Thomas R Hopkins
Thomas R Hopkins was born in Illinois, in 1883.
At 6 years of age, he was place in a Catholic orphanage, on the south side of Chicago, by his father. His mother had died.
He was there 6 years, until 1895.
From 12 years old until 21 years,he was known as Tommy White, after his 'adopted' parents.
At 21, he was formally offered the name White as a surname. He politely declined it.
He said, "The only thing my parents left me was my name".
The 1900 Federal census for Illinois says, he was born in Illinois, both his parents were born in Ireland.
No parent's name mentioned.
No Irish county recorded.
From my earliest memory, I was told, "You're a HOPKINS and You're IRISH !" Most Hopkins I've come in contact with are English, Scot or Welsh.
In 2004, I ran my DNA, to help solve this mystery. I've matched Hopkins near Castlebar, Swineford, Ballaghaderreen, and Boyle.
They didn't find the Norse, Norman, English of Scot gene in me. A true mystery, don't you know.
There's a picture of Thomas and his family as my profile picture.
Please take a look at the picture and see if you recognize anyone in you area who resembles my family. We're easily recognizable.
I very much look forward to your help and your responses. Prayers are welcome, too.