James Devitt

Hello to all in Kilmanaheen Parish,

My name is Steve Devitt of Sydney, Australia and I am trying to locate the family of my great-great grandfather, James Devitt, born circa 1800. James married Alice / Ellen Donohoe who came from the townland of Martry, Parish of Rath and I believe they lived their married life in Rath. Three of their children emigrated to Australia over a period of 13 years - Mary, in 1854, John in 1858 and Michael in 1867. Michael was my great-grandfather.

The Donohoe family story indicates that James Devitt came from the "west of Inagh" and hence I have been looking at the townlands of Derryharriv ( Inagh ) and Fahanlunaghta ( Kilmanaheen ). I know that the Devitt name has been strong in Fahanlunaghta for many generations and at one time, a Patrick Devitt moved to Derryharriv where his descendants still remain.

In the Moughna Cemetery, the abovementioned Patrick Devitt erected a tombstone for his father John Devitt, from Fahanlunaghta, who died on 2nd April 1847, aged 77 years. This information gives John Devitt a birth year of 1770. I am wondering if my great-great grandfather, James, was another son or nephew of this John Devitt.

I know from the immigration information that James Devitt died at some time prior to 1858, when his son John emigrated to Australia. His wife, Alice, lived until 1878, aged 70 years. She died at her brother Timothy's home at Knocknagraigue East townland in Clooney Parish.

I would appreciate any information which can assist me in my search.

Best regards,

Steve Devitt