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Hugh Montgomery -
unconfirmed
abt 1756 - 18??
This unconfirmed Montgomery was the six times great grandfather
of Calum and Jamie.
The identity of this ancestor has as yet to be confirmed, except that it
is believed that he settled in the townland of Drumgurland in Islandmagee. It
is possible that this was a Hugh Montgomery, reported on several online sites to have been born in 1756
in Larne, and who later married a Margaret Evans, but this has still to be confirmed. The fact that his name
might be Hugh is circumstantially possible in that his son John named his eldest son Hugh, which does fit
the Scottish Presbyterian naming pattern of the eldest son being named after the father's father. There is also a burial
record of a stone in Ballyprior Churchyard naming a Nancy Montgomery who passed away in September 21st 1826,
aged 28, and who was buried by her mother, Margaret Evans. The fact that John and his siblings were all buried in close proximity
is another circumstantial piece of evidence that might suggest that Margaret was in fact mother to all of them - though
this does not connect Hugh as their father, or state where his supposed birth year of 1756 has been sourced from.
Although not going so far as to name him, Dixon Donaldson does give us some information about him
in his 1927 book, History of Islandmagee. He notes that the father of John Montgomery was "of a stock
which hailed from Gallowayshire, and had settled in the vicinity of Larne some generations earlier". He added that "it
is believed that the schoolmaster's father came to Islandmagee towards the end of the eighteenth century as manager on
Mr Malcolm McNeill's farm at Brownsbay. This seems probable from the fact that none of the name of Montgomery occurs in any
of the old records preserving the names of residents up to that period, and only in one instance of an earlier date is to
be found on a tombstone here".
Malcolm McNeill was a merchant from Larne who was granted a 32 year lease to run the farm by Arthur,
Viscount Dungannon, on 1 DEC 1793. The farm size was 78 acres within the townland of Ballypriorbeg and 61 acres in Dundressan
(Source: PRONI D778/257), at an annual rent of £161 14s. It is known that Malcolm McNeill had various business interests with
a John Montgomery of Larne, with various documents from the 1780s held at PRONI confirming this to be the case.
There is an interesting document, a reconveyance of a mortgage on 4 APR 1809, between a John
Montgomery of Alicante, Spain, and Malcolm McNeill of Larne, concerning land in Ballypriorbeg and Dundressan, with the
mortgage value at £2578 - a substantial amount for the time (Source: PRONI D509/1703). A possible theory is that this
John Montgomery (noted in another document from 1802 as being of Alicante and Belfast) may be related to the father of
the manager who worked for Malcolm McNeill at Brown's Bay, and that he might also be the same John Montgomery who was a merchant
in Larne in the 1780s, in partnership with McNeill.
There is a Nathaniel Montgomery interred at St John's Church graveyard in the
townland of Ballyharry on Islandmagee. This Nathaniel was noted as having passed away at the age on 60 on 12 AUG 1812, and
as having been married to an Elizabeth Montgomery, who passed away on 6 JUN 1831, aged 83. The monument in
the yard was erected to them by a son, also called Nathaniel. The name does not appear anywhere in our confirmed
lineage, and it may be that his presence there is merely coincidental, but it equally may be that there is a connection -
more work needs to be done on this also.
Children of Hugh MONTGOMERY and Margaret EVANS (unconfirmed parents):
John Montgomery
b: abt 1783 d: 11/7/1879
Calum's and Jamie's five times great grandfather - see below
Jane Montgomery
b: 1786 d: 13/6/1850
A note in the school log book kept by her brother John Montgomery
confirms Jane as a member of the family. It states the following:
My sister Jane Montgomery or Kerr in the Evening between 5 & 6 o'clock in the Evening (sic) Died June 13
1850 In the 64th year of her age
John Montgomery
Jane was buried in Ballypriormore graveyard on Islandmagee. The
gravestone inscription confirms her husband as William Kerr:
KERR Erected by William Kerr in memory of his father and mother.
Also his wife Jane Montgomery who departed this life 13th of June 1850 aged 64 years.
Hugh Montgomery
b: abt 1789 d: 29/12/1870
From Hugh's death certificate in 1871 an age of 82 is given, suggesting a birth year of approximately
1788 or 1789.
Hugh would appear to be the brother of John Montgomery, although the case so far has been drawn up
circumstantially. In 1824 both Hugh and John were granted leases of 31 years on the farmland within the townland of Drumgurland,
by Lord Viscount Dungannon - Hugh's lease was for 14 acres and was granted on 17 JUN 1824 (Source: PRONI
D778/797). Another key clue of the link between them comes in 1871, when Samuel Montgomery of Dundressan
was asked to act as an executor to Hugh's will - it is believed that Samuel was Hugh's nephew.
For details of various leases and tithe applotment book records naming Hugh, see John's entry below.
Hugh was a farmer throughout his life, and remained in Drumgurland until his death in December 1870.
Hugh married Margaret McMeekin at some stage prior to 1834 and had at least six children.
The family were members of 1st Presbyterian Church in Islandmagee.
Hugh died at Drumgurland on 29 DEC 1870. The cause was bronchitis of one week, and he was noted as
a married 82 year old farmer. The informant on 6 JAN 1871 at Ballycarry was his son Alexander of Drumgurland, who was
present at the death (Source: GROI D 1871 Vol 1 p.495 Larne, age 82).
No. 7018. Montgomery, Hugh, deceased.
Effects sworn under £200
Died at Drumgurland County Antrim 29th December 1870
In the Name of God Amen I Hugh Montgomery of the Townland of Drumgurland
and and (sic) parish of Islandmagee farmer being of a weak body but of sound mind and memory thanks be given to Almighty God calling
to mind the mortality of my body and Knowing that it is appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last
will and testament That is to say Principall and first of all I give and recommend my soul into the hands of Almighty God
that gaveth it and my body to the earth to be buried in decent Christian burial at the discretion of my executors nothing
doubting but at general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the Mighty power of God and with whatever substance
God has blessed me with in this life I give demise and dispose of the same in the following manner and form Viz, First I leave
and bequeath to my son Alexander Montgomery the land and stock crop and Furniture And he is to support in this house to her
death my Loving wife. Second and my daughter is to stop to her Mother's to her death and during that time she is to have decent
clothing for the same and at her mother's death she is to have Thirty five pounds sterling Also my son Hugh Montgomery the
of ______ Twenty five pounds sterling & Also my daughter Ellen Templeton the sum of Ten pounds sterling Also my daughter
Martha McIlroy the sum of ten pounds sterling The above sums are due at my wife's death and if my son Hugh Montgomery finds
my son Alexander Montgomery not able to pay the money at the above time mentioned I allow my son Hugh Montgomery to give
my son Alexander Montgomery whatever time he requires within the space of Three years. And if my son Alexander Montgomery
dies unmarried or without an heir the property Falls to my son Hugh Montgomery If married by paying the sum of Fifty pounds
to The widow. Also my son Hugh Montgomery is to come and go as usual to the House And appoint for my executors and witnesses
my son Hugh Montgomery and Samuel Montgomery. Signed, sealed and delivered in presence of the above executors dated the 27th
of December, Hugh Montgomery ___ Witnesses present __Hugh Montgomery__ Samuel Montgomery.
In the Goods of Hugh Montgomery late of Drumgurland Islandmagee in the County of Antrim farmer deceased
In her Majesty's Court of Probate The District Registry at Belfast, I Hugh Montgomery of Drumgurland in the County
of Antrim Mariner aged Twenty one years and upwards make oath and say That I am one of the subscribing witnesses to the last
will and Testament of the said Hugh Montgomery late of Drumgurland Islandmagee in the County of Antrim Farmer deceased the
said will being now hereuto arrested bearing the date Twenty seventh day of December one thousand eight hundred and seventy
and that the said Testator executed the said will on the day of the date thereof by signing his name at the foot or end thereof
as the same now appears thereon in the presence of me and of Samuel Montgomery of Dundressan Islandmagee aforesaid Farmer
the other subscribed witness thereto both of us being present at the same time and we thereupon attested and subscribed the
said will in the presenc eof the said Testator and of each other...(various typographical corrections then listed).
Hugh Montgomery. Sworn before me at Larne in the County of Antrim this 6th day of December 1871 a commissioner to administer
oaths in chancery in the land for said county and I know the deponent. I. M. McCormick Comms. W. W. McNeill Solr.
Children of Hugh MONTGOMERY and Margaret McMEEKIN:
Martha Montgomery
b: abt 1831
Martha was mentioned in Hugh's will (see above). She married John McIlroy,
son of Edward McIlroy of Dundressan, on 5 SEP 1862, with the record noting her father as Hugh Montgomery of Drumgurland. Both
Martha and John were of full age (i.e. over 21). The witnesses were Hugh Holmes and Mary Forbes (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1,
1st Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee).
In the 1901 census, as Margaret McIlroy she is noted as a 70 year old widow and farmer resident
in Dundressan townland on Islandmagee. With her was her 28 year old son Hugh and her 24 year old daughter
Maggie (Source: 1901 census Islandmagee).
John Montgomery
b: 2/5/1834 d: 1???
John was born in Drumgurland on 2 MAY 1834 and baptised at 1st Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee,
on 19 JUN 1834 (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1, 1st Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee).
Eleanor Montgomery
b: 11/10/1836 d: 1???
Eleanor was born in Drumgurland on 11 OCT 1836 and baptised at 1st Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee,
on 8 NOV 1836 (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1, 1st Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee).
Hugh Montgomery
b: 23/9/1839
Hugh was born in Drumgurland on 23 SEP 1839 and baptised at 1st Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee,
on 31 OCT 1839 (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1, 1st Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee).
b: 9/10/1842 d: 2/8/1890
Alexander was born in Drumgurland on 9 OCT 1842 and baptised at 1st Presbyterian Church,
Islandmagee, on 16 OCT 1842 (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1, 1st Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee).
Alexander married a woman by the name of Lucy at some stage, though the wedding
record has as yet to be found.
Alexander died on 2 AUG 1890 (Source: GRONI D/1890/129/1016/6/118 Larne, age 47). He was later
commemorated by his son Hugh in Islandmagee's Anglican graveyard. The following is the inscription, as recorded
in Gravestone Inscriptions, County Antrim. Volume 1, Parish of Islandmagee (Ulster Historical Foundation 1977):
Erected by Hugh Montgomery in loving memory of his father Alexander
Montgomery who died 2nd Aug 1890. His mother Lucy Montgomery died 28th January 1926. His children: Robertina McMaw died 28th
Nov 1920, John died 4th feby 1924. The above Hugh Montgomery died 20th March 1958. His wife Mary Montgomery died 9th November
1967.
Jenny Montgomery
b: 16/6/1847
Jenny was born in Drumgurland on 16 JUN 1847 and baptised at 1st Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee,
on 27 JUN 1847 (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1, 1st Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee).
James Montgomery
b: abt 1791 d: 15/11/1848
James was resident in Drumgurland for most of his life, where he worked
as a carpenter. Although a baptism record does not exist for him, he is clearly a brother to John, Hugh
and Jane of Drumgurland, with their being the only Montgomery family on the Islandmagee peninsula in
the late 18th century, after their father first came over from Larne to manage Malcolm McNeill's farm.
James is known to have had at least two confirmed children, though most likely had more. He eventually
passed away on 15 NOV 1848 and was buried at Ballypriormore graveyard on Islandmagee. The following inscription is recorded
for him:
MONTGOMERY
In memory of Hugh Montgomery who died 30th May 1902 aged 69 years. Also
his father James Montgomery who died 15th Nov 1848 aged 57 years. Also his mother Mary Ann Montgomery who died 23rd Augt.
1877 aged 80 years. Also his wife Jenny Montgomery who died 16th Septr 1907 aged 82 years.
As noted, James' wife Mary Ann passed away in 1877. her death certificate states that she
was by then resident at Browns Bay, Islandmagee, and that she was an 80 year old widow, her husband having been a carpenter.
The cause was rheumatism as suffered for two years. The informant was her daughter Jenny Simms, also of Brownsbay, who was
present at her death (Source: GRONI D/1877/129/1016/2/491 Ballycarry sub-district).
CHILDREN of JAMES MONTGOMERY and MARY ANN:
Jenny Montgomery
On 20 DEC 1861 Jenny married James Simms, mariner, son of Percival
Simms, mariner, of Drumgurland. The witnesses were Robert Montgomery and Marty (?) Montgomery.
(Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1 Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian)
Hugh Montgomery
b: abt 1833 d: 1902
On 6 JUN 1862 Hugh, noted as a carpenter of full age, and son of James Montgomery,
carpenter, both of Drumgurland, married Jenny Stewart, daughter of John Stewart, labourer,
and of Ballycronan. The witnesses were Robert Stewart and John Gordon. (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1 Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian)
William Montgomery
b: abt 1795 d: 1868
William Montgomery is again almost certain to be a brother of John,
Hugh, Jane and James, being resident alongside them in Drumgurland townland
in Islandmagee. As with his siblings, the earlier parish records do not survive to confirm the identity of his parents, but
we do know that he married Mary Alexander prior to 1832, and had at least eight children.
CHILDREN of WILLIAM MONTGOMERY and MARY ALEXANDER:
Mary Montgomery
b: abt 1832 d: 1905
Martha Montgomery
b. 5/9/1833
Martha was born in Drumgurland, Islandmagee, on 5 SEP 1833, and baptised at 1st Presbyterian
Church on 20 SEP 1833. (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1 Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian)
Jane Montgomery
b: 8/8/1835
Jane was born in Drumgurland, Islandmagee, on 8 AUG 1835, and baptised at 1st Presbyterian Church
on 11 AUG 1835. It is believed that she passed away in infancy, as a sister called Jane was baptised a year later. (Source:
PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1 Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian)
Jane Montgomery
b: 7/7/1836
Jane was born in Drumgurland, Islandmagee, on 7 JUL 1836, and baptised at 1st Presbyterian Church
on 21 JUL 1836. (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1 Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian)
William Montgomery
b: 21/3/1838
William was born in Drumgurland, Islandmagee, on 21 MAR 1838, and baptised at 1st Presbyterian
Church on 12 APR 1838. (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1 Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian)
John Montgomery
b: 21/7/1840
John was born in Drumgurland, Islandmagee, on 21 JUL 1840, and baptised at 1st Presbyterian Church
on 10 AUG 1840. (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1 Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian)
John married Ann Jane Ross on 9 MAR 1866 in a ceremony at 2nd Presbyterian Church,
Islandmagee. he was noted as a farmer of full age from Drumgurland, and the son of William Montgomery, farmer. Ann was also
of full age, and the daughter of Andrew Ross of Islandmagee (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/337).
Agnes Montgomery
b: 20/3/1844
Agnes was born in Drumgurland, Islandmagee, on 20 MAR 1844, and baptised at 1st Presbyterian
Church on 7 APR 1844. (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1 Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian)
James Montgomery
b: 28/3/1850
James was born in Drumgurland, Islandmagee, on 28 MAR 1850, and baptised at 1st Presbyterian
Church on 14 APR 1850. (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1 Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian)
 John Montgomery
b: abt 1783 d: 11/7/1879
John was Calum's and Jamie's five times great grandfather.
John was quite an influential resident of Islandmagee in County Antrim. Donald Harman Atkenson's book
Between Two Revolutions: Islandmagee, County Antrim 1798-1920, notes the following about him on p.166:
John Montgomery (born 1783, the earliest firm dating
for any of the entrepeneurial teachers mentioned herein), was the son of the manager of Islandmagee's only large farm, that
of Malcolm McNeill at Brownsbay, and Montgomery himself served for a time as a Justice of the Peace.
Dixon Donaldson, in his History of Islandmagee (1927) has two whole pages
dedicated to John, as one of the pre-National School schoolmasters making a living on the peninsula. He notes that John was
of a stock which hailed from Gallowayshire in Scotland, where the name was more anciently written also as McGlammery or MacIomaire.
He also notes why John became a school master:
The subject of this notice was fifteen years of age at the time
of the turn-out in '98, and as a result of a boyish prank with a loaded weapon which had fallen into his hands an accident
deprived him of several fingers, thereby making him partially unfit for manual labour. His parents consequently gave him every
opportunity within their means of acquiring a knowledge of those subjects which might prove useful to him as a teacher, and
which he afterwards taught with singular success.
In those days it was the custom for rural schoolmasters to move about the country from house to house
giving a little instruction to individual pupils on their rounds; sometimes, when a suitable room could be found, he resided
in that house for several days together, the scholars in the vicinity coming in the day time, and grown ups attending in the
fore suppers to take advantage of his presence in their neighbourhood to improve their own scanty education. From a Roll Book
of his pupils and miscellaneous Journal which Mr. Montgomery left behind him in good condition, and now in the possession
of his great grandson, Robert Montgomery, we infer that at one period of his career, he probably travelled in this way throughout
the parish. It is also known that at a later period he occupied premises as a schoolhouse on the farmstead of Betty Huggan,
in the townland of Drumgurland; now the property of Mr James Lusk.
The book is a substantial foolscap volume half-bound in calf, and contains many entries of local
interest, besides school records. The penmanship is neatly, and in places, gracefully executed, and although the writing is
a century old it is still quite clear and legible. It is indicative of his method and thoroughness that Mr Montgomery kept
a record of progress in the various subjects of instruction.
The Roll of Pupils which has been preserved covers the years 1826-1831, and contains upwards of one hundred
and fifty names, with ages varying from six to twenty years...
The first significant entry in the book that tells us anything about John is a note from 1831, written
by him, concerning a case that he heard as a justice of the peace. The note states the following:
County petition viz
Margaret McMurtry of Island Magee cometh before me
one of his Majestie's Justices of the Peace in and
for said county and maketh oath on the Holy
Evangelist and saith that she is pregnant with
Child and the father of said child is Robert McTeer
Gransha in Islandmagee and none else
dated April 5th 1831 &c John Montgomery
In 1835 a report by the Commissioners of Public Instruction in Ireland reported that John ran
a day school in Islandmagee, one of ten schools in the parish, where he taught reading, writing and arithmetic. The children
attending paid from 2s 2d to 3s 3d per quarter for their tuition. At the time of the commission's enquiry, he was teaching
53 males and 1 female, and the numbers were stated to be on the increase over the preceeding 5 year period. The average daily
attendance at the school was 35 children, making it the third largest in the peninsula (Source: Commissioners of Public Instruction
in Ireland, General Report, Vol.1 p.298, accessed via Google Books 21 JUN 2104).
A school log book kept by John has survived. Although known to be still in private hands in the 1980s
(via John's great grandson Robert Montgomery at Ravenhill Nursing Home in Greenisland), a distant cousin, Dan Kane,
was able at that time to photocopy the book, in addition to the account books of John's son Hugh Montrgomery,
blacksmith, and to deposit it at the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland. The book is now catalogued as D4014/1, with
the description as follows:
Xerox copy of a school log book of John Montgomery, schoolmaster, and justice
of the peace, detailing children's names and addresses, a scriptural alphabet, a few mathematical problems and solutions,
some writings and genealogical notes by John Montgomery and a catalogue of the Ballycarry Congregational Library.
At some stage prior to 1817, John married Isabella
Brown. Donaldson again noted his reminiscences about the family in 1927:
Mr. Montgomery married Isabella Brown of Hunterstown, by whom he had three
sons and three daughters. He died in July 1879, in his 97th year. One of his sons, Robert, went to Belfast. Hugh was established
by Mr. McNeill in the forge on that gentleman's farm at Brownsbay, and was succeeded in his trade by his son Hugh, who is
still living. Samuel, who lived with his father on the little farm at Dundressan, removed to Hunterstown farm in the townland
of Ballycronanbeg in the year 1886. Of his three daughters, Margaret became the wife of Robert Templeton; Jane the wife of
John Douther; and Mary, the wife first of James Kane, who belonged to Ballymena district, and afterwards of William McFerran;
all of whom had issue.
Both John Montgomery and Hugh
Montgomery are recorded as landowners in the townland of Drumgurland from 1824 (Hugh from 1819 at least). John
was granted a 31 year lease by Viscount Dungannon on 22 DEC 1824 for 1 acre of land at Drumgurland, at an annual rent of £3,
as noted in a counterpart to the lease held at PRONI (Source: PRONI D778/948). A similar lease for 31 years was granted also
to Hugh Montgomery for 14 acres in Drumgurland a few months earlier, on 17 JUN 1824 (Source: PRONI D778/797).
The subsequent transcriptions are from some of the rental records concerning John and his brother
Hugh from the estate of Lord Viscount Dungannon, stating the bi-annual payments owed and paid, as well as the tithes owed
from 1825:
Rentals 1825 Lord Viscount Dungannon Island Magee 1825
Drumgurland
Hugh Montgomery
Arrears due 1 NOV 1824 ---------
Half a year due May 1825 £ 7 10s
Half a year due Nov 1827 £ 7 10s
Received £ 7 10s
Received £ 7 10s
Arrears due Nov 1825 -------
John Montgomery
Arrears due 1 NOV 1824 £ 1 10s
Half a year due May 1825 £ 1 10s
Half a year due Nov 1825 £ 1 10s
Received £ 3
Received --------
Arrears due Nov 1825 ---------
(Source: PRONI D1954/1/8)
Islandmagee rental 1827
Drumgurland
Hugh Montgomery
Arrears due NOV 1826 £ 6 18s 6d
Half a year due May 1827 £ 6 18s 6d
Half a year due Nov 1827 £ 6 18s 6d
Received £ 13 17s
Arrears due Nov 1827 £ 6 18s 6d
John Montgomery (227)
Arrears due NOV 1826 £ 1 7s 9d
Half a year due May 1827 £ 1 7s 9d
Half a year due Nov 1827 £ 1 7s 9d
Received £ 2 15s 6d
Arrears due Nov 1827 £ 1 7s 9d
(Source: PRONI D1954/1/21)
Islandmagee Tithe Book 1834
Drumgurland
Jn MONTGOMERY
3r 10p 14s 9¼d
1a 2r 10p 11s 1s 1/4d
2r 17p 7s 4 3/4d Total 2 acres 6 perches
Hugh MONTGOMERY
3r 38p 14s 9 1/4d
13a 1r 18p 11s 1 1/4d
6a 1r 36p 3s 8 1/2d
(Source: PRONI MIC15AA/18, entry 1834 Fin V/159 p.10)
Island Magee rental 1838
Drumgurland
Hugh Montgomery (226)
Arrears due NOV 1837 £ --------
Half a year due May 1838 £ 6 18s 6d
Half a year due Nov 1838 £ 6 18s 6d
Received £ 13 17s
John Montgomery (227)
Arrears due NOV 1837 £ --------
Half a year due May 1838 £ 1 7s 9d
Half a year due Nov 1838 £ 1 7s 9d
Received £ 2 15s 6d
(Source: PRONI D1954/1/21)
In John's school log book, he recorded the death of a local from Islandmagee in 1836:
Mr Thomas Boyl of Upper Kilcoan died 5th March
And was buried 7th day of March 1836
It is not known how Thomas Boyl was known to John, but of the subsequent known we can be certain,
as it concerned his son Hugh on 8 JUN 1837:
My son Hugh Montgomery went to Robert Wilson June 5th
He gives no reason for Hugh's departure here, but as Hugh became a blacksmith, and would have
been aged 20 at this stage, it seems possible that he may have gone to work for Robert Wilson as a journeyman.
From a point between 1837 and 1847 yet to be determined, John took up land to farm in
the adjacent townland of Dundressan. In his school log book John notes certain land that he has purchased in Dundressan,
the note is undated but was recorded at some stage either on or after 18 APR 1842 (the date of a preceding entry about
the purchase of some potatoes by James Brown). In this he tallies the amounts of land that he owns, in acres (A), roods (R)
and perches (P):
First I bought from Alexander Barr 3A 2R 0P
Secondly I bought from John Stewart 4A 2R 27P
Also I hold the half of 42 Ps & Jas Davidson the other
21Ps
All the land that I Jn Montgomery hold is 8A 1R 18P
Also James Davidson holds 4A 0R 36 P
All the land added together Amts to 12A 2R 14P
In 1848 the following rental shows the land holdings by both John,
now in Dundressan, and his brother Hugh in Drumgurland:
Island Magee rental 1848
Drumgurland
Hugh Montgomery (224)
Arrears at Nov 1847 £13 4s
½ year due May 1848 £13 4s
½ year due Nov 1848 £13 4s
Recd £12 10s 11d (in red)
Poor rate allowed 13s 1d
Arrears £26 8s
Dundressan
Davison & Montgomery (231)
Arrears at Nov 1847 £7 1s 2s
½ year due May 1848 £9 19s 10d
½ year due Nov 1848 £9 19s 10d
Recd £19 14s 8d
Poor rate allowed 5s
(Source: PRONI D1954/1/32)
In John's journal we discover an important genealogical note in
1850:
My sister Jane Montgomery or Kerr
in the evening between 5 & 6 o'clock in the evening (sic)
Died June 13th 1850 in the 64th year of her age
John Montgomery
Clearly his sister's death deeply upset him, for just three days later he noted the following:
And on the 16th of the same month there being no
service in the Parish Church I went to the Revd David Potter's
house and heard a very Excellent sermon from Numbers
the 23rd Chapter & 10th verse Latter claus of it the words
are
Let me die the death of the righteous & let my Last end be
like his.
In 1855 the rental for John's and his brother Hugh's lands were shown as follows:
Rental and Account of Island Magee Estate for the year ending 1st November
1855
Drumgurland
Hugh Montgomery
10s 10d poor rate allowances
One years rent £26 8s
Arrears due 1st Nov 1854 £31 6s 6d
Amount received £26 8s
Arrears still due 1st NOV 1855 £31 6s 6d
Dundressan
Davison & Montgomery
4s 4d poor rate allowances
One years rent £19 19s 8d
Arrears due 1st Nov 1854 £21 17s 10d
Amount received £19 19s 8d
Arrears still due 1st NOV 1855 £21 17s 10d
(Source: PRONI D811/123/1)
A note in John 's school book from 1860 again comments on his land holdings:
Islandmagee July 19th 1860 This day Mr Murdough
Told me the number of acres I hold under him
Fifteen acres two roods & thirty eight perches 14A 2R 38P
John Montgomery
Griffith's Valuation of 1861 shows that John Montgomery and James Davison held adjacent
plots of land in Dundressan. James Davison's plot of land (2) was 45 acres in size and held off Charles P. Leslie and the
representatives of Robert McCalmont, with six houses constructed on part of it. One small part of this plot, however, belonged
to John Montgomery (2Ci), who held it directly off Charles P. Leslie, and this was leased to a Robert Temple. John's
own plot of land (3) was some 13 acres and 30 perches in size, leased off Charles P. Leslie also (Source: Griffith's Valuation,
FindmyPast.com, IRE-GRIFF-007-123).
John was later noted as father to Calum and Jamie's four times great grandfather, Robert Montgomery, in
his wedding record in Islandmagee in 1863, and as being a farmer. There is only one farmer noted in Islandmagee in the Revaluation
books for Griffiths from 1864, and that was the one resident at Dundressan, who had land comprised of 13 acres and 30 perches
valued annually at £13 15s. The later revision books from 1864-1878 shows no change in the
situation, except that John's main plot of land changed landlords in 1878, from Charles P. Leslie to Thomas Slingsby (Source:
PRONI Valuation Revision Book, VAL/12/B/7/12A p. 61, Dundresssan). In 1886, however, the landlordship of the small holding
that John leased to Robert Temple is shown to have changed hands to a Robert Davison, though Robert Temple
continued as tenant. Robert Davison also became the landowner of John's main plot of 13 acres and 30 perches that same year,
which would suggest that John was by then deceased (Source: PRONI Valuation Revision Books VAL/12/B//7/12B, Dundressan).
John's wife Isabella passed away at Dundressan on 6 APR 1877, at the age of 86. She was noted as being
married to a farmer, and as having died after suffering asthma for six months. The informant was her son Samuel Montgomery
of Dundressan, who was present at her death. The death was registered on 17 APR 1877 at the sub-district registrar's in Ballycarry
(Source: GRONI D/1877/129/1016/2/465 Ballycarry).
John eventually passed away at Dundressan, Islandmagee, on 11 JUL 1879,
at the age of 96. He was noted as both a farmer and a widower, with the cause of death being 'debility from old age'. The
informant to the registrar at Larne on 15 JUL was again his son Samuel Montgomery, also resident
at Dundressan (Source: GRONI D/1879/129/1016/3/123 Larne; GROI ref is D 1879 Q3 Vol 1 p.391 Larne).
Children of John MONTGOMERY and Isabella BROWN:
Hugh Montgomery
b: abt 1817 d: 6/1/1883
Hugh, a blacksmith (like Robert), and of full age, married Ellen Pennel of Ballycronan, again full age, and daughter of Edward Pennel, labourer, on 22 FEB 1855. Hugh was noted
as from Dundressan and as the son of John Montgomery, farmer. The witnesses were Nathaniel Holmes and Margaret (illegible
surname). (Source: PRONI: 1st Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee MIC 1P/326/A1-D1).
A photocopy of an account book held by Hugh from 1858-1875 is held at the Public Record Office of
Northern Ireland under D4014/2, though the whereabouts of the original is not known. It is very revealing however in providing
an insight into the kind of work that Hugh engaged in whilst resident at Brown's Bay, as well as in providing the names of
many of his clients. These were:
Mr. Hugh Holmes of Islandmagee: May 1858 -
Jan 1872 (no listing in Griffiths Valuation 1861 in Islandmagee)
Mr. Thomas Holmes of Islandmagee:
June 1869 - May 1873 (Griffiths Valuation 1861 has a Thomas Holmes at Ballycronan More)
Mr. Nathaneal
Holmes of Islandmagee: Nov 1858 - Jan 1873 (noted as being at Ballyboley in Jan 1873; Griffiths Valuation in 1861 has
him at Ballylumford)
Mr. Samuel Smiley of Islandmagee: Dec 1867 - 1872 (possibly that based
in Townparks, Larne, in Griffiths Valuation 1861)
Mr. Robert Smiley of Islandmagee: Jun 1859
- Sep 1867 (one entry at Ballylumford in Griffiths Valuation 1861, another at Mullaghboy)
Mr. Robert
Davidson of Islandmagee: Dec 1870 - Jan 1875 (no listing in Islandmagee in Griffiths Valuation 1861)
Mr.
Robert Farries of Islandmagee: May 1861 - June 1870 (listed as Robert Ferris in Ballylumford in Griffiths Valuation
1861)
Mr. Thomas Bell of Islandmagee: July 1864 (no listing in Islandmagee in Griffiths Valuation
1861)
Mr. John Bell of Islandmagee: July 1864 - Jan 1865 (no listing in Islandmagee in Griffiths
Valuation 1861)
Mr. David English of Brown's Bay, Islandmagee: May 1859 - May 1864 (there's
a David English based at Ballycronan Beg in Griffiths Valuation 1861, where Brown's Bay was based)
George
Hickenson of Islandmagee: Jun 1861 - Mar 1865 (annual accounts; no listing in Islandmagee in Griffiths Valuation 1861))
Miss Dondleson of Islandmagee: Oct 1858 - May 1865 (there is both an Anne and an Eliza Donaldson at Ballycronan
More in the 1861 Griffiths Valuation, the townland next to Ballycronan More, which contains Brown's Bay - likely to be
one of them)
A typical couple of month's work is as follows, from December 17th 1868 to February 27th 1869:
Dec 17; 1 shovel repaired 3d
Dec 17; 1 shoe repaired and driven 2 1/2
d
Dec 19; 1 remove of mine repaired and driven 3d
Dec 30; 2 shoes made of my stuff and driven 1s 3d
Jan 1; 2 shoes
made 1 of my stuff and 2 driven 11 1/2 d
Jan 5; 2 shoes made 1 of my stuff and 2 driven 11 ½ d
Jan 21; 1 shoe repaired
and driven 2 ½ d
Jan 26; 2 pair of tongs repaired 8d
Jan 27; 1 set of plough irons repaired 9d
Feb 1; 2 shoes made
of my stuff and driven 1s 2d
Feb 3; 1 plough laid of my stuff mouldboard put on 3s 6d
Feb 11; 1 pair of boots repaired
and brook repaired 4d
Feb 16; 1 shoe driven 2d
Feb 16; 1 set of plough irons laid and steeled 2s 4d
Feb 19; 1 shoe
driven and C (E?) shook made 3d
Feb 23; 2 shoes 1 remove of mine and 2 driven 5d
Feb 27; 2 shoes made 1 of my stuff
and 2 driven 10d
Entries in the above account book continued until 1875.
Hugh passed away on 6 JAN 1883 in Ballycronanmore, Islandmagee, at the age of 67. In his death certificate
he was noted as a married blacksmith, with the cause of death being chronic gastritis, as suffered for two years. The informant
to the registrar at Ballycarry on 9 JAN 1893 was his daughter Isabella Montgomery, also resident at Ballycronanmore
(Source: GRONI D/1883/129/1016/4/100 Ballycarry).
In the 1901 census, Hugh's wife Ellen was noted as an 86 year old widow, residing with her son
Hugh and his family at Ballycronan Beg, Islandmagee. She was Presbyterian, from Co. Antrim, and could read
and write (Source: National Archives of Ireland 1901 census, Ballycronan beg, Islandmagee, Co. Antrim). She appears to have
passed away in Jul-Sep 1905 (Source: GROI D 1905 Q3 Vol 1 p.403 Larne, age 89).
Children of Hugh MONTGOMERY and Ellen PENNEL:
Jenny Montgomery
b. 2/6/1855
Jenny was born on 2 JUN 1855 and baptised on 22 JUN 1855 at Islandmagee 1st
Presbyterian Church. Her parents were noted as residing at Brown's Bay (Source: PRONI MIC 1P/326/A1-D1, Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian
Church).
Isabella Montgomery
b. 19/1/1855?
Isabella was born on 19 JAN 1855? and baptised on 28 JAN 1855? at Islandmagee
1st Presbyterian Church. Her parents were noted as residing at Ballycronan (Source: PRONI MIC 1P/326/A1-D1, Islandmagee 1st
Presbyterian Church). It is believed that this is a mistranscription, and more likely to be 1857 than 1855, which conflicts
with Jenny's birth year.
Isabella was later the informant to her father's death in 1883, and was noted as being resident at
Ballycronanmore, Islandmagee, the family home (Source: GRONI D/1883/129/1016/4/100 Ballycarry).
Hugh Montgomery
b: 13/10/1858
Hugh was born on 13 OCT 1858 and christened on 4 NOV 1858 at Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian
Church. His parents were noted as residing at Ballycronan townland (Source: PRONI MIC 1P/326/A1-D1, Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian
Church).
Hugh grew up to become a blacksmith like his father, and married Sarah Jones of Larne, daughter of Edward
Jones, schoolmaster, on 13 AUG 1886. Hugh's residence was at Brown's Bay, and the witnesses were noted as Robert
Cosgrove and Isabella Montgomery, undoubtedly his sister. The marriage was performed by license at Islandmagee
2nd Presbyterian Church by the reverend R. H. Shaw. Both parties were noted as of full age (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/337, Islandmagee
2nd Presbyterian Church; Ulster Historical Foundation).
Hugh was noted in the 1901 census for Ballycronan Beg as a 42 year old blacksmith, married, Presbyterian,
able to read and write, and born in County Antrim. With him was his 39 year old wife Sarah J. Montgomery,
who was illiterate, and eight children - 17 year old Hugh and 13 year old John, both farm
servants, 10 year old Robert C., 9 year old Isabella, 7 year old Ellen P.,
and 4 year old Sarah J, all scholars, as well as 2 year old Annie and 1 year old Edward
J. The five eldest could read and write, whilst Sarah could only read. Also present was Hugh's 86 year old mother
Ellen. The house had just four rooms, as well as a piggery and fowl house outdoors, and was the property of Robert English,
from whom it was let. Neighbouring properties were held by a Martha Montgomery and a William Montgomery,
likely related (Source: National Archives of Ireland 1901 census, Ballycronan beg, Islandmagee, Co. Antrim).
In the 1911 census Hugh is noted as 52 and a blacksmith master. His wife Sarah was now a housewife,
from Co. Tyrone and aged 49, and had been married to Hugh for 24 years, producing eleven children, of whom ten were still
alive. Also present were 23 year old farm labourer son John, 21 year old blacksmith son Robert, 17 year old general cook daughter
Nelie, scholars Sarah aged 14, Annie aged 12, Edward aged 11, Thomas aged 8 and William
aged 6. All were Presbyterian, and all were able to read and write, with the exception of Hugh's wife Sarah and young son
William (Source: National Archives of Ireland 1901 census, Ballycronan beg, Islandmagee, Co. Antrim).
Children of Hugh MONTGOMERY and Sarah JONES:
Hugh Montgomery
b: abt 1883
John Montgomery
b: 11/5/1887
Robert C. Montgomery
b: 15/1/1890
Isabella Montgomery
b: 12/12/1891
Ellen Pennal Montgomery
b: 10/10/1893
Edward Montgomery
b: 28/2/1895
Sarah Jane Montgomery
b: 14/8/1896
Annie Montgomery
b: 15/9/1898
Edward James Montgomery
b: 30/3/1900
Thomas Montgomery
b: 9/4/1902
William Montgomery
b: 1/5/1904
Edward Montgomery
b: 28/1/1861
Edward was born on 28 JAN 1861 and christened on the same day by the minister of Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian
Church. His parents were noted as residing at Ballycronan townland (Source: PRONI MIC 1P/326/A1-D1, Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian
Church).
Edward married Mary Eliza Wilson on 17 APR 1890, at 2nd Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee.
Both were of full age and from Brown's Bay, with Edward noted as a mariner and a son of Hugh Montgomery,
blacksmith, and Mary Eliza as the daughter of Ross Wilson, mariner (Source: PRONI MIC 1P/337, Islandmagee 2nd
Presbyterian Church).
The CLIP Crewmembers Transcription project notes that Edward served on the Greenock registered 77
tonne vessel Reine de Prevoyance as ship's mate from 1 JUL 1891 to 1 DEC 1891, serving under Captain James Kerr
- though he had been serving on the vessel prior to this also (Source: TNA BT99/1685, List D; accessed via FindmyPast.com
6 APR 2014).
Thomas Holmes Montgomery
b: 21/11/1863
Thomas was born on 21 NOV 1863 and christened on 30 NOV 1863 at Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian Church.
His parents were noted as residing at Ballycronan townland (Source: PRONI MIC 1P/326/A1-D1, Islandmagee 1st Presbyterian Church).
John Montgomery
b: 30 SEP 1867
John's birth is noted on the FamilySearch website as having occurred on 30 SEP 1867 at Ballycarry,
County Antrim, Ireland. The original entry has still to be consulted.
Margaret Montgomery
b: 18??
Margaret, noted as of full age, from Dundressan, and the daughter of John Montgomery, farmer,
married Robert Templeton, a shoemaker of full age, son of Thomas Templeton, farmer, on 21 OCT 1858 (Source:
PRONI: 2nd Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee MIC 1P/337).
The couple has at least one child in 1873, though having married in 1858 there are others undoubtedly
waiting to be found.
Child of Margaret MONTGOMERY and Robert TEMPLETON:
Thomas Templeton
b: 1/4/1861
Thomas was born at Dundressan on 1 APR 1861 and baptised at 2nd Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee,
on 7 APR 1861 (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/337 Islandmagee)
John Templeton
b: 24/7/1873
John was born on 24 JUL 1873, with his birth registered in Ballycarry, Co. Antrim (Source: Emerald
Ancestors).
Samuel MONTGOMERY
b: 1822 d: 4/7/1907
Samuel was born in about 1822. On 22 JAN 1864 he married Sarah Templeton, a full
aged daughter of Samuel Templeton, a farmer of Templecorran. The marriage took place at St John's Church
of Ireland in Templecorran, and in the record Samuel was noted as a full aged farmer, and son of John Montgomery,
farmer. The witnesses were Henry Templeton and Eliza Alexander (Source: GRONI M/1864/M1/1632/1/31,
Larne registration district). The couple went on to raise a family in Dundressan, Islandmagee.
Samuel appeared as the informant for the death of his father John in 1879, where
he was also noted as being resident at Dundressan on the peninsula (Source: GRONI D/1879/129/1016/3/123 Larne; GROI ref is
D 1879 Q3 Vol 1 p.391 Ballycarry).
In 1889, Samuel moved to his mother's ancestral home, the farm of Hunterstown in Ballycroninbeg.
Samual eventually died 4 JUL 1907 at Ballycronanmore (Source: GROI D 1907 Q3 Vol. 1 p.377 Larne, age
85). He left a will which was granted probate in Belfast on 9 DEC 1907 (Source: PRONI wills calendars). The following
is a transcript:
No. 1653 Montgomery, Samuel
I Samuel Montgomery at present living at Ballycronanmore, Islandmagee,
in the County of Antrim, Retired Farmer, hereby all wills codicils and testamentary dispositions heretofore made by me and
declare this to be my last will which I make the fourth day of December one thousand nine hundred and five. Having already
made for my daughters all the provision I intend for them I omit their names from this my will. I bequeath to my son John
the sum of Twenty five pounds and to my son Samuel the sum of Twenty five pounds and I devise and bequeath all the rest
residue and remainder of my property of what nature or kind so ever and wheresoever situate of or to which I may due, seized
possessed or entitled to my son William for his own absolute use. I appoint my son William and Robert C. McKinch of Larne
Solicitors executors of this my will. As witness my hand the day and year aforesaid
Samuel Montgomery
Signed and acknowledged by the said Samuel Montgomery the testator as and
for his last will and testament in presence of us who in his presence and in presence of each other have hereunto subscribed
our names as witnesses
J W McKinch Alexr Erskine
Children of SAMUEL MONTGOMERY and Sarah TEMPLETON:
Isabella Jane Montomery
b: 14/12/1864
Isabella was born at Dundressan, Islandmagee, on 14 DEC 1864.
Her father was noted as Samuel McGOMERY (sic), a farmer, and her mother as Sarah McGOMERY (fomerly
TEMPLETON). The informant on 29 DEC was Eliza ALEXANDER, Yorkstown, Templecorran, present at the
birth. (Source: IrishGenealogy.ie 1864 B Group Reg ID 7948983 RD Larne)
Isabella married David HOLMES on 5 JUL 1893 at 1st Presbyterian Church, Carrickfergus.
David was a farmer, the son of Nathaniel HOLMES of Islandmagee, and Isabella was noted as the daughter of Samuel MONTGOMERY,
farmer from Islandmagee. The witnesses were Robert HOLMES and Maggie MONTGOMERY. (Source:
IrishGenealogy.ie 1893 M Group Reg ID 2155290 RD Larne)
Children of Isabella MONTGOMERY and David HOLMES:
Jane Lewis Holmes
b: abt 1894
Isabella Holmes
b: abt 1895
Sara Holmes
b: abt 1896
Agnes Holmes
b: abt 1897
Nathaniel Holmes
b: abt 1900
Robert David Holmes
b: abt 1901
Sarah Eliza Montgomery
b: 18/2/1867
Sarah was born on 18 FEB 1867 at Dundressan, Islandmagee. Her father was noted as a
farmer, and her mother recorded as the informant on March 7th to the registrar in Ballycarry (Source: GRONI U/1867/129/1016/1/453
Ballycarry)
Martha Montgomery
b: 2/2/1868
Martha was born in Islandmagee on 2 FEB 1868 (Source: GRONI U/1868/129/1016/2/82 Ballycarry, Larne).
John Montgomery
b: 21/3/1869
John was born in Islandmagee on 21 FEb 1869 (Source: GRONI U/1869/129/1016/2/239
Ballycarry, Larne). He was baptised on 9 MAR 1869 at 2nd Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/337 Islandmagee).
Margaret Montgomery
b: 28/2/1870
Margaret was born in Islandmagee on 28 FEB 1870 (Source: GRONI U/1870/129/1016/2/371 Ballycarry, Larne).
She was baptised on 18 MAR 1870 at 2nd Presbyterian Church, Islandmagee (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/337 Islandmagee).
Samuel Montgomery
b: 29/4/1871
Samuel was born in Islandmagee on 29 APR 1871 (Source: GRONI U/1871/129/1016/3/39 Ballycarry, Larne).
Agnes Montgomery
b: 23/10/1872
Agnes was born in Islandmagee on 23 OCT 1872 (Source: GRONI U/1872/129/1016/3/245 Ballycarry,
Larne).
William Montgomery
b: 18/7/1875
William was born in Islandmagee on 18 JUL 1875 (Source: GRONI U/1875/129/1016/4/90 Ballycarry,
Larne).
Jane Montgomery
b: 7/3/1834 d: 1???
Jane was born at Drumgurland on 7 MAR 1834 and baptised on 25 MAR 1834 according to the rites
of the 1st Presbyterian Church of Islandmagee (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1 Islandmagee).
Jane married John Douther, son of Hugh Douther, farmer,
and whose occupation was given as 'small farmer', on 6 JUN 1861. Both of them had previously appeared as witnesses to the
wedding of Jane's sister Margaret to Robert TEMPLETON. In her Anglican church entry, Jane
was noted as of full age and as being the daughter of John Montgomery, farmer. The witnesses were Robert Montgomery
(likely her brother, and Calum's and Jamie's four times great grandfather) and Margaret Templeton, almost
certainly her sister.
CHILDREN of Jane MONTGOMERY and John DOUTHER:
Hugh Douther
b: 28/1/1861 d: 1???
Hugh was born on 28 JAN 1861 at Ballycronan, and baptised according to the rites of the 1st Presbyterian
Church on 3 NOV 1861 (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1 Islandmagee).
Robert MONTGOMERY
b: 1838 d: 9/1/1878
Robert was Calum's and Jamie's four times great grandfather - see below.
Mary Montgomery
b: 18?? d: 1???
Mary married James Kain of Ballymena at some stage after
Oct 21 1858. On that date, both she and James were witnesses to the wedding of her sister Margaret to
Robert Templeton.
Mary later remarried to William McFerran.
Child of Mary MONTGOMERY and James KAIN:
James Brown Kain
b: 11/6/1857 d: ????
James was born at Ballycronan, Islandmagee, on 11 JUN 1857 and baptised there according to the rites
of the 1st Presbyterian Church on 9 SEP 1857 (Source: PRONI MIC/1P/326/A1-D1 Islandmagee)
Robert Montgomery
b: 1838 d: 9/1/1878
Robert was Calum's and Jamie's four times great grandfather.
Robert worked in a variety of roles. He married Jane Gordon, daughter of David Gordon, on October 22nd 1863 in Islandmagee St. Johns Church of Ireland. In
the record Robert was noted as the son of John Montgomery, farmer, and as being a blacksmith himself, aged
over 21. The witnesses were his brother Samuel Montgomery and David Stewart - the minister
was Rev W. K. Lynas, with the marriage performed after license.
In FEB 1864 Jane gave birth to their first son, Robert, in Brownsbay, Islandmagee, and in the birth
record Robert senior was again noted as a blacksmith. Not long after the couple had moved to Belfast, initially settling in
the townland of Ballyaghagan by Cave Hill, where their next child Eliza was born in FEB 1866. By JUN
1867, and the birth of son John, the couple were noted as living at Greencastle. In the FEB 1869 birth
record of their son Hugh, Robert's occupation had changed to being a 'manager of a coal yard',
whilst in the JAN 1871 birth record for son William he was noted as a 'coal vendor'.
In the birth record of son Samuel in JUL 1873 the family were recorded at 56 Rowan Street,
Belfast, with Robert noted as a fireman, whilst in JAN 1876, Robert's wife Jane was noted as the informant to her
father's death earlier that day at thesame address in Belfast. In AUG 1876 the family was recorded at 14 Rowan Street
in the birth record for daughter Isabella, with Robert now simply listed as a labourer. The 1877 Belfast
directory was slightly behind the times, noting the family at 56 Rowan Street upon publication.
Robert died on 9 JAN 1878 at the Belfast Workhouse, after 8 days suffering of typhus fever. He was noted as a fireman
(Source: GROS D/1878/50/1007/33/52 Belfast Urban 4). It is not known where he was buried.
Robert was listed as father to John Montgomery on January 5th 1892, in the Belfast register
for John's marriage to Matilda Jane Taylor, and was stated to have been a clerk.
CHILDREN of Robert MONTGOMERY and Jane GORDON:
Robert David Montgomery
b: 27/2/1864 d: 15/2/1914
Robert was born in Brownsbay, Islandmagee, Co. Antrim, on 27 FEB 1864. His father Robert
was noted as a blacksmith, and his mother as Jane Gordon - Jane acted as the informant to the Ballycarry registrar on
16 FEB 1864 (Source: GROI B 1864 Group Reg ID 8073499 SRD Larne).
Robert's Royal Naval Reserve record confirms that his birth was in Islandmagee, and that
his parents were Robert and Jane. It also notes that he was five feet three and three eighths of an inch in height, had
his name tattooed onto his right arm, and had a fair complexion and blue eyes, with a chest measurement of 34 inches.
A later record notes that he had a scar over his right eyebrow. His initial 5 year service report is not available, but
from his second we know that he enlisted on 11 DEC 1893, with his second 5 year period commencing 13 DEC 1898, at which point
he was residing at 2 Fife Street, located off the Shore Road in Belfast.
Only some of the RNR records for David have survived and have been digitised for online presentation
by the National Archives in England, but the dates on which Robert joined various boats in the first surviving record from
1898 are unfortunately not legible, being located close to the spine of the book and not opened sufficiently when phoographed
(TNA: BT 164/19/133). However, we do know the boats he served on from 1899-1903, all in the capacity of a fireman, and
some of the dates of discharge.
At the end of 1898, or early 1899, Robert signed
up at Barry, Wales, to the 'Torr Head', for a voyage to New Orleans. he returned to Belfast and was discharged there
on 20 FEB 1899 (conduct Very Good). At Ardrossan in Scotland he then signed up to the 'Ramore Head', and sailed to Montreal,
and was later discharged in Dublin on 28 JUL 1899. He returned from a second voyage on the same vessel to discharge
in Dublin on 14 SEP 1899 (conduct Very Good). At Port Talbot he then enlisted with the 'Lochmore' for a voyage to the USA,
and was later discharged from this on 15 JAN 1900 in Manchester, England.
During this time it seems likely that he was the Robert David Montgomery
who was assaulted in Belfast in 1899, as recorded in the Belfast Newsletter of Friday, April 7th 1899:
Thomas Christie was charged with assaulting Robert David Montgomery by
knocking him down on the footpath opposite the Free Public Library. The injured man, it appeared, sustained a fracture of
the skull.
The remaining assignments in his 1st RNR record don't have dates of discharge listed, and the
dates of enlistment are unclear. We know that he served on the 'Optic' from Belfast (coastal), and then sailed from Barrow
to New York on the 'St Kevin'. This was followed by a period of service from Belfast in which he was stated to be joining
the 'Inishowen Head' to New Orleans, but ended up not joining for some reason - a note at the bottom of the form states this
to be dated 1 APR 1901. He did join for a voyage subsequently upon her return. He then signed up from Belfast onto the 'London
Hill', and then the 'Harbour Light' (coastal). From Penarth he subsequently travelled to the West Indies on the 'Larne', and
then from Dublin on a coastal boat called the 'Blackrock' (he was paid a RNR retainer in Dublin on 5 OCT 1903, which helps
to date this).
In his first 5 year period from 1893-1898, Robert's service number was 593P, and from 1898-1903 it was then 133Q. Throughout this period Robert served 5 periods of Royal Naval Reserve training and drill, the first four at Larne
from 14 DEC 1898, 22 JAN 1900, 18 DEC 1900 and 14 APR 1902, and the fifth from 20 DEC 1902 at 'Daedalus'. His conduct at each
was Very Good, and his competency with the Great Gun, Rifle and Cutlass were all deemed Good.
We then have a 5 year gap without a service record for Robert, but the record for his 5th year period
of engagement (TNA: BT377/7/121986), recalls not only his service from 1908-1913, but sadly his ultimate end. This notes a 1908 address as 16 Pittsburg Street in Belfast and in his personal
description we now note he had a scar above his right eyebrow. From 31 MAR 1909 Robert is noted as being unemployed at Ardrossan,
but subsequently serving on the 'Kilcoan' on a coastal boat as a fireman from 21 JUL 1909 at Larne. From Belfast he then served
on the 'Sedgecock' as a mate from 23 JUN 1910 to 1 JUL 1910, but then took up employment on shore at Belfast until 19
JAN 1911.
We next learn that Robert briefly work on the 'Olympic', Titanic's sister ship, as a fireman from
30 NOV 1911, and then back in the docks again. His next engagements were on the 'Lancashire' from 24 APR 1912 to 12 JUN
1912 (back at Belfast 6 JUL 1912), and then on the 'Milewater' from 2 DEC 1912 to 10 DEC 1912, being back in Belfast 11 JAN
1913 and again noted as an unemployed dock labourer.
Robert's next engagements would be his last, taking up work initially as a dock labourer in Belfast
on 9 SEP 1913, before moving to Swansea in Wales. Here he endured a tragic accident from which he
died. He had been discharged from service on the Alice M. Craig vessel on December 8th 1913, because of a fractured
spine, and had been committed to the Workhouse Infirmary in Swansea, where he passed away on February 15th 1914. The
Registers of Deceased Seamen 1914-1918 note him as being aged 49 when he died, and of having been born in Belfast (Source:
Eddie's Extracts).
The service record provides a bit more detail, noting the following:
8.1.14 Swansea Regt forwarded RV36a with RV2 and asks that payment of the
gratuity may be expedited as Montgomery is at present an inmate of the local hospital suffering from the effects of a fall
received on bd SS 'Alice M. Craig'. Back broken. Chances of recovery remote.
By 17 R 28/1/14 (notifying award of gratuity) address: Penltergare Ward,
Swansea Ward, Swansea.
Sch 34 Swansea
28.2.14 for £50
Passed 19.3.14
A final detail given was his address in Belfast, being 6 Cavour Street.
Eliza Montgomery
b: 8/2/1866
Eliza was born at Ballyaghagan townland, by Cavehill in North Belfast, Co. Antrim, Ireland, on 8 FEB
1866. Her father Robert Montgomery was noted as a blacksmith, and her mother as Jane Gordon. Robert informed the registrar
on 22 FEB (Source: GROI B 1866 Group Reg ID 7704803 SRD Belfast RD Whitehouse). Eliza was subsequently baptised at St
Anne's Shankill, Belfast on 13 APR 1866, in an Anglican ceremony. Her parents were Robert Montgomery (no occupation recorded) and
Jane Gordon, the minister was Rev T. F. Miller (RootsIreland).
On 5 Jan 1886 Eliza married 23 year old sailor William Gibson, son of Thomas Gibson,
baker, at St. Anne's Church of Ireland in Belfast. Eliza, a 19 year old spinster at 9 Earl Place, was noted as daughter
of Robert Montgomer, a sailor, whilst William was noted as being on board the steamer 'Bengore Head'. The witnesses were William
Cowan Clotworthy and Kate Connor (Source: GROI M 1886 B Group Reg ID 2360086 SRD Belfast, IrishGenealogy.ie).
In the 1911 census, Eliza and William were at 8 Pittsburg Street, Belfast. William was a 47 year old
seaman, whilst Elizabeth was aged 44. Both were from Co. Antrim, could read and write, and were married 25 years, having had
12 children of whom 9 were still alive. With them were their children Jennie, aged 24 and born in Belfast (warehouseworker),
Thomas, 19 (general labourer), Hugh, 15 (messenger), Norman, 13 (scholar),
George, 11 (scholar), Robert, 9 (scholar), Patricia aged 4 and born in
Belfast, and Albert, aged 1. Also present was Eliza's brother William Montgomery, a 36 year
old seaman. All apart from Patricia and Albert could read and write, and all were Church of Ireland from Co. Antrim (Source:
NAI 1911 census).
Eliza's daughter Jennie M. Gibson married 31 year old soldier David
Marsh on 29 SEP 1917 at Belfast Registrar's Office. One of the witnesses was her first cousin Charlotte Montgomery
(Calum's Jamie's and Pippa's 3 x great grandmother). (Source: RootsIreland)
John Montgomery
b: 20/6/1867 d: 23/10/1923
John was Calum's and Jamie's
great great great grandfather - See below.
Hugh Montgomery
b: 28/2/1869
Hugh was born in Greencastle, Belfast, on 1 MAR 1869. His father was noted as Robert Montgomery,
manager of a coal yard, and his mother as Jane Gordan (sic). Robert informed the Belfast registrar on 22 MAR
(Source: GROI B 1869 Group Reg ID 8365720 SRD Belfast RD Shankill No.1/Whitehouse). He was baptised within St. Anne's
Shankill district on 26 MAR in an Anglican ceremony. His father was Robert Montgomery, a clerk, and his mother
noted as Jane Montgomery (RootsIreland).
William Montgomery
b: 13/1/1871
William was born in Greencastle, Belfast, on 13 JAN 1871. His father was recorded as Robert Montgomery,
coal vendor, and his mother as Jane Gordon. Robert was the informant to the registrar on 6 FEB 1871 (Source: GROI B 1871 Group
Reg ID 9502162 SRD Belfast RD Belfast Urban No.7). William was baptised on 3 FEB 1871 at St. Anne's, Shankill, Belfast, in
an Anglican ceremony. His father was Robert Montgomery, noted as a clerk, and his mother Jane Gordon. The minister was Alexander
Burowes (RootsIreland).
Samuel Montgomery
b. 18/7/1873
Samuel was born on 18 JUL 1873 at 56 Rowan Street, Belfast. His father was noted as Robert Montgomery,
fireman, and his mother as Jane Gordon. Jane was the informant to the Belfast registrar on 7 AUG, signing with an X,
meaning that she was illiterate (Source: GROI B 1873 Group Reg ID 8719453 SRD Belfast RD Belfast Urban No. 2).
On August 10th 1894 Samuel married Sarah Jane McAldin from 28 Canning Street, daughter
of Joseph McAldin, a labourer, and with Samuel noted as an engineer resident at 50 Seaview Street (this was
the same address noted for his brother John a year later, and the house where Calum's and Jamie's great great grandmother
Charotte Harper Montgomery was born in 1895). Samuel's father was noted as Robert Montgomery,
a smith, and his religion as Presbyterian. The witnesses were James McCann and Bella Montgomery,
undoubtedly his sister.
In the 1901 census Samuel was noted as residing at North Thomas Street, Dock Ward, Belfast. He was
27, an unemployed yarn beamer who could read and write, and who was Church of Ireland by way of religion. His 24 year old
wife Sarah J. Montgomery was an unemployed paper bag maker from Belfast, who could also read and write.
Also present was their daughter Sarah Montgomery, aged 1, who was born in Belfast (Source: National Archives
of Ireland 1901 census).
In 1911 the family are still found at North Thomas Street, but in the house of 53 year old Ephrim
Dawson, who is noted as Sarah Jane's brother, and as head of the house. He had a wife called Sarah Jane
also, aged 43, and the couple had been married 20 years - they had five children, with only two still alive, being 15 year
old Maggie Jane (a messenger girl in factory), and 13 year old Ephrim (scholar). Samuel
was a 38 year old beamer in yarn mill, and Sarah Jane was 35. They had been married 17 years, had produced 9 children, but
only three were still alive - 11 year old Sarah Jane, 9 years old William and 4 year old
Anne Jane. The whole household was Presbyterian (Source: National Archives of Ireland 1911 Census).
Samuel's first wife Sarah died on 4 JUN 1911 at 51 Lisburn Road, Belfast, usual residence at Glenvarlock
Street. Sarah was noted as aged 37, the wife of Samuel Montgomery, a seaman. The cause was pulmonary tuberculosis, and the
informant to the registrar on 5 JUN 1911 was Elizabeth Gibson, sister-in-law, resident at 16 Pittsburg Street. (GROI D Group
Reg ID 3653151 SRD Belfast)
Two years later Samuel married Sarah's sister Susan McAldin, he listed as a 38 year
old widower and son of seaman Robert Montgomery, and she as a 35 year old daughter of farmer Joseph McAldin, and a spinster.
Both resided at 62 Parker Street in Ballymacarrett, Belfast. The witnesses were James and Margaret Morrow, with the weding
held at Knockbreda Parish Church at Newtonbreda (GROI M Group Reg ID 1790043 SRD Lisburn).
On 27 NOV 1944, the Belfast Telegraph reported that Samuel had been awarded an MBE by King
George VI at Buckingham Palace:
MBE for Belfastman - Life Among Colliers
Mr. Samuel Montgomery, husband of Mrs S. Montgomery, 107 Avoniel Road,
Belfast, who has been employed on cross-Channel colliers for more than half a century, was at a recent investiture at Buckingham
Palace presented with the M.B.E. for meritorious service.
When a boy, Mr. Montgomery, who is now 71, heard the call of the sea, and
in 1890, at the age of 17 he obtained a job with Howden Bros., of Larne, on a small collier, which made trips to England and
Scotland.
After 18 years service with Howdens, he joined the firm of John Kelly,
Ltd., coal importers, Belfast, in whose employment he is at present.
His long sea career has not been without adventure. In the last war, ehen
serving on the Kilcoan, a collier of 500 tons, he was torpedoed by a German submarine at the mouth of the Mersey. He
and other members of the crew spent several hours in a lifeboat before being picked up by another collier and landed
at Douglas, Isle of Man.
Mr. Montgomery has four sons, one of whom resides in South Africa, and
two daughters.
Accompanying him to the Palace were his son, Robert D. Montgomery, 47 Spring
Street, Belfast, and his son-in-law, Mr. John Dunseath, 9 Frankfort Street.
The
Northern Whig also covered the story a day later, on 28 NOV 1944:
M.B.E. for Belfast Seaman - Mr. Samuel Montgomery, of 107, Avoniel
Road, Belfast, who has spent about half a century on colliers sailing from Larne and Belfast, was at a recent investiture
at Buckingham Palace presented with the M.B.E. for meritorious service.
Samuel
died on 22 OCT 1945. The Belfast Telegraph carried the following short obituary a day later:
DEATH OF BELFAST M.B.E.
50 YEARS ON COLLIERS
Employed on cross-Channel colliers
for more than half a century, Mr. Samuel Montgomery M.B.E. died on Monday at his residence, 107 Avoniel Road, Belfast. He
was 72.
Awarded the M.B.E. for meritorious
service, he received it from the King at Buckingham Palace last year.
Hearing the call of the sea when
a boy, Mr. Montgomery in 1890 at the age of 17 obtained a job with Howden Bros., Larne, on a small collier which
made trips to England and Scotland. After 18 years of service with Howden's, he joined the firm of John Kelly's, Belfast.
In the last war when the Kilcoan, a collier of 500 tons, was torpedoed
by a German submarine at the mouth of the Mersey, Mr. Montgomery and other members of the crew spent several hours in a lifeboat
before being picked up by another collier and landed at Douglas, Isle of Man.
One of his sons, Mr. Samuel Montgomery, is second engineer of the
collier Melissa, of the Kelly fleet. He has served on this ship for over 14 years.
The Belfast Telegraph of 24 OCT 1945 carried an account of his
funeral:
LATE MR. S. MONTGOMERY
The funeral of Mr Samuel Montgomery, who was employed
for more than half a century on Cross-Channel colliers, took place from his residence 107 Avoniel Road, Belfast, to the City
Cemetery.
Rev. M. Carson McCullough officiated.
Chief mourners were:- Messrs. Frank, Samuel and David
Montgomery (sons); Mr. William Montgomery (brother); and Mr. J. DunSeath and Mr. A. Chapman (sons-in-law).
CHILDREN of SAMUEL MONTGOMERY and SARAH JANE McALDIN:
Samuel Montgomery
b: 17/10/1895 d: 14/2/1903
Francis Owens Montgomery
b: 13/3/1897
Sarah Montgomery
b: 1900
Sarah was born in the City of Belfast, Ireland, in 1900, as noted in the 1901 census, where
she was resident at North Thomas Street.
Caroline Maud Montgomery
b: Sep 1902
William Montgomery
b: abt 1904
William was born in the City of Belfast, Ireland, in 1904, as noted in the 1911 census, where
he was resident at North Thomas Street.
Anne Jane Montgomery
b: abt 1907
Anne Jane was born in the City of Belfast, Ireland, in 1907, as noted in
the 1911 census, where she was resident at North Thomas Street.
Margaret Beatrice Montgomery
b: May 1909
CHILDREN of SAMUEL MONTGOMERY and SUSAN McALDIN:
Robert David Montgomery
b: 4/8/1916
Isabella Jane Montgomery
b: 14/8/1876
Isabella was born on 14 AUG 1876 at 14 Rowan Street, Belfast. Her father was noted as
Robert Montgomery, labourer, and her mother as Jane Gordon. Jane was the informant to the registrar on 7 SEP 1876 (Source:
GROI B 1876 Group Reg ID 9219195 SRD Belfast RD Belfast No. 2).
Isabella is later listed as being a witness to the weddings of both her brother John in
1892 and Samuel in 1894.
Isabella married James McCann on December 25th 1899 at the Mariner's Church
of Ireland in Belfast, in an Anglican ceremony by the Rev. H. W. Brownrigg, and after license. The witnesses were John and
Thomasina Brooks. Isabella was noted as the daughter of Robert Montgomery, sailor, and resident at 54 Ship Street; James was
the son of John McCann, paver, and was himself an engineer, resident at 27 Bute Street.
In the 1901 census Isabella was noted at 5 Bute Street, Duncairn, Belfast, and 24, but now
Presbyterian, and from Co. Antrim. Her husband James was 26 and and engine fitter at works, and they had a four year old son
John, born in Belfast (Source: NAI 1901 census).
CHILDREN of ISABELLA MONTGOMERY and JAMES McCANN:
John McCann
b: abt 1896
John was born in the City of Belfast, Ireland, in 1896, as noted in the
1901 census, where he was resident at 5 Bute Street.
John Montgomery
20/6/1867 - 23/10/1923
John
Montgomery was Calum's and Jamie's three times great grandfather.
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| John's signature on the Ulster Covenant 1912 (PRONI) |
John was
born on 20 JUN 1867 at Greencastle, Belfast, Co. Antrim, Ireland. His father was noted as Robert Montgomery,
Blacksmith, and his mother as Jane Gordan (sic), with his father acting as informant to the Belfast
registrar on 9 JUL 1867 (Source: GROI B 1867 Group Reg ID 7952029 SRD Belfast RD Shankill No.1/Whitehouse). He was subsequently
baptised at St. Anne's Church of Ireland, Shankill parish, on 28 JUL 1867 (RootsIreland).
John
later married Matilda Jane Taylor on January 5th 1892 at St. Enoch's Church of Ireland in Belfast. He was described as being of full age, i.e. 21
or older, and of being a clerk, resident in Belfast. His father Robert was also noted as being a clerk. The
witnesses to the wedding were John McCormick and Isabella Montgomery, presumably a relative,
whilst the minister was the Reverend William Wallace.
In
March 1895, John and Matilda were noted in his daughter Charlotte's birth register entry as living at 50 Seaview
Street in Belfast. John was described this time as a seaman by trade. There is no further trace of them until the 1899 and
1900 Belfast and Ulster Street Directories, in which John is found listed as a sailor at 6 Cavour Street in Belfast.
John
was a member of the Merchant Navy, but also a member of the Royal Naval Reserve. He enlisted with the RNR on 22 APR 1899,
his initial service number being U 742, but there are only two detailed records of his service in existance, from
1910 to 1918. The first gives us some information about him personally (TNA: BT 377/7/119476). It contradicts his birth
date, noting him to have been born on 21 JUN 1870, rather than 1867, but does confirm that his parents were called Robert
and Jane. He was quite short, at 5 feet and seven eighths of an inch in height, had a fair complexion, blue eyes and a chest
measurement of 37 inches. The record also notes that he had tattoos on both arms - on his rights arm an image of clasped hands
and the words 'faith', 'hope' and 'charity'; on his left forearm, three anchors. between 1899 and 1910, however, this record
has no details of actual service.
In the 1901 census,
John's wife Matilda was noted as being the head of the family home at 6 Cavour Street. This could perhaps imply
that John was at sea when the census was taken (Source: National Archives of Ireland, 1901 census).
The most detailed information
for John we have is for his service from 1910 in the Merchant Navy, and parallel engagements with the Royal Naval Reserve,
and service in the First World War. We know that from 14 OCT 1909 he served on the Belfast based 'Balmerino' as a fireman,
transferring to the 'Belonale' on 19 JAN 1910, on which he worked in the same capacity until 23 MAR 1910. On the following
day he signed up for his regular biennial RNR training at Belfast, on board the Roxburgh, for
a period of 28 days, completing this on 20 APR 1910, with his conduct noted throughout as Very Good. It is not until
15 SEP 1910 that he is next at sea, joining the 'City of Liverpool' in Bristol, again as a fireman, for just over three
weeks, completing his service there on 7 OCT 1910. Three days later he joined the 'Eddystone of Gigor' at Belfast, on which
he served for 5 months up to 9 MAR 1911. At this point he remained shore based in Belfast for a few months with his family.
In the 1911 census,
John and family were recorded at 6 Cavour Street, North Belfast (parish of Shankill), with John noted as being a 43 year
old fireman who could read and write, born in Belfast, and who was Church of Ireland by way of religion. He was stated to
have been married for 19 years and of having fathered six children, with only three alive at the time of the census (Source:
National Archives of Ireland, 1911 census).
On
21 AUG 1911 John signed up to a vessel called 'Four __' (last part unintelligible), serving on a voyage as a fireman again
until 9 NOV, until discharged on 13 NOV 1911. This appears to have been as part of Royal naval reserve service (Ra),
with his conduct noted as Very Good. The following day he joined the 'Tenet of Belfast', serving until 2 JAN 1912, and then
on the Lagan until 23 MAR 1912. From 27 MAR 1912 John underwent RNR training again, this time on the 'Commonwealth', for a
further 28 days until 23 APR 1912.
He
reboarded the 'Lagan' on 29 APR, and spent most of the rest of the year on her, being eventually discharged on 27 DEC
1912. After a few months on shore, John returned to sea, but this time as a second engineer on the 'M. E. Hall' of Belfast,
for a six day voyage only. He then spent three days as a fireman on Titanic's sister ship, the 'Olympic'.
On 3 JUL 1913 John set
off from Cardiff on the 'May', sailing to Locludy in Brittany, France, returning to Cardiff in early August. On 7 AUG 1913
he went out with the 'May' again, this time it appears on Royal Naval Reserve service (Ra), until discharged at Cardiff on
2 SEP 1913 (conduct again noted as Very Good). On 9 SEP 1913 he signed up to the 'Inishowen Head' at Dublin, until 21 OCT
1913 (conduct Very Good), and then underwent more RNR training, on board the 'Venerable' from 31 DEC 1913 to 27 JAN 1914,
before joining the 'Cumberland' at Workington on 31 MAR 1914. There is then a hard to read
note saying that on 16 MAY 1914 he registered in Belfast regarding '? for def: vis:", though it is unclear what this is referring
to.
John's fourth 5 year
service term with the RNR commenced with re-enlistment on 26 MAY 1914, his service number now being 775 V (TNA: BT377/7/122685).
This second surviving document predominantly covers his war service. He appears to have been paid some kind of retainer in
Belfast from 27 JUN 1914 at £1 10s, then joined the 'Vedra' at Liverpool on 30 JUN 1914 for a voyage to the Gulf of Mexico,
returning to Belfast for 10 AUG 1914. It was to be his last voyage in peacetime.
A month after setting sail, John's
brother-in-law Arthur Taylor died in India, with his wife Matilda placing a notice in the Belfast Telegraph paper on their
behalf in his absence:
TAYLOR
- June 27, at Kirkee, India, Sergeant A. Taylor, R. I. Rifles, the dearly beloved husband of Annie Taylor.
Deeply regretted
Inserted
by his loving sister and brother-in-law
JOHN and MATILDA MONTGOMERY
6
Cavour Street, Belfast
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| HMS Engadine (Source: Wikimedia Commons) |
On 21 AUG 1914 John was called up for service with the Royal Navy, with the outbreak of the First World War.
he appears to have served on the 'Engadine' from 29 AUG 1914 to 10 MAY 1918, his conduct noted as Very Good, his ability as
Satisfactory. HMS Engadine was a seaplane tender that was appropriated by the Royal Navy in 1914 for war service, and modified
to carry four Short 184 seaplanes. The vessel participated in the Cuxhaven Raid of Christmas Day 1914, launching planes that
dropped bombs on the German zeppelin station there and inflicting heavy damage, and then the Battle of Jutland in 1916,
the largest sea battle to take place between the Royal Navy's Grand Fleet and the Imperial German Navy's High Seas Fleet.
Engadine was the only seaplane carrier to participate in the engagement, her planes providing reconnaisance work in the
battle, the first time that an aircraft carrier was used to provide reconnasisance work in a naval battle. (Film footage showing
how the Engadine deployed its aircraft was recorded in 1911, and can be viewed at http://youtu.be/NuFsZ5_W4XU)
John later appears to have
transferred to the Stonehaven on 10 MAY 1918, and then to the Royal Naval Air Station Pembroke II's SSRN Hospital at Eastchurch,
near Chatham, Kent, on 25 JUN 1918, from which he was invalided on 12 JUN 1918, the record noting he had an early senile
cataract of the right eye. He was subsequently awarded a 1st Good Conduct badge, the 1914 Star, the 14-15 Star, the British
War Medal and the Victory Medal for his service in the war. On 9 DEC 1918, after the war ended, John received a War Gratuity payment
of £27 12s 3d, and was also awarded a Royal Naval Reserve medal for Good Conduct and Long Service in Belfast on 14 MAY
1919. A War Badge was also issued (presumably the Silver War Badge).
The 1918
Belfast Street Directory notes him still at 6 Cavour Street, and as 'J. Montgomery, sailor' (Source: LennonWylie.co.uk), but
it would seem that he had moved within a year. On July 2nd 1919, when his daughter Charlotte married to Ernest Graham, John was noted as her father, and as being a fireman, with her address in the record was described
as 14 Esmond Street. The 1923 to 1931 Belfast Street directories further list him at the same address, noting him as
'John Montgomery, seaman' (Source: Post Office directories, Belfast Central Library).
John sadly died
just a few years later on 23 OCT 1923. His death certificate notes that he was a 50 year old widower resident at 14 Esmond
Street, a fireman by trade, and that the cause of death was acute gastritis and cardiac failure. The informant to the registrar
on June 4th was his son-in-law Ernest Graham, of 14 Esmond Street, who was present at his death (Source: GRONI D/1923/56/1007/27/55
Belfast Urban 10).
A notice concerning
John's death appeared in the Northern Whig newspaper on Thursday 25th, as follows:
MONTGOMERY
- October 23, 1923, at his residence, 14, Esmond Street, John, the dearly beloved husband of the late M. J. Montgomery. His
remains will be removed from above address to-morrow (Friday, 26th inst.) at 2.30pm, for interment in City Cemetery.
John was subsequently
buried on the 26th at Belfast City Cemetery, lair P2 236, burial order 67144. He was described as a 50 year old fireman in
the burial register, as Episcopalian and as resident at 14 Esmond Street. The owner of the lair was his son-in-law Ernest
Graham. The cause of John's death was gastritis, and he was noted as a widower. The lair itself had been purchased
by Ernest on February 27th 1904, certificate number 15896. The burial cost was 15s.
CHILDREN of JOHN MONTGOMERY and MATILDA TAYLOR:
William
John Montgomery
b:
19/3/1893 d: 26/2/1904
William
was born on 19 MAR 1893 at 13 Weusley Street, Belfast Urban District No. 2, and noted as the son of John Montgomery, shopman,
and Matilda Jane Taylor. The informant was Catherine Rodgers. William was baptised 4 APR 1893.
In
the 1901 census, William was noted as 8 years old, born in County Antrim, and resident at 6 Cavour Street. He was a scholar,
Presbyterian, but unable to write.
William
sadly died of pneumonia at the age of 10 on February 26th 1904 and was buried at the City Cemetery in lair P2 236, just
two days later. His address in the Belfast City Cemetery burial database was again given as 6 Cavour Street, Belfast. The
lair owner was James Rogers. William was noted as Episcopalian by way of religion, and his funeral cost 10s.
The Belfast Evening Telegraph
recorded the following on February 26th 1904 (Source: Eddie's Extracts):
MONTGOMERY -- February 26th, at 6
Cavour Street, William John, dearly-beloved son of John and Matilda Montgomery. His remains will be removed, for interment
in the City Cemetery, on to-morrow (Sunday) afternoon, at half-past two o'clock. Friends will please accept this intimation.
For him the daily strife is o'er,
For
him the battle's won,
Only for us 'tis left to say,
"Father, Thy will be done."
Charlotte
Harper Montgomery
b:
6/3/1895 d: 29/4/1974
Charlotte
was Calum's and Jamie's great great grandmother - see below.
George
Rogers Montgomery
b: 6/8/1898
d: 31/3/1900
George
was born at 6 Cavour Street, Belfast, Urban District No. 2, on 6 AUG 1898, the son of John Montgomery, sailor, and Matilda
Jane Taylor. Matilda was the informant to the registrar. George was baptised 24 AUG 1898.
George
died of pleuro-pneumonia aged 1 year and 7 months on 31 MAR 1900, and buried the next day in lair N2 206 at Belfast City Cemetery.
His address was given as 6 Cavour Street, Belfast, and his religion as Presbyterian. George was noted as Presbyterian, and
his funeral cost 7s 6d. The owner of the lair was James McTighe who purchased it on June 8th 1892(Source:
Belfast City Council cemetery database).
David
Taylor Montgomery
b:
3/1/1902
David was born on
3 JAN 1902 at 6 Cavour Street, Belfast, Urban District No. 2, the son of John Montgomery, sailor, and Matilda Jane Taylor.
The informant was Annie Rogers. David was christened on 22 JAN 1902.
In the 1911 census
for Belfast he was noted as residing at 6 Cavour Street in North Belfast (parish of Shankill), of being a 9 year old scholar
who could read and write, born in Belfast, and who was Church of Ireland by way of religion.
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| David Montgomery (left), with sister Charotte and brother Robert, in Clontarf |
Mary Harper Montgomery
b: 7/9/1904
Mary was born on 7 SEP 1904 at 6 Cavour Street, Belfast, Urban
District No. 2, the daughter of John Montgomery, seaman, and Matilda Taylor. Matilda was the informant to the registrar.
Mary was christened on 11 OCT 1904.
In the 1911 census for Belfast she was noted as residing at 6 Cavour
Street in North Belfast (parish of Shankill), of being a 6 year old scholar who could read and write, born in Belfast,
and who was Church of Ireland by way of religion.
Christina Montgomery
b: 18/5/1907 d: 22/2/1909
Christina was born on 18 MAY 1907 at 6 Cavour Street, Belfast, Urban District No. 2,
the daughter of John Montgomery, sailor, and Matilda Taylor. Matilda informed the registrar. Christina was christened on 5
JUN 1907.
Christina sadly passed away from pneumonia aged 1 year and 9 months on 22 FEB 1909 at
6 Cavour Street, and was buried 2 days later at the City Cemetery in Belfast, in lair P2 236. She was Presbyterian by
way of religion. The lair owner was James Rogers, and Christina's funeral cost 7s 6d.
Robert Montgomery
b: 12/9/1911
Robert Montgomery was born to John and Matilda on 12 SEP 1911 and baptised on 18 OCT
1911. He was born at 8 Cavour Street, Belfast. In the record his father was noted as a sailor. The informant to the Belfast
registrar (Urban district no.2) was Elizabeth Hayes.
Charlotte
Harper Montgomery
7/3/1895 - 29/4/1974
Charlotte was Calum's and Jamie's great great grandmother.
Charlotte was born on March
6th 1895 at 50 Seaview Street, just off the York Road in Belfast. The informant to the registrar was Catherine Rogers
of 4 Cavour Street, who was present at the birth (GRONI:1895/Belfast urban no 2/61/154). (NB: Catherine appears
to have died just four years later on September 7th 1899 at 7 Cavour Street, aged 49, and was buried in City Cemetery at E1
741)
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| Charlotte's signature on the declaration of loyalty, 1912 |
In the 1901 census Charlotte was found
with her mother and brother William at 6 Cavour Street, Belfast. She was listed as 6 years old, a scholar but unable to read,
and Presbyterian (Source: 1901 census NAI). In the 1911 census she was 16 and noted as a stitcher who could read and
write, and who was Church of Ireland by religion (Source: 1911 census NAI).
In 1912, Charlotte, along with nearly 250,000 other Protestant Ulster woman, signed a declaration of loyalty to the Crown
in the advent of possible Home Rule for Ireland, on Saturday, September 28th 1912, also known as "Ulster Day". At the
time of the declaration, Charlotte was living with her mother Matilda at 6 Cavour Street, in the district
of St. Anne's, Belfast. But whilst Matilda signed the declaration at Belfast City Hall, Charlotte opted to sign her name at
the Orange Hall on Clifton Street, in the presence of B. Patrick of 19 Glandore Avenue (PRONI).
On 29 SEP 1917, Charlotte was a witness to the marriage of her first cousin, Jennie M. Gibson
(daughter of Eliza Montgomery and William Gibson), at the Registrar's Office in Belfast
(Source: RootsIreland).
|
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| Charlotte Harper Graham (nee Montgomery) |
Charlotte married Ernest Graham on July 2nd 1919 at St. Matthew's Church of Ireland in Belfast, just three years prior to the partition
of Ireland. At the time of the wedding, she was resident at 14 Esmond Street, Belfast, whilst Ernest lived at 7 Grey Street.
The officiating minister was the rector, Robert Walker, whilst the witnesses were Hugh Gibson and Lilian
McCracken.
Between 1934 and 1974 Charlotte was still living
at 14 Esmond Street in Belfast. Her husband Ernest died in 1942 at the early age of 49, and she spent the next 25 years as
a widow.
Calum's and Jamie's grandmother Cherie
believes that her own grandmother Charlotte may have had some link to the area of Downpatrick, as during the Second
World War produce was sent by her and her husband to the family in Belfast to supplement their rations, usually in the form
of extra eggs and butter.
Cherie has many fond memories of her grandmother, recalling
that she was a member of the spiritualist church on the Shakill, along with her husband. Cherie also remembers that she was
a real fun loving woman who would happily allow her grandchildren to jump up and down on the bed in her house without
telling them off. She was a heavy smoker, except when she had the flu, when she would suddenly stop until she was better, at
which time she would resume the habit. She also regularly visited a club on the Shankill called the White Feather. Cherie
describes her as having been quite a small woman, about five foot in height, with gray hair formed in a wave with a wee sausage
roll hair style along the end of her hair around her neck. Cherie recalls how her granny used to love watching kids
play out on the street from her house window, and described her as a complete angel, whom she loved to bits, unlike her
other granny, who was a complete dragon!
Charlotte died at Belfast City Hospital on 29 APR 1974. The cause was certified
as tricuspid incompetence, ischeamic heart disease and coronary atherosclerosis. Charlotte's son informed the Belfast
registrar of her death on the 29th (GRONI:D74/81/1860).
Charlotte was buried on 1 MAY 1974 at the City Cemetery's Glenalina Extension,
in lair VI 251, alongside her husband Ernest. Her burial record notes that she was resident at 14 Esmond Street, Belfast,
at time of death.
The following notices were put in the Belfast
Telegraph after Charlotte's death in 1974:
Monday, April 29th 1974
GRAHAM
- April 29 1974, at hospital, Charlotte, dearly loved wife of the late Ernest Graham, 14 Esmond Street. Funeral arrangements
later - Very deeply regretted.
Tuesday,
April 30th 1974
GRAHAM - April 29th 1974, at hospital, Charlotte, dearly loved wife of the late Ernest Graham, 14
Esmond Street. Funeral from Belfast Co-operative Society. Funeral church 90 Shankill Road tomorrow (Wednesday) at 11am to
City Cemetery (service 10.45am). Deeply regretted by the sorrowing family circle.
GRAHAM - The Employees of the Litho
Room, William W.Cleland, tender their deepest sympathy to their colleague, J.Graham, on the death of his mother.
GRAHAM
- the Supervision and Employees of the Contact Shop, STC Monkstown, regret to learn of the death of the mother of their esteemed
colleague Irene Gamble and tender to her and family circle their deepest sympathy.
Upon her death, the house at Esmond Street passed onto Charlotte's daughter Irene
for a couple of years, before being vacated.
CHILDREN of CHARLOTTE MONTGOMERY
and ERNEST GRAHAM:
Ernest Graham
b: 17/3/1922 d: 23/10/1972
Florence Graham
b:
19??
Irene Graham
b: 19??
John M. Graham
b: 19??
Connecting to Calum and Jamie
Charlotte Harper married Ernest Graham in 1919
Son, Ernest Graham, married Martha Jane Elisabeth Watton Smyth in 1943
Daughter, Charlotte Harper Graham,
married Colin Paton in 1969
Son, Christopher Mark Paton, married Claire Patricia Giles in 2000
Sons, Calum
Graham Paton and Jamie Christopher Paton.
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