Known data so far,
Hugh was born 1808/9 in Kilmacrennan, Letterkenny. He enlisted into the British Army at age 17 years on 21 May 1825 at Strabane in the County of Tyrone. His Service Number was 465, and he was a Private in the 38th Regiment of Foot. He was medically discharged from the Army on 13 Nov 1832, and admitted as an out-pensioner to the Royal Hospital Chelsea on 14 Nov 1832. Hugh was literate because he signed his discharge papers very neatly in his own hand. Hugh worked as a labourer before his enlistment.
Between 14 Nov 1832 and 25 Dec 1847 Hugh was married to a Mary ?? and they had four children: Mary Josephine 1840, Patrick 1843, Ellen 1843 and Sarah 1845. Wife Mary's maiden name varies with the document viewed at the time, eg her son Edward born in NZ her maiden name is listed as Halforte while on his death certificate in Queensland, Australia her maiden name is listed as Hilferty. Maiden names for Mary so far are: Alford, Heffary,Halforte, Hilferty, Helferty and Hellforthy.
On 25 Dec 1847 this party departed Carrickfergus, Belfast on the ship ANN, bound for Auckland, NZ. Hugh had enlisted for duty as a NZ Fencible. Hugh died on 28 Feb 1880 at Hawera, Taranaki, NZ.
I have tried to research Hugh and Mary, but, because of the sheer number of Dougherty's and my lack of local knowledge with respect to the townlands/church parish combinations I am getting no where fast.
I am trying to find out more about Hugh and Mary and their time in Ireland like;
a. Hugh's birth date and his parents,
b. Mary' maiden name,
c. when and where they were married, and
d. where they lived before they embarked on the ship Ann.
Any assistance will be appreciated.
Regards
Greg D.