Origins of Protestant Families arounf Ballymena and Portglenone

[gerig]

I only ever visited the area but knew people who knew Maggie Swann.  Mr Clarke and family had a house on the Carmegrim Rd which overlooked the Swann farm. The farm had quite extensive buildings visible from the upper road.  The Clarkes would have known more about the family history.  Many of the people were tenant farmers.  Tenants of Lord O'Neill but were able to buy the land because of the Irish Land Act.
Sorry I cannot be more helpful.  Good luck in your search.  If you ever visit anyone along the Carmegrim Rd would be able to show you the Swann farm.

[Leigh P]

Thanks gerig. I appreciate your help. Unfortunately, I am unlikely to have the opportunity to visit the Portglenone area, which is why I'm very appreciative of any information I am given about the Swans and Gaults.

Leigh

[gerig]

Leigh,
Google Clarke Carmagrim Rd portglenone and there is an Agnes E Clarke at #44.  This would be the location of the house that overlooked the Swann farm.  These people may be able to put you in touch with someone local who could give you some more information. A telephone number is included.  I don't know where you are located but Portglenone, Ahoghill and Ballymena are not far apart.

[Leigh P]

Leigh,
Google Clarke Carmagrim Rd portglenone and there is an Agnes E Clarke at #44.  This would be the location of the house that overlooked the Swann farm.  These people may be able to put you in touch with someone local who could give you some more information. A telephone number is included.  I don't know where you are located but Portglenone, Ahoghill and Ballymena are not far apart.

Thanks gerig,

I'm in Australia.

Leigh

[JayJay55]

Hello folks, have just joined Rootschat and enjoying this thread.  My forebears were Shields/Sheils/Sheals of Portglenone/Ahoghill area.  My g/grandfather James Shields left Antrim in 1863 aged 21 for Australia.  His parents were Patrick Shields and Nancy Hall.  From what I know only one sister, Elizabeth Ann remained in Ireland and married Robert Greer in 1850. 
If anyone has come across Patrick and Nancy I would be very pleased.
Cheers JayJay