Holmes Genealogy

JOHN Holmes on 1630 muster roll on Fishmongers estate (Chief tenant: Mr Freeman, the younger)

Homes, Joseph Balteagh 1740 Protestant Householders Carnet

Memorial of article of bargain and seal dated Nov 1, 1745 whereby JOSEPH Holmes of Carnet sells to James Horner of the same town his one sixth interest in the town of Carnet held by lease under the Earl of Tyrone which lease was granted to Samuel Horner on January 1734 and 35 and a trust declared in favor of JOSEPH Holmes for the said sixth part. Witnessed by John Clark and Robert Gould of Carnet. Memorial signed and sealed by James Horner and witnessed by Robert Gould and Henry Erskine of Derrymore, Co Derry on Jan 29, 1757 (RD 184/384/123457)

JOSEPH Holmes on 1766 Religious Survey as Dissenter from Carrick (https://virtualtreasury.ie/item/PRONI-T808-15264)

Deed of assignment dated 16 Jul 1794. High Sheriff to Joseph Holmes of Straw the lands of Straw and Ardinarive occ by George Holmes. (RD 479/425/307961)

Newtown Limavady

A Memorial of an Assignment bearing Date 17 Jul 1734 betwixt Hugh Martin of Carrowmuddle in the County of Londonderry of the of the one part and John Martin his Eldest Son of the same of the other part whereby the said Hugh Martin for and in Consideration of a portion for his said son John did assign and convey over to the said John Martin his heirs Exr admr or assigns all his the said Hugh Martins Right Title and Interest in and to a third part of his possession in the Town land of Carrowmuddle.. witnessed by William Martin, George Criswell and James Criswell all of Carromodel aforesaid Farmers and this Memorial is also witnessed by the said William Martin and by Joseph Holmes of Newtown Limavady in the County of Londonderry Yeoman …16th day of June 1755 at Ballikelly in the County of Londonderry (RD 176/107/117911)

MARTHA Holmes, spinster of Tullyleague in the Barony of Tyrhugh, Co Donegal provided mortgage to Michael McClery of Tatnakelly [Tartnakilly] on Apr 28,1736. Witnessed by Andrew McIlwaine, Jr (McIlvaine) and William McIlvaine and James Ash, all of Londonderry. (RD 86/165/59793) – see Altnagelvin for more on MARTHA [Note:Martha was the sister of the Rev John Holmes of Donegal and later Glendermott]

From Records of the town of Limavady 1609 to 1808 ed. E M F Boyle, L’derry 1912:

• 29 Sept 1763 Samuel Holmes and Joseph Irwin Apprizors
• 29 Sept 1765 Samuel Holmes and John Pigot Appraisers
• 29 Sept 1768 Samuel Holmes and John Starrett Applotters.
• 29 Sept 1774 Samuel Holmes Applotter.

1769 lease from Thomas Boyle to Alexander Boyle of a house in Newtown Limavady lately held by SAMUEL Holmes. Witnessed by Daniel Hunter, William Mullen and George Given. Memorial witnessed by Hamilton Magennis. (RD 281/20/179887)

SAMUEL Holmes on 1766 Religious Census – Dissenter (PRONI Name Index)

Marriage settlement 4 May 1768 for marriage of ELIZABETH Holmes, daughter of WILLIAM Holmes of Donaghmore, Co. Tyrone, merchant and James Boyle of Newtownlimavady, Co. Londonderry, Gent.  James Boyle transfers to WILLIAM Holmes his lands Limavady and in Ballimore, Newtownlimavady.. Witnessed by Alexander Boyle of  Newtown Limavady, merchant, John Mossam of Armagh and Alexander McKenzie of Donaghmore, Co Tyrone. Memorial witnessed by Alexander McKenzie and William Hamilton of Mount Hamilton (RD 260/349/172084) [Note: see Co Tyrone notes for more on this family…also Ancestry tree]

Memorial of articles of agreement dated 7 July 1768 whereby William Moore of Newtownlimavady, Co. Londonderry  did sell to the Rev. Benjamin McDowel of Ballykelly, the townland of Burnally held in the right of Viscount Cunningham. Witnessed by Ezekiel Moore and SAMUEL Holmes, both of Newtownlimavady and by John Snell of Magilligan all in Co, Londonderry. Memorial witnessed by Ezekiel Moore and Jasper Martin of Newtownlimavady. Registered 19 Aug 1768.  (RD 267/339 /172019)

A memorial of an Indenture of lease bearing date 3 Nov 1769 between Thomas Boyle of Newtown Limavady and County of Londonderry Gent and Alexander Boyle of the Town and County aforesaid Merchant of the other part whereby the said James Boyle for the Considerations in said Lease mentioned did demise grant unto the said Alex Boyle all that and those the House & Garden and one acre close lately held by Samuel Holmes together with that close of Land called Scotts Land contain five acres be the same more or less situate and lying in the Town of Newtown Limavady parish of Drumaco and Co of Londonderry To hold unto the said Alexander Boyle his – Exors admors and assigns for and during the Term of the Life of the said James Boyle or fourty one years which last longest from the fourth day of November last past ┃ at and under the yearly Rent of Ten pounds Sterling with clauses of distress and entry and other Clauses ┃ Common and usual between Landlord and Tenant which said Indenture of Lease is witnessed by Paul Hunter, William Mullan and George Given all of Newtown Limavady┃ Lemanady aforesaid and this Memorial is witnessed the said George Given and Hamilton Magenniss of Newtown Lemavady (RD 281/20/179887)

A Memorial of an Indre of Lease bearing date 16 Jun 1772 made and conclud All upon by and between James Boyle Sen and Alexander Boyle both of the Kilaish Lodge in the County of Tyrone Gent of the one part , and Geo Tyler of Newtown Limavady in the County of Lendenderry Gent of the other hood whereby it is witness that the said James & Alexander Boyle did demise grant set and to farm let unto said Geo Tyler all that part of Bellmore … then in the position of S. Holmes and McLaughlin and on the other side by the farm then in the possion of Newman Moore and in the one and by the farm then in the posson of the Hymns and on the other and by Syllydrum together with that part of the Mountain then lately divided and laid by the tenants in the Town part of which was set to and afterwards given ⎬ up by Mr Geo . Olney of Newton Cready aforesd which premes are near in the south by the farm in said Town , then lately set to the aforesd Geo Tylor and on the North by hilly drum , on the East by the other half town of Bellmore on the West by Knochanders mearing containg in all twelve acres , contain in all twelve Conningham mean be the same more or less all which names were then the actual posson of the said Geo . Tylor to have and to hold unto the said George Lyle his heirs and Admrs & ass forever at and under the yearly 2836 Herrall all 10 469 year rent of two pounds seven shillings with Clause of Distress and reentry and other Clauses common and usual between Landford & tenant which said Indenture of Lease is witness by Saml Holmes and James Sterret both of Newtown Limavady aforesd Innkeeper and J. Robertson of Govan in the parish of Aghadovey & Co. of Londonderry aforesd farmer and this mem is witness by the said J. Robertson and John Ross of said Town of Newtownlimavaddy Gent Geo Tylor seal signed and sealed in presence of John Robertson Richd Ross . The above named Jno Robertson maketh oath that he did see the above named James Boyle Law and Alex Boyle and Geo Upton duly Execute the Indenture of Lease (RD 455/468/293684)

1740 Protestant Householders
Homes, Gabriel Tamlaght Finlagan – Moys
Homes. George Tamlaght Finlagan – Sistrakeel
Homes. Hugh Tamlaght Finlagan – Broglasco
Homes. John Tamlaght Finlagan – Ballykelly
Homes. John Tamlaght Finlagan – Broighter
Humes. Samuel Tamlaght Finlagan – Sistrakeel
Humes. Samuel Tamlaght Finlagan – Drumballydonaghy

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) and (PRONI MIC 1P/208 A/4)

• JON Homs & Elisabeth Robison, Ballymoney are to be proclaimed next Lord’s day ?br 15 1707
• Jon: Neel [Neil] in Desert [Desertoghill] & MARTHA Homs in Fauchanveal are allowed the benefite of proclaimation in ordeur to marriage Feb’y 24th 1710
• Arch’d Holm’s in Ballykelly & Martha Gowan in Burt 7br 22d 1711
• Arthur O’Mullan in Kilrea & MARY Holms in Ballykelly are allowed ye benefite of proclaimation Xbr 14 1711
• Alexr flimen & Janet Holms both in Ballykelly 11 Jun 1714 m 8 July 1714
• Michael Carswell & Janet Holms 14 Jan 1714-15/17 Feb 1714-15
• Joseph Holms in Ballykelly & Sheusanna Harve in Balteach 26 Apr 1719 proc.
• James Holms & Eliza Holms both of Ballykelly proc 9br 12, 1720
• Hugh Rodger in Magilligan & Mary Holms in Ballykelly proc 27 Aug 1721, marr. 7br 28, 1721
• William Davy [Davys or Davis] & Elizabeth Holms proc 24 Aug 1723
• ABRAM Holms in Ballywilling [Ballywillin] & Janet Hopkins in Ballykelly are allowed proclaimation 9br 6 1725
• Gabriel Holms & Martha Hym Ballykelly proc Apr 7, 1727
• George Con & Rachel Holms proc. 7br 8th 1728

8 Jul 1728 George Conn m. Rachel Holms in Ballykelly Church (Presb.), Drumachose parish, Co Londonderry (The Scottish and Irish Background of the Rev Hugh Conn, Familia, UHF, 1994 p.41) 
[Note: Rachel was the sister of the Rev John Holmes of Donegal and later 2nd Glendermott as proved by the wills of him and his sister Martha – see Altnagelvin. Based on the wills it also appears that Janet who m. Michael Carswell, Mary who m. Hugh Roger, and Elizabeth who m. William Davy above were also sisters … see Ancestry tree]

Andrew Hunter, the first one from whom is traced an unbroken line, was born about 1640 in Scotland , it is thought at the ancestral seat of the Hunter’s since 1150, Hunterston , county Ayr. He settled at Clogan [Clagan], Londonderry, Ireland. Had four children children.. Died 1734, living to almost the centry mark. His eldest son , Hugh Hunter, married Isabella Semple, had five children – Andrew , Nicholas, Elizabeth ( married Carr ) , David, and Nancy, who married a Willock, and remained in Ireland . He died in 1732, naming his father as executor in his will, made in the Parish of Tamlaghtfinlagan, county of Londonderry, Ireland. The Hunter estate adjoined the Holmes estate of Bally Kelly, both families owning extensive property. Andrew had the Clogan [Clagan] estate ; Paul Hunter one-half of Machrymore [Magheramore]; John Hunter had Tartna Kelly [Tartnakilly], etc. , etc. The Hunter, Holmes, and Carr families intermarried , and members of each family came to America about the same time, 1740-50. (West Virginia Historical Magazine, v5, p.151)

PRONI T2324/1 
Hunter-Holmes family, Tamlaght-Finlagan, Co. Londonderry. Genealogical notes
HUGH Holmes owned an estate of 400 acres at Ballykelly, 3 miles west of Hunter’s Cloghan Farm. Hugh was the father of JOSEPH Holmes born at Ballykelly 22 Aug 1746 and m.1767 Rebecca Hunter b. 8 Nov 1748 at York, PA. JOSEPH was a captain in the Revolution and commanded a prison camp at Winchester, VA. Joseph and Rebecca had 13 children:

1. Judge HUGH Holmes b.8 Nov 1767 = m.20 Dec 1761 Elizabeth Briscoe
2. DAVID Holmes b.10 Mar 1770 d.1833. Governor of Mississippi
3. MARGARET Holmes = Rev Marsh LeGrand
4. JOSEPH – died in infancy
5. ?
6. ELIZABETH Holmes = Edward McGuire
7. REBECCA Holmes = Daniel Conrad
8. JOSEPH – died young
9. HORATIUS Holmes  b.1783 d.1800
10. NANCY Holmes d.20 Jul 1819  = General Elija Boyd
11. GERTRUDE = William Moss
12. JOSEPH b.1789 d.1810
13. ANDREW Hunter Holmes b.1792 d.1812 died in War of 1812
    [Note: see Ancestry tree]

21 November 1764
Will of Gabriel Holmes otherwise Holms, Mariner now belonging to the Havanna Indiaman lying at Whampo in China. Leaves all to his father John Holmes, farmer in the county of Londonderry, parish of Ballykelly.
(Kew National Archives, PROB 11/903/396)

Memorial of agreement dated Oct 29, 1785 whereby JAMES Holmes of Bellynarrug, Co. Londonderry gives to GABRIEL Holmes, his son of the same place, one third part of the land that James the possessed known by the name of Rough Hill. Witnessed by James Pursley and John Pursley, both of Sessagh, Co. Londonderry and Samuel Martin of the city of Dublin, atty. (RD 374/150/248470)

Derry Will 16 Jun 1796
JAMES Holmes of Ballynarrogen in Parish of Ballykelly & Co Londonderry. I bequeath to my wife JANE Holmes the two houses and gardens in the low town…with the rent from the Heathy faul…for life. I allow GABRIEL, JOHN and JAMES each for themselves to sow one peck of flaxseed and each to out wind and draw thiry creels of turf to my wife Jane during her lifetime…My daughter JANE is to live with her mother & share benefits. If daughter JANE survive her mother she is to have one half of the rent of the Heathy faul and one house and garden in the low town…if she marry I allow JOHN and JAMES to pay her 3 pounds…when she has a child or heir….I bequeath to son GABRIEL one-third of Rough Hill as it is now laid off and in his possession. To my son JOHN one-third of Rough Hill and the barn…to my son JAMES one-third of Rough Hill and the dwelling house…my sons are “each to perform his part to his mother”…to my daughter HANNAH 30 pounds….the fortunes of daughters HANNAH and JANE to be paid by my sons JOHN and JAMES in equal shares. My sons JOHN and JAMES are to have the 2 houses and gardens in lowtown and the Heathy faul at their mother’s death. My daughter MARTHA has already got off her fortune for which reason I am silent…my daughter ELIZABETH is paid her fortune too…my wife and daughter JANE to live either in the lowtown or the Heathy faul as they may please…Two cows are to be sold to defray the funeral expenses, or if sons JOHN and JAMES wish to keep them, let them answer the cost…My family are to live together at present as crops will support them all. If any of my family is not pleased with what I have done let them pay down 600 pounds and they shall possess my whole farm the money to be divided among the rest. Executors: Archibald Jackson, Robert Kellan of Boveva. Witnesses: John Jackson, Andrew Jackson. Probate to Exrs 12 Mar 1797
(PRONI T/681 p.401)…see will image

Indre of Lease of assignment dated 1 Feb 1816 made Between John Holmes of Ballynarrack in the parish of Tamlaghtfinlaggan in the County of Londonderry farmer of the one part and John Catherwood Ballyhanna in said County farmer of the other part Whereby the said John Holmes for and in Consideration of the sum of $ 290 By him in hand paid did Demise Grant sell assign and for ever make over unto the said John Catherwood all that the one third of the one half of Quarter of the said Lower Land of Ballynarack Commonly Called and known by the name the Rough Hill Cont by Estimation 12 acres or thereabouts let the same more or Less as also to the one half of two dwelling Houses and Gardens in that part of Ballynarrath aforesaid Commonly called the Lower town …witnessed by William Church and Wm Johnson both of Coleraine … (RD 698/434/479135)

A Memorial of an Indented Deed of Conveyance bearing date 29 Sep 1823 made Between Hugh Boyd and Robert Boyd his son both of Sesnaugh in the County of Londonderry farmers of the one part and John Gilfillan of Moyse in said County farmer of the other part which said Indenture after reciting as therein witnessed that the said Hugh Boyd and Robert Boyd for the considerations therein mentioned did Grant Bargain sell assign alien release and confirm unto the said John Gilfillan … the Townland of Sascrean ( now called Sasnaugh , then in the occupation and possession of the said Hugh Boyd and Robert Boyd … occupied possessed and enjoyed by the said Hugh Boyd and Robert Boyd … for and during the natural life and lives of all such other person and persons as should for ever thereafter be added and inserted to the time and term of the said original Lease made of said Townland to the Lesses therein named by the late William Connolly Esqr d…witnessed by John Boyle of Dungiven Gent and James Holmes of Ballynarrog farmer both in the County Londonderry and this Memonal as to the Execution thereof by the said Hugh Hugh Boyd and Robert Boyd the Grantors in said Deed is witnessed by the said John Boyd and James Holmes and said Deed is hereby required to be registered pursue and to the act in that case made by us the said Hugh Boyd and Robert Boyd as witness our hands and seals this twentieth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and twenty three … 11th day of Novr 1823 (RD 786/124/531659)

A Memorial of an Indented Deed bearing date 13 May 1825 made between John Catherwood of Ballyhuma [Ballyhanna?] County of Londonderry of the one part and James Holmes of Ballynarog in the County of L’Derry of the other part Whereby the said John Catherwood … hath granted.. unto the said James Holmes in his actual possession then being & & his heirs and assigns all that and Those ten acres of the Town and Lands of Ballynarog situate lying and being in the County of Londonderry and also a proportional share of the undivided Mountain and Bog belonging to said Townland with all Houses Gardens rights members and appurtenances thereto belonging To have and to hold the said Lands and premisses for and during the term yet to come and unexpired of the last renewal of the Original Lease by which said Townland of Ballinarrog , is held under Robt Ogilby Esqr … witnessed by John Martin of Culmore and John Gilfillan of Ballyarog both in the County of Londonderry and this memorial is Executed by the said John Catherwood and Witnessed by said John Martin and Robt Kerr of Newtown Limavady in said County of Londonderry… 11 Apr 1825  (RD 801/406/540942)

John Holmes b.1819. Emigrated to Australia. He married Letitia Jenkinson 1858. Series of letters to family back in Ireland. (httgps://freepages.rootsweb.com/~dicummings/genealogy/Holmes.htm) and (https://freepages.rootsweb.com/~dicummings/genealogy/HolmesLetters.htm)

A memorial of an Indre bearing date 10 Sep 1836 Between Robert Ogilby of Dungiven in the County of Londonderry Esqr of the one part the Revd Peter Benson Maxwell of Birdstown in the County of Donegal Clerk and the Revd John Albert of Drumaclase in the County of Londonderry Clerk Trustees named in the Indre of Settlement entered into and executed on the intermarriage of the Revd Charles Frederick Steward with Miss Ann Sterling therein named James Wallace the Elder James Wallace the Younger John Wallace Robert Wallace James Holmes the elder, Jas Holmes the Younger same Harper and said McCoy all of Ballyderrog in the said Coy of Londonderry farmer & John Boyle of Dingman in the said Coy of Londonderry Genter of the other part after after wailing among other things that by Judie bearing date the fourth day of April which was in the year one thousand seven hundred William Connolly Esquire the Lessor therein named did demise grant Set release and confirm unto Gilbert Anderson James Leggatt and Christ Houston the Lessees therein names their heirs & assigns all and sing that upper three quarter , of the Townland of Ballyderrog part of the Manor of Limavady lying being in the Barony of Keenaught and in the said County of Londonderry together with all houses buildings & other the appurts thereto then belonging and then in their sense and occupation Excepted and always reserved out of said Demise unto the said William Connally his heirs and assigns as in & by said Jude of Lease was particularly excepted and reserved To Hold unto the said Gilbert Anderson James Riggate & Christ Houston their heirs & assigns for & during the natural lives & life of the three several certin que me in said named and of the survivors & surves of them and for & during the natural lives and life of such other person & persons as she from time to time successively for ever thereafter be nominated and added to the said demise pursuant to the covenant for renewal in the said Judie of Lease could under and subject to the payment of the yearly rent & fines for renewal in said Lease ment and to certain duties payments and services & to the observance & performance of certain clauses covenants conditions & agreements therein reserved and contained on the part & behalf of the Lessees their heirs Exors admors & assigns to be paid abserved and performed and further reciting that all the right title and Estate and reversion in fee of the said Will Conolly in and to the said demised premises and also in and to the Royalties and other excepted and reserved premises had become legally vested in the said Robt Agelly — party to said presents subject to the recited Indre of Lease and the cost for renewal therein could and that all the Right Title interest and benefit of renewal of these Gilbert Anderson James Liggott & Chirst Houston and to the said Demised prems except as thereout by said Lease was excepted under & by virtue of the said recited Indie of Lease had became legally vested in the said Read Peter Benson Maxwell Rev John Albert Jas Wallace the Elder as Wallace the Younger John Wallace Robert Wallace Jas Holmes the Elder Jas Holmes the Younger Land Harper Land McCoy and John Boyle parties thereto and further reciting the lives then last decd and those nominated to be added in the place & stead thereof & further reciting as therein is recited said Indre Witnessed that in pursuance & performance of the agreement in said Indie recited and of the covenant for renewal contained in said recited Indre of Lease and for the other Consons in said Indemento the said Robt Ogilly did demise grant set release and confirm unto the said Revd Peter Pensan Maxwell Read John Alphert Jas Wallace the Elder Jas Wallace the younger John Wallace Robt Wallace Jas Holmes the Elder Jas Holmes the younger and Harper same McCoy & John Boyle in their actual posson then being by virtue of the Lease for a year and statute in said recited Indie and could & to their heirs & assigns all & sing the said upper three quarters of the Townland of Bally derogaft part of the Manor of Limavady and lying & being in the Bary of Keenaught & Coy of Londonderry aft together & with all houses bags & other the appurts thereto then belonging formerly in the Leveret occupation of the said Gilbert Anderson J Leggett and Christ Houston as the same was laid down and described in the map or grand plan there in the margin of the said Indie being the same premises so demised as oft by the said William Conolly unto the said Gilbert Anderson & Leggatt and Christ Houston their heirs & assigns in my said recited Judie of Lease of the fourth day of April One thousand seven hundred Excepting and always reserved out of said demise unto the said Robert Ogilly his heirs and assigns all Royalties mines of ore minerals fullers Earth Clay for brick Carthen ware coal pits quarries of time state or stone and also that part a portion of said demised premises marked No 3 in the said map or ground place in the margin of said Indre Count thirty seven acres three roods and five perches English Statute measure as laid down and described thereon as bag and pay Mass and the subscil beneath same being the remaining logs and purposes of said Demised premises together with all woods and underwood by whatsoever name or names called known them thereafter standing lying and being within or upon the premises with free ingress egress and regress to dig for fill and carry away all and every the said excepted premises and Allerty at all times for the said Robert Agilly his heirs and assigns to fore hunt and Hawk in (RD 1837 #56)

To the Registrar appointed by act of Parliament for registering Deeds Leases and or A Memorial of a Deed of Fee Farm Grant made 27 Aug 1860 Between James Ogilly of Pelliar House in the County of Londonderry Esquire of the one part and the Reverend Regd 12th October 1850 Peter Benson Maxwell of Birdstown in the County of Donegal Clerk surviving Trustee named in the Indenture of Settlement entered into and executed on the marriage of at Two & Clock the Reverend Charles Frederick Stewart with Miss Anne Stirling therein named James Wallace the James Wallace Secundus son of said James Wallace the Elder and James Wallace all of Rallyderragar Andrew Long of Magheramore in said County farmer William Morrison of Newtown Limavady Spirit Dealer , John Gilfillan of Dromore farmer Anne Harvey widow James Black farmer Joseph Wallace Farmer Samuel Holmes farmer, Elizabeth Holmes widow of James Holmes deceased, James Holmes and Samuel Holmes the Younger sons of said James Holmes deceased all of Ballyderrog aforesaid, James Holmes of Bovally farmer Samuel McCay of Bally derry farmer and Archibald Henderson of Garvagh Merchant all in the County of Londonderry aforesaid of the other part . Reciting an Indenture bearing date the fourth day of April in the part one thousand seven hundred whereby William Conally did demise grant set release and confirm unto Gilbert Anderson , James Liggott and Christopher Houston their heirs and assigns All and singular that upper the quarter of the Townland of Bally derry as therein mentioned excepted and reserved as therein To hold for the lives and life of James Anderson Archibald Viscott and Thomas Long and the survivors and survivor of them and for and during the natural life and lives of all such other person and persons as should from time to time successively for the after he nominated and added to the said demise pursuant to a covenant for perpetual renewal thereof in said Indenture of Demise contained And also reciting that said Indenture had been from time to time drew the last renewal hearing date the Tenth of September one thousand eight hundred and thirty six whereby after reciting amongst other things that the Tenants in possession of said demised premises had time to time claimed several parts and portions of the Logs and two Mosses so that there only remained thirty & acres three roods and thirty five perches English Statute measure of said Bogs and two mores and that in order to put an end to all litigation it had been agreed upon that Robert Ogilly the Lessor should make of Renewal of the premises unto the Lessees with the exception of the kings and the monies then remaining it Witnessed that the said Robert Dilly demised granted set released and confirmed unto the parties then all and singular the said upper three quarter of the said Town land of Bally do excepting on the sins To hold for the lives therein named And further reciting that John Boyle party to said Renewal was a sure for the said list Ogily who had purchased the Tenants interest in a portion of the premises marked No 1 in the way thereunto annexed and as such Trustee was liable to contribute to the rent thereby reserved the sum of one pound and eight per which sum deducted from the rent thereby reserved left a Balance of eleven pounds eight shillings and seven pence his the amount to which the other Sessees were liable and the said John Boyle was also liable to contribute towards the rules hereby reserved leaving seven and a half Bushels of oats and two spangles of yarn or nine shillings and ten pence sterling in heir thereof as the proportion of said duties to which the said other Lessees were liable and further writing that the said parties thereto of the second part were in possession of the lands and premises marked No 2 in the map the unto annexed and were to be deemed the owners thereof . And further reciting that the said parties the to of the second part had applied to the said James Ogiby to grant to them an estate of Inheritance in fee simple in the portion of said lands to which they were entitled pursuant to and by virtue of the provisions of the Renewable Leasehold Act which the said James Ogilby had agreed to do upon the terms and at the increased rent thereof to mentioned And further reciting that the turbary had been long since exhausted and cut out and the said Ross and and the sell and freehold thereof had for in any years past been in possession of the owner of the reversion and the writing that it had been agreed between the parties hereto that as to the premises hereby granted the exception of all loss and houses should cease and that the right to such boys and turf moses if any as lay within the boundaries of the lands and premises thereby granted should pass to the Granters And further reciting that it had been said that the portion of the premises purchased by the said Robert Reilly and received to said John Ryan coloured red on said no should be excluded from said grant and that the reserved rent should be and reduced in respect thereof from the sum of Twelve pounds nine shillings and three pence to the sum of pounds eight shillings and seven pence and the renewal fines reduced in the same proportion and the duties reduced to seven and a half bushels of oats and two soungles of yarn or nine shillings and ten pence in lien the at the Landlords choice — And further reciting that the said James Ogilby had referred to a Notary to Vouchand Maxwell & ors the yearly sum which should be added to the said portion of the rent in lien of the fines and said Notary had estimated same at at six shillings and three pence sterling a year which being added to the sum of Eleven pounds eight shillings and Seven pence the proportion so payable as aforesaid by the Grantees made the yearly rent to be payable under said Grant ment to the sum of Eleven pounds fourteen shillings and ten pence — said Indenture Witnessed that in consideration of the premises and in pursuance of the foregoing agreements and by virtue of and in obedience to the powers and provising of the Renewable Leasehold Conversion Act and in consideration of the perpetual yearly fee farm rent claimes correct conditions and agreements therein after reserved and contained He the said James Ogilby Doth Grant unto the said Peter Benson Maxwell , James Wallace the elder , James Wallace Secundus Son of James Wallace the elder James Wallace in Andrew Long William Morrison , John Gillfillan , Anne Harvey James Black Joseph Wallace Samuel Holmes E Holmes , James Holmes and Samuel Holmes the younger James Holmes Samuel McCay and Archibald Henderson and to their heirs and assigns all and singular that part and parcel of the upper three quarters of the Town land of Ballyder aforesaid part of the Manor of Limavady and lying and being in the Barney of Keenaught and County of Londonding aforesaid as described and delineated and numbered two on the map or terchart on the back of said Indenture together with all houses buildings and other the appurtenances thereto then belonging being a portion of the premises which were demised by said recited Indenture of Lease of the fourth day of April one thousand seven hundred and formerly in the time and occupation of the said Gilbert Anderson James Ligott and Christopher Houston excepted always and reserved out of said grant unto the said James Ogilby his heirs and assigns or the person persons entitled for the time being to the yearly fee farm rent thereby reserved all royalties mines of or minerals fullers earth clay for bricks earthenware coal pits quarries of time state or stone weather with all woods and underwoods whatsoever names called a known then or thereafter standing lying or being within or upon the premises with prea ingress egress and regress to die for fell and carry away all and every the above excepted premises and liberty at all times for the said James E Gilby his heirs or assigns or the person or persons entitled for the time being to the yearly fee farm rent thereby reserved to for him and hawk in and upon the premises saving always and rese out of this exception unto the parties thereto of the second part liberty to digant and take time title or other stone to be spent and employed on the premises and not elsewhere and the same not to be act or digged without the order and appointment of the said James Ogilly his heirs executors administrators and assigns or the person persons entitled to the yearly fee farm rent thereby reserved To hold unto the said Peter Benson Masewell James the elder James Wallace Secunders James Wallace Andrew Long William Morrison John Gilfillan Anne Haney James Black Joseph Wallace Samuel Holmes, Elizabeth Holmes, James Holmes, Samuel Holmes the younger, James Holmes Samuel McCay and Archibald Henderson their heirs and assigns to the use of them the said Peter Benson Maxwell James Wallace the elder James Wallace recunders James Wallace Andrew Long William Morrison John Gilfillan Anne Harvey James Black Joseph Wallace Samuel Holmes Elizabeth Holmes James Holmes Samuel Holmes the Younger James Holmes Samuel McCay and Archibald Henderson their Heirs and assigns for ever according to then several and respective estates and interests therein subject to the yearly fee farm rent of Eleven pounds Willings and ten pence and to the yearly duties of seven and a half bushels of good oats and two angles of and or nine shillings and ten pence in her thereof at the choice of the said James Gill his heirs and my or other the person or persons entitled to said fee farm rent and to do upon reasonable terms summons suit and service to the Courts Let and Courts Baron from time to time to be holden for the said Mane of Lunnerly and to grind at the mill or mills of said Manor all com Grain and seal that should be spent on the premises or should be sold being round to any person or persons whatsoever paying the sixteenth part for the toll or multure thereof and also thickening at the Tuck Mills or Wills of the said Manor all cloths pass and plaidings whatsoever And said Indenture contained the usual powers of distress and reentry and covenants for the payment of said rent to keep the premises in repair to enclose and preserve the woods and underwoods and for quiet enjoyment . And said Indenture as to the execution thereof by the said Peter son Maxwell is witnessed by Barry D Gibbons of Kingstown in the County of Dublin Civil Engineer and as to the execution thereof by the said James Philby is witnessed by Michael King of Strangemore in the County of ondonderry Solicitor and as to the execution by James Wallace the Elder James Wallace Secunders James Wallace Andrew Long William Morrison John Gilfillan Anne Harvey James Black Joseph Wallace, Samuel Holmes, Elizabeth Holmes, James Holmes, Samuel Holmes, James Holmes, Samuel McCoy and Archibald Henderson is witnessed by Samuel Martin of Culmore Colint , apprentice and Alexander McKillis of Newtownlimavady writing Clerk both in the County of Londonderry and this Memorial as to the execution thereof by the said James Ogilby is witnessed by the said Michael King and by David McConachy of Dungwen in said County of Londonderry Land Surveyor and as (RD 1860 #251)

John McSparron, full age bachelor of Flanders, farmer, merchant (son of Archibald McSparron, farmer) m. 29 Apr 1879 Jane Holmes, full age spinster (daughter of James Holmes of Bovally, farmer). Witnessed by Hannah J Lyttle and William McSparran. (CR) [Note, this is a different John McSparron than the John McSparron, merchant of Londonderry who married Mary Jane Holmes of Strabane in 1874.

Will of John McSparron (1879)
Died 18th Decr 1879.
Amt. of Assets £2730 : 0 : 0.
Transcription:
I John McSparron of Great James Street in the city of Londonderry, being of sound mind memory and understanding do hereby make this as and for my last Will and Testament hereby revoking all former and other wills and testamentary dispositions heretofore made by me.
I leave and bequeath to my daughter Ann Oliver McSparron the sum of One Thousand pounds sterling to be paid to her, on her attaining the full age of twenty one years or on her marrying with the consent of her mother and the Executors hereinafter named before she attains that age. I direct however that the issues and profits of this thousand pounds shall be paid and payable, as the same shall accrue due, to my dear wife Mary Jane McSparron [nee Holmes] until my said daughter attains the full age of twenty one years or marries with such consent, provided always and so long only, as my said wife shall remain a widow;
And in the event of my said wife marrying a second time, it is my wish and I hereby direct that the issues and profits of said thousand pounds be paid [to] my said daughter as they shall accrue due, or, if my Executors think it better, be allowed to accumulate for the benefit of, and until the payment of the said thousand pounds to, my said daughter, at which time, I direct the issues and profits and the accumulations thereof also to be paid her, in the event of my said daughter dying before she attains the full age of twenty one years, or marrying without such consent as aforesaid, it is my wish, and I hereby direct that the paid thousand pounds shall be paid to and become the property of my said wife absolutely.
All the rest residue and remainder of my property of which I shall be possessed or to which I shall be entitled at the time of my death, I leave devise and bequeath to my dear wife Mary Jane McSparron.
Finally I nominate and appoint Archibald McSparron, Grocer and James Cunningham, Draper, both of Waterside, in the County of Londonderry and William Sterling clerk in the house of William Thompson & Co of Londonderry as Executors of this my last Will and Testament.
[Signed] John McSparron.
Signed by the testator and acknowledged as his last Will this 17th day of November December 1879, in presence of us who in his presence and in the presence of one another have hereunto subscribed our names as witnesses the words “be paid my said daughter as they shall accrue due or if my executors think it better” being first interlined between the third and fourth lines of the second page.
Saml. Boarland
Robert Henderson Todd, Solicitor, Londonderry.
(PRONI Will Calendar).

MARGARET Holmes was buried in Ballykelly Cemetery 15 Feb 1880.  (FL 2.4. p. 14)

A Memorial of an Indenture of assignment 1 Dec 1899 between John McSparran of Haigh End Farm , Whitely Bridge in the County of York farmer of the one part and Hamilton McLelland of Derrylane in the County of Londonderry farmer of the other part . whereby for the considerations therein mentioned the said John McSparran did as beneficial owner, assign and convey unto the said Hamilton M Lelland , All that farm of land in the Townland of Flanders Parish of Boveragh Barony of Keenaught and County of Londonderry containing forty one acres statute measure or thereabouts and hold as a yearly tenancy under Robert A. Henry Esquire at the Judicial rent of thirteen pounds . To Hold unto the said Hamilton M Lelland his executors administrators and assigns for all the term estate and interest of the said John McSparran therein as aforesaid subject to the payment of the yearly rent performance and observance of the conditions incident to such Judicial tenancy . Also to the annual payment of three pounds five shillings to the Commissioners of Public works in Ireland as interest on a loan of fifty pounds and which said deed and this memorial as to the due execution rely by John McSparron same is witnessed by John Holmes, Pollington Grange Yorkshire , and James McSparran of Balne Snaith Yorkshire . farmer , & which sd deed & this memorial as to the due execution thereof realy by Hamilton McLelland Signing as Hamilton McClelland same is with ┃ nexed by Hugh Henry Solr , Leary and Clark McLelland , Farmer , Derryland , both in to Londonderry John McSpartan Seal Hamilton McClelland seal . Signed and sealed ┃ by the said John M Sparran in presence of John Holmes Pollington Grange , York farmer , James McSparran Bang , Salth , York , farmer , Signed and sealed by the said Hamilton McLelland in presence of Henry Sold Lenravady Clark M Selland former Derrylane Co Long The within named Hugh Henry make oath and saith that he is a subscribing witness to the deed of which the within writing is a memorial and also to the said memorial saith that he saw the said deed and memorial respectively duly executed by the said Hamilton McLelland Signing as Hamilton McClelland perfecting party thereto and that the name Hugh Henry subscribed thereto as a witness respectively is this deponents proper name and handwriting . Hugh Henry . Sworn before meat Snoddy in the County of Londonderry this 6th day of December 1899 (RD 1899/132)

Broighter

Advert in Freemans Journal:
“At a meeting of the freeholders in the par of Tamlaghtfinlagan at the meeting house of Ballykelly in the County of L’derry June the 9th 1774 they unanimously came to the following resolutions:
Resolved that the late Act of Parliament by which Dissenters are precluded voting at vestries, is unconstitutional, unjust, highly injurious to a very respectable part of his Majesty’s Protestant subjects and calculated to sow the seeds of dissension and increase the emigration to America.
Resolved, that our present representatives, the Rt Hon Thomas Conolly and the Rt Hon Edward Cary, in consenting to it have betrayed their trust and justly forfeited our future confidence.
Resolved therefore, unless they use their utmost influence to have it repealesd at the meeting of next sessions of Parliament, it is our determined purpose upon the ensuing election to oppose them to the utmost of our power, and to co-operate with our independent brethren in the County to bring in as our future representatives, men who we hope may pay a greater regard to the good of the public in general and of their constituents in particular.
In witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names.”
At a subsequent enquiry of the Landlord’s agent:
Daniel Holmes of Broeghter “wd not give an answer candidly.”
Joseph  Holmes of Broeghter declared he subscribed for petition to Parl.
Gabriel Holmes of Sisrokeel, “declared he never heard the contents nor did he ever subscribe.”
James Holmes of Ballynarog “decclared he subscribed for petition to Parl.”
Samuel Humes of Sisrokeel “declared he never subscribed nor was he ever applied to for the purpose.”
Michael Crisswell of Ned
Hunter of Tarnakelly
(From Aspects of Irish Social History: D/2094/46 Carew MSS)

The will of MARGARET Holmes (Hoalms) was probated in 1809.  (DW) 

Memorial of indented Deed [of mortgage] dat 2 Dec 1822 betw 1) James Holmes of Braughter [Broighter in Tamlaght Finlagan p.] Co L’derry and 2) the Rev Marcus McCausland of Streeve whereby in consdn of sum of £91.19.9 Holmes grants McCausland that part of the town and lands of Burnally  11 acs 3 r. comprising the park at the back of James Scott’s house known as the Moss field, and the park known as the Back Brae, to hold for lives subj. to redemptn; deed wit James Martin of Culmore Co L’derry [only]; mem. wit J M and John Martin both of Culmore; Jas Martin sworn at N’Limavady 22 Jan 1823. (RD 778/213/526948)

The will of ANN Holmes was dated 1824.  (DW) 
Derry Will dated 28 Jan 1824
ANNE Holmes, Tamlaghfinlagan, widow of the late DANIEL Holmes of Broughter, Co Londonderry. I bequeath to my only son JAMES Holmes of Broughter and his heirs all my worldly possessions lands…goods…my son JAMES is to pay to each of his surviving brothers-in-law, John Ross and John Hanson 1/- each of they demand same…Executors: my son JAMES Holmes and MARY Holmes his wife. Witnesses: Joseph Dixon and Patrick McAuley
(PRONI T/681 p.409)

Derry Will.
James Holmes, Tamlaghtfinlagan, 1825.
Endorsed:- “Last Will of James Holmes of Breaghter Parish of Tamlaghtfinlagan gent.
“I James Holmes of Breaghter…… I order:- all my estates real and personal to be equally divided between my three daughters Mary Anne Holmes, Jane Holmes, and Catherine Holmes with this exception that I bequeath to my beloved daughter Mary Anne 2 of the 3 acres in Commons which I purchased from William Hemphill the other acre being now in the possession of William Brolly & part of the money paid by him to my wife Mary Holmes alias Moore while she remains unmarried and lives with her family they are to pay her £18 between them a year…… if she marry again, this annuity is to cease and she is to have L100 paid by my three daughters. If my daughters die, their money is to be equally divided between my two sisters’ (no names given) & lawful heirs. My debts are to be paid out of all my property in Crindle. The profits arising from Barnally to assist in supporting the family in Breaghter if permitted to live there. Executors: – John Martin of Culmore Esq.. James Scott, Burnally and John Moore, Carryclare.
“I leave to William McKillop my faithful servant the house and garden which he now possesses’.
Will signed 22 May 1824. Witnesses: – Joseph Dixon, Margret Keely.
Probate to James Scott & John Moor two of the Exors, 7 April 1825
(under L400). [Note:His daughter CATHERINE Holmes was buried 13 Oct 1858, aged 36.  (FL 2.3 p. 18; DW, courtesy of M. Kyritsis – see will below]

A Memoral of a deed indented 27 Jul 1838 Between Robert Turbett of Newtownlimavady in the County of Londonderry Gentleman of the first part Robert Henry of Ballynagowan in the said County of Londonderry Gentleman of the second part Mary Anne Holmes, Jane Holmes and Catherine Holmes all of Broughter in the County of Londonderry Spinster of the third part and James Scott of Burnally in the County of Londonderry aforesd Gentleman trustee for the purposes hereinafter mentioned for and on behalf of the said Maryanne Holmes, Jane Holmes and Catherine Holmes of the fourth part Whereby after reciting as therein is particularly recited said Indenture Witnesseth , that the said Robert Turfitt in pursuance of the agreement and in conson of the sum of Two hundred and fifty pounds sterling to him in hand paid by the said James Scott as trustee for and on behalf of the said Maryanne Holmes, Jane Holmes and Catherine Holmes and the said Robert Henry for and in conson of the sum of Ten shillings Ster to him in hand paid by the said James Scott as such trustee as aforesaid at or before the delivery of said presents the receipt whereof they the said Robert Turbitt and Robert Henry did thereby severally & resply acknowledged and thereof and therefrom severally and respectively acquit release exonerate and discharge the said James Scott his heirs Exors admors and assigns did and each of them did according to their several & respectiveinterests therein by said presents grant bargain sell release and transfer unto the said James Scott trustee as aforesaid for the said Maryanne Holmes Jane Holmes and Catherine Holmes their heirs and assigns ( in his actual poster then being by virtue of a bargain and Sale to him thereof made for one whole year by Indenture bearing date the day next before the day of the date of said presents , in conson of the sum of the five Shillings Sterling and by force of the statute for transferring uses into prison and to his heirs and assed all that and those the said farm of land in Crindle in the Town of Crindle in the Parish of Termlaghfinagan in the Barony of Keenaught & County of Londonderry as formerly in the Possion of the said William Henry Robert Henry and James Henry or any of them and their undertenants containing six acres or thereabouts with all houses rights members privileges and appurs thereunto belonging as comprised in and conveyed and assured by the therein before recited indenture of Lease and release and Mortgage respectively and all the Estate right trust property claim and demand whatsoever at Law or in equity of him the said Robert Turbitt and of him the said Robert Henry of in to or out to the same and any part thereof To have and to hold the lands & premises & all and singular the other hereditament , therein before expressed to be thereby released unto the said James Scott in trust for the use benefit and behoof of the S. Mary Anne Holmes Jane Holmes and Catherine Holmes their heirs and assigns and not otherwise for and during the natural life and lives of the several persons named as certin que vies in the indenture of Lease whereby said lands are now held and for and during all such other and further life and lives as shall from time to time for ever thereafter be added to the term thereof pursuant to the covenant for perpetual renewal in said original Lease contained and said indenture contains other covenants clauses and conditions and the exeecution of by the parties thereto is witnessed by Robert A Hyndman and John Martin both of Newtownlimavady in the County of Londonderry Solicitor and the Execution of this Memorial by the said Robert Henry is witnessed by the Robert H. Hyndman and George Proctor of Newtownlimavady aforesd his apprentin Witnessed by Robert A. Hyndman, Geo . Proctor (RD 1839/2/76)

A Memorial of a deed indented 27 Jul 1838 Between Robert Turbett of Newtownlimavady in the County of Londonderry Gentleman of the first part Robert Henry of Ballynagowan in the said County of Londonderry Gentleman of the second part Mary Jane Holmes, Jane Holmes and Catherine Holmes all of Broughter in the County of Londonderry Spinster of the third part and James Scott of Burnally in the County of Londonderry aforesd Gentleman trustee for the purposes hereinafter mentioned for and on behalf of the said Maryanne Holmes Jane Holmes and Catherine Holmes of the fourth part Whereby after reciting as therein is particularly recited said Indenture Witnesseth , that the said Robert Turbett in pursuance of the agreement and in consideration of the sum of Two hundred and fifty pounds sterling to him in hand paid by the said James Scott as trustee for and on behalf of the said Maryanne Holmes, Jane Holmes and Catherine Holmes and the said Robert Henry for and in conson of the sum of Ten shillings Ster to him in hand paid by the said James Scott as such trustee as aforesaid at or before the delivery of said presents the receipt whereof they the said Robert Turbitt and Robert Henry did thereby severally & resply acknowledged and thereof and therefrom severally and respectively acquit release exonerate and discharge the said James Scott his heirs Exors admors and assigns did and each of them did according to their several & respective interests therein by said presents grant bargain sell release and transfer unto the said James Scott trustee as aforesaid for the said Maryanne Holmes Jane Holmes and Catherine Holmes their heirs and assigns ( in his actual poster then being by virtue of a bargain and Sale to him thereof made for one whole year by Indenture bearing date the day next before the day of the date of said presents , in conson of the sum of the five Shillings Sterling and by force of the statute for transferring uses into prison and to his heirs and assed all that and those the said farm of land in Crindle in the Town of Crindle in the Parish of Tamlaghtfinlagan in the Barony of Keenaught & County of Londonderry as formerly in the Possion of the said William Henry Robert Henry and James Henry or any of them and their undertenants containing six acres or thereabouts with all houses rights members privileges and appurs thereunto belonging as comprised in and conveyed and assured by the therein before recited indenture of Lease and release and Mortgage respectively and all the Estate right trust property claim and demand whatsoever at Law or in equity of him the said Robert Turbitt and of him the said Robert Henry of in to or out to the same and any part thereof To have and to hold the lands & premises & all and singular the other hereditament , therein before expressed to be thereby released unto the said James Scott in trust for the use benefit and behoof of the S. Mary Anne Holmes Jane Holmes and Catherine Holmes their heirs and assigns and not otherwise for and during the natural life and lives of the several persons named as certin que vies in the indenture of Lease whereby said lands are now held and for and during all such other and further life and lives as shall from time to time for ever thereafter be added to the term thereof pursuant to the covenant for perpetual renewal in said original Lease contained and said indenture contains other covenants clauses and conditions and the execution of by the parties thereto is witnessed by Robert A Hyndman and John Martin both of Newtownlimavady in the County of Londonderry Solicitor and the Execution of this Memorial by the said Robert Henry is witnessed by the Robert H. Hyndman and George Proctor of Newtownlimavady aforesd his apprentin Witnessed by Robert A. Hyndman, Geo . Proctor (RD 1839/2/76)

From Belfast News Letter edn. 23 Oct 1838: Married “On 15th inst, by the Rev Richard Dill, Thomas Churh Esq of Thistlefield, to Jane, second daughter of the late James Holmes Esq, Broughter, Myroe near Newtownlimavady.”

Memorial of indented deed of lease and release dat 15 Oct 1838 betw 1) Thomas Church of Thistlefield Co L’derry gent. 2) Miss Jane Holmes of Breighter Co L’derry spinster 2nd dau of James Holmes late of Breighter a minor under 21 yrs. and 3) William Patton of Culmore Co L’derry gent [as Trustee]; Thomas Church and Jane Holmes are to marry shortly; once Jane Holmes is 21 then she and Thomas Church will convey to 3) all those parts and proportions of the townlands of Burnally and Crindle in Kernaught B. Co L’derry to which sd Jane Holmes is entitled under will of her father; and Thomas Church conveys to 3) his farm in Back in same Barony; deed and mem wit James Scott of Burnally and John Moore of Carryclare farmers and Hugh Lane of N’Limavady attorney; H L reg. Dublin 17 Nov 1838. (RD 1838/21/81)

Memorial of indenture of marr. arts. dat 18 April 1842 betw 1) William Douglass of N’Limavady mercht. 2) Mary Anne Holmes of Brighton [Broighter] spinster and 3) James Scott of Burnally and John Moore of Carryclare farmers all Co L’derry; William and Mary Anne to marry; latter is entitled under will of her father James Holmes to 2 acs of Lormont , one third of lands of Crindle and Burnally and one half of lands of Crindle as pchsd by sd Mary Anne and her sisters Jane Holmes then Jane Church and Catherine Holmes from Robert Henry being 6 acres; 2) now assigns land to 3) in Trust; wit  Matthew Cherry of Broighter farmer and the Rev Richard Dill; M C sw. N’Limavady 29 April 1842. (1842/146)

From Londonderry Sentinel edn. 7 July 1849: L’derry Flower Show – present inc. Miss Holmes and Miss Cherry, Lomond; Alexander Miller Esq, Trench; Dr A and Mrs Skipton; James Cherry Esq and Mrs Cherry, Broughter …..held “in the beautiful grounds of Gwyn’s Institution.

Will dat 13 Oct 1858 of Catherine Holmes of Broughter Co Derry spinster [d. 13 Oct 1858?]; to sisters Mary Anne Douglas o’wise Holmes wife Mr William Douglas N’Limavady woollen draper and Jane Church o’wise Holmes wife of Mr Thomas Church of Thistlefield Co Derry farmer her portion of lands of Crindle and Burnally to hold forever; to sister Margaret Lawrence o’wise Cherry of Ballymote Co Sligo; to my brothers John, James, Joseph and Stephen Cherry of Sligo; niece Bessy Church; Kitty Church; niece Matilda Douglas of N’Limavady; to Sarah Douglas and Mary Anne Galt; to Mrs Catherine Ellis of Coleraine; “to the servants in Broighter and Lomond” a suit of mourning each; my mother Mary Cherry of Broighter; exors Mr John Neely of Burnally farmer and Wm Douglas of N’Limavady; pr 30 April 1859.

Altnagelvin

Rev. JOHN Holmes, minister with the Second Presbyterian Church since 1744, died here 15 May 1773.  His will dated 1 May 1769 was probated 7 Jul 1773.  Legacies to nephews confirmed that MARTHA, below, was his sister.  He was licenced by the Lanark Presbytery in Scotland, and was first ordained in Donegal Town from 27 Sep 1715 to 1744, when he was transferred here.  In 1729 he was called to Ardstraw, Co. Tyrone, but he refused to go.  (HCPCI pp. 23, 388, 503: DW) (PRONI T/681 p.397, T/808 p.7921)…See Historical and Literary Memorials of Presbyterianism in Ireland, p.108

The Presb Meeting House, in Altnagelvin townland, has a tablet in the east gable :- Revd J Holmes 1744

I, John Holmes of Altnagalvin in the liberties of Londonderry, Presbyterian Minister of the Gospel … do make my last will and testament… I bequeath to Mary Ann Marshall, daughter of Thomas Marshall 10 pounds to be put out to interest til she attains 21 years…and in the case of her death to be divided among her brothers and sisters. To the Rev. Jacob Davis my nephew, all the bounty money which shall be due and owing me at the time of my death, and also my library of books…To Janet Carswell of Ned widow, Elizabeth Davis wife of William Davis of Drumaconey and Rachel Conn wife of George Conn of Ned aforesaid…all in the parish of Ballykelly, County Londonderry & James Rogers of the parish of Magilligan & Martha Moore wife of Samuel Moore of the Parish of Macosquin Co Londonderry. The residuary legacy … as follow … to Janet Carswell one-fourth part, to Elizabeth Davis one-fourth part, to Rachel Conn one-fourth part, to James Rodgers and Martha Moore one-fourth part. Will signed 1 May 1769. Executors: Mr Jonathan Cochrane of Kilkerragh [Coolkeeragh], Mr James Smith of Enough [Enagh], Mr Robert Millar of the Trench all the Liberties of Londonderry. Probate 7 Jul 1773 (PRONI T681 p.397)…. [Note: George Conn m. Rachel Holms 8 Jul 1728 in Ballykelly Church (Presb.) – see Ballykelly]

Derry Will
Martha Holmes, Altnagalvan, 1760
I Martha Holmes, spinster of Altnagalvan within the Liberties of Londonderry….having a bond in judgement of 105 pounds perfected to me by Michael McCleery of the lower half of Tatnakilly now deceased in the Parish of Tamlaghtfinlagan Barony of Keenagh County Londonderry…for which bond 48 pounds was due to me on 28 March last and having also 79.18.9 due me, I bequeath:- to my sister Janet Carswell 5 pounds, to Joseph Carswell son to Janet Carswell 5 pounds, to Michael Carswell son to Janet Carswell 10 pounds, to John Carswell son to Janet Carswell 5 pounds, to my sister Mary Rogers in the parish of Magiligan 10 pounds, to be received and expended for her by her son-in-law Samuel Moor in the parish of Macaskey, to James Rodgers son of the said Mary Rogers in the Parish of Magiligan 5 pounds, to my sister Elizabeth Davis of Ochell in the parish of Tamlaghtfinlagan 5 pounds, to Jacob Davis son to said Elizabeth Davis 10 pounds, to Jenet Davis daughter to said Elizabeth Davis 10 pounds, to Rachel Davis daughter to said Elizabeth Davis 10 pounds, to my sister Rachel Conn 10 pounds, to her son Gabriel Conn 10 pounds. Executors: Jonathan Cochrane of Kilkeerach [Coolkeeragh] in Parish of Glendermott, James Smith of Enagh in the parish of Glendermott. I allow my executors to give 69.8.9 to such person among my relations as according to their judgement will have the best title to it…in the law of equity and justice in case he demand it, but if he demand it not during his abode in this life then I order so much of it to be expended on his funeral as will inter his corpse decently… and 10 pounds of it to be given to objects of charity in the parish of Glendermott and 5 pounds to Martha Moor wife of Samuel Moor in the parish of Macaskey… to Elizabeth Bell wife of John Bell in the parish of Macaskey 5 pounds. To Jean Leviston wife of Samuel Leviston, parish of Faunavale… and the rest to be expended and equally divided among Jacob Davis, Janet and Rachel Davis, Michael Carswell and his brother John Carswell, Gabriel Conn and his sister Martha Conn. I order that these legacies be paid till 7 years after my death unless James McCleary pay off his bond within that time. Will signed 14 Sep 1758. Witnesses: Archibald Miller, James Ramage, Robert Miller. Probate to Jonathan Cochrane, James Smith & Robert Miller (witness) 19 Nov 1760 (PRONI T681 p.396)……
[NOTE: Martha was of Tullyleague in the Barony of Tyrhugh, Co Donegal in 1736…………..Memorial of Deed of Mortgage dated Apr 28,1736 whereby MARTHA Holmes, spinster of Tullyleague in the Barony of Tyrhugh, Co Donegal gave mortgage of 105 pounds to Michael McClery of the lower half of Tatnekelly [Tartnakilly], Co of Londonderry, farmer for interest in lower half of Tatnekelly, part of the Manor of Newtownlimavady, in the barony of Kenaght, Co of Londonderry. Witnesses by Andrew Makilwaine, jr and William Makilwaine and James Ashe, all of Londondery.  Memorial dated Nov 19, 1736.(RD 86/165/59793)]