My great-great-great grandfather, John Turner and his wife, Jane, left Donegal (cty?) via Londonderry in May 1839 aboard Brig. Oceanus, arriving in NYC in June 1839. He is listed as a farmer. He brought 7 children along, ages 7-26. I only know that they came from "Donegal", but have no idea if that is also the town, or if they are from another town. I hope to hear from other Turners who might still be living in the area.
Hi Lynne,
The surname "Turner" was not a common name in Donegal in the 1820's. The name is to be found in the parishes of Leck and Conwal, Diocese of Raphoe which are in the general area of the town of Letterkenny. One recorded in the parish of Clonca - Barony of Inishowen.
The 1901 Irish census have a number of that surname in various parts of the County.
You can access those records at www.nationalarchives.ie ; - Free Site.
Regards,
Dear McCoy,
Thank you for the information on the Turner name. "Letterkenny" jumped out at me. I know I've seen it in someone's file and foolish me....I did not make of note of who it was! After they arrived in 1839, they did quite well here in NYC. My GGGrandfather, Hugh Turner, earned a good living as a house painter...good enough to be able to have a servant girl working in his home (which he owned), to help with the six children. He also became a City Councilmember. The entire family seems to have prospered, based on the size of the gravestones I located last week. These two are my great uncle Robert Turner (who was a letter carrier) and his son James. The information you've provided will help me pinpoint further family information. Best regards, Lynne