Eliza Fitzgerald

Eliza was the daughter of Patrick a herd in Poulowack, the Burren County Clare.  

She married John Lahiff in 1864 and together they had ten children nine of whom lived to adulthood. Their children were baptized at St Columba's in Carron. Eliza and her husband made 2 trips to America, the first being in 1872. Their young son Patrick died a few weeks after arriving in Providence, Rhode Island. Their daughter Mary Ellen was born in Providence but not long after they returned with their children to the Burren. There they remained and raised their family until 1888 when they made the journey back to America.

They settled in Newport, Rhode Island and Eliza died in 1899.

They were strong and resilient and lived full but short lives in comparison to today's standards. Her descendants are numerous and spread throughout America. Her granddaughter Ann Veronica Lahiff (aka Nancy Carroll) became a famous actress--the first to sing and dance in a "talkie" movie. Her son Billy owned Lahiff's Tavern in NYC which catered to many Broadway stars and sports figures.