Mary Ann McCoubrie 1864 - 1916 d. South Africa
I have been attempting to uncover some information for a Mary Ann McCoubrie for my brother in law. She married a John "Jock" Thompson and left for South Africa c. 1892. I am informed that she left two sons behind. The family in South Africa also say that she was born in Scotland. Her year of birth per her Death Cert would suggest 1864/65. I have not found any verifiable records for Mary Ann. However, I decided to undertake an analysis of the 1901 census with a view to listing all the "McCoubries" that cited Scotland as their place of birth. I came up with two entries (families) that satisfied this condition. William McCoubrie aged 39 of Carrick Fergus, Co. Antrim and Edward Muir McCoubrie, aged 37 of Whiteabbey, Co Antrim. Edward's situation was only some time later clarified when I visited the 1911 census. It would seem the two are connected and perhaps brothers. I gleaned information from www.scotlandspeople.gov.uk: a date of birth for William McCoubrie of September 7th 1861 at Greenock, Renfrew, Scotland. His parents are recorded as Thomas McCoubrie and Janet Muir. This explains the use of"Muir" in the surname. Further, I came across an 1881 census entry for William at 19 years and also Marriage record to Margaret McVicar in 1881 in Greenock, Scotland. I also have it from the people in South Africa that they were told that it was possible to see the shores of Northern Ireland from their home in Scotland. The marriage of William to Margaret was furtther confirmed with the birth of their son William James June 15th, 1885 in Westmeath. Also before I omit this fact I have found a birth record for a Mary McCoubray in Greenock Old or West, the same area as William and Edward. The year however is 1868 offering a difference of at least 3 years given or YOB: 1865. I have been able to progress the families of William and Edward. William married again: Isabella Long, birth name Russell April 5th, 1892. One of the sponsors on the Marriage Certificate (www.irishgenealogy.ie) appears to be Mary McCoubrie? A commom theme also is the occupation of Gardener for William, Edward and Thomas, William's father in Scotland. In fact Mary Ann McCoubrie's Spouse John "Jock" Thompson became a horticulturalist. William and Isabella McCoubrie's two daughters married. Isabella married James Ogg 1913 while Janet McCoubrie married Samuel Connor in Carrickfergus and believe she may have died c. 1915. My Question in all this is that although the circumstantial connections seem to persuasive there is no tangible evidence linking Mary Ann to William or Edward. No Marriage record for Mary Ann to John Thompson. Baptismal records of the children for Edward or William might show mary as sponsor if lucky. I would be most grateful if you can help in this matter. Thankng you in advance for any effort you might take.