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:
17 Dec 1630. Thomas Homes made freeman (Acts of the Corporation of Coleraine)
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, master of the “Two Brothers of Coleraine” at the port of Irvine, Ayrshire, on 24 December 1685. (NAS.E72.12.11)
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.)
Administration on the estate of Thomas Holmes late of Dracut in the County of Middlesex deced Intestate is committed to his Brother John Holmes (late of Colddrain [Coleraine] in the County of Londonderry in the Kingdom of Ireland now) resident at Boston in the County of Suffolk Husbandman and he hath given Bond in 200: Capt Josiah Parker of Camb. in the sd County of Middlesex his suretie Done at Camb 4 Novembr 1726 Witness my hand and seal of the the Court of Probate John Remington (Middlesex probate, p.491)
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)
Memorial of an assignment in writing Indorsed on the back of a Deed bearing date 1 Jun 1749 whereby Robert Given of Coleraine in the County of Londonderry Merch in consideration of twenty one pounds four Shillings Ster to him paid by James Gamble of Ballymoney the County of Antrim Carpenter did Alson Sell assign Transfer and make over unto the said James all that the Tenement Situate on the north east side of the main street of Ballymoney bounded on the north west and by the Tenement formerly James Coopers and on the South east and by the Tenement formerly John Mares containing in front twenty four an backward the foot of the garden except a back road situate in the Barony of Dunluce and said County of Antrin which he the said Robert Given held by virtue of the said Deed from the right Honr Alexander Earl of Antrim for the term of three lives renewable forever at and under the yearly rent of thirteen shillings Sd . with Six pence by the pound receivers fees payable on every first day of May and first day of November which said Assignment was duly executed by the said Robert Given and witnessed by William Holmes the younger of Colerain aforesaid Mercht and William Joy of Ballymoney aforesaid Gentleman & this man is Signed & Sealed by the said James Gamble in presence of the said Wm Holmes and William Howard of Colerain aforesaid Gentleman , James Gamble Seal Signed and Sealed in presence of us Wm Holmes Wm Howard The above named William Holmes came this day before me and made oath that he is a subscribing Witness to the assignment of which the above is a mem and saw the same duly Executed by the said Robt Given and also saw the sd me Signed & Sealed by the said James Gamble and that the name William Holmes Subscribed as a witness to the said assigment and mem is this Dept hand writing Wm Holmes Sworn before me at Coleraine aforesaid on the 2d day of July 1752 (RD 104883)
A. Memorial of an Indented Deed of Lease 28 Jul 1749 Between Thomas Adams of Coleraine in the County of Londonderry Gent of the one part and Thomas Park of the parish of Colerain and County of Londonderry aforesaid Farmer of the other part Whereby it is witnessed that the said Thomas Park for Divers Considerations had Sett and to farm lett unto the said Thomas Park & The messuage or Holding of Land then in the said Thomas Parke Possession Called by the name of of Ballyboghell in the parish of Coleraine aforesaid contain Twenty one acres according to estimation be the same more or less bounded on the south by the Highway on the East by John Evitches Farm on the North by Blaugh and on the West by Mr William Holmes Land to be had and holden for and During Term of Thirty one years from the then last past twenty fifth day of March fully to be Compleated and Ended paying yearly and every year the Rent of Eight pounds Eight shillings Ster by even and equal portions on every the Twenty ninth Day of September and every the Twenty fifth day of March during the said Term to the said Thos Adams his Heirs Exrs Admr & Assigns In which Deed of Lease is contained a Clause prohibiting the Cutting or Raising of Timber and also a Clause Subjecting the said Thos Park his Heirs Exr Admr and assigns to the observance and performance of such clauses in The Society Lease of the Premisses to the said Thos Adams as are to be observed and Fullfilled by the Tenants thereof which said Deed was duly executed by the parties thereto and is witnessed by Robt Allen Gent and by Thos Mayors Appothecary Both of Colerain in the County of Londonderry and this Memorial is witnessed By the said Robt Allen and by James Hutchison of Colerain in the County of London derry aforesaid Merch – Tho : Park ( Seal ) Signed and sealed in presence of us Robt Allen James Hutchison Robt Allen Gentleman aged upwards of Thirty years came this day before me and made oath that he is a subscribing witness to The Deed of Lease whereof the above writing is a memorial that he did see the Parties thereto duly Execute the said Lease by Signing their names and affixing their Seals and delivering the same as their several act and Deed that he is Likewife a subscribing witness to the above memorial and Did see the same Duly Executed by Thos Park therein named and that the name Robt Allen Subscribed as a Witness to the said Deed as also to this memorial is this Dept proper hand Writing & Robt Allen – Sworn before me at Colerain in the County of Londonderry this 9th Day of March 1750 by virtue of a Commission to me directed for taking Affidavits in the Country and I know the Depont , J. McAlester & Sworn before us Two of his Majesty ‘s Justices of the Peace for the County of Londonderry Dom Heyland & John Thompson (RD 98139)
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 [nee Holmes] 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)
TO be sold by Joseph Irwen, the Fee in Reversion of one fourth Part of the Townland of Derrybogs, about a Mile from Newtownlemavaddy, in the County of Londonderry, and now tenanted by William Irwen, and during the natural Life of said William Irwen and his Wife Martha, now living: This Land is holden by Deed for ever under the Lord Mount Charles, at the yearly Rent of 5 l. 10 s. and contains 52 Acres, English Measure, all exceeding good Land, including one Acre of Meadow, and one Acre of Bog that may supply a Family for many Years, and when cut out may be made as good Meadow as the other. Said Land is well watered, whereon is a very good Farm-house, a Malt-Kiln, and Out-houses all in good Order, with a large Quantity of Ash Timber well grown and in a thriving Condition, and a considerable Quantity of Alder and Hasel, all useful for a Farmer: Said Land may after the Decease of said William Irwen and Martha his Wife, yield a Profit-Rent of 46 l. 10 s. yearly: One Third of the Purchase-Money to be paid at the Time of Purchase, and the other two Thirds at the Time of getting the Possession; the said Joseph Irwen will give his Bond for the one Third paid in Hand at the Purchase. Any Person that inclines to purchase said Land, may send their Proposals to Mr. William Holmes, Merchant in Colerain; Mr. William Thompson and Mr. Andrew Martin, Cloth Merchants in Newtown-lemavaddy; and Mr. James Shannon in said Derrybogs, who will shew the Premises; and to myself, at the House of Mr. Francis Boggs, Merchant in Londonderry. Said Proposals to be given in Writing. Dated at Londonderry, this 15th July, 1768. (Belfast Newsletter 29 Jul 1768)
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)
University of Glasgow Matriculations:
7184 SAMUELI . HOLMES Filius natu tertius Gulielmi , Mercatoris , in parochia de Colerain in comitatu de Londonderry , in Hibernia . Possibly Samuel Holmes , M. D. Edin . 1820 . Brother of 7185 .
7185 JOHANNES HOLMES , Filius natu secundus Gulielmi , Mercatoris in Parochia de Colerain in comitatu de Londonderry in Hibernia . Possibly John Holmes , M. D. Edin . 1809 . Brother of 7184
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)
A Memorial of an indented Deed of Assignment 5 Jun 1838 made Between Jackson Harton & Nancy Harton of Coleraine in the County of Londonderry Son and Daughter of Hugh Harton late of Coleraine aforesaid of the one part and John Boyd of Coleraine aforesaid Esquire of the other part . Whereby after Reciting that by Indenture of Lease bearing date 23 Feb 1798 made Between Henry Blacker Esquire of Coleraine aforesaid of the one part and Hugh Harton of Colerain aforesaid Butcher of the other part the said Henry Blacker for the Considerations therein mentioned demised unto the said Hugh Harton all that house and Premisses thereunto belonging in New Row situated on the west side of New Row bounded East by the New Row West by William Ruddion and Mary Dempsys Tenements North by the Reverend Mr Scotts Tenement and South by James Hutchesons Tenementtogether with all Houses back houses yards Gardens and all the appurtenances thereunto belonging for and during the full term and space of thirty one years or three lives viz the life of Hugh Lyle to Hugh Lyle Esquire of Coleraine aged about five years and the life of Hugh Harton Son to Hugh Barton aforesaid aged about Nine years and Andrew Holmes son to William Holmes Merchant aged about five years , or the Survivor of them To hold unto the said Hugh Harton his heirs and assigns from the Twenty ninth day of September One thousand seven hundred and Ninety seven subject to the yearly Rent of Five pounds Sterling of the late Currency payable half yearly as therein mentioned and Reciting that the said Hugh Harton was Deced and that previous to his death he had made his will and thereby devised his Interest in said Premisses to the said Jackson Harton and Nancy Harton They the said Jackson Harton and Nancy Harson for me considerations therein mentioned granted sold and assigned unto the said John Boyd all that the said Premisses so demised by the said herein before recited Indenture of Lease of the twenty third day of February One thousand seven Hundred and Ninety eight that is to say All that House and Premisses thereunto belonging in New Row situated on the west side of New Row bounded East by the New Row west by Tenements formerly William Ruddions and Margaret Dempsey North by a Tenement formerly the ┃ Reverend Mr Scott and south by Tenement formerly James Hutchison together with all houses back houses yards Gardens and all the appurtenances thereunto belonging all which said Premisses are situate ┃ in the Town and Parish of Coleraine and County of Londonderry together with the said original Indenture of Lease of said Premisses and all their the said Jackson Harton and Nancy Hartons Estate and Interest of in or to the same To hold unto the said John Boyd his heirs and assigns for the remainder of the term for lives thereby granted and which said Indenture as also this Memorial is witnessed by Robert Brown of Colerain in the County of Londonderry and Robert McNaghton Atty at Law Jackson Hartin seal Nancy Hartin seal Signed Sealed and delivered in presence of Robert Browne Robt McNaghter The above named Robert McNaghten maketh oath and saith that he is a subscribing witness to the Indented Deed of which the above writing is a Memorial and also to the said Memorial and that ┃ he saw the above named Jackson Harton and Nancy Harton sign seal and deliver the said Indented ┃ Deed and sign and seal the within Memorial and saith the name Robert McNaghton subscribed as a witness to said Deed and Memorial is this Deponants proper name and hand writing 12 and (RD 860/209/573711)
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
1711, 1717, 1718 Samuel Holms is church warden
(Ballywillin Vestry notes 1710-1755 PRONI MIC1/287)
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)
Indented Deed of Lease 11 May 1728 between Andrew Boyd of Carnrigg in the Parish of Miltown, Liberties of Coleraine of the one part and Abraham Holmes of Ballygelagh in th parish Agherton and said Liberties, Yeoman of the other part Whereby the said and Boyd for the considerations therein mentioned – Did demise Grant Set and to farm Lett to the sd Abraham Holmes his Exd Admr and assigns all that and those the quarter Land comonly called and known by the name of Ballyreagh Scituate lying and being in the Liberties of Colerane Parish of Milton aforesaid and County of Londonderry aforesaid together 1th all and singular the Buildings and other appurtences thereunto belonging in as full large and ample manner as the same was then held by him the said and Boyd Excepting thereout unto the said Andw Boyd his Exd Admr & assigns all mines minerals Quarries and other Royalties which then were or thereafter should be found in the demised premisses with Liberty to search for and carry away the same and Excepting also out of the said Demise the Coney Warren therein Own with full liberty of endless the money for him to Admr and assigns and their Tennants and servants yearly to Hunt and take and dispose of the Rabitts or Conies as they shall think fit To have and to holdthe said Demised premisses Except as therein as therein before Excepted unto him the said Abraham Holmes his 1s Admr and assigns for and during the term time and Space of twenty three years to commence from the first day of November next ensuing the date thereof and from thenceforth fully to be compleat and ended yeilding and paying therefore and thereout for the first three years of the said Term the yearly Rent of Twenty three pounds Ster . and for every year after during the said Term the Rent or sum of Twenty Six pounds Ster . and for every year after during the Term therent or sum of Twenty Six pounds Ster . together with with sixpence pound Receivers fees the said Rents to be paid half yearly viz on the first day of May and first day of November by even and equall portions save the last half equal portions save the last half year of the said Term which is to be paid on the first day of September next before the Expiration thereof over and above allmana of Taxes subsidies and Country Charges whatsoever as also twelve days workof man and Horse or twelve shillings in lieu thereof twelve pullets or five Shillings two muttons or Tenneshillings in Lieu thereof all as dutys yearly to be paid at such days and times as the same should be required or the money Liew thereof of the Election of the said and Boyd his Exd Admr and assigns which said Deed was duly executed by the said Andrew Boyd and Abraham Holmes and is witnessed by William Holmes Mercht and Charles Church Alderman both of Coleraine aforesaid a…Regr the 16th a of Novr 1730 (RD 64/448/44637)
19 Apr 1731. Item. That Abraham Holmes of Ballyreigh and Robert Hammill of Carvily shall serve as Aplotters. (Ballywillin Vestry Minutes 1710-1755 PRONI MIC1/287)
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)
1733-35 Abram Hollms, elder
(Ballywillin Vestry Minutes 1710-1755 PRONI MIC1/287)
Ballywillan Churchyard. Portrush. [From Mr. W. F. Reynolds.]
‘On a mural tablet, of slate, inserted in northern side wall of the ruined church in centre of graveyard.
‘Arms: A fesse chequy between three crescents, two in chief and one in base.
‘Crest: A dexter hand raised in benediction.’
To the memory of Andrew Boyd, husband of Jean Boyd [nee Holmes]
in Ballymcilluannan who departed this life ye 20 of
Novr 1734 in yo 56 year of his age and lyeth intered
here. Also 1 child Andrew.
(Memorials of the Dead, v9, p.2)
27 Apr 1736 – the sum of one pound ten shillings to be paid to the widow [Jennet Holmes] of Mr Andrew Boyd ….& 6 pence half penny for Abr: Homes
(Ballywillin Vestry Minutes 1710-1755 PRONI MIC1/287)
1736 Aplottment – Ballyreigh, Abraham Holmes 6.3.3 pounds
(Ballywillin Vestry Minutes 1710-1755 PRONI MIC1/287)
Apr 1737 Recvd from church wardens of Milton Parish 1 pound ten shillings paid to Mr Andrew Boyd deceased by widow Janet Boyd [nee Holmes] (Ballywillin Vestry Minutes 1710-1755 PRONI MIC1/287)
3 Apr 1738 I hereby acknowledge to have received from the parish of Milton the sum of three pounds .. in full of all debts and demands due to me by sd parish as Executrix of Mr Andrew Boyd deceased – Janet Boyd [nee Holmes] (Ballywillin Vestry Minutes 1710-1755 PRONI MIC1/287)
Homes, Abraham Ballywillin 1740 Protestant Householders
Homes, Nelie Ballywillin 1740 Protestant Householders
1742, 1751 Ninian Holmes, elder (Ballywillin Vestry Minutes 1710-1755 PRONI MIC1/287)
2 Oct 1745 Robert Knox of Ballymcilvennon [son of Jennet Holmes ors Knox ors Boyd] and Ninian Holmes of Ballyreigh shall serve as overseers of the highways (Ballywillin Vestry Minutes 1710-1755 PRONI MIC1/287)
1746 Connor will – Abraham Holms, Miltown (Ireland Diocesan And Prerogative Wills & Administrations Indexes 1595-1858)
31 Mar 1746 .. that Paul Holmes of Ballyreagh and James Sterling of Toberdornah shall serve as church wardens for the ensuing year. (Ballywillin Vestry Minutes 1710-1755 PRONI MIC1/287)
1746 John Holmes, elder (Ballywillin Vestry Minutes 1710-1755 PRONI MIC1/287)
16 Apr 1750 .. that Ninian Holmes of Ballyreagh and Alexander Dunlop of Burnside shall serve as church wardens for the prsent year. (Ballywillin Vestry Minutes 1710-1755 PRONI MIC1/287)
8 Apr 1751 that Ninian Holmes and Alexander Dunlop shall serve as aplotters … also that Robert Knox [son of Jennet Holmes ors Knox ors Boyd] shall serve as assistant to Ninian Holmes.
Mar 1755 Ninian Holmes, aplotter
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 [nee Holmes] 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 of Coleraine. (RD 136/120/90795)
Memorial of Indented Deed dated Nov 4, 1752 whereby Jennet Boyd [nee Holmes] 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 [nee Holmes] 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 Portglenone, 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 [nee Holmes], 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)
A Memorial of Indenture of a Sale and conveyance made 4 Mar 1762 between Robert Knox Port Glenoan [Portglenone] in the Parish of Machrehockle Barony of Tomb and County of Antrim Distiller of the one part and James Moore of Ballydivity in the Barony of Dunluce and said County of Antrim Gent of the other part whereas Jennet Boyd otherwise Holmes of Lower Ballymacklevannon [Ballymaclevennon] in the in the parish of Ballywoolen Liberties of Colerain and County of Londonderry Relict & Widow of Andrew Boyd of said Ballymacklevannen Gent deceased did by her Indenture of Lease duly executed bearing Date 18 May 1754 demise unto the aforesaid Robert Knox all that part and parcel of the aforesaid Quarterland of Lower Ballymacklevannen then and formerly in the possession of him the said Robert Knox her son the same was then maid and bounded situate in the said parish of Ballen and County of Londonderry aforesaid for the Term and space of nine years to commence from the first day of November then next ensuing and for during the Natural Life and Lives of Samuel Holmes of the City of Dublin Merchant and of Samuel Knox of Ballymacklevannen aforesaid and the Survivor of them or for the said Term of nine years or any of them that shall longest continue at and under the yearly rent of fifteen poundester and this Indenture further witnesseth that the said Robert Knox for and in Consid of the sum of one hundred and forty pounds Ster to him then in hand paid by the said James Moore and for which Sum the said Robert Knox did perfect a Bond and Warrant of attorney payable unto the said James Moore and likewise granted and perfected a mortgage Deed of the sd Lands of Bally Macklevannon unto the said James Moore said Bond & Mortgage Deed bearing date respectively the Second day of March then instant and on the fourth day by a further consideration of the sum of ten pounds to to him in hand paid by the said James Moore amounting in the whole to the sum of one hundred and fifty pounds sterd the Receipt whereof he doth hereby acknowledge hath bargained Sold granted aliened released & confirmed unto the said James Moore his Heirs Exors admors and assigns in his actual possession now being by virtue of a Bargain and sale to him thereof have by the said Robert Knox in consideration of five shillings by Indenture bearing at the day next before the Day of the date of said Indenture for one year and one of the Statute for transferring uses into possession all that part of the Quarterland of lower Ballmacklevannen aforesaid as the same was then meared and bounded formerly held and possessed by the said Robert Knox & now possessed by James McMullan and Thomas Boyd his undertenants with all the Rights members and appurtenances thereunto belonging to hold the said Land and premisses unto the said Mary C. . James Moore his Heirs and assigns for and during the Lives of the said Samuel Holmes and the said Samuel Knox and for and during the remainder of the estate our wake term of nine years granted by the said Jennet Boyd as above mentioned that was then to come and unexpired from the first day of November then last past with other Covenant & agreements usual and common in Deed of Sale and conveyance which said Indenture of Sale and Conveyance is witnessed by William Linn of Ballydivity in the County of Antrin aforesaid Gent and John Walker of said Ballydivity and said County of Antrim Cont and this memorial is witnessed by the said William Linn and by the said John Walker James Moore ( Seal ) Signed and Sealed by the above named James Moore in presence of Wm Linn , John Walker , the above named William Linn maketh Oath that he Law the above named Robert Gar duly execute the Indenture of Deed of Sale whereof the above writing is a memorial and also saw the said James Moore one of the parties to said Indenture of Deed of Sale Sign and seal this memorial and that he this Depons is a subscribing witness to said Indenture of Deed Deed of sale and Memorial and that the name William Lion Sufforibed as a witness to said Indenture of Sale and Memorial is this Deponts name and is his own proper and writing – Wm Lein – Sworn before me at Bally money in the County of the 6th day of Jan. 1763 (RD 217/444/145555) (courtesy of Adrian Boyd and Jonathan Gray)
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.
1783
Last will of James Moore of Ballydivity
Memorial of the Last Will and Testament of said to be the last Will & Testament of James Moore of Bollydivity in the County of Antrim Esq deced , in the Words , Letters & figures following ” In the Name of God ┃ Regd 11th of Amen , I , James of Bally divity in the County of Antrim Esqr being now Novr 1783 in health of Body , perfect memory and sound Judgment Do make this my at 12 at Noon last Will and Testament , hereby revoking and disanulling all former Wills or Testament heretofore made by me , declaring this and no other to be my last Will and Testament . In the first place forder and direct my Executors herein after named to pay all such Debts as I shall owe at the time of my decease of what nature or kind soever they be and that my said Executors may expend on my funeral such sum as they shall think proper according to their directions . I leave and bequeath to the poor of the parish of Derry Rihan , ten pounds Sterl , likewise to the poor of the parish of Billy Ten pound . I leave and bequeath to Margaret Doak orwise Hamile wife to Wm Hamell [Hamill] two pounds five shillings and six pence yearly during her natural life , which order to be paid to her out of the rents of my Estate . I leave and bequeath to my Nephew John Walker twenty pounds Ster and to each of his Brothers , James , Charles and Robert Walker , the sum of Ten pound and to their Sisters , Mary Kitheart wife to Alex Kithcart and to Sarah Hill wife to J. Hill Ten pounds to each of them for their sole and seperate I leave and bequeath to my Sister Ann Hill widow of the Reverend John Hill late of Drumra , twenty pounds Steel , and also to each of her three sons John Charles & James the sum of Twenty pounds to each of them and to each of her Daughter 2 Mary Given wife of Wm Given and Ann Edmiston wife of Hugh Edmiston twenty pounds Steel , for the sole and seperate use . I leave and bequeath to my son in law Stewart of Ballentory Esqr the sum of Twenty pounds Stert . and to his only son James Stewart my Grandson leave and bequeath the sum of five hundred pounds Stert the Interest whereof order to be applied for his education during his minority , and my Will is that ┃ the said John Stewart his father do put to Interest the said sum of five hundred pound and take proper security for the same . And I do hereby order and direct that my said Executors hereinafter to be named , do pay the several legacies and bequests herein before mentioned to the several Legatees out of the yearly rents and arrears of rents and other know out standing debts that may be due to me at the time of my death . And whereas fam T 4 171 Now Seized & possessed of the several Lands & tenements herein after to be mentioned Viz , the quarter Land of North Ballydivity , the quarter land of Chentice , and the quarter land of Islandahoo , which I hold in fee Simple under the Earl of Antum Subject to a certain Chief rent , and the Land of South Ballydivity , and the quarter Land of Carney , which I hold in fee simple under the Heirs of James Stewart Esqr deced and subject to a certain yearly rent , also the two quarter of Land of upper Bellynaris and the quarter Land of Ballyness which I hold by Lease for three lives with a Covenant of renewal for Ever under the Earl of Antrim Subject to a Certain yearly rent all which Lands are situated in the Barony of Dunlin and said County of Antum . And Whereas I am also seized & possessed of five quarters of Frosses Situate in the Barony of Kilconway and said County , which I hold from the Earl of Antum for three lives with a Covenant of renewal for Ever , Subject to a certain Chief rent also the quarter Land of North Torcrum which I hold under the Earl of Antrim by Lease for years & lives , whereof there is but one life now in being situate in the Grange of Killigan and said County of Antrim , to a certain Chief rent also the quarter Land of Lissaniski in the Barony of Dunluce , and the land of Duncarbit Drumchullen & Cullyveely situate in the Barony of Cary and all in the said County of Antrim which I hold by a Lease for three lives with a Covenant of of renewal for ever under the Earl of Antum Subject to a certain Chief rent also two quarland of upper & lower Moyargets which I hold from the heirs of Hugh Boyd of Bally castle in the said County of Antrim Esqr deed by a Lease for three lives with a Covenant of Kenewal for Ever Subject to a certain Chief rent also the quarter Land & Corn Miln of upper Ballinlea which I hold under the Earl of Antum by a Lease for three lives with a Covenant for perpetual renewal situate in the said Barony of Carey & said Co of Antrim Subject to a certain Chief rent also the quarter land of Lisbelnagroaghmore in the said Barony of Cary and the quarter land of Clough in the Barony of Dunluce and both in the said County of Antrim , which I hold by a lease for three lives with a Covt of renewal for Ever Subject to a Certain Chief rent under the Earl of Antrim , and also the quarter land of Ballymacklevennan in the liberties of Colerain , which I hold from Mrs Jennett Boyd [nee Holmes] Widow deced by a Lease for years and lives whereof there is now but one life in being subject to a certain Chipent . All which said Lands & Tenements with each and every of their appurts I leave and bequeath unto Robt Ogilby of Newtownlimavaddy in the Co of Londonderry Esq M. D. and to John Hill of Hellsmount in the Barony of Toomb and County of Antrim Linnen Draper and to Wm Owens of Holstone in the said County of Antrim , Watchmaker and to their Heirs all my said Real Estate , as herein above ment To have and To hold all my said Real Estate to them the said Robt Ogilby John Hill & William Owens and the purvt and Surr of them and to the Heirs of such sure for Ever and to the Exors and admr of such sure all my personal Estate whatsoever whereof shall die possessed upon the Special Trust and Confidence Nevertheless and to the particular uses intents and purposes herein after mentioned , of and concerning my said Estate both real & personal , and to no other use intent or purpose whatsoever . And in the first place forder & direct my said Trustees to cause my said Executors herein after ┃ to be named to levy of the several Tenants in my said Estate all the yearly rents & ance of rents that may be due at the time of my death , and likewise call in and accute Receive all the out standing debts that may be due & owing to me at the time of my death , and apply the same or so much thereof as will pay all my just Debts funeral Charges and several bequests and legacies herein before ment and subject to the payment of my just Debts funeral charges & bequests herein before mentioned . I leave and bequeath all my personal Estate of what nature or kind soever that may be possessed of or entitled unto at the time of my Death , to my only son James Moore for his sole & seperate use . also leave and bequeath to my said son James Moore all the rents issues and profits , that do and may at any time hereafter arise & become due and payable by the several Tenants and occupiers of the said Land before mentioned being my real Estate , and I do authorize & impower my said son James Moore by and with the consent of one or more of my said Trustees at any time during his natural life after my decease , to grant leases to the several Tenants in my said Estate for any term of years not exceeding thirty one years and one or two lives , and that at the best improved rent and not otherwise hereby authorizing & impowering my said son James Moore to levy by way of Distress or otherwise all the yearly rents fees & duties that we at any time after my decease become due & payable by the several Tenants and occupiers of the said Lands . And I do hereby order and oblige my said Son Jas Moore from time to time and at all times during his natural life after my decease to pay the several Chief Rents fees & Duty as the same shall become due & payable to the Earl of Antum and the other proprietors of said Land herein above mentioned . And I do hereby authorize and empower my said son James Moore that by or with the Consent of one or more of my said Trustees to settle upon the whole or any part of my Estate by way of Dower or jointure upon any woman of fair character which my said son James Moore shall think proper to marry , provided such marriage be made by or with the Consent of one or more of my said Trustees any sum or sums of money not exceeding the sum of two hundred pounds Ster yearly , and from and after the decease of my said son James Moore I devise and bequeath all my real Estate to the said Robert Ogilby John Hill & Wm Owens and their Heirs to preserve the same for the use of the first second and third son and every other sons lawfully begotten of the Body of my said Son James Moore , and the issue male , as they shall be in priority of Birth and Seniority of age The elder of such son & Sons and his issue male always to be preferred before the younger of such son or sons and their issue male , and from and after the death of all the sons of my said son James Moore without issue male I leave and bequeath all my said real Estate to my said Trustees for the use of the first second and third Son Sons of his Eldest Daw the Elder of such Son and sons and his issue More , always to be preferred before the younger and in failure of the issue male of his said Eldest Danr to the first second & third Son and sons of his second Dan and their Issue male , the Elder of Son and sons and his issue male always to be preferred before the younger according to the priority of birth and seventy of age . and in like manner to the issue male of the third and fourth Danr and to the issue male of every other Dave of my said son James & their respective heirs male , the Elder of them always to be preferred before the younger according according according to their priority of Both and Seventy of age And if it shall please Almighty God so to order that my said son James Moore do die without leaving any issue male or female devise and bequeath all my said real Estate to the sd Robert Ogilby John Hill and Wm Owens and their respective Heirs In Trust for the use and behoof of my Grandson James Stewart only son of John Stewart of Ballinley in the Co of Antrim Esq . during his the said James Stewarts nature life , and likewise for & during the natural life of his first second & third Son , and every other Son and sons lawfully be gotten of the Body of my said Grandson James Stewart and the issue male , as they & shall be in priority of Bath and Semonty of age , the Elder of such Son and sons and his issue male always to be preferred before the younger of such son or sons and the issue Male And from and after the Death of all the sons of my said Grandson James Stewart without issue male leave and bequeath all my said Real Estate to my Trustees for the use of the first second & there soon to his Eldest Davy the Elder of such Son and sons and his issue male always to be preferred before the younger and in failure of the Issue Male of said Eldest Danr to the issue male of the Second Third & fourth Lunt and to the issue Male of every other Dave of my said Grandson and their respective heirs male , the Elder of them always to be preferred before the younger according to their privity of Birth and Seniority of age And I do hereby Will & Direct that my said Grand for James Stewart when he becomes seized of my said Real Estate shall take to himself and assume the Sirname : of ( Moore ) and from thenceforth be known by no other Sername whatsoever . And if it shall so happen that my said son James Moore shall die without leaving any issue male or issue Female , and my said Grand Son James Stewart shall die without leaving issue male or female I do hereby dispose of my said Real Estate to my said Trustees and their Heirs Exors and Admrs In Trust for the several uses & purposes hereinafter to me mentioned , and first of order and appoint my Nephew John Hill of Hillsmount , one of my said Trustees , may possess and enjoy all that and those the two quarter Lands of upper & lower Moyargits which I hold by Lease for three lives with a covenant of remises for Ever Subject to a certain Chiefrent fees duties now payable to Hugh Boyd of Ballycastle Esq . also the quarter Land of Upper Ballenles and Commit thereupon with the appurts thereunto belonging which I hold under the Earl of Antrim by Lease of three lives with a Covenant of renewal for Ever Subject to a Certain yearly chief rent and fees , said Land are both situated in the Barony of Cary & said County of Antrim during his natural life and from and after his decease to his first second & third Son and ever other Son and sons and their respective issue mule as the shall be in priority of Both & Seniority of age , the elder of such son & Sons and their respective issue male , always to be preferred and take place before the younger of such son & Sons and their issue male and failing his issue male to his issue female and their respective heirs for Ever . Also to my Nephew Chas Hill of Drumra in the Barony of Tomb and said County of Antrim Linnen ┃ Draper , my Will is that the said Chas Hill may have hold possess and Enjoy all that and those the quarter land of Lifanisk in the Barony of Dunluce & said County of Antrim , also the Land of Duncarbet Drumchullen & Cullyverly in the Barony of Cary and County of Antum with all their appurts which I hold by Lease for three lives with ┃ Covenant of Renewal for Ever under the Earl of Antiem Subject to a Certain yearly Chief rent highent fees & Duties during his natural life and from and after his decease to the first second and third Son , and every other Son and sons and their respective issue male as they shall be in priority of birth and Seventy of age , the Elder of such Son and sons and their respective issue male always to be preferred and take place before the younger of such Son and sons and their issue male and failing his issue male to his issue female and their respective heirs for Ever also to my Nephew James Hill of said Druma in said Barony of Cook and said County of Andrew Linnen Draper my Will is that he said James Hill may hold possess & Enjoy all that and those the five quarter Land of Prosses in the Barony of Kilconway and said County of Antrim with all their 2 appurts which I hold by Lease for three lives with a Covenant of renewal for Ever under the Earl of Antrim Subject to a Certain yearly Chief rent and fees during his natural life and after his decease to his first second and third son and every other Son lawfully begotten and their respective issue male , as they shall be in priority of birth and Seniority of age , the Elder of such son & Sons and their respective issue male always to be preferred and take place before the younger of such son and sons and their issue male and failing his issue made to his issue female and then respective Heirs for Ever . Also to my two Nephews James and Robert Walker jointly both of Glenley and County of Londonderry farmers my Will that the said James of Robert Walker may have hold possess and enjoy that and those the quarter Land of Lisbelngreaghmore situate in the Barony of Cary and sd County of Antrim Also the quarter Land of Clough in the Barony of Dunlice and said County 8 Antrim with all their appurts which I hold by Lease for three lives with a Covenant of renewal for Ever under the Earl of Antrim Subject to a certain yearly Chief rent fees and — puties also the quarter Land of BallyMacklevannan in the Liberties of Colerain and County of Londonderry which I hold by Lease for years and lives under Jennet Boyd [nee Holmes] Widow of Andrew Boyd deced , and whereof there is now but one life in being subject to a yearly chief rent which last mentioned Lease will Expire at the decease of said Life . Which said Land of Lisbelnagroaghmore and Cloughorne of order and appoint to my said Nephews James and Robert Walker during their natural lives , and from and after their decease to their first & third Son and every other Son and sons and their respective issue male lawfully begotten as they shall be in punity of Both & Seniority of age the Elder of such son and Jones and then and every of their respective issue male always to be preferred & take place before the young of such Son and sons and their issue male and failing their issue made to the issue male and their respective Heirs for ever which said Lease of Bully Macklevennan , order and appoint for the use and behoof of my said Nephews James and Robert Walker during the continuance thereof also to my Nephew Chas Walker of Glentery and in the County of Londonderry farmer my Will is that the sd Charles Walker may have hold possess and Enjoy all that and those the two quarters of upper Ballynaris and the quarter Land of Ballyness in the Barony of Dunlice and said County of Antum which I hold under the case of Antum by a Lease for three lives with a Cor of Renunce forever subject to a certain Chief Rent and fees yearly with — with the appurts To hold the same to the said Chas Walker during his natural life and from and after his decease to his first second & third Son and every other Son & Sons and their issue male lawfully begotten , as they shall be in priority of birth and Seniority of age the Elder of such Son and sons and their issue male always to take place & be preferred before the younger of such Son & sons and their issue male and failing his issue male to his issue female and respective heirs for Ever also to my Nephew John Walker of Ballyduity in the Barony of Dunne & County of Antrim Gent my Will is that he the sd John Walker may have hold possess and enjoy all that and those the North half quarter land of said Ballydivity , the Quarter land of Cluntice and the quarterland of Island which hold and possess by virtue of a fee farm deed of the same perfected to me by the late Earl of Antin Subject to a certain Chief rent and fees , and also the South quarter of Bally divity and Compay which I hold by virtue of a fee farm Deed of the same perfected to me by the late James Stewart of Colerain Councellor at Law Subject to a Certain Chief rent and fees payable to the Heirs of the said James Stewart , and which land are situate in the Barony of Dunluce and County of Antrim To hold the same unto the said 9 John Walker , with the appurts thereunto belonging for and during his natural life , and from and after his decease to his first second & third Son and every other Son & Sons lawfully begotten and the issue male as they shall be in priority of birth and Semonty of age ; the Elder of such son & Sons , and their issue nate always to be preferred and take place before the younger of such son & Sons , and their issue male and failing his fue male , and their respective heirs for Ever And if my said Nephew John Walker shall die without leaving any issue of his own , Male or female . I hereby will order and appoint that the said Lands of the Two Ballivity the quarter Land of Curtice and the Quarter Land of Islandahoo and the Quarter Land of Carnfog , with their appurts do at and after the death of the said John Walker become the real property of my Nephew John Hill of Hillmount in said County of Antum one of my Trustees herein before mentioned , subject to the payment of Two certain Chief rents and fees , the one payable to the Earl of Antrim and the other to the Heirs of the sd J. Stewart Esq deced . To hold the same unto the said John Hill during his natural life and from and after his decease to his second third and fourth son & every other Son and sons and their issue male and they shall be in priority of birth and Seniority of age , the Elder of such Son and sons and their respective issue always to be preferred before the younger of such son and sons and the issue male and failing his issue mate to his issue Female and their respective heirs for Ever . And of the Testator do hereby nominate constitute and appoint my son in law John Stewart of Ballentoy Esqr and the Revd William Lynd of Mayorget Gospel Minister and John Hucy of Ballyalaght Gent all in the Barony of Cary and County of Antie to to the Exors of this my last Will & Testament , hereby publishing and declaring this and no other to be my last Will & Testament In Witness Whereof I have hereunto put my hand and seal this 24 Dec 1778 – Signed & Sealed published declared by the Testator to be his last Will and Testament in the presence of us whose names are hereunto Subs as Witnesses and Witnessed by us in the presence of the Testator and in presence of each other . I do hereby publish and declare this to be a true Copy of my last Will & Testament in the presence of of the subscribing Witnesses , which Will & Testament in Witnessed by Martin of Ballynaris in the parish of Billy Barony of Dundie and County of Antrim Farmer and by James Martin of Ballynaris aforesaid Presbyterian Teacher commonly called a Probationer and also by John Martin of Ballynaris aforesaid Batchelor , and this Memonal is Witnessed by the said William Martin , James Martin and Jno Martin John Rice Signed & sealed by the above named John Hill one of the Trustees ment in presence of us , Wm Martin Jas Martin J Martin . The above named Wm Martin maketh oath that he saw the above mentioned James Moore Sign Seal publish and declare the Will & Testam when of the above writing is often requesting this Depont and the above named James Martin and John Martin 1 Witness the same and that he this Depont and the said James Martin and John Martin Did at his the said James Moore his request Subscribe their names as Witnesses thereto , in the presence of him the said James More the Devise and Testator , and in the presence of each other , and also saw the said John Hill sign & seal this this Manor and that he this Dept is a Subs Witness to said Will & Testament and to this land , and that the name Wm Martin Subsd as a Witness to said Will & Testam and this Memo is his this Dept name and proper hand writing Will Martin Sworn before me at Ballynaris in the County of Antrim the Twenty eighth day of Octr 1783 (RD 355/170/238479)
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 