James Widney : Short Biography

JAMES WIDNEY, described in a 1724 deed as James Widney the younger of Killymurry "in the Parish of Erigle Barony of Truegh", was born between 1690 and 1700 in County Monaghan, Ireland.  Erigle Parish was later renamed Errigal Trough.  His specific place of birth likely was the townland of Killymurry, which was owned by his father, James Widney the elder. 

In or about 1724, his father conveyed to James the younger one-half of Killymurry contingent upon his marriage to Ann Carlisle.  The deed describes Ann as the niece of Thomas Donaldson of Drumcondra, County Monaghan. She was also a daughter of William and Elizabeth Carlisle and was baptized on 3 July 1709. 

It is unknown when either James or Ann died, although the 1744 memorial of the 1724 deed suggests that James died about 1744.  An Irish deed memorial often recites an earlier deed, often verbatim, and was recorded to establish existing ownership when a property was being conveyed.  Since Killymurry remained in the family until 1784, the 1744 memorial most likely represents the passing of James the younger and inheritance by his son. 

James's year of birth is estimated based on the date of his marriage and his year of death suggested by the deed memorial.