Holmes Genealogy research in Coleraine
I have been researching Holmes families in Ireland for over 30 years. My personal research notes are now in excess of 150 pages. I have created this website in an effort to make them available to other researchers. The following are my notes compiled while researching Holmes families in Colraine:
In the 1630 Muster Rolls near Coleraine:
THOMAS Holmes Town & Liberties of Coleraine
JOHN Holmes Town & Liberties of Coleraine
(Ulster Settlers Database)
29 June 1657. Chancery bill. No answer.
Robert Kerr, James Patterson, Ninian Holmes, John Fargison [Furguson],
James Beard [Baird], John Mathew, John Allen, John Patterson,
Robert Algeo, Hugh Kerr, John Baldridge, Robert Gault [Galt],
John Humphrey, John Young, John Beard, Gilbert Crocket,
Robert Rea & Ninian Clerk [Clark] Plts
V. Capt John Galland, Lt Thomas Dance, Ensign Edmund Browne,
Samuel Doughty
George Cary & his wife Avis, Jane Cary,
Thomas Church & his wife Hester
Defts
Plts are tenants of the lands of
6 qrs of Ballyaghran co Londonderry
2 quarters of Gallyvallyoughtrah and the mill of Gallyvallyoughtrah
& the qr of Ballylagan all in the co of Antrim
and the 2 qrs of Ballyvolton in Dunluce Barony co Antrim &
The lands of Ballyhemon
by lease from Defts Cary and Church
They have been disturbed by Defts
Galland, Dance, Browne & Doughty
(PRONI T808/897)
1661 subsidy roll
Ninian Holmes, Ballyagheran Tulloghmurray 6-0-0 3-4-0
(CGA – subsidy roll)
Hearth money rolls of 1663″
NINIAN Holmes in Tolomeog [Tullaghmurry], Ballyaghran parish
HUGH Holmes in Ballywillin parish
GEORGE Holmes in Killyvally [Killevally], Destertoghill parish
ALEXANDER Holmes in Ballyagan, Destertoghill
ALEXANDER Holmes of Ballyagan is on Hearth Tax roll for the Parish of Desertoghill in 1663. (The county of Londonderry in three centuries, with notices of the Ironmongers’ estate, Kernohan, J.W., 1921, p.82)
Connor Will 13 Nov 1680
NINIAN Holmes, Co Londonderry [probably the Ninian Holmes found in the 1663 hearth roll for Ballyaghran parish, Tullaghmurray / Tolomeog townland] I NINIAN Holmes in the parish of Ba__ Co Londonderry…”my two sons JOHN and WILLIAM”…the following persons who owed him money: Archibald Campbell, Robert [Chillows?], John Doby, John Cochran, John Logan, John Ross, James Baxter, John McKeedy. Exrs: my two sons JOHN and WILLIAM. Will signed 13 Nov 1680. Witnesses: John Lemok[?], James __, Hough Whyt. Probate to Exrs 20 Dec 1680 (PRONI T681 p.305)…[Image of will]
There are wills of Andrew Mowatt, of Maghera (1686), and of James Shields, of Churchtown, Aghadowey (1686). The goods of John Cargill, of ” Bally-naze. ” Aghadowey, were administered by his son, John, in 1685, and the same duty was performed in the same year for Robert Bamford, of Bovagh, Aghadowey. by his widow, Margaret. A similar document attests a similar service rendered to Matthew Haslett, Drum-gaily, Dunboe. in 1684. There’ are like records of JOHN Holmes, of Killyvalley, Garvagh (1686) (The county of Londonderry in three centuries, with notices of the Ironmongers’ estate, Kernohan, J.W., 1921, p.52)
1740 Protestant Householders’ survey :
John Holmes, Ballymoney, Co Antrim
Las Homes, Ballymoney, Co Antrim
Jas Homes, Derrykeighan, Co Antrim
John Holms, Kirkinriola, Co Antrim
Wm Homes, Coleraine
Hu Homes, Coleraine
James Homes, Coleraine
John Homes, Coleraine
Gab Homes, Coleraine
Hu Homes, Desertoghill, Co Derry
Gab Homes, ibid
Jn Homes, ibid
Gab Homes, ibid
Thos Homes, ibid
Thos Homes, ibid
Jn Homes, ibid
Abm Homes, Ballywillan
Nelie Homes, Ballywillan
Humes John Dunboe
Hume William Macosquin
[There were also 4 Holmes families in Ballykelly near Limavady in 1740]
Nininan Holmes on 1662 subsidy roll
(CGA – subsidy roll)
JAMES Holmes, sailor of Coleraine, had a licence granted in 1686 for marriage with Margaret Kerr of Derry. (The county of Londonderry in three centuries, with notices of the Ironmongers’ estate, Kernohan, J.W., 1921, p.52)
Rev. Abernathy, Presbyterian minister of Coleraine, died on 14 Nov 1703. The month after Rev. Abernathy died, Mr. John Thompson and JOHN Holmes went to Presbytery to report “that ye people of Colrain have an eye on one Mr. Thomas Hock, a preacher now in Dublin.” (Mullin, Julia E., New Row, the History of New Row Presbyterian Church, 1727-1977 (Antrim, N. Ireland: W. & G. Baird, Ltd., 1976): 18.)
JOHN Holmes, Colraine left will 1717 (PRONI Name Index – Connor Diocesan Administration Bonds)
ABRAHAM Holmes minister to General Synod in Dungannon on June 21, 1726 (RGS, V.2, p.102)
1724 list of stipend holders for 1st Coleraine include WILLIAM, JOHN and HUGH Homes (Coleraine Museum, Sam Henry Collection – Typed notes on lined paper titled, ‘Holmes’. Re the Holmes of Coleraine.)
Memorial of Indented deed dated 26 Dec 1726 whereby the Town of Coleraine leased to the Rev Mr James Smyth of Berdifield [Beardiville], Co. Antrim, one of the aldermen of the city, [appointed Bishop of Meath in 1732] the lands of Lisnablaugh in the parish of Coleraine, Co. Londonderry consisting of 15 acres then in the possession of William Wallace, Thomas Wallace and widow Wallace. Witnessed by Robert Dunlap, WILLIAM Holmes, and John Galt, merchants of Coleraine. Memorial witnessed by WILLIAM Holmes and William Dent and dated 17 Apr 1727. (RD 54/132/35149)…….see also Deed dated 13 May 1728 from town of Coleraine to James Smythe of Beardifield the son of the alderman of the city (RD 57/197/37990) witnessed by Lt. George Jackson of Coleraine, Thomas Hollyday (Holliday) of Waterside, parish Killowen, Co. Londonderry, Innkeeper.
WILLIAM Holmes of Coleraine, merchant was witness to memorial of deed bearing the date Dec 10, 1731 between Joseph Moor and William Moore of Rosnashean, parish of Finvoy, Co Antrim (RD 73/389/51557)
Original Connor Will of William Knox of Coleraine
Signed 4 Feb 1729/30 proved 30 Apr 1730
William Knox leaves
d. Agnes Knox, d. Marg: Knox, son John Knox
d. Mary Knox, son Robert Knox
and to 2 sons William Knox and Samuel Knox
and to wife all cattle ships etc.
sons to be put to such trades as they shall choose
Executors: my brother Robert Knox & Mr William Moore of Drumhagle
Overseers: Mr Andrew Boyd and my wife and my brother Thomas Knox
Witness: (illegible) Boyd
Probate to widow, R Knox and W Moore renouncing
Administration bond attached to above Janet Knox, William Homes of Coleraine and Robert Hamell [Hamill] of Ballywillin co Antrim, 30 April 1730 that said Janet widow & Executrix of William Knox of Coleraine
(PRONI T/808 p.8870)
WILLIAM Holmes, merchant, was witness to a memorial of deed of mortgage in 1733 between John and Elizabeth McAlester and Willian Wylly all of Coleraine. Witnessed by Richard Lloyd and Joseph Leslie. (RD 77/467/54372)
Memorial of deed dated 10 Feb 1734 between William Richardson of Summerseal, Co. Londonderry takes for his own use a lease taken by Samuel Craighead of London, Merchant [brother-in-law to Rev WILLIAM Homes of Strabane] for himself and William Galt of Coleraine, merchant…witnessed by Hercules Hyland, Esq. of Castleroe, Co. Londonderry, deceased, and John McAlester of Coleraine. Memorial witnessed by John McAlester and Robert Patrick. Sworn bedford Dominic Heyland and John Thompson 10 Jun 1752. (RD 149/543/103791)
Memorial of an Indenture in writing dated 5 Mar 1736 whereby M. Edwd Barwick of Ballysalley … let unto the sd John Willson of Coleraine, aleseller all that Park .. writing the sd John Willson died having first made his last Will & Testament in Writing & thereof appointed Thomass Ramage Wm Holmes & Jas Hutchison all of Colraine, merchants his Executors & the sd Thos Ramadge & Jas Hutchison admrs unto the sd John Willson the sd Wm Holmes having renounced the Administ which sd Writing was duly Executed by the parties thereto and Witnessed by J. Brookes of Coleraine aforesd Yeoman & aforesd Wm Holmes & this meml is Signed & Sealed by the said James Hutchison .. & Witnessed by the sd Wm Holmes & Cha Church of Colraine .. Sworn before me at Colraine aforesd this 17 Mar 1748 (RD 136/113/90772)
WILLIAM Holmes, merchant and Ar Church, Esq, both of Coleraine were named executors to the will of John Smith of Coleraine, goldsmith dated 1736/7. Legacies went to Samuel Smith of B’Skullen, Benjamin Smith, Rose Smith, Susanne Smith, John Smith, James Askin, Mansfill Tucker, James Miller, granddaughter Jean Campbell, Jean Mackay, Mrs Susanne Todd widow, Daniel Todd. Witnessed by Thos. Elam, Thomas Caldwell and Robert Williamson, jr. (CGA (Parcel 1A-32-26 v. S cont.) Smith notebooks, v. 13.)
Connor Will made 28 Feb 1736/7 Proved 9 Oct 1737
John Smith of Coleraine, goldsmith
Small legacies of clothes, etc to Samuel Smith of Ballyskullen, Benjamin Smith, Rose Smith, Susanna Smith, John Smith, James Atkin, Mansfell Tucker, James Miller, Jean Mackay & grand-daughter Jean Campbell including to latter her dead mother’s dress.
House etc to Susanna Todd widow of Daniel Todd
Executors: Arthur Church, Esq & WILLIAM Holmes, merchant both of Coleraine
Witnesses: Thomas Elinn, Thomas Caldwell, Robert Williamson junior.
Will deposited with Rev Charles Lynd. Long inventory with names of purchasers of goods sold
21 May 1737
Note: Rev Charles Lynd was minister of 2nd Coleraine Prsebyterian 1728 to his death in 1751
Isaac Todd was a leading member of the Congregation 1727-28, p.97 Killen’s Congregations
(PRONI T808 p.13414)
WILLIAM Holmes signed the inventory of the estate of Jean Campbell of Coleraine in 21 May 1737 (CGA (Parcel 1A-32-26 v. S cont.) Smith notebooks, v. 13.)
Memorial of an Instrument in writ bearing date t6 Dec 1738 whereby Hugh Allison of Maghreyboy in the long Liberties of Coleraine & Co. of Londonderry for & in Considn of the sum of five Shill .. make over & confirm unto Jas Neilson of Maghreyboy … witnessed by Wm Harrison of Mallintober within in the Co of Antrim Gent & Robt Smith of the Parks in the same Co Farmer and this mem is Signed & Sealed by the sd James Willson in the presence of the sd Robt Smith & Wm Holmes of Coleraine… 24th day of June 1748 (RD 132/445/89928)
WILLIAM Holmes of Coleraine and John Hamill of Ballywillan were witnesses to and mentioned in the will of Mary Hamill, widow of Ballyrashane. 21 Jun 1739 (CGA, File: Hatton 1, Source: Connor Bond)
Memorial of an Indenture of Lease bearing date 29 July 1740 Between Susanna Todd of Coleraine and County Londonderry of the one part and Tho . Stewart and Charles Stewart of the parish of Ballywoolin in said County of the other part whereby the sd Susanna for the consideration therein mentioned did Demise Grant Sett and to farm lett unto the said Thomas and Charles Stewart all that the upper half Quarter Land of land more then in their possession Scituate in sd parish To have & to hold the sd premises with the Appurs unto the sd Tho . and Charles Stewart their heirs Executors and Admr from the first day of November then last past for the Term of Twenty four years at and under the yearly rent or sum of Eleven Pounds Ten Shills Ster payable half yearly on Every first day of May and first day of Novr 4th sd Deed was ┃ Duly Executed by the party thereto and witnessed by Wm Holmes the – Younger of Coleraine aforesd Merch , and Saml Keith of Ballywoolin aforesd Yeoman and this meml is signed and sealed by the sd Thos Stewart the surviving Seassee in presence of the sd William Holmes and George Lyons of Coleraine aforesd yeoman in the Stewart ( Seal ) Signed and ┃ Sealed in presence of us George Lyons Willm Holmes the above named Wm Holmes came this day before me and made oath that he is a subscribing witness to the deed of wth the above is a meml and saw the same duely Executed by the party thereto and also saw the said memr Signed and sealed by the sd Tho . Stewart and that the name Wm Holmes Subscribed as a witness to sd Deed and meml is this Dept proper handwriting . Willm Holmes Sworn before me at Coleraine aforesd this first day of December 1750 by virtue of a Comiss to me granted and know the Dept Cha Church Justices of the peace for the Co of Londonderry Dom Hyland John Thompson (RD 143/479/97854)
All persons who were indebted to Archibald McNeil, traveling chapman, deceased are desired to pay their debts to his executors, Henry Fulton and WILLIAM Holmes, Jr of Coleraine (Belfast Newsletter 1738-1938, 24 Jul 1750, page 3)
WILLIAM Holmes (b.1714) married Agnes Smyly on Feb 14, 1741/42 by Rev. Fletcher. Son WILLIAM was born 1750 and married Elizabeth ___. They had 3 sons (2 doctors and 1 business) and three daughters. Only the daughter Mary was married, she m. James Robinson. (Coleraine Museum, Sam Henry Collection – Handwritten notes (double sided) re genealogical information re the family name Holmes.)…see Ancestry tree
WILLIAM HOLMES of Coleraine was witness to a Memorial of deed dated 13 Sep 1742 between Michael Cromy of Dublin and Robert Getty of Tagheyfad, Co Antrim for lives of Robert Getty, John Hunter and John Todd son of Gabriel Todd of Balingabeg, Co Antrim. Witnessed by Hugh McCollum and John Henry. (RD 134/84/89955)
WILLIAM Holmes occupant of house in New Row, Coleraine in deed dated May 19, 1743 from Mary Curtis, widow of James Curtis to Richard Lynam (RD 112/61/77040)
Memorial of deed dated dated 12 Nov 1743 whereby William Wylly of Coleraine, merchant transferred to Archibald Morrison of Ballynagg, Parish of Ballyrashane, Co Londonderry, farmer, 32 acres of Ballynagg and Island Effrick. Witnessed by James Young and Alexander Wylly, both of Coleraine. Memorial dated 9 Jun 1748 and witnessed by Joseph Young and WILLIAM Holmes of Coleraine, merchant.(RD 128/572/88734)
Memorial of an Indenture of Lease bearing date 25 nov 1743 Between Alexander Miller of Coleraine in the Co of Londonderry Carpenter of the one part and Joseph Douthet of Coleraine aforesaid Innkeeper of the other part whereby ye Alex. Miller for considerations in said Lease mentioned did demise Grant set & to farm lett unto the sd Jos Douthel all that Messuage or Tenement situate lying & being in the New Row of Coleraine aforesaid bounded on the North by the house wherein William Long Taylor now dwells in & by the south by the house wherein James Easty now dwells … witnessed by Griffin Howard and William Holmes both of Coleraine in the County of Londonderry Gent & this Memorial is signed & sealed by the said Jos Douthit in presence of the said Griffin ┃ Howard and John Paradey of Colerain …(RD 174/593/118119)
Coleraine rental 1746: William Holmes No.15 in Map (in Church street) plus 24 1/2 acs No.107 in map – lease for 3 lives or 41 yrs or 61 yrs from Ladyday 1734. (PRONI T/656/1 Merchant Taylor Docs)
WILLIAM Holmes and John Galt of Coleraine, merchants were witnesses to the memorial on 9 Jun 1748 to lease dated Jan 17, 1745 between William Wylly of Coleraine and John McRannel of Killone, Co Londonderry for Ballynagg and Island Effrick in the Liberties of Coleraine during lives in Wylly’s lease of Ballynagg + Island Effrick, rent £12 p. Witnessed by John Galt the younger of Coleraine, merchant and James Patrick. Registered before Charles Church, Dominic Hyland and Hercules Hyland, Justices of the Peace. (RD 128/572/88733)
WILLIAM Holmes of Coleraine, merchant was witness on May 15, 1746 to deed (lease and release, effectively a mortgage) between William Wylly and Robert Giveen, elder both of Coleraine for lands in Ballynagg and Island Effrick. (RD 121/433/83495) [Note: From Collectanea Genealogica Sir Wm Betham’s Will Abstracts: Vol 12, p 13, Robert Giveen of Killowen in co Londonderry merchant will dat 8 Aug 1757 pr 10 May 1758; wife Anne; brothers Samuel Giveen (issue Robert, John and Anne Giveen); David Giveen and John Giveen; mentions David Given and Sarah Holmes cousins to Robert Giveen. [see also the Given / Macnaghten / Holmes of Belfast connection in the Orr pedigree and visits to Givens by the Rev Mr Holmes in diary at PRONI].
WILLIAM Holmes of Coleraine was witness to Memorial of Deed dated 3 Jun 1747 whereby William Harrison of Mallindober [Mallendober] transferred to Robert Neilson of Craigtown, Co Antrim for the lives of John Caldwell, son of John Caldwell of Dunboe, William Neilson son of John Neilson of Dunboe, and Francis Wylly son of William Wylly of Ballyleese. Witnessed by James Neillson of Magheraboy, Co Londonderry, John Edgar of Ballytibert and Samuel Wilson of Mallindober. [Mallendober] (RD 128/453/87539)
Memorial of lease dated 12 Nov 1743 whereby William Wylly of Coleraine, merchant leased to Archibald Morrison of Ballynagg in the parish of Ballyrashane, farmer, all that land of Ballynagg then possessed by him containing 32 acres for a term of 31 years. Witnessed by Joseph Young and Alex Wylly. Memorial witnessed by Joseph Young and WILLIAM Holmes of Coleraine and registered on 9 Jun 1748 with Charles Church, Dominic Hyland and Hercules Hyland, Justices of the Peace (RD 128/572/88734)
WILLIAM Holmes the younger and Robert Hutchinson, both of Coleraine, merchants, and Rev. Charles Boyd of Coleraine were witness to an instrument dated 3 Feb 1748 whereby Jannet Boyd of Ballymcilvennan, Liberties of Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, widow let unto Robert Knox of Ballymacilvenan, that part of Ballymacilvenan she formerly possessed, reciting lease from Rowley Hill, Esq., deceased. Memorial dated 30 March 1749 and witnessed by WILLIAM Holmes the younger and Robert Hutchinson. (RD 136/120/90795)
Memorial of deed dated 2 Aug 1749 whereby Alexander Montgomery of Moyarget, Parish of Ramoan, Co Antrim transferred to John and James Hopkins half of the quarterland of lower Moyarget for a term of 39 years. Rent to be paid to Davys Wilson. Witnessed by James and John Anderson. Memorial witnessed by John Anderson and SAMUEL Holmes of Coleraine and registered on 8 Jun 1754 with Charles Church, John Thompson and Dominic Heyland. (RD 171/603/117519)
A memorial of indenture of lease bearing date the 29th January 1740 made between Susanna Todd of Coleraine and County Londonderry of the one part and Thomas Stewart and Charles Stewart of the parish of Ballywoolin (= Ballywillan) in said county of the other part. Said Susanna for the considerations therein mentioned did demise grant sett and to farm let unto the said Thomas and Charles Stewart all that the upper half Quarterland of Islandmore then in their possession situate in said parish. To have and to hold……… from the first day of November then last past for the term of twenty four years at and under the yearly rent or sum of eleven pounds ten shillings sterling payable half yearly on every first day of May and first day of November…. Duly executed by the parties thereto and witnessed by WILLIAM Holmes the Younger of Coleraine, aforesaid merchant and Samiel Keith of Ballywoolin, aforesaid yeoman. Memorial signed and sealed by the said Thomas Stewart the surviving sealsee in presence of us – George Lyons, WILLIAM Homes. Sworn 1st December 1750 at Coleraine. ..Registered 26th February 1750 (RD 143/479/97854)
Memorial of deed dated 10 Jan 1753 whereby Joseph Anderson of Bush Mills als Maghreboug, distiller let to James Moore of Ballydivity, linen draper and John Huey of Ballyallaght, farmer the park land of Maghrebouy commonly called Kill Park for the lives of said jos. Anderson and his daughter Isabella. On Back of lease Hugh McCollum of Limnalary let to John Anderson, witnessed by John Walker and William Martin of Ballydivity. Memorial witnessed by William Martin and SAMUEL Holmes of Coleraine, merchant. (RD 169/191/113324)
Indre of assigns bearing date 15 Feb 1753 Between Letitia Hendrickson of Coleraine in the Co of Londonderry widow of the one part & Henry Hendrickson son to the said Letitia of Coleraine aforesd Merch of the other part, whereby the said Lettited Hendrickson in Consider of the Natural love affection bears person of Henry .. assign over unto the said Henry Hendrickson all her .. property … situate on the North side of Church Street in the Town of Coleraine marked in the map… Provided Nevertheless that if the said Henry Hendrickson shall happen to die without Lawfull Issue that then in that case the said assigned premises with … become the Lawful Property of Robert Henderickson Brother to the said Henry Hendrickson and his Children lawfully begotten said Indre of assignment is witnessed by John Thompson of Ballygobbin in the Co of Antrim Esqr and Robert Hutchison of Colraine afores March & this Meml is witnessed by the said Robert Hutchison & Samuel Holmes of Colerain aforesd March… 3d day of March 1753 b (RD 111369)
WILLIAM Holmes, senior left will 1753 (PRONI Name Index – Connor Diocesan Wills)
The shop goods belonging to WILLIAM Holmes, Sr, deceased to be sold at auction Feb 4…all persons indebted to said WILLIAM Holmes are desired to come in and discharge their debts to WILLIAM Holmes and Mathew Steel, executors for William Holmes – Coleraine, 8 Jan 1754 (Belfast Newsletter, Jan 11, 1754. p.3)
Letter from the principal inhabitants gentlemen merchants and traders of Coleraine to the General Governor of Ireland included JOHN Holmes, SAMUEL Holmes and JOHN Holmes (Belfast Newsletter, 19 Apr 1754, p.2)
Memorial of lease date 14 Jun 1754 Rev Burk Cuppage of Coleraine to Samuel Woodburn of Donowen for lands in Dundowen witnessed by Stephen Church of Coleraine and Samuel Holmes, sometime of Coleraine but now over the seas in America. (RD 261/108/166887)
Dublin Gazette, Number 627: Saturday, 28 August 1756 to Tuesday, 31 August 1756. The following persons being fugitives for debt and beyond the seas…John Holms, late of Colerain, grocer(https://virtualtreasury.ie/item/DGZ-1756-627)
Memorial of an Indented Deed bearing date 1 Jan 1757 between Robt Thompson of East Priestland in the Barony of Dunluce County of Antrin and William Dunlap of Ballybochill in the parish of Coleraine & County of Londonderry whereby the sd Robt Thompson in Considn of the sum of Fifty Three pounds ten shillings Ster Did Grant Bargain Sell Assign & set over unto the sd Wm Dunlap all his Estate Right Title & Int of in and to one Third part of the Quarterland of East priestland aforesd which he the sd Robt Thompson held by virtue of a Lease of Lives Renewable for Ever bearing date the 30 Jul 1755 from Andrew Todd of Bushfoot in the sd County of Antrim Gent … witnessed by James Dodd & Samuel Holmes both of Coleraine in the sd County of Londonderry Merch & this mem is Signed & sealed by the sd Wm Dunlap in presence of the sd Samuel Holmes & Charles Church … 15th day of April 1757 (RD 192/284/127674)
Memorial of deed of lease and release dated 26 April 1768 between Daniel Todd of Coleraine, gent of one part and Andrew Todd of Shanes Castle, Antrim Esq ..did sell..all the north Quarter land of Ballyverradagh.. Parish of Culfaghtrim, Barony of Cary, Co of Antrim..yearly fee farm rent of 4 pounds payable half yearly to the heirs of Hugh Boyd late of Ballycastle Esq dec of his heirs..Witn: WILLIAM Holms merchant & Geo Lyons Yeoman both of Coleraine. Memorial dated May 2, 1768 (RD 254/580/170579)
This day was published and sold by the booksellers of Belfast and Newry, Mr. WILLIAM Holmes in Coleraine, Mr. Robert Sherard of Newtonlimavaddy, Mr. John Knox of Ballymena and Mr Henry Robert of Dungannon: Observations on Theophilus and Philander by Benjamin McDowell. (Belfast Newsletter, 17 Mar. 1772, p.2)
From Belfast News Letter edn.24 Dec 1772: Alexander Lawrence, Hugh Lyle, John Galt and John Brouster exors of James Hutchinson decd, plaintiffs vs. William Holmes the younger, Matthew Steel, MARY Holmes widow of WILLIAM Holmes the elder, and ELIZABETH Holmes dau of said William Holmes the elder defendants; decree of H M court of Exchequer dat 3 June 1772 – £275.8.6 with costs awarded to plaintiffs; this is to be paid, or in default will be sold the dwelling house on south side of Church street,Coleraine marked in the map No 15, to which appertaineth No 107 comprising 24.2.0 acs held from the Society of Governors and Assistants … by lease dated 14 June 1744 for lives of SAMUEL Holmes and JOHN Holmes 1st and 2nd sons of said William Holmes the elder the Lessee and of Samuel Knox 4th son of William Knox of Ballymasternan Co Antrim or 41 years.
Derry Will dated 25 Jun 1777, JAMES Holmes, Coleraine
I James Holmes do bequeath to my daughter MARY all my worldly substance. Witnesses:John Caldwell, John Wilson, James Moore. Probate to MARY Holmes only daughter and principal legatee. (PRONI T681 p.399)
Memorial of deed dated 1 Jan 1778 whereby Robert Magee of Dublin transferred to MARY Holmes of Coleraine, widow, lot 15 in Coleraine. Witnesses by Roger Stewart and Roger Casement of Dublin. Memorial dated 8 Jan 1778. (RD 316/550/214470)
Memorial of Indented Articles of agreement bearing date 9 Sep 1782 made between W. Henry Harrison of Strabane in the County of Tyrone of the first part the Revd John Simpson of Coleraine in the County of Londonderry and Elinor Simpson Daughter of the said John Simpson and Mr Mary McAlister of Lark hill in the said County of Londonderry of the second part and Mr William Holmes Jr of Colerain aforesaid of the third part whereby the said John Simpson for the consideration therein ment did for himself his heirs Exors admors and assigns Grant and agree with the said William Holmes Jr his heirs and admors that the sum of forty pounds should be paid to the said Henry Harison on or before further that the first day of January one thousand Seven hundred and eighty three and whatever Goods and chattles he the said John Simpson Shall die possessed of H that the said Henry Harrison Shall have one fourth part thereof and the said Mary McAlister did by said Artiles of genl Covenant with the Contracting parties that the said Henry Harrison and his heirs after the Demise of the said Mary McAlister shall full name the half of all the property of the said Mary McAlister in the Lands of Glengary in the said County of Londonderry yearly and every year and the said Henry Haris did thereby Covent that in case the said Elinor shall survive him that the whole Right & property free of all Incumberances of his houses Lands and Tenemt Situate in the Parish of Dungiven and County of Londonderry aforesaid shall send to the said line during her Natural Life and after demise to the Eldest Son of the said Henry Harrison and Minor Simpson and in case there shall be no issue of said Marriage the said Elinor shall Received during his Natural life the Dower settled by the said Mary McAlister and at her death to the said Henry Harrison and his heirs which said rules of agreement and this them are witnessed by John Wilson & James Daniel Tin both of Colerance in the County of Londonderry Linen Draper Henry Harrison ℗ Signed and sealed in presence of John Mrs James Hamill in the above named John Wilson maketh that he saw the above named Henry Harrison John Simpson Eliner Knipson Mary McAlister and Willm Holmes duly Execute the articles of agreem whereof the above writing is a Mem . and also saw said Henry Harrison Sign and seal this Mem and that the name John Wilson Subscribed as a witness to said Articles of agreement and this mem is this Depts proper Name and hand writing John Wilson Sworn before me at Strabane in the County of Tyrone this Tenth day of February 1783 (RD 237862)
PRONI Reference : T1970/1
Title : Elizabeth, Samuel and Andrew Holmes, Coleraine,…
Dates : 27 June 1782
Description : ELIZABETH, SAMUEL and ANDREW Holmes, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry
Religious Covenants
PRONI Reference : T1970
Title : Holmes papers
Dates : 1782-1876
Description : Bundle of 12 papers of the Holmes family of Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, comprising title deeds to land and premises in the Diamond, Coleraine; Copy will and probate of Samuel Holmes and Sarah Holmes, both of Coleraine; signed religious covenants of ELIZABETH, SAMUEL and ANDREW Holmes of Coleraine; journal of SAMUEL Holmes, written during ‘A pedestrian tour to the Falls of Niagara….’; memorandum of deaths of members of the Holmes family; and Interment notice of ELIZABETH Matthews (nee Holmes), of Coleraine.
SAMUEL HOLMES (1788 – 1829)
Army Medical Service
Biography
born 1788/9, son of William Holmes of Coleraine and Elizabeth ; joined the Army Medical Service as hospital mate 1809; assistant surgeon to the 97th Foot 1810;, transferred to the 96th Foot; served in the Peninsular War and America 1814; author of A Pedestrian Tour to the Falls of Niagara in Upper Canada, airing various and some perhaps rather desultory notices (1814); half pay February 1819-December 1820; studied medicine at Edinburgh University; MD (Edin) 1820 (thesis ‘De dysenteria’); transferred to 17th Dragoons 1820; half pay 1824-December 1825; surgeon to 81st Foot 1826; retired on half pay 1827; died 20 May 1829 in Coleraine, county Londonderry; buried in Coleraine graveyard; will dated 11 May 1829, probate Connor Diocesan Court 1 September 1829. [Belf PRO, T1970/4, T1970/5 and T1970/7; Edin Univ; gravestone inscription; Peterkin and Johnston (1968)].
PRONI Reference : D3492/8
Title : Lease of property in Coleraine, Co Londonderry: …
Dates : 1791
Description : Lease of property in Coleraine, Co Londonderry: Charles, Thomas, Edward, and Samuel Miller, Summerseat, Co Londonderry, to WILLIAM Holmes, Coleraine.
PRONI Reference : T1970/3
Title : Dominick Gregg (Linen draper), Coleraine,…
Dates : 25 July 1804
Description : Dominick Gregg (Linen draper), Coleraine, Co. Londonderry to WILLIAM Holmes (Merchant), Coleraine
Assignment Consid. £500
Recites Release of 1st Jan., 1799
Tenement on south side of The Diamond, Coleraine, bounded on east side by Dr. Thompson’s tenement, on the west side by Miss Orr’s dwelling house, Co. Londonderry
Also see (RD 569/2/379556) and (RD 520/509/341431)
John Holmes, M.D. d.11-Apr-1815, age 28
Parish / District: BALLYAGHRAN
Graveyard: PORTSTEWART OLD, Plot No: 8/12
WILLIAM Holmes, Colraine left will 1817 (PRONI Name Index – Connor Diocesan Administration Bonds)
Memorial in Portstewart Old Church:
William Holmes of Coleraine d 29 July 1817 aged 67. Samuel Holmes Esq late surgeon of the 81st Regt of Foot d 20 May 1829 aged 40. Elizabeth relict of William Holmes merchant, Coleraine d 10 March 1839 aged 79. Mary Robinson daughter of the above d 1 April1866 aged 53. Sarah d 21 Nov 1865 aged 69. Jane d 22 Sept 1866 aged 72. John Holmes M D d 11 April 1815 aged 28. Jane youngest daughter of the late James Robinson, Coleraine, d 8 Aug 1876 aged 31.
William Holmes of Coleraine, merchant d. 29-Jul-1817 Age 67
Parish / District: BALLYAGHRAN
Graveyard: PORTSTEWART OLD, Plot No: 8/12
Notes: HUSBAND OF ELIZABETH
Samuel Holmes, M.D. d. 20-May-1829, age 40
Parish / District: BALLYAGHRAN
Graveyard: PORTSTEWART OLD Plot No: 8/12
Notes: LATE SURGEON OF THE 81 REGT. OF FOOT
(NTTDS)
Will of Samuel Holmes MD formerly Asst Surgeon in His Majesty’s 17th Regt of Light Dragoons and now surgeon on half pay in H M’s 81st Regt of Foot residing at Coleraine; all to his mother Elizabeth Holmes who is sole exor; dat 17 May 1829. Witnesses James McIlwaine MD, Andrew Holmes and John Taggart. Pr London 22 Sept 1829 by oath of Eliz Holmes widow, his mother. (PRONI T/1970/7, Copy Will & Probate)…also available at National Archives, Kew
Married at Coleraine, 9th Inst [June 9, 1829] by Rev. A. McCaldine, Mr. JOHN Holmes, architect, to Miss Elizabeth Duncan of Coleraine (Belfast News-Letter, Jun 16, 1829, p.2)
SAMUEL Holmes, Cloraine left will 1829 (PRONI Name Index – Connor Diocesan Wills)
ELIZABETH Holmes of Coleraine, relict of WILLIAM Holmes died 10 Mar 1839 in the 78th year of her age. (Belfast Newsletter, 22 Mar 1839, p.2)
Elizabeth Holmes of Coleraine, wife of William, d.10-Mar-1839, age 78
Parish / District: BALLYAGHRAN
Graveyard: PORTSTEWART OLD Plot No: 8/12
WILLIAM Holmes married Miss Maria McMullen, both of Bushmills, Dunluce Parish, Barony of Cary, Co. Antrim, 23 Aug 1852. (The Coleraine Chronicle, Nov 2004. “The McMullens had connections with the Conynghams, McNaghtens and Givens – all these surnames are connected with the wider Holmes family of Co Derry and Co Antrim.”)
Died at Coleraine 1 inst Mary wife of Mr James Robinson mercht yngst dau of late William Holmes Esq aged 50. (Londonderry Sentinel, edn. 11 April 1856.)
Copy will Sarah Holmes of Coleraine spinster dat. 8 May 1860; nephew William Holmes Robinson and nieces Jane Robinson youngest dau of late sister Mary Robinson and Elizabeth Robinson eldest dau; exors E R and my friend Samuel Wright Knox of Coleraine attorney; wit S W K and Edward Hay jnr of Coleraine; by codicil dat 4 May 1864 Robert Parkhill mercht replaces S W K who has died, wit James Cramsie jnr solicitor Coleraine and John Robinson of Ballymoney. Sarah Holmes makes mark since “she was unable to write her name owing to total blindness.” Her est. consisted of houses in the Diamond and in Meeting House street.
S H d 21 Nov 1865 and will pr 5 Jan 1866.
(PRONI T1970/9)
Died: 21 Nov 1865, at her residence, Meeting House Place, Sarah Holmes, 2nd daughter of the late William Holmes, Esq., aged 72 (Belfast News Letter, 22 Nov 1865, p.2)
Derry Wills 1875-9
Will dat 9 Ap 1875 of Elizabeth Homes of Ballysally, Coleraine who d. 2 May 1875; “to Margaret Homes of Coleraine the belted cow …” son in law Hugh Boreland; exor Joseph Glenn; wit Wm Henry and Thomas Glenn. (Ireland Wills, 1875, p.322)
Aghadowey
The bearer, ABRAHAM Holmes, Janet Givens his mother-in-law, Mary Morrison, his wife, and their two children has lived in this Congregation the most part of them from their infancy, and all along, and now in their derparture they were not only sober and free of publick scandle, But also of good Report and Christian Conversation, (Children excepted) now Communicants with us. And now being about to transport themselves to New England in America we have nothing to hinder their being received as members of any Christian Society, and may be admitted to sealing ordinances wherever providence may order their lot; all of which is certified at Ahadonia (Aghadowey) this 12th day of June 1719. Witness by John Givens David Cargill. (Scotch Irish Pioneers in Ulster and America, Charles Knowles Belton, 1986, pp. 259-60) and (The county of Londonderry in three centuries, with notices of the Ironmongers’ estate, Kernohan, J.W., 1921, p.71)
Mary Morrison m Abraham Holmes in Ireland and they came to U S 1719 with 2 children in ship Elizabeth Robert Holmes master; [Capt. Robert Homes was the son of Rev William Homes of Strabane], arr Boston and warned out of town 3 Nov 1719 (see Immigrants in New Eng 1700-1775. With them came David Morrison and Jane Davis widow who is prob Janet Given referred to as Abraham Holmes’s mother in law in the latters church letter, which is in possn family of late Charles D Page New Haven Conn. On 13 June a dau was b. to Abraham Holmes and Mary Morrison. Two daus have been identified as Mary Holmes who m. Joseph Morrison and [ ] Holmes who m Matthew Reid (See Probate Records of N H vol 16 p 258 and vol 18 p 488 for Mary’s petition to have an administrator aptd on her husband’s estate and the settlement).
(“From a typescript of an MS by Sarah E Holmes 1943 found at New England Historic Genealogical Soc. Boston MA” courtesy of S. Elliott per note from E Holcombe Aug 2004)
Ballygelagh
PRONI Reference : D2977/3A/6/20/1
Title : Lease from John O’Neil Esq. of Edenduffcarrick,…
Dates : 26 April 1696
Description : Lease from John O’Neil Esq. of Edenduffcarrick, Co. Antrim and Hugh McCollum, Gentleman, of Dunluce, Co. Antrim to John Cochran and ABRAHAM Holmes, both yeomen, of Ballygellagh, Co. Londonderry, of the quarterland of Ballygellagh, [Ballygelagh] for 14 years. Yearly rent £9
Lease dat 6 May 1696;John o Neile of Edenduffcarrick Co Antrim Esq and Hugh McCollum of Dunluce Co Ant gent to John Cochran and Abraham Homes of Ballygellagh in of B of Dunluce, Long Libs of Coleraine and Co of L’derry yeomen; the Q’land of B’gellagh now in their possn; 14 yrs fr 1 nov last; rent £9 pa sterling together with six pence per pound Receivers fees and one barrell and a halfe of good white oates and six dayes worke of horse and man and six henes yearly on 1 May or at Lessors’ discretion 4 shillings in leu of sd oates and sixpence in leu of each dayes work and three pence in leu of each hen….the sd John Cochrane and Abraham Holmes and their under tenants are to doe suite and service to ye Courte leete and Court Barron held for the Mannor of Dunluce …and to grind all their graine …at the accustomed mill … and to plant 9 ash, oacke or sicamor trees yearely .to build 9 pearch of good ditch well Quikset with thorne or ffurs or a double stone ditch 4 foot high ..Signed in a good hand Abraham Holmes and by John Cochran with his mark. [photo from visit to PRONI in my possession]
Memorial of Deed dated 12 Jun 1727 whereby Mary Kerr of Coleraine, Co Londonderry, widow transferred to John Title of Ballygelagh in the parish of Ballyaghran the townland of West Ballygelagh then and still in his possession and late in the possession of JOHN Holmes. Now follows a memorial of an instrument in writing on the back that William Brown of Grangebeg in the parish of Dunboe, nephew and apparent heir of the said Mary, deceased did on 13 Jan 1727 confirm his consent. Mark Kerr O’Neil and Felix O’Neil also mentioned. Witnessed by John McCulloch of Ballygelagh, tutor to Mark Kerr O’Neil, Lawrence McGiven, James Lyons and Charles Church. (RD 55/298/37020)
Memorial of Deed dated 12 Jun 1727 whereby Mary Kerr of Coleraine, Co Londonderry, widow transferred to John Title of Ballygelagh, the townland of West Ballygelagh then and still in his possession and late in the possession of JOHN Holmes. Witnesses by Halton Title, John Title, Charles Church and William Church all of Coleraine. (RD 53/312/35626)
Ballyreagh
ABRAM Holms in Ballywilling [Ballywillin] & Janet Hopkins in Ballykelly are allowed proclamation 9br 6 1725
(Ballykelly Presbyterian Register of Marriages, 1699-1739: [original in Presbyterian Historical Society]: A true Account of all ye persons proclaimed & after ye year married by Mr Jon Stirling, Min’r of ye Gospel in Ballykelly parish. (https://www.cotyroneireland.com/marriages/ballykelly.html)
ABRAHAM Holmes of Ballygelagh, in the parish of Agherton, and Liberties of Coleraine, yeoman leased from Andrew Boyd of Carnrigg in the parish of Miltown and Liberties of Cloreraine, gent. on May 11, 1728 the quarterland known as Ballyreagh in the Liberties of Coleraine, Miltown parish, Co of Londonderry. Witnessed by WILLIAM Holmes, merchant and Charles Church both of Coleraine. Memorial signed by ABRAHAM Holmes, WILLIAM Holmes and Thos. Church (RD 64/448/44637)
Homes, Abraham Ballywillin 1740 Protestant Householders
Homes, Nelie Ballywillin 1740 Protestant Householders
Memorial of indented deed dated Oct 13, 1732 whereby Rowley Hill of Dublin, Esq. transferred to Andrew Boyd of BallyMciIlvannon, Co. Londonderry, Gent all the lands of Crossreagh, Ballyreagh upper McIlvannon and all that part of lower BallyMcIlvannon lately in the possession of SAMUEL Holmes, deceased except the meeting house and ground where it stands for the lives of said Rowley Hill, Samuel Knox, about 4 years old, son of William Knox of BallyMcIlvannon and SAMUEL Holmes, about 16 years old, son of said SAMUEL Holmes of BallyMcIlvannon, deceased or for 31 years. Witnessed by Henry Sandford of Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, Esq., Collector of Coleraine and John Lawson of Milltown, nr Magherafelt, Co. Londonderry. Memorial dated Jun 9, 1733 and witnesses by Henry Sanford and William Church of Coleraine. (RD 72/353/51015)
Memorial of Indented Deed dated Nov 4, 1752 whereby Jennet Boyd of Ballymalvenan in the parish of Ballywoolin, Co. Londonderry, Widow let to NINIAN Holmes of Ballyreagh in the aforesaid parish all that farm of land then in his possession for the lives of SAMUEL Holmes of the City of Dublin and Samuel Knox of Ballymalvinan for 11 years from the 1st of Nov, 1752. Witnessed by Robert Knox of Ballymalveneen and James Black of Glenmanus, parish of Ballywillan. Memorial dated Oct 15, 1754. (RD 169/480/114651)
Memorial of Indented Deed dated Nov 4, 1752 whereby Jennet Boyd of Ballymalvenan in the parish of Ballywoolin, Co. Londonderry, Widow let to PAUL Holmes of Ballyreagh in the aforesaid parish all that farm of land then in his possession for the lives of SAMUEL Holmes of the City of Dublin and Samuel Knox of Ballymalvinan for 11 years from the 1st of Nov, 1752. Witnessed by Robert Knox of Portglen, Co Antrim and James Black of Saguestown, parish of Ballywillan. Memorial dated Aug 21, 1762. (RD 241/360/159537)
Memorial of deed of lease dated Oct 28, 1753 whereby Janet Boyd, widow of Ballymullvenan, parish of Ballywoolen, Co. Londonderry leased to John Bailey of Crossreagh, all the lands of Crossreagh then in his possession consisting of 100 acres lying in the parish of Ballyachren, Co Londonderry, for a term of ten years, or the natural lives of SAMUEL Holmes of Dublin, merchant and Samuel Knox of Ballymulvenan. Witnessed by Robert Hutcheson and William Hunter, both of Coleraine, both merchants. Memorial witnessed by William Hunter and Edward Ichers and dated Jan 26, 1753(/54). (RD 166/224/111331)
Connor Will 23 Nov 1772
NINIAN Holmes of Ballyreagh, Co. Londonderry
I bequeath to my two sons that is now in America that is ABRAM and NINIAN Holmes half a guinea to each of them…I allow my son WILLIAM if he chooses to go to learn a trade to be supported in his necessary clothing of the family during his apprenticeship and when it is done to have six or seven pounds paid him by them that possesseth the land…If son WILLIAM does not choose a trade but inclines to go to America he is to have the necessary and ten pounds…to my wife Mary Erwin the farm until such time as my son BENJAMIN and my son THOMAS marries….and after their respective marriages my sons BENJAMIN and THOMAS are to give my wife the benefits of the farm…I allow to my wife and my daughter MARY the one third of the household plenshing my “wife and Molly to live together and to have 10 pounds each paid to them by my sons”…I allow them to have these little benefits during the lease… and I allow BEN and TOM to have the rest of the stock and household furniture except what is mentioned for my wife and daughter MARY that is when a separation is made….to my son-in-law John Huston 5 pounds and a bond due me by Mr McKindla in Ballymoney. To my son-in-law John Reed 5 pounds. Executors: John Huston, John Reed, my wife (during her widowhood). Witnesses: William Cowan, James Moore, James Cowan. (PRONI T681 p.336)
Notice dated Dec 14, 1772: Alexander Laurance, Hugh Lyle, John Galt, and James Brouster, executors of James Hutchison, deceased, plaintiffs vs. WILLIAM Holmes the younger, Mathew Steele, MARY Holmes widow of WILLIAM Holmes the elder, ELIZABETH Holmes daughter of WILLIAM Holmes the elder, and MARY Holmes the widow, defendants. Whereas by decree of the Court of Exchequer, dated June 3, 1772 that the defendants should pay the plaintiffs 270+ pounds or that the mortgage premises should be sold at auction: all that tenement on the south side of Church Street in Coleraine and lying near one mile and a half from the town of Coleraine, held by indenture dated Jun 14, 1744 for the lives of SAMUEL Holmes and JOHN Holmes, first and second sons of said WILLIAM Holmes the elder, the lessee and of Samuel Knox, fourth son of William Knox of Ballymasternan, Co. Antrim for a term of 41 years. Property to be auctioned Jan 15, next. (Belfast Newsletter, Dec 24, 1772, p.3)
PRONI Reference : D668/R/30/8A
Title : Lease for 23 years at rent of £18. 4. 0 …
Dates : 22 June 1780
Description : Lease for 23 years at rent of £18. 4. 0 p.a., penalty £50, concerning Rev. Robt Hezlet, Coleraine and: Archibald and SAMUEL Holmes of Island Flakey, Ballywillen, and Hugh Patterson, Glebe of Aughadory, and relating to land in Upper Dartress, Parish of Drumboe, Co. Derry, 19 acres 26 perches.
Connor Will 18 Sep 1792
PAUL Holmes of Ballyreagh…do this 18 Sep 1792 make my last will and testament… I bequeath to my son ABRAM 5/-, to my daughter LIDDIA Holmes (otherwise Boreland) one pendulum clock…to my son-in-law John Douglass junior of Clougher 5/-, to my son-in-law Robert Kerr 5/-, to my daughter PEGGY Holmes 20 pounds, to my son-in-law Samuel Stewart and his wife 1/-, to my daughter MARY ANN 20 pounds.To my daughter JENNY Holmes 20 pounds, to my son WILLIAM 5/-, I order my freehold in Ballyreagh to be sold after my death, also my stock and household furniture, and any balance left, after payment of expenses to be divided between my daughters PEGGY, MARY ANN and JENNY and my granddaughter MARY Kerr. If my said three daughters marry with consent of my executors, their dowry is to be paid one year after marriage. If they remain unmarried, it is to be put out to interest…and paid them at heir respective ages of 31 years. Executors: Samuel Keith of Craigtown, WILLIAM Holmes of Ballyreagh, William Nelson of Ballymoney. Witnesses: William Nelson, Samuel Keith, Robert McAuley. Probate granted to MARGARET Holmes otherwise…principal legatee (the exrs having renuounced) 22 May 1793 [Enclosed with the will is the renunciation of the Exrs in favor of MARGARET, MARY ANN and JANE Holmes, testators daughters and principal legatees] . (PRONI T681 p.342)
Ardadillon/Artidillon
JOHN Holmes of Ardadillan [Artidillon], Parish of Dunboe, Co Londonderry leased from William Jackson of Coleraine, Co Londonderry, one half the townland of Ardadillan [Artidillon], for 35 years. Lease dated Aug 14 1735. Witnessed by William Church and Thomas Holliday, both of Coleraine. Memorial dated June 13, 1741 and witnessed by William Church and John Boyd of Ballywillrick, Co Londonderry (RD 102/426/71609)
John Holmes, age 84 d.01-Jan-1766
Age: 84
Graveyard: DUNBOE OLD (DOWNHILL) Plot No: 4/5
Holmes Genealogy 