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How do I find the transcript of a will from an ancestor who died 1895?

Hi, hope someone can advise.

My great grandfather Patrick Breen died Summerhill, Co Meath 29.11.1895. He was a sergeant in RIC. The National Archives Wills Calendar states that the administration of his will was to his widow Bridget Breen of Kildoon, Co Kildare (correct). This note also says he was a farmer, whereas civil records confirm him still serving in RIC.

I would like to be able to read the will, especially as family rumour says he left land to his brother in law Hugh McGinn. Patrick Breen was born in Co Monaghan and Hugh McGinn farmed there, having also inherited land from Patrick's father Michael Breen (died 1898; fortunately that will is easy to access and read via PRONI).

Thank you.

Fionn Lawlor

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3 replies

Fionn,

Please see attached re Patrick Breen - Sergeant RIC.

Value of his estate £129. Possible error in transcription?

Due to the fire n the Public Records Office in 1922, the actual Will may not be available.

Credit: Subscription site  www.findmypast.ie

Regards,

 

McCoy

The wording of the probate abstract (administration) means that Patrick died intestate (he left no will). Administration of his estate was therefore dealt with under intestacy laws, with his widow acting as executrix.

Police Officers often came from farming backgrounds and often described themselves as farmers in official documents.  They often appear in the 1901 and 1911 censuses as “farmers” or “farmer’s sons.” In this case Patrick may well have had the family farm, as well as being a police sergeant.

Elwyn, IrelandXO Volunteer ☘IrelandXO Volunteer

Thank you everyone.

I think this is a family rumour with mistaken names. Patrick Breen's father Michael left land in trust to his son-in-law Hugh McGinn to oversee until his son Michael returned from the US - which he never did - and is someone we can't find any details of. Patrick died aged 48, before his father, so I agree it's unlikely he had land to give to his sister's husband. The farm was in Annadrumman, Co Monaghan, Patrick served in Co Meath and his wife returned to her family in Co Kildare after his death, where I believe she was quite comfortable, eventually "inheriting" the family shop.

Thanks again, Fionn

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