Note: we’ve had a very cool, wet Spring. Starting this weekend, the weather forecast is expected to be 30°F higher than what we’ve experienced this year (and this week). We are trying to clear dead brush on the perimeter of our property before the weather changes. So far, our hillside is winning the battle; I don’t think we’ll finish before we get our typical summer temps. I wish I could reply now but I have to get back to cutting. Briefly, before I go:
A short bit of history about Honora and our Ovens families (most likely mentioned previously in other threads). (Sorry for posting so many threads about the Ovens; I wanted to solve the puzzle before my mum passed away.)
Honora lived in County Donegal. For various reasons, she and my mum ”knew” that we were distantly related. Honora knew a lot about her family and ancestors and came to the conclusion that our John was Captain John Ovens. Captain Ovens was not our John. The Captain died in Ireland. I have a miniature copy of a painting of Captain Ovens and his family, given to us by Honora - several children are included in the painting. I briefly tried to find it just now - I will look again later as I may have the childrens’ names with the copy.
As mentioned in one of the above links, there was also a Major John Ovens. He is distantly related to Honora. Honora’s father or grandfather was also a distinguished military man.
I thought perhaps the John Ovens who “died” in 1835 might be my John. If there was a mistake with the regimental rolls and he actually deserted, then that would certainly classify him as the family black sheep.
I have no interest in being associated with both military men. Status, in any form, does not interest me. To date, all of my ancestors were common people and I am very content with that knowledge. I am thrilled by the shop owners, locksmiths, coopers, etc. as I’ve come to know about them and their lives, with the outstanding help of RootsChatters. I would like to be able to finally find that connection to Honora. I would like to confirm that I have or haven’t found John’s parents.
I’ve rattled on far too long. I will be back in several hours. Apologies for not being able to do more now. A huge thank you to everyone!
Added: I kept all of Honora’s letters. From one letter, dated 1998:
“…Anyway your branch of the family had gone to America by the time that painting was done. But I am convinced that there is a blood tie!” Also,
“My grandfather…had a good deal of land in Eniskillen and a great many relations there too.”
So, Honora didn’t believe Captain John Ovens (died 1849) was our John!
I will read all of her correspondence tonight. There could be clues about other Ovens.
