the trade of hog butchering in Ayer, MA before returning to Leitrim. He stayed with relatives during these three years and eventually returned to America and died in Boston, MA.

The Kellaghers in the townland of Lisfuiltaghan are numerous. My Byrne family married into the Kellagher family also. Michael McGrail and Anne Kellagher had the following eight children.

6.1.1.1. Patrick McGrail, 1892--1966, the first of eight children of Michael McGrail and Anne Kellagher was born in Lisfuiltaghan, Inishmagrath, Co Leitrim, Ireland. Patrick McGrail married Mary E. Mansfield, 1892--1990 whose family was from Kinsdale, Ireland. Mary was the only daughter and had two or three brothers. Patrick was known as P.J. and one of Boston's finest. Patrick and Mary adopted a daughter,

6.1.1.2. Stephen McGrail, 1894--1937, the second of eight children of Michael McGrail and Anne Kellagher was born in Lisfuiltaghan, Inishmagrath, Co Leitrim, Ireland. Stephen married Catherine J., 1895--1976. The following story is part of the McGrail family history told about Steven by his brother Michael.

Here's one true story supplied by Hugh McGrail, as related by his Uncle, Michael McGrail to his son.

There was a law in the town, I assume Lisfultighan, near where our family lived, that you couldn't bring a donkey into town without being shod. My family was too poor to keep the donkey in shoes. According to my Uncle Mike, and my father, they didn't even have shoes for the kids when they were young, never mind the donkey. Any time my family went to town they were harassed by the two constables Dignan, and McCoy. This particular time my Uncle Steven, who my Uncle Mike said "turned his back to no man," was given a citation by one of the constables, for having no shoes on the ass.

That afternoon my Uncle Steven told his father that he was taking the ass to town. Off he went! When he reached one end of the town he was confronted by Constable Dignan. Steven wrested the billy club away from Constable Dignan, and proceeded to beat the stuffing's out of him !! Steven then proceeded to the other end of town, and laid out Constable McCoy !!!

The next morning there was a knock on the McGrail's door. It was the law !! Steven's father answered the door. "What can I do for you?" "We are here to arrest Steven?" "Why?" "We have a summons for his arrest, for assaulting the two constables." "Well" said Steven's father "Sorry ! But you will have to take it back again." The officer said "why is that?" Because, you see Steven left this morning. By now he is halfway to America!!"

Uncle Mike after telling the story to his son, finished it by saying "Steven was very good natured though".

Steven came to America and became one of Boston's Finest !!!

Stephen McGrail and Catherine had the following four children,

6.1.1.2.1. John McGrail, the first of four children of Stephen McGrail and Catherine. John McGrail married Mary Walsh and had the following two children.

6.1.1.2.1.1. John McGrail,

6.1.1.2.1.2. Unknown McGrail,

6.1.1.2.2. Teresa Fitzpatrick, nee McGrail, the second of four children of Stephen McGrail and Catherine. Teresa McGrail married Daniel Fitzpatrick and had the following two children,

6.1.1.2.2.1. Daniel Fitzpatrick,

6.1.1.2.2.2. Anne Fitzpatrick,

6.1.1.2.3. Stephen Michael McGrail, 1922--, the third of four children of Stephen McGrail and Catherine. Stephen Michael McGrail married Marie Therese Morressy, 1927--, and had the following six children,

6.1.1.2.3.1. Stephen Michael McGrail, 1954--, the first of six children of Stephen Michael McGrail and Marie Therese Morressy

6.1.1.2.3.2. Patricia Marie McGrail, 1955--, the second of six children of Stephen Michael McGrail and Marie Therese Morressy

6.1.1.2.3.3. James Francis John McGrail, 1958--, the third of six children of Stephen Michael McGrail and Marie Therese Morressy

6.1.1.2.3.4. Kathleen Mary Keddy, nee McGrail, 1964--, the fourth of six children of Stephen Michael McGrail and Marie Therese Morressy. Kathleen Mary McGrail married a man by the name of Keddy.

6.1.1.2.3.5. Maureen McGrail, 1966--, the fifth of six children of Stephen Michael McGrail and Marie Therese Morressy

6.1.1.2.3.6. Jeanne Marie McGrail, 1968--, the sixth of six children of Stephen Michael McGrail and Marie Therese Morressy

6.1.1.2.4. Mary McGrail, the fourth of four children of Stephen McGrail and Catherine.

6.1.1.3. Miles McGrail, 1900--, [photo at left] the third of eight children of Michael McGrail and Anne Kellagher. Miles McGrail married and had at least the two following children.

6.1.1.3.1. Miles G. "Buddy" McGrail, 5-5-1930--7-18-1999, the first of two children of Miles McGrail, 1900--, was born in Lisfuiltaghan, Inishmagrath, Co Leitrim, Ireland. Myles married a woman by the name of Ann. Buddy as he was known was a retired Boston Police Detective. He was the recipient of two Boston Police Department Medals of Honor. One of the awards was given for an incident in Intown Boston. Buddy was on duty, when another officer came by to say hello. While they were talking, an alarm went off in one of the Jewelry Buildings. Buddy and the other policeman rushed into the building, just as the robbers were reaching the lobby. One of the robbers shot and killed the other officer. Buddy was kicked viciously in the groin. Although in severe pain, he managed to struggle to his feet, pursue one of the robbers for over a block, and apprehended him at gunpoint.

Buddy was also a Veteran of the Korean War, and is buried in the Bourne National cemetery in Bourne, MA. Buddy and Ann had the following two children.

6.1.1.3.1.1. Danny McGrail,

6.1.1.3.1.2. Julie McGrail,

6.1.1.3.2. Daniel J. McGrail, the second of two children of Miles McGrail, 1900--, married with at least the following two children.

6.1.1.3.2.1. Timmy McGrail,

6.1.1.3.2.2. Michael McGrail,

6.1.1.4. Owen McGrail, 1893--, the fourth of eight children of Michael McGrail and Anne Kellagher was born in Lisfuiltaghan, Inishmagrath, Co Leitrim, Ireland. Owen married a woman by the name of Kit and had the following three children.

6.1.1.4.1. John McGrail,

6.1.1.4.2. Charles McGrail, married a woman by the name of Elaine.

6.1.1.4.3. Robert McGrail,

6.1.1.5. John F. McGrail Sr., 1898--1963, the fifth of eight children of Michael McGrail and Anne Kellagher, was born in Lisfuiltaghan, Inishmagrath, Co Leitrim, Ireland and died in Boston, MA. John F. McGrail married a woman by the name of Helen, 1901--1960, and had the following two children,

6.1.1.5.1. John F. McGrail Jr., --2001, the first of two children of John F. McGrail and his wife Helen. John McGrail married Gladys M. McGann, 1934--1998, and had the following four children

6.1.1.5.1.1. Judithanne Patrice Cote, nee McGrail, the first of four children of John F. McGrail Jr. and Gladys M. McGann. Judithanne Patrice McGrail married Thomas Cote and has one daughter.

6.1.1.5.1.1.1.  Unknown Cote, the only daughter of Judithanne Patrice McGrail and Thomas Cote

6.1.1.5.1.3. Maureen Kathryn Henley, nee McGrail, the third of four children of John F. McGrail Jr. and Gladys M. McGann. Maureen Kathryn McGrail married Gary W. Henley and have two daughters.

6.1.1.5.1.3.1.  Megan Charlotte Henley, the first of two children of Maureen Kathryn McGrail and Gary W. Henley born in Weymouth, MA

6.1.1.5.1.3.2.  Kathryn Jean Henley, the second of two children of Maureen Kathryn McGrail and Gary W. Henley born in Weymouth, MA

6.1.1.5.1.4. Lorraine Paula LaRocca, nee McGrail, the fourth of four children of John F. McGrail Jr. and Gladys M. McGann. Lorraine Paula McGrail married Jay LaRocca and has one son.

6.1.1.5.2.1. James McGrail, the first of four children of James McGrail and Helen Dugan

6.1.1.5.2.2. Diane McGrail, the second of four children of James McGrail and Helen Dugan

6.1.1.5.2.3. Patricia McGrail, the third of four children of James McGrail and Helen Dugan

6.1.1.5.2.4. Donna McGrail, the fourth of four children of James McGrail and Helen Dugan

6.1.1.6. Michael J. McGrail, 1901--1988, the sixth of eight children of Michael McGrail and Anne Kellagher. Michael J. McGrail married Elizabeth Martin, 1902--1973, and had the following three children,

6.1.1.6.1. John McGrail, the first of three children of Michael J. McGrail and Elizabeth Martin

6.1.1.6.2. Ann Rogers, nee McGrail, the second of three children of Michael J. McGrail and Elizabeth Martin.  Ann McGrail married Walter Rogers.

6.1.1.6.3. Elizabeth Sullivan, nee McGrail, the third of three children of Michael J. McGrail and Elizabeth Martin. Elizabeth McGrail  married Thomas Sullivan.

6.1.1.7. Maryanne Jess, nee Wynn, nee McGrail, 1896--1979, [photo on left] the seventh of eight children of Michael McGrail and Anne Kellagher was born in Lisfuiltaghan, Inishmagrath, Co Leitrim, Ireland. Marrianne married Michael Wynn and then married George R. Jess, 1899--1983. Marianne had one daughter.

6.1.1.8. Hugh McGrail, 1903--1983, the eighth of eight children of Michael McGrail and Anne Kellagher was born in Lisfuiltaghan, Inishmagrath, Co Leitrim, Ireland. Married Margaret A. Rowan or Ruane, 1905--1999, born in Ardhoon, Swinford, Co Mayo, Ireland. Hugh arrived in New York City on the steamer "Republic" on 6-9-1925. As he and the others waited for the steamer to take them on to Boston he decided to see the local sights in New York City. Hugh missed the steamer to Boston and kept the whole family waiting at the docks. He arrived by train at South Station the next day much to the dismay of the family waiting to meet him at the pier. Hugh and Margaret had the following three children.

6.1.1.8.1. Hugh F. McGrail, 1935--, born in Boston, MA. The first of three children of Hugh McGrail and Margaret A. Rowan. Hugh F. McGrail married Margaret Jeanette Murphy, 1-14-1938--9-9-1999, who was also born in Boston, MA and known as Peggy.

Hugh himself has written the best tribute to his wife, Peggy: September 9, 1999 was a sad day for the McGrail's of Medway. Peggy, my lovely wife, has passed on. We gave her a great Irish Wake, as she deserved. I am sure that the only part she was upset about, was that she was unable to get in on the camaraderie of the evening.

She was buried on Tuesday, September 14, from a Mass said by Fr. Bill Kelly, our nephew. The beautiful songs, including the "Irish Blessing," and "In The Garden." They were played and sung by our nephew's, nieces, and my nephew's wife. Many of the guests said that it was the most beautiful funeral that they had ever attended. It was more a celebration of her wonderful life, than a funeral. I never realized how many lives her sweet smile had touched. Almost everyone who I talked to commented on it.

She will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and acquaintances!

Hugh and Peggy had the following two children.

6.1.1.8.1.1. Kathleen M. Campbell, nee McGrail, 1960--, born in Boston, MA. Married Timothy Campbell and have a son.

6.1.1.8.1.1.1. Steven N. Campbell, 1992--, born in Biddeford, ME.

6.1.1.8.1.2. John F. McGrail, 1961--, born in Boston, MA.

6.1.1.8.2. Margaret A. Kelly, nee McGrail, 5-16-1938--, born in Boston, MA. The second of three children of Hugh McGrail and Margaret A. Rowan. Margaret A. McGrail married William T. Kelly, 3-9-1938--, whose parents were, James F. Kelly, 1-2-1901--, and Mary G. Corey, 5-12-1900--. Margaret A. McGrail and William T. Kelly have the following six children.

6.1.1.8.2.1. Rev. William T. Kelly, 2-25-1962--, the first of six children of Margaret A. McGrail and William T. Kelly born in Boston, MA and is a Boston Archdiocesan Priest teaching at St. John's Seminary.

6.1.1.8.2.2. Mary Jo Welch, nee Kelly, 5-11-1964--, the second of six children of Margaret A. McGrail and William T. Kelly born in Boston, MA. Mary Jo Kelly married Thomas Welch, 4-21-1964--, and have the following three children.

6.1.1.8.2.2.1. Stephen Welch, the first of three children of Mary Jo Kelly and Thomas Welch

6.1.1.8.2.2.2. Catherine Welch, the second of three children of Mary Jo Kelly and Thomas Welch

6.1.1.8.2.2.3. Teresa Welch, the third of three children of Mary Jo Kelly and Thomas Welch

6.1.1.8.2.3. Paul G. Kelly, 3-19-1963--, the third of six children of Margaret A. McGrail and William T. Kelly born in Boston, MA. Married Marybeth Curtis, 3-20-1963--, and have two children.

6.1.1.8.2.3.1. Mathew Kelly, born in Boston, MA.

6.1.1.8.2.3.2. Sarah Kelly, born in Boston, MA

6.1.1.8.2.4. Stephen J. Kelly, 3-3-1967--, the fourth of six children of Margaret A. McGrail and William T. Kelly born in Boston, MA.

6.1.1.8.2.5. Ann Marie Cronin, nee Kelly, 7-19-1969--, the fifth of six children of Margaret A. McGrail and William T. Kelly born in Boston, MA and married Basil Cronin III, 7-7-1969--.

6.1.1.8.2.6. Janice A. Walker, nee Kelly, 1-14-1972--, the sixth of six children of Margaret A. McGrail and William T. Kelly born in Boston, MA and married Paul Walker, 1-4-1971--.

6.1.1.8.3. John M. McGrail, 1944--1974, born in Boston, MA. The third of three children of Hugh McGrail and Margaret A. Rowan. Note the resemblance between John M. McGrail and his grandfather, 6.1.1. Michael McGrail above.

6.1.2. Mary Monjet, nee McGrail, -->1930, was the second of four children of Owen McGreal and Bridget McNiff, 1826--1905, married a man by the name of Monjet, with a high probability that his first name was Lewis.

6.1.3. Winifred McKeon, nee McGrail, --1938, was the third of four children of Owen McGreal and Bridget McNiff, 1826--1905. Winifred McGrail married Peter McKeon, --1902, from the townland of Mahanagh, Barony of Drumahaire, Co Leitrim in the early 1890s. Winifred McGrail and Peter McKeon had the following four children.

6.1.3.1. Mary McKeon, 1892--1921, the first of four children of Winifred McGrail and Peter McKeon born in the townland of Mahanagh and died in America from the big Flu.

6.1.3.2. Bridget McKeon, 1894--1912, the second of four children of Winifred McGrail and Peter McKeon born in the townland of Mahanagh and died in Ireland from Pneumonia at 18 years of age.

6.1.3.3. Patrick McKeon, 1896--1993, the third of four children of Winifred McGrail and Peter McKeon born in the townland of Mahanagh, Barony of Drumahaire, Co Leitrim and living there about 1930. Patrick died in Ireland at the age of 97. Patrick married and had two daughters,

6.1.3.3.1. Mary Mcguire, nee McKeon, 1938--, Patrick's first daughter. Mary is a Postmistress in Co Cavan and married Pat Mcguire with six children, three girls and three boys. They are,

6.1.3.3.1.1. Unknown Mcguire, 1968--, married with one child,

6.1.3.3.1.1.1. Unknown,

6.1.3.3.1.2. Unknown Mcguire, married with one child,

6.1.3.3.1.2.1. Unknown,

6.1.3.3.1.3. Unknown Mcguire,

6.1.3.3.1.4. Unknown Mcguire,

6.1.3.3.1.5. Unknown Mcguire,

6.1.3.3.1.6. Unknown Mcguire, 1979--,

6.1.3.3.2. Bridie McKeon, 1940--, Patrick's second daughter who is a schoolteacher living in Co Longford, married with four children. They are,

6.1.3.3.2.1. Unknown,

6.1.3.3.2.2. Unknown,

6.1.3.3.2.3. Unknown,

6.1.3.3.2.4. Unknown,

6.1.3.4. John McKeon, 1898--1931, the fourth of four children of Winifred McGrail and Peter McKeon born in the townland of Mahanagh and died in Ireland at 33 years of age from T.B. which was rampant at the time in Ireland.

6.1.4. Unknown McGrail, was the fourth of four children of Owen McGreal and Bridget McNiff, 1826--1905.

6.2. Hugh McGrail, 4-19-1836--, the second of seven known children of Bartley McGrail Sr. and Mary Flynn. The Inishmagrath parish records state that his baptismal sponsors were John Flynn and Anne McMorrow. Most likely, John Flynn was Hugh's uncle. Anne McMorrow's family may be directly related to the McTernan family line from Sheskin in Killargue parish, Co Leitrim.

6.3. Stephen McGrail, the third of seven known children of Bartley McGrail Sr. and Mary Flynn.

6.4. John McGrail, 2-24-1839-- <1895, the fourth of seven known children of Bartley McGrail Sr. and Mary Flynn. John was listed as being from Tullycorka. The baptismal sponsors were Laurence Flynn and Rose Flynn, most likely, his uncle and aunt on the maternal side.

John McGrail, 1839--<1895, died sometime before 1895, the exact date is unknown. He most likely, died in the townland of Drumrewy, Tullycorka, or Lisfuiltaghan in the parish of Inishmagrath. John married Mary Byrne (Bryne), 1837--1913, sometime between 1885 and 1895. Earlier, Mary married John's brother, Bartley McGrail Jr. in 1869.

6.5. Bartley McGrail Jr., 1834--<1885, the fifth of seven known children of Bartley McGrail Sr. and Mary Flynn. Bartley is my direct ancestor was born in 1834, in either the townland of Lisfuiltaghan or Tullycorka in the parish of Inishmagrath, County Leitrim, Ireland. Bartley at 35 and lived in Lisfuiltaghan when he married Mary Byrne. His brother, John McGrail and Anne Dunbar witnessed the wedding. Lisfuiltaghan and Tullycorka are in a mountainous area about nine miles from the town of Drumahaire and about 5 miles from Drumkeeran.

Bartley McGrail Jr.'s, 1834--<1885, wife was Mary Beirne / Byrne / Bryne, 1837--1913. Mary was born in 1837, most likely, in the townland of Drumrewy, north of the town of Drumkeeran, in Inishmagrath parish, County Leitrim. Mary McGrail, nee Byrne, died at the age of 76 in the District of Carrick-On-The-Shannon, in the Fall of 1913. Mary's first husband was Joseph Kelagher. The 1901 census list an Anne Keleagher with two in her family living in Lisfuiltaghan. The 1857 Griffith's Valuation list a Francis Kelleher as the head of the household in Lisfuiltaghan.

Mary McGrail, nee Byrne, 1837--1913, was born and died most likely in the townland of Drumrewy, Inishmagrath parish. Mary was a widow at the time she married Bartley McGreal Jr. on 7-29-1869, at St. Bridget's in the town of Drumkeeran, Co. Leitrim. Anne Dunbar and John McGreal, the brother of Bartley McGreal Jr. witnessed the wedding.

Mary's first husband was Joseph Kelagher. There is some reason to believe Kelagher's first name was Michael not Joseph. The 1857 Griffith's Valuation list the family of Myles Kellagher as living in Drumrewy. A Michael Kelagher from Drumrewey died on 3-23-1869, at the age of 50. A Thomas McMorrow registered the death. This Kelagher may have been Mary Byrne's first husband who died before she married Bartley McGrail Jr. in 1869. The Kellaghers in the townland of Lisfuiltaghan are numerous. My Byrne family married into the Kellagher family also.

On Wednesday, July 29, 1869, Bartley McGreal Jr. married Mary Byrne at the chapel of Inishmagrath or as it is known currently, St. Bridgid's Catholic Church in Drumkeeran. Mary had a daughter from her first marriage to Joseph [Michael] Kelagher. Her daughter Elizabeth was 13 years old at the time of the wedding.

Mary Byrne, 1837--1913, was 32 years old at the time of the wedding, in 1869. The fathers of both Bartley Jr. and Mary were listed as farmers. Bartley McGrail Jr.'s brother, John McGrail, was the best man and witness at the wedding. Bartley McGrail Jr. and Mary Byrne had to make their mark on the wedding certificate. John McGrail wrote his name. The other witness was Anne Dunbar. The priest that said the wedding mass was Father Patrick Cooke, C.C.

The McGreal family name is spelled McGrail on the wedding certificate. Mary's father, Thomas Byrne, <1817-->1869, was also listed on the wedding certificate. Thomas would have been born before 1817, and lived past 1869.

After Bartley McGrail Jr. died, his wife Mary may have married Peter Guihen in 1885. Peter most likely died soon thereafter and Mary married Bartley McGrail Jr.'s brother, John McGrail. Bartley McGrail Jr., 1834--<1885, had died sometime before 1885. John McGrail, 1839--<1895, died sometime before 1895.

Thomas Byrne was born before 1817, and died after 1869. The name of his wife was most likely, Bridget McNiff. They would have married sometime before 1837.

In 1856, Bartley and Stephen McGrail, and nine others, are listed as farmers of 62 acres in Lisfuiltaghan. Lisfuiltaghan is 360 acres big. The 62 acres are listed as being owned by William Johnston.

Mary McGrail, nee Byrne, was born in 1837, and died in 1913. Mary was baptized on Tuesday, September 11, 1838, in Inishmagrath. The baptismal sponsors were Mary Byrne and Michael Martin. The connection between the sponsor, Mary Byrne and Mary McGrail, nee Byrne is unknown. As stated earlier Mary McGrail, nee Byrne, died in 1913. The McGrail land in Drumrewy was sold around that time.

It appears that the McGrail's came from the townland of Lisfuiltaghan or from the bordering townland of Tullycorka and the Byrne's came from the townland of Drumrewy. Eventually, most of my McGrail line settled in Drumrewey. All three townlands are in the parish of Inishmagrath, Barony of Drumahaire in Co. Leitrim.

The family name of Bryne can be spelled several ways, Byrne, Bryne and Beirne.

Mary Byrne had a daughter by her first husband, Joseph (Michael) Kelagher. Her name was Elizabeth. The union of Bartley McGrail Jr. and Mary Byrne produced at least three children. Anne, Stephen and Honnor. Honnor was known as Hanna. Stephen McGrail may be named after Bartley Jr.'s uncle or brother.

Most likely, Stephen, Honor and Anne McGrail were born in the townland of Drumrewy, NE of Drumkeeran in Co. Leitrim.

6.5. Bartley McGrail Jr., 1834--<1885, was the second husband of Mary Byrne, 1837--1913. Their three children were, 6.5.2., 6.5.3. and 6.5.4. but not 6.5.1. who was Mary's child from the earlier marriage.

6.5.1. Elizabeth Cooney, nee McGrail, 1856--4-5-1934, known as Beesey. She was the first of four children of Mary Byrne, 1837--1913, and the only one by Joseph (Michael) Kelagher. Elizabeth immigrated to St. Louis, Missouri early in the 1890's. She and her half sister Anne, may have been the first McGrails in her family to leave Ireland. The Kellaghers in the townland of Lisfuiltaghan are numerous. My Byrne family married into the Kellagher family also.

In 1923, Elizabeth went to California to work for a wealthy family. Elizabeth, or Aunt Beesey as she was known, died in California in 1934, and was buried in the McTiernan / McGreal family grave in Cavalry Cemetery in St. Louis, MO.

While in St. Louis, Elizabeth McGrail married Patrick Cooney who died before 1910. Patrick Cooney was a self employed businessman. He was a dealer in used metals in St. Louis. Every day he traveled around St. Louis selling his wares from his horse drawn wagon. His pet black cat used to go with him on his rounds.

Anne McTiernan, nee McGrail, had a son named 6.5.4.3. John Francis Aloysius McTiernan, 1901--1989. At Patrick Cooney's funeral, John Francis McTiernan, eight years old at the time, put the black cat in the coffin with Patrick. Luckily, the cat was heard before it was too late. John Francis thought the cat wanted to go with Patrick as he had every day on the wagon.

6.5.2. Stephen McGrail, c.1870--, the first of three children of Bartley McGrail Jr., 1834--<1885, and the second of four children of Mary Byrne. Very little is known about Stephen. He is thought to have had red hair and may be named after his grand uncle or his uncle. He may have made a living as a bridge tender. Stephen McGrail may be buried in the cemetery down the road from St. Bridgid's in Drumkeeran. If so then he passed on in 1934. Stephen may never have married but lived with his widowed mother, Mary McGrail, nee Byrne, until she died in 1913. The 1901 Census for Drumrewy states that Stephen McGrail owned a house in Drumrewy but was not living there at the time.

6.5.3. Honnor Tobin, nee McGrail, 1876--1954, the second of three children of Bartley McGrail Jr., 1834--<1885, and the third of four children of Mary Byrne. Honnor or Hanna as she was known, immigrated to America around 1892. Hanna had come to America before her sisters and settled in St. Louis, Missouri and married James J. Tobin, 1877--1945. Hanna McGrail and James J. Tobin had two children, they are,

6.5.3.1. Nellie Tobin, --8-6-1984, lived in St. Louis, MO all her life.

6.5.3.2. Thomas C. Tobin, 1898--1951. Thomas C. Tobin married Maude McKelvey, 1901--6-12-1993. Maude lived in St. Louis all her life. Thomas C. Tobin and Maude McKelvey had the following two sons.

6.5.3.2.1. Reverend James M. Tobin, born in St. Louis, Missouri. Father Jim was working in India and Rome for the better part of the year in 1997. As of 2000, he is the Pastor at Our Lady of the Pillar in West St. Louis, MO.

6.5.3.2.2. Thomas J. Tobin,1932--4-23-2006, born in St. Louis, MO. Thomas J. Tobin married Joan Marie Gartland and was living in St. Louis as of 2000. Thomas J. Tobin and Joan Marie Gartland have the following seven children, all born in St. Louis, MO.

6.5.3.2.2.1. Thomas C. Tobin, 9-28-1958--, the first of seven children of Thomas J. Tobin and Joan Marie Gartland. Thomas C. Tobin lives in St. Petersburg, FL, where he works as a newspaper reporter. Tom Tobin married Kathleen Ovack, whose family is from the Philadelphia, PA area. Thomas C. Tobin and Kathleen Ovack have the following three children.

6.5.3.2.2.1.1. Margaret Mary Tobin, 6-8-1993--, the first of three children of Thomas C. Tobin and Kathleen Ovack born in St. Petersburg, FL and known as Maggie.

6.5.3.2.2.1.2. Anna Maureen Tobin, 3-18-1996--, the second of three children of Thomas C. Tobin and Kathleen Ovack born in St. Petersburg, FL.

6.5.3.2.2.1.3. Patrick Joseph Tobin, 1-18-1999--, the third of three children of Thomas C. Tobin and Kathleen Ovack born in St. Petersburg, FL.

6.5.3.2.2.2. Martha M. Tobin, 9-11-1959--, the second of seven children of Thomas J. Tobin and Joan Marie Gartland. Martha M. Tobin lives in St. Louis, where she operates a thriving flower and landscaping business. Martha has the following three children.

6.5.3.2.2.2.1. Katie Friz, 1981--, born in St. Louis, MO.

6.5.3.2.2.2.2. Ian Trout, 1989--, born in St. Louis, MO.

6.5.3.2.2.2.3. Joseph Trout, 1991--, born in St. Louis, MO.

6.5.3.2.2.3. Sarah Catherine Tobin, 1-4-1961--10-31-2003, the third of seven children of Thomas J. Tobin and Joan Marie Gartland. On 5-15-1990 in St. Louis, MO, Sarah Catherine Tobin married Stephan R. Jones, 7-27-1954--. Sarah died from a hereditary heart condition called Brugada Syndrome. Sarah had the following two children.

6.5.3.2.2.3.1. Mary Martha Tobin, 5-15-1981--3-22-1990, died in St. Louis at the early age of eight.

6.5.3.2.2.3.2. Stephen Edward Jones, 10-18-1990--, born in Clayton, MO.

6.5.3.2.2.4. James A. Tobin, 10-1-1962--, the fourth of seven children of Thomas J. Tobin and Joan Marie Gartland. James A. Tobin works in the flooring business in St. Louis.

6.5.3.2.2.5. Daniel V. Tobin, 2-29-1964--5-4-1993, the fifth of seven children of Thomas J. Tobin and Joan Marie Gartland.

6.5.3.2.2.6. Joseph P. Tobin, 4-2-1966--2-15-1996, the sixth of seven children of Thomas J. Tobin and Joan Marie Gartland.

6.5.3.2.2.7. John I. Tobin, 9-15-1972--, the seventh of seven children of Thomas J. Tobin and Joan Marie Gartland. John I. Tobin works for an internet service company in St. Louis.

6.5.4. Anne McTiernan, nee McGrail, 5-5-1870--12-15-1957, the third of three children of Bartley McGrail Jr., 1834--<1885, and the fourth of Mary Byrne. Anne McGrail was born on Thursday, May 5, 1870, in the townland of Drumrewy, civil parish of Inishmagrath, NE of Drumkeeran, Co. Leitrim.

Anne McTiernan, nee McGrail, wife of Hugh McTiernan VI, had a childhood friend named Charles Dolan. Charles became one of the most vocal members of the early Irish Parliament. Anne never liked him because when they were young he used to ride to school in Drumkeeran on his dog cart, never giving her a ride.

Anne McTiernan, nee McGrail, had previously immigrated to America before coming over with her husband Hugh McTiernan VI in 1895. Around 1892, Anne had come over with her sister Honnor McGrail. Anne was to marry an Irish chap named Crawley. Crawley wanted to bring his mother from Ireland to live with them. Having none of that, Anne broke the engagement and returned to Ireland where she married Hugh McTiernan VI.

Anne McGrail, married Hugh McTiernan VI, 1866--1944, on Sunday, February 24, 1895, at the Chapel of Killargue in the Barony of Drumahaire in Co. Leitrim. Three months later in June, 1895, they immigrated to America on the "R.M.S. Campania".

They arrived at Ellis Island in New York City on June 22, 1895. They then continued to St. Louis, Missouri. They most likely, traveled by train and arrived at Union Station in St. Louis. Union Station was completed in 1893. Hugh McTiernan VI was from the Townland of Sheskin. Hugh McTernan VI's parents were Hugh McTernan V and Mary Carney of Carrigeencor, Drumlease, Barony of Drumahaire.

Hugh McTiernan VI was born in Sheskin on September 6, 1866. Sheskin is about 8 miles from Drumrewy. This photo is of Sheskin with Hugh McTernan VIII and his niece Maureen Bower, nee Flynn from England.

Anne McTiernan, nee McGrail was born in 1870, in the townland of Drumrewy, in the parish of Inishmagrath, Barony of Drumahaire. Her exact birth date is May 5, 1870. Anne lived in the townland of Gortnacorkogue (254 acres) across the road from Sheskin, when she married Hugh McTiernan VI in 1895. Anne had hair that was fire red. On a visit from CA to St. Louis in 1957 she still had long fire red hair.

In 1856, there was a Bryan and a Charles McTernan that farmed 51 acres in Gortnacorkogue. Years later, Anne McGrail stayed in Gortnacorkogue, perhaps with the descendants of Bryan and Charles McTernan, before she married Hugh McTiernan VI.

Hugh McTiernan VI at 78, died in St. Louis, Missouri on Monday, September 4, 1944. Hugh VI lived in America for 49 years.

In 1901, Anne McTiernan, nee McGrail, and her family lived at 3523 Clark Ave. in St. Louis. Both her son, John Francis McTiernan and his sister Elizabeth were born in their home on 3523 Clark Ave. John Francis can remember a person by the name of McNiff visiting his house at 3523 Clark Ave.

Around 1910, the family moved to 3117 Thomas St., east of Grand Ave. in St. Louis, MO. In the early 1920's, Anne's family moved to 3113 Thomas St. The house at 3113 Thomas St. was owned by Anne's sister, Beesey Cooney, nee McGrail. All of these houses had the traditional outhouse in back. Around 1930, the family moved from 3113 Thomas St. to 5041 Cote Brilliant Ave, St. Louis, MO.

A man named Conrad Jackel was the head waiter at the Colombian Club in St. Louis. The Colombian Club was located at the corner of Lindel Blvd. and Vandeventer Avenue. Jim Tobin was the manager of the club. The Tobin family lived on the top floor of the club. Anne McTiernan, nee McGrail used to wash dishes at the club. May Nolan, the mother of Helen Cowdery, nee Nolan, also worked there. Conrad Jackel and his family are somehow related to the McGrail family but the link is unknown at this time. Conrad and his wife had one daughter and one son.

Conrad Jackel was a tall German with a handlebar mustache. The Colombian Club was an exclusive club in St. Louis around the turn of the century. Anne McTiernan's sister, Hanna Tobin, nee McGrail, also worked at the club. At some point, both also worked at the City Club. The City Club was a businessman's club at Broadway and Olive St. in St. Louis.

Anne McTiernan, nee McGrail, would go to 5:30 a.m. Mass, then clean up the business' offices of the Standard Adding Machine Company for $3 per week. At 9:00 a.m. Anne would then go on to the Colombian Club to begin her workday, washing dishes.

The photo on left taken c. 1911 is of Hugh McTiernan VI in the back, his wife Anne McGrail directly in front and Father Catterland and his mother on the left of the photo and Theresa Curran, Anne's cousin on the right in the photo. John Francis McTiernan is sitting with his dog Teddy on his lap.

Hugh VI held several different jobs in St. Louis such as brick layer and day laborer. Hugh's VI first job in America was working for Murphy's Meat Packing Company on Jefferson and Market St. in St. Louis. His second job was laying brick for street car tracks for the United Railway Co. This was the only streetcar company for St. Louis at the time. Hugh VI and his family might have taken the streetcar to the World's Fair in St. Louis in 1904. Perhaps they had one of the first ice cream cones ever made. Kingshighway Blvd in St. Louis was still a dirt road during the World's Fair.

The Great Depression began in the early 1930's. Hugh VI was out of regular work and earned money digging graves in Cavalry Cemetery in St. Louis.

When the Democrats came to power in St. Louis politics, Hugh VI got a job laying brick in the streets. He held this job till he retired. On one of the jobs laying brick in the street, he was hit and knocked down by a car driven by a black chauffeur. Hugh VI was unhurt, but the other Irish on the crew beat the chauffeur so badly they almost killed him.

After Hugh's VI death, his wife, Anne McTiernan, nee McGrail went to live in San Diego, California with her daughter, Elizabeth Silvy, nee McTiernan.

Anne McTiernan, nee McGrail, died in San Diego, California on Sunday, 12-15-1957.

Hugh McTiernan VI and Anne McGrail are buried in Cavalry Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri. They had three children, they are,

6.5.4.1. Unknown McTiernan, this may have been an additional child born to Anne and Hugh VI between 1895 and 1897. Elizabeth Silvy, nee McTiernan's birth certificate states that she was the second child born to Anne McTiernan, nee McGrail.

6.5.4.2. Elizabeth Silvy, nee McTiernan, 7-7-1898--1-20-1960, born in St. Louis and baptized at St. Malachy's C. C. in St. Louis on 7- 11-1897. The sponsors were Thomas Knox and Anne Curran. Elizabeth, known as Bessey, married a U.S. Navy Chief named John Silvy, 1894--1979. John Silvy was born in Kentucky. Elizabeth is buried in Cavalry Cemetery in St. Louis.

6.5.4.3. John Francis Aloysius McTiernan, 10-21-1901--1-2-1989, was born on Monday in St. Louis, Missouri.

Theodore Roosevelt, the Rough Rider was president at the time. There wasn't a vice president due to the death of McKinley. A loaf of bread cost three cents and a gallon of gas cost four cents at the time. Movies were not yet invented but the Edison Kinetoscope was a big hit.

John Francis Aloysius McTiernan, 10-21-1901--1-2-1989, was baptized at St. Malachy's C.C. in St. Louis on 11-10-1901. John married Florence Estelle Fries, 1911--2000, on October 5, 1940, at St. Alphonsus Rock Church on N. Grand Ave. in St. Louis. Florence was born on June 28, 1911, in Belleville, Illinois. Florence is the granddaughter of German and French immigrants. Florence's father was Adolph Fries and her mother was Anne Blaies. Both could still speak German at home and did so when they did not want the kids to know what they were talking about.

Florence died in Paoli, PA on June 13, 2000 about two weeks before her 89th birthday. We were with her when she passed. Florence went with no pain and very peacefully. Her funeral service in St. Louis was one of the best ever seen. Ace, as she was known is buried in Calvary Cemetery in St. Louis.

The coronation of King George was held at Westminster Abbey only eight days before Florence was born. Bread was 4 cents and gas was 10 cents a gallon. William Howard Taft was the president and James S. Sherman was vice president when Florence was born.

John McTiernan, 1901--1989, remembers the cattle drives that used to come down Spring St. in St. Louis. The cattle were going to the slaughterhouse and the drovers were on foot using whips to be sure they got there. This was in the early 1900's.

Dutch Snyder, was a childhood friend of John McTiernan. In 1915, they used to go down to the Standard Burley Q at 8th and Walnut St. in St. Louis. The last of the famous Dalton brothers used to take tickets at the door. The Dalton Brothers were the famous outlaw gang of the Old West.

In 1925, John McTiernan was the coach of the girls basketball team at the St. Alphonsus Rock Church on Grand Ave. in St. Louis. John and his team went to play a game at the Academy of Norte Dame in Belleville, Illinois. Florence Fries was a guard on the Belleville team. Neither of them realized that they were to be married 15 years later.

John Francis Aloysius McTiernan, 1901--1989, married Florence Estelle Fries, 1911--2000, on Saturday, October 10, 1940, in St. Louis, Mo. at the St. Alphonse Rock Church. Florence was born in Belleville, Ill. at the home of her parents at 508 Freeburg Ave.

John Francis Aloysius McTiernan, 1901--1989, died on Monday, January 2, 1989 in St. Louis, Missouri. The funeral mass was at St. John The Apostle Catholic Church in downtown St. Louis. John was buried in Calvary Cemetery in St. Louis on January 16, 1989. Bishop Koester said the funeral mass. The retired St. Louis Recorder of Deeds and three St. Louis judges attended the funeral.

John Francis Aloysius McTiernan and Florence Fries had one son,

6.5.4.3.1. Michael Patrick McTiernan, 10-13-1943--, born in St. Louis, Missouri on Wednesday, October 13, 1943 at 9:03, in the morning at St. Anthony's Hospital. I was baptized on 11-11-1943, at St. Edward the King C.C. in St. Louis. The sponsors were Joseph Mathews and Irene Cermak. Joe Mathews was a policeman and took the family to church in a squad car with the siren going full blast. I grew up in St. Louis.

The day I was born, Italy declared war on Germany and bread was 10 cents and a gallon of gas was 15 cents. The Yankees beat the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series. There after the baseball world series was canceled until 1946. Franklin D. Roosevelt was president and Henry Wallace was vice president at the time.

I lived in several locations in the St. Louis area: 5504 Hebert St., 7574 Warner St., Richmond Heights, 40 Plaza Sq. (201), and Balwin, Mo.

My first school was in 1947 at the Catholic Woman's League, today called a day center. From there I went right up the street to St. Liborius in September 1948 from Kindergarten through 4th grade. Every Monday morning I had to bring in $2.00 in an envelope to give to the homeroom nun for that week's tuition. I made my first Communion on 5-21-1950 and Confirmation on 9-27-1951 at St. Liborius. In September 1953 for the 5th grade I transferred back to St. Edwards nearby to where we lived on Hebert St. In January 1956, we moved from 5504 Hebert St. to 7574 Warner Ave in Richmond Heights and I entered the 6th grade at Our Lady of the Little Flower School at mid year and graduated from grade school in June of 1957 at that school.

The old churches of St. Louis are beautiful. The Catholic Churches in north St. Louis all seem to be made of the white porous rock that seems indigenous to St. Louis. St. Edward the King and the Rock Church are good examples of this. The churches in south and center St. Louis seem to be made mostly of brick. St. Liborius is a good example of this.

St. Liborius was a very traditional Catholic grade school. When I attended St. Liborius they had the classic German pastor named Father Ritter. He was a very big old German priest that was later made a Monsignor. There are two things that I remember about Father Ritter. I and a few of my 3rd grade classmates once went into the church after school on a Friday during Lent to say the rosary, all on the up and up. Father Ritter came out and saw us and must have thought that we were causing trouble. He immediately took after us yelling that we were sinning to beat the band by fooling around in church. We all took off down the aisle trying to put as much space between us and Father Ritter as possible.

The second remembrance is a story that is told about Father Ritter. At Easter the church gave out holy water to the people in the parish. Every Easter they always spilled some and Father Ritter had to clean it up before the next service. One year he was going to outsmart the careless people that used to come to church for holy water on Easter. He put the holy water outside between the convent and the church for the people to take. Easter was early that year and during the night the holy water froze. Early the next morning Father Ritter is outside using the holy water sprinkler as an ice pick trying to break the ice so the people could take some frozen holy water home.

St. Liborius at 1835 North 18th St. was established in 1855 as the 6th German parish in the St. Louis area to serve the ever increasing German population. The neighborhood was known as "Little Paderborn" as the church was named for the patron saint of a section of Westphalia in Germany. The church was built in 1889, the rectory in 1890 and the convent in 1905. The St. Liborius school was run by the stern Notre Dame Nuns famous in those days for their strong rulers.

I attended Christian Brothers College for the first year of high school and graduated 3 years later from St. Francis de Sales in south St. Louis. St. Francis de Sales is the largest church in south St. Louis made of brick with one of the tallest steeples in St. Louis. The parish was organized in 1867. The original church was destroyed in the tornado of 1896. The present church was built in 1906. It was modeled after St. Paul's Church in Berlin. It has the tallest steeple (300 ft.) in St. Louis and is sometimes called the "Cathedral of the South Side". This beautiful church has an unbelievable steeple with at least two men losing their lives during the construction.

After high school I attended the University of Missouri in Columbia, Mo. for my freshman year, and graduated from Quincy University in Quincy, Ill. with a BA in History in January 1966. In between these years I attended St. Louis University and Washington University for summer school. I also attended the University of San Francisco in an extension course in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico in the summer of 1963.

After Quincy, I went into the Marines in 1966 for two years. I was stationed in Virginia and in Rota, Spain for the two year tour of duty. After discharge from the Marines I worked for IBM in Philadelphia, Pa. The IBM job lasted for two years. Digital Equipment Corp. was the next job for 13 years in St. Louis, Philadelphia, NYC, San Jose, Ca. and Boston. From Digital I went to Sun Microsystems, Inc. in 1983 in their Boston office for a year. In 1984, I opened Sun's Penn. office in Wayne, Pa.

During that time I have lived in Wayne, Pa., Brooklyn Heights, NY, St. Louis, Mo., Woodside, Ca., Harvard, MA outside of Boston, and then back to Wayne, Pa. outside of Philadelphia (N40.03'04", W75.24'34").

I married Diane Marie Rider on Sunday, March 11, 1979, at St. Ursula's Catholic Church in Baltimore, Maryland. Diane Rider, 1-28-1948--, was born in Baltimore, Md. Diane's parents are James L. Rider 1924--1989, and Lois Koenig, 1927--, both born in Baltimore, Maryland. Both are descendants of German and Irish immigrants.

Two days after Diane was born Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated. Bread was 14 cents a loaf and gas was 16 cents a gallon. Harry S. Truman was president and there wasn't a vice president due to the death of Roosevelt.

Diane and I live outside of Philadelphia in Strafford-Wayne, Pa. with our two children. They are,

6.5.4.3.1.1. Jeremy Patrick McTiernan, 8-24-1978--10-8-2017, born in Omaha, Nebraska on Thursday, August 24, 1978, at 12:45 pm and died in Philadelphia, PA on Sunday, October 8, 2017 at 12:12 AM. Jeremy was baptized by Father George Thomas at Our Lady of the Wayside Catholic Church in Portola Valley, Calif., on 11-2-1980. Joe Feeney and Patricia Sheridan were the sponsors. Joe and Patti eventually got married.  Jeremy is buried in the Abbey of Creevelea, Creevelea, Drumahaire, Co Leitrim Ireland.

Jimmy Carter was president and Walter Mondale was vice president when Jeremy was born. Bread was 42 cents and gas was 63 cents a gallon.

Jeremy attended the Village Nursery School in Harvard, MA. He attended kindergarten at the New Eagle School in Wayne, Pa. Jeremy attended St. Katharine of Siena grade school in Wayne, Pa., up to the 6th grade. He attended The Haverford School in Haverford, Pa for the 6th grade. Jeremy attended the Delaware Valley Friends School (DVFS) in Haverford, Pa. for the 7th, 8th and 9th grades.

Jeremy spent his 10th and 11th year of High School at The Malvern Prep School in Malvern, Pa. Jeremy finished his 12th year at Conestoga High School in T/E Township, PA in 1997. Jeremy's best subjects are math and reading.

Himself attended St. Anselm College in Manchester, NH in September 1997 for his first year of college. Jeremy also attended Mitchell College in New London, CT.

Jeremy has played organized junior baseball and was one of the best inside right wings in the Junior soccer league. He is also an avid swimmer and soccer player. He made the All Star Little League baseball team in 1987 and 1989. He played an exceptional 3rd base in the 1991 Radnor league. Later, in High School he played ice hockey and did rock climbing. He also is a accomplished snow boarder and recently has taken up SCUBA diving.

Jeremy joined the United States Marines on January 29, 2006 and went through Parris Island boot camp in SC. After training at Camp Lejune in NC he transferred to the Marine base at 29 Palms, CA. Two days after arrival Jeremy volunteers for duty in Iraq. L/Cpl Jeremy McTiernan was stationed at Camp Grizzly in Falluja, Iraq providing convoy security.

6.5.4.3.1.2. Meghan Maura Pitts, nee McTiernan, 7-24-1983--, born in Baltimore, Md. on July 24, 1983, at 5:36 pm. Meghan was baptized at St. Ursula's C. C. in Baltimore, Md. on 9-10-1983. Her uncle, Jim Rider and her aunt, Colleen Knellinger, nee Rider were the sponsors. Meghan is an avid skier and loves to ice skate.

Ronald Reagan was president and George Bush was vice president when Meghan was born. Bread cost 89 cents a loaf and gas was $1.17 a gallon. Meghan attended nursery school at The Good Samaritan School in Paoli, Pa. Meghan attended The Crossroads School in Paoli, Pa. for grades K, 1st and 2nd. In 1993 Meg started in the 3rd Grade at the Devon Elementary School in Devon, Pa. and attended the middle school in T/E Township. Meg is currently doing home school.

Meg loves to ski and ice skate with a heart that will not quit. Meg has played soccer and baseball with a never stop trying attitude. After only one lesson Meg became a great skier. In 1998 Meg won two blue ribbons in her first horse show at the HRE of the Devon Horse Show in Devon, PA. In June 1998 Meg also won a 1st place gold medal in her first ISI figure skating competition in Newark, DE and a 3rd place medal in St. Louis at the ISI Competition in August 1998. Meg has recently taken up SCUBA diving.

On 9-9-2017, in Strafford, PA at Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church Meghan marred Eric Pitts. 

6.6. Winifred McGrail, the sixth of seven known children of Bartley McGrail Sr., 1817--1876 and Mary Flynn.

6.7. Patrick McGrail, the seventh of seven known children of Bartley McGrail Sr., 1817--1876 and Mary Flynn. Patrick married but the name of his wife is unknown. They had at least one child,

6.7.1. Patrick McGrail, married with the name of his wife unknown. They had five children. They were,

6.7.1.1. Stephen McGrail,

6.7.1.2. Michael McGrail, 9-5-1887--8-19-1962, married to Bridget Creamer, 8-5-1892--1-14-1988.

6.7.1.3. Leane McGrail,

6.7.1.4. Joseph McGrail,

6.7.1.5. Hugh McGrail, with the name of his wife unknown. They had at least one child,

6.7.1.5.1. Patrick McGrail,

In America, the 1890's were called the "Gay Nineties". Apparently life in Ireland during the 1890's must have been much harder. Bartley McGrail Jr., 1834--<1885, and Mary Byrne's three daughters immigrated to America during the 1890's. Their son, Stephen McGrail, stayed behind in Ireland.

Thus ends the known descendants of the McGrail family who have been in America since c.1892.

On my maternal side I descend from Helena who was one of the 7 European daughters of Eve. Even though I am a male McTiernan, my mother was a Fries and her mother was a Blaies and her mother was a Bender so I have their mtDNA but my children would not. They would have their mother's mtDNA not mine. The mtDNA is passed down maternally not paternally. The maternal mtDNA tracking is explained at http://mctiernan.com/mtdna.htm.

A Clan web page for the McGreal / McGrail families.

The 60 page history of the McTiernans / McTernans from Sheskin and a beginning 10 page history of the Carney / Kearney family from Carrigeencor and the early beginning history of the Beirne family from Drumrewey.

Others looking for information on their McGrail / McGreal families are at this URL: http://mctiernan.com/mcgrix.htm

The full PAF list of all my McGrail ancestors and descendants is at http://mctiernan.com/mcgpaf.htm

St. Theresa Oratory, Creevelea Drumkeeran, Co Leitrim.

Regards

Michael McTiernan
443 Homestead Rd.
Strafford, Pa. 19087-2472
USA
michael@mctiernan.com
mike.mctiernan@sun.com
http://mctiernan.com
610-688-0363

NOTES

While the Armorial Arms used in this paper are valid as belonging to the McGrail family, as yet there is no connection to my McGreal family line.

In County Leitrim, Barony of Drumahaire, parish of Inishmagrath. the following listings appear:

1. 15 McGreal's are mentioned in Griffith's Valuation of 1856,

2. The name McGreal does appear in the Tithe Book of 1834.

In County Leitrim, Barony of Carrigallen, parish of Drumrielly, the following listings appear: (note Ballinaglen parish is one of the Catholic parishes in the civil parish of Drumrielly The civil parish of Drumreilly has 3 different Catholic parishes, Ballinaglera, Drumreilly Upper and Lower.

1. The name McGrail does not appear in Griffith's Valuation of 1856.

2. The name McGrail does appear in the Tithe Book of 1834.

A Mary Tobin is buried in the McTiernan family plot in Cavalry Cemetery. Her date of death was reported to be 10-3-1928, and she died at the age of 56. However, it most likely was 9-29-1928. Mary is most likely related to the Tobin family line. Mary may have been the older sister of James J. Tobin, 1877--1945. According to her death certificate she never married and worked at the Immaculate Heart Convent. Mary lived at 7626 Natural Bridge Ave. in St. Louis. Clark's funeral home on Page Blvd. was the undertaker.

Mary Tobin, 8-12-1872--9-29-1928, was born in St. Louis, Mo. Her father, Jerry Tobin was born in Ireland. Her mother, Kate Tobin, nee Sullivan, was also born in Ireland. The informant on the death certificate was John Tobin. He was living in Normandy, Mo. at the time and may have been Mary's brother.

Additional names without a confirmed connection to the McTernan or McGrail families are;

1. Nora McKernan

2. McWorthy

3. Judge

4. Captain McTernan, this name was mentioned by Ellen Flynn, nee McTernan, 1919--, and is also noted in the 1880 dispute called the Land League of Leitrim. Seems as though Captain McTernan offered 6/8 discount on the land rents and the rest of the Leitrim landlords were offering 2/4 discount to the starving farmers. He also had an estate in Heapstown, Co. Sligo and Mount Allen, Mountallen townland, Kilronan parish, Barony of Boyle, Co Roscommon, [PO is Drumshanbo, Co Leitrim]. Due to the MacTighernan DNA test it was determined that genetically I relate to Rory MacTiernan who is the descendent of Capt. Hugh McTernan.

5. McHugh, a name mentioned by Anne McTiernan, nee McGrail was a local person in Leitrim Co. near her home. Most likely he was the P.A. McHugh that was the editor of the "Sligo Champion" and the person that was very active with the Nationalist Movement along with Bernard McTernan. Both were against Charles Dolan. The McNiff family must have had the best looking girls in Co. Leitrim. There are three McNiff women that married into the McTernan and McGreal families.

1. Anne McNiff, on July 20, 1835, married Peter McTernan, <1815--, and had a son named Hugh. (Peter's connection to the descendants of Hugh McTernan I is not confirmed.)

2. Bridget McNiff, married Thomas Byrne sometime before 1837. Thomas Byrne may have been the father of Mary Byrne, the wife of Bartley McGreal Jr.

3. Mary McNiff, married Patrick McTernan on February 20, 1835. Patrick McTernan was the son of Hugh McTernan III and the father of Hugh V

A Bridget McNiff married Owen McGrail in Drumkeeran. This is the McGrail family of Hugh McGrail of Boston. MA.

Anne McGrail, the wife of Hugh McTernan VI added the "i" in the name McTernan, making it McTiernan. The McTiernan's in Australia did also.

Getting married on Saturday must be a modern way to do things. Most of the earlier weddings took place during the week. An explanation might be that, as farmers, the McTernan's worked every day of the week, with the possible exception of Sunday. So being married on Tuesday wasn't any different than Saturday.

The S.S. Campania was the name of the ship that brought Hugh McTernan VI and his wife Anne McGrail to America. It was commissioned by the Cunard Line in 1893. The ship was only two years old when they made the trip. It held over 2,000 passengers. It was built in Scotland and could do 22 knots per hour, if you could shovel 20.5 tons of coal per hour to keep it going. It once broke a speed record by crossing the Atlantic in 5 days, 17 hours and 27 minutes.

Two years after the S.S. Campania took Hugh McTiernan VI to America it was chosen in 1897 to be used in the Queen Victoria Diamond Jubilee Celebration and was reviewed by Queen Victoria on the Anniversary of her 60th year of reigning the British Empire. The S.S. Campania was the largest ship of the Cunard Line. It carried 2,000 members of the Press and the entire British House of Commons during this review.

Around 1915, it was refurbished by the British for use as an aircraft carrier. In a collision with the battleship HMS Revenge in the Firth of Forth Sea off Scotland the S.S. Campania sank on November 5, 1918.

The 1901 Irish Census listed the following families from the Inishmagrath parish.

1. Honor McGrail, 1823--, (may have been the spouse of Owen McGrail, -->1876), had at least one son.

1.1. Patrick McGrail, 1870--, Patrick married a girl named Ellie, 1874--. They had two children,

1.1.1. John McGrail, 1899--,

1.1.2. Steve McGrail, 1900--,

2. Bridget McGrail, 1826--, (may have been married to Hugh McGrail, <1818--<1856), had a son.

2.1. Michael McGrail, 1862--, Michael married a girl named Annie, 1871--. They had the following six children,

2.1.1. Patrick McGrail, 1892--,

2.1.2. Owen McGrail, 1893- -,

2.1.3. Stephen McGrail, 1894--,

2.1.4. Marianne McGrail, 1897--,

2.1.5. John T. McGreal, 1898--,

2.1.6. Myles McGrail, 1900--.

Additional names without any proven link to our McGrail family.

1. Mary McGrail, 1837--8-3-1913. Mary's husband was still living in 1913. The family lived in the townland of Slievenakilla, Barony of Drumahaire, Civil parish of Drumreilly, District of Drumshanbo, Union of Carrick-on-the-Shannon. They had a son.

1.1. James McGrail. -- >1913,

Many of our McGrail ancestors were married at the Chapel of Inishmagrath. The Chapel of Inishmagrath and St. Bridget's in Drumkeeran are one in the same.

In 1890, St. Louis became the 4th largest city in America. NYC, Chicago and Philadelphia were the first three. The reason the McTiernan and McGrail families may have settled in the St. Louis, Missouri area might well have been the large extensive railroad complex that existed in East St. Louis, Illinois in the later part of the 19th century. It appears that the only way to get from the east coast to the west cost was to go through St. Louis. This drew a large number of Irish to the St. Louis area. When airplane travel became the norm it killed the need for a country wide hub for railroads like St. Louis.

Father Catterlin was highly regarded by Anne McTiernan, nee McGrail. Anne may have insisted that the family settle near the Rock Church on Grand Ave., in St. Louis where Father Catterlin was stationed.

Kerry Patch, a neighborhood section of early St. Louis, MO was the traditional area where most of the St. Louis Irish settled. Kerry Patch was bordered on the west by Jefferson Ave., on the east by the Mississippi River, on the south by Easton Ave. and on the north by Natural Bridge Blvd.

Below is a list of McTernan's and McGrails that were on the branches of the Irish National League in North Leitrim.

Drumkeeran (March 1887): Hugh McTernan, Stephen McGrail, C. McTernan

Killenummery (Jan 1889): Geoffrey McTiernan

Creevelea (Dec 1887): P. McTernan

A list of subscribers for the Drumahaire St. Patrick's Church fund circa 1890 were:

1. James McTernan, Doonkelly, Drumlease parish.
2. John McTernan, Moreagh, Drumlease parish.
3. Owen McTernan, Fawnarry, Drumlease parish.
4. John McTernan, Gortnaskeagh, Drumlease parish.
5. Michael McTenan Sr., Gleneige, Drumlease parish.
6. Michael McTenan Jr., Gleneige, Drumlease parish.
7. Pat McTernan, Gleneige, Drumlease parish.
8. James McTernan, Gleneige, Drumlease parish.
9. Owen Carney, Cloonaquin, Cloonlogher parish.
10. Michael Carney, Carrigeencor, Drumlease parish.
11. Thomas McTernan, Fawn, Drumlease parish.
12. Mr. McGrail, Merchant, Drumkeeran, Inishmagrath parish.
13. Miss McTernan, New York, N.Y. USA
14. Miss McTernan, Cork
15. Owen Carney--Bohey
16. Michael Carney--Carrigeencor, Drumlease parish.
17. Mr. McGrail--Drumkeeran

1. John McGreal, 1827--, farmer.
2. Michael McGreal, 1817--, tailor.
3. Patrick McGreal, 1845--,
4. Ann McGrail, 1828--, spinster.

1. Deed search for the McGrail / Bryne family on Drumrewy, at the Registry of Deeds, Henrietta St., Dublin, I.
2. During the famine of 1890 a John McGrail from Drumkeeran was entrusted with the carting of the seed supplies to Inishmagrath and Ballinaglera.
3. During the famine of 1889, a pork market was opened in the village of Drumkeeran. Stephen McGrail and his assistants did the weighing.
4. In August 1891, J. McGrail entertained the members of the St. Bridgid's choir with Irish and Scottish airs on the fiddle.
5. In 1798, a man named McGrail was killed in the French invasion of Ireland that took place in Co. Leitrim. He was killed at Ballinamuck. It appears that he was on the side of the local rebels who were helping the French.

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