Will of Jacob O'Donnell and Finding the Family

[Elwyn Soutter]

Perhaps they only recorded marriages when they first enlisted.

In general, people who were already married could not join the RIC. Widowers were accepted. The service record should record any subsequent marriage. RIC staff had to have served 7 years before they could marry, and you would not be posted to the county in which you or your wife’s family lived. So that’s why it was important to know if you had married.  (Marrying without permission was  a disciplinary offence).

[Revolution]

Thanks aghadowey

Would purchasing the Record Image show anything more than whats on the website? I havent seen Richard mentioned before and hes too young to be a son so an unknown brother or cousin perhaps if its the right Isaac?

Thanks Elwyn - great info. Of 10 people in the page I have only 2 married

[aghadowey]

I haven't tried to get more detail from City Cemetery but don't think much other detail will be shown. Did look in Belfast Newsletter for the 2 deaths but nothing there (not uncommon at that time and Isaac was living in Larne).

Have an idea of where to search next so will go off and have a look for Isaac & Richard.

[Revolution]

Thank you aghadowey

As the records were only 3 pounds for both I ordered them.

The Belfast Cemetery responded quickly to my request for info prior to the order and said:

It contains various other items of information which can include religion, occupation, cause of death and also details of the person (usually a family member) who signed for the burial.

[aghadowey]

Thought directories might help but couldn't see any leads there.

95 Whitla St., Belfast (where Richard O'Donnell died in 1883)-
1880- vacant
1884- Stephen David (steward)
1901- John Halligan (seaman)

Provincial towns, such as Larne, only list 'important' people such as gentry, clergy, businessmen, etc. so not surprised that Isaac wasn't listed there.

Glad to hear that there might be more details in cemetery records- let us know what turns up there

[Revolution]

Isaac O'Donnell paid for Richards burial. Richard died of consumption

Isaac was listed as a Sergeant in the R.I.C! Died from disease of the liver.

Richard record has Single crossed out whereas Isaacs has married crossed out.

Did they cross out the applicable category or leave the one which was applicable?

[dathai]

Their death certs would clarify that.

[aghadowey]

Looks like it might be a match 

[Revolution]

I just ordered Isaacs and Richards death certificates via the GRONI.

Thanks!