Railway Worker

[Kiltaglassan]

Was the railway work referred to on the birth records of his children? this would show if he gave it a high priority.

At the birth of his last child, Margaret, he was still referred to as a farmer. His wife Bridget was the informant.

https://civilrecords.irishgenealogy.ie/churchrecords/images/birth_returns/births_1888/02512/1931339.pdf

KG

[Kerrill]

Yes, on all the childrens birth certs he is down as a farmer, thanks to all of you for your inputs, will try and get hold of the book you mentioned today.

[Redroger]

Just a general and possibly obvious comment. In rural areas dependent on the position held, eg rural crossing keeper it was by no means uncommon even into the 1970s for the crossing keepers cottage to come with a great deal of land, indeed a virtual small holding. I have known that many people in rural Lincolnshire have been virtually full time farmers, their railway duties consisting of opening the crossing gates a few times a week. I would expect similar circumstances in Ireland as it is a much less urbanised country that England.

[myluck!]

It’s a good point Redroger. Gatekeepers in Ireland still have a house in some areas. However as they tended to be on the payroll and used this title as their main work

1901 census. Gatekeepers Galway Link

[Redroger]

His address on the census could well confirm my thoughts or otherwise demolish the theory.

[Kerrill]

The house still stands today, it's not a railway house.  Thanks for the input though. 

[Kiltaglassan]

The house still stands today, it's not a railway house. 

Where is the house in Clooncah townland - is it north or south of the railway line? Is it near Clooncah House?

KG

[Kerrill]

Map of house