Holmes Genealogy

Holmes / Homes Genealogy Research in Strabane, Co Tyrone

My ancestor, the Rev William Homes, was Presbyterian minister in Strabane from 1692 to 1714 when he emigrated to America. I have been researching Holmes families in Ireland for over 30 years. My personal research notes are now in excess of 300 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 Strabane. [If you have find anything useful in these pages, please let me know. I am always curious if any of this helps other researchers.]:

Records of Homes / Holmes in Strabane by date:

GABRIEL Holmes the elder of Strabane, tailor listed as debtor in Will of Archibald Campbell 1623 (PRONI T808)

Original Derry will 12 May 1623 prob(ated) 20 May 1623 – Archibald Campbell of the p(arish) of Camus in Derry Dio(cese) & county of Tyrone, laborer made in presence of his neighbors viz: James Sharp Clk; William Fairer, watchmaker; Andrew Orr, weaver; James Dick, card painter; Patrick Hogshead, tailor. Like b(urie)d in Strabane burial place. Debtors: Robert Algeo of Leckpatrick; James Read ibid; Gabriel Maxwell of Raphoe, Gent; James Wilson of Taughboyne, husbandman; GABRIEL Holmes the elder of Strabane, tailor; William Somervill of above merchant;John (Blank) of Lecpatrick; Legacies to friends etc ( https://cotyroneireland.com/wills/campbell2.html)

GABRIEL Homes of Strabane on 1625 and 1626 Summoninster roll (CGA, Summonister Roll (Per Mr Groves) (CGA summonister roll) and (CGA summonister roll)

GABRIEL Homes senior of Strabane on  Summoninster roll dated 22 Apr 1629 (CGA, Summonister Roll (Per Mr Groves)

THOMAS Holme was No. 15 on Muster Roll of ca 1630.  He carried a sword and pike.  

Muster Roll of 1631 includes :

• HOME John sword and snaphance
• HOMES Gabraell, younger sword and snaphance
• HOMES George sword and snaphance
• HOMES John no armes
• HUMES John sword only

Title : Sir George Hamilton to Patrick Hamilton….
Dates : 15 September 1654
Description : Sir George Hamilton to Patrick Hamilton.
Fee farm grant of premises in Strabane, at an annual rent of £1 English and specifying suit of court and mill; the document also mentions, among the ‘divers good causes’ for granting the lease, ‘… the replanting of the said town of Strabane burnt in the late rebellion, the remedy of some pretended defects in former grants …’, etc; a list of the following tenants of adjoining lands is given: William Ewart, Andrew Beard, Richard Bellew; William Craford, William Calver, Allane Cuthbert the elder (tanner), John Hamilton the elder, Patrick Hamilton the elder (deceased), Robert Leech, William Craig and John Holmes (carpenter). (PRONI D623/B/13/8)

Hearth Roll of 1665 includes, Gabriel Holmes 2 hearths, Widow Holms 1 hearth, and William Holms 1 hearth

Widow Holmes in 1665 hearth role was the relict of John Holmes, carpenter (Fair River Valley, Jim Bradley, Belfast, 2000, p.73)

“A Declaration of the nuncupative Will of GABRIELL HOMES and AGNES HOMES his wife being then both sicke of body but of sound and perfect memory delivered the 6th day of June 1669″. “They Recommend yr soules to Almightie God and their bodys to be buried in Comely sort, And as to theirs worldly estate they declared joyntly first they ordered that AGNES her cloathes be devided between her two daughters GEILES the wife of PATRICKE FFLEMMINGE and MARGARET the wife of JOHN MOORE in manner followinge viz her eldest daughter GEILES to gett her plaids and all other her woollen cloathes except only her best Gowne and petticoat to goe to her daughter MARGARET and for her Lynnen belonginge to her bodye to be equally divided betweene her said Twoe daughters Secondly they declared that their sonne WILLIAM HOMES should have and enjoy their two freehold tenements situate in Strabane……alsoe they devised unto him Two peeces of new Lynnen Conteyneinge twenty six ells Two Red Ruggs three pair of small linen sheets halfe a dozen Table napkins one-third of all the pewter vessels in the house……… All residue to be equally divided between their said daughters……… “Thirdly they declared that there was about sixtie pounds of outstandinge debts and ordered that what charges was expended in recoveringe and gettinge the same should be taken of ye Totall sum and what remained to be equally divided betweene The brother and Two sisters”………. Fourthly the said WILLIAM HOMES having charge of his father’s Keys and knowing there was Concealled money he hath declared since his ffathers death that only he left to his Two daughters ffifty shillings Le peece which money the said WILLIAM HOMES doth yet delaye and refuses to make payment thereof”……. (PRONI T681/1 page 387 and T808 page 7919)

GABRIEL Homes, Strabane, Co Tyrone, Innkeeper to WILLIAM Homes the son, admin granted 12 Day July 1669 (BGA, Series 2, admons.: v. 24 “H” 1668-1725)

GEORG Home died Mar 9, 1672 and was buried Patrick Street Old Graveyard, Strabane, Co. Tyrone HERE LYETH THE BODY | OF GEORG HOME WHO DECEASED THE 9TH OF MAR | CH 1672

30 April 1676. Sir George Hamilton, late of Donalong [sic], Co. Tyrone, now of Nenagh, Co. Tipperary, to Patrick Hamilton of Strabane, merchant. Fee farm grant of tenements in Strabane including a parcel of garden ground in the wheat field and a parcel of ground on which formerly a kiln or malt barn store stood. The document recites D623/B/4/12 and an agreement ‘… to pass estates to the several freeholders … according to their respective holdings …, for the replanting of the said town of Strabane burnt in the late rebellion … [and] in pursuance of former grants to other persons …, to whom the said Patrick Hamilton is assignee’; a consideration of £3.15.0 is to be paid ‘… as a fine or income towards bearing … part of the charges of procuring the said letters patent …’; clauses are inserted specifying suit of court and mill, and forbidding alienation without consent. The document includes the following list of past and present tenants of adjoining lands: Andrew Baird, James Cuming, JOHN Holmes (carpenter), William Ewart (weaver), William Calver, Robert Russell, Robert Adams, John Moderwell, James Cuninghame, William Hamilton the elder (grandfather of Patrick Hamilton), and Frederick Hamilton (his cousin germane). (PRONI D623/B/13/9)

THOMAS Holmes was in possession of ½ tenement in Strabane in 1688 (Inquisitions 1-Gul. & Mar)

1689. Siege of Derry “….as George Holmes of Strabane epitomized it “We had a feavour amongst us, and all the children dyed, almost whole families…”  (William of Orange : a personal portrait, v2, p.294, with ref to  HMC Le Fleming MSS, p.264 f.)….[See letter dated 16 Nov 1689 from George Holmes to William Fleming at Coniston Hall, England. George Holmes appears to be stationed at Strabane, but parted with his wife at Dublin and she went to her father’s house in Waterford. Holmes also has a sister and many friends that seem to be near Coniston Hall in England]

Strabane, the 10th of November, 1689.
Worthy Sir — We, your fellow sufferers of Colonel Lance’s Regiment, have sent over to wait on you, Captain Stephen Godfrey, one of the Captains of our regiment, to give you to understand how thankful we are to God that He hath been pleased to give you favour in their Majesties eyes, to reward and promote you, according to your deserts, which is to our knowledge, but part of what you deserve, and it shall always be our prayers that you may continue in that favour, that you and yours may flourish to all eternity. &c. Your own Servants. Signed by order of the whole regiment,
— Tho. Blair, Stephen Millar, George Homes,
To the Honourable Colonel George Walker, Governor of Londonderry, at his lodgings in Old Jury, London.  (The Siege and history of Londonderry, p.463-464)

November 16, 1689. Strabane. George Holmes to William Fleming, at Coniston Hall. “I must confess that I have been very negligent in writeing to you to give you an accompt that I am yet in the land of the living, but to give you a breef accompt of my travels this twelve moneths. I was one of the first-that did wear a read coat-that revolted from King James and helpt to sett up a flagg of defience against him and Popery in the city of Londonderry, that now lyes in a ruinous condition, yet defies all the King and Queen’s enemyes. After some little routs in the country, on the 12 of Aprill last the Irish Army appeared before our city but at that distance that one of our cannons had enough to do to reach them, but in short] time they approached nearer to our walles. In the first place we burned all our subburbs and hewed down all our brave orchards, makeing all about us as plain as a bouling green. About the 18 of Aprill King James came within a mile of our walls but had no better entertainment than bulletts of 14, 16, and 22 pounds weight, he sent us a letter under his own hand sealed with his own Seal to desire us to surrender, and we should have our own conditions. The Messenger was a Lord with a trumpett, and out of grand civility wee sent three Messengers all Gentlemen, but two of them ran away from us, and the other came again. In short we would not yield. Then we proceeded and choose Captains and compleated Regiments, made two Governours. We had 116 Companies in the city; all our Officers fled away, so we made Officers of those that did deserve to be Officers. I was made Captain, and then we began to sally out, and the first sally that we made we slew their French General and several of their men with the loss of 9 or 10 of our men which was the greatest loss that ever we lost in the field. Every day afterward we sallied out and daily killed our enemies which put us in great heart, but it being so soon of the year and we haveing no foridge for our horses, we was forst to lett them out and the enemy gott many, the rest of them dyed for hunger. About the 20 of May, the enemy gave us a general onsett on all sides but was so defeated that we were not troubled with them again for a week. Their own accompt told us that that day they lost 500 men, but I assure you we saw 150 stript beside all that they carried away on their backs which was a trick they had still when they ran, to take a dead man on their back it was good harness. To be short we took no prisoners except nine great officers and they were so wounded that most of them dyed. We have three or four left yett. Tenn days after that battel they came again very boldly but in half an hours time returned with greater loss then before; [when] they began to runn their approaches near us on one side they came within 100 yards of us, and one night they attempted so near that one of them knockt at our gate and called for faggots to burn it with, this being in the dead of the night and our men being gone of their posts we were in some danger, the drums beat alarum and we got a party together and salied out at another gate, fell upon them and put them to the rout and recovered our own grownd again, came so near them that we might have taken them alive, but we gave them [the] old quarter. This night our great guns did execution with case shot of the walls that’s musquett bulletts. At this time they played abundance of bums, the weight of many of them was near 300 weight which killed many people. One bum slew 17 persons. I was in the next room one night at my supper-which was but mean-and seven men were thrown out of the third room next to that we were in, all killed, and some of them in pieces. Into this city they played 596 bums which destroyed many of our people and demolisht many of our houses. Cannon bullets flew as fast as you could count them, and as soon as we took up their bulletts we sent them back again post paid, thus men, horses and all went to destruction. But at last our provision grew scant and our allowance small, 1 lb. of oatmeal, and 1 lb. of tallow served a man a week, sometimes salt hides. It was as bad as Samaria, only we had no pidgens dunge. I saw 2s. a quarter given for a little dog, horse blood at 4d. per pint, all the starch was eaten, the graves of tallow, horse flesh was a rarety, and still we resolved to hold out. Four days before wee got reliefe from England, we saw a great drove of cowes very near us, and we were very weak, but we resolved to sally out, and in order thereto we played our great guns of the walls and salied out on our enemy. I led the forlorn hope which was about 100 men of the best we had, with which I ran full tilt into their trenches and before our body came up we had slain 80 men, put many to the rout. We gott armes enough and some beef, but durst not stay long, not above half an hour. This vext our enemies much, they said we took them asleep. I praise God I had still my health and has yett. After the ships came in with provision to us, our enimies thought it was in vain to stay any longer, so on Lammas day they left us the wide fields to walk in. In the seige we had not above 60 men killed, except with the bums killed. But I believe there dyed 15,000 men, women, and children, many of which dyed for meat. But we had a great feavour amongst us, and all the children dyed, almost whole families not one left alive. This is a true accompt of the Siege of Londonderry. I would have given you a larger accompt but I know you have had it before, this is but a trouble, only the nights is long and it will serve you to read. I know my sister and several of my friends will think I am dead, pray tell them I am well. I was shott in the skirt of my coat and both the hinder skirts of it taken off with a cannon bullett and I was not hurt, I praise God. I was in the head of my company and the pike that was in my hand was cutt in two with a cannon bullett and I not hurt: usquetts bulletts has light about me like crabs of a tree and still God protected me. I had a good caracter given of me to Major General Kirke for my service, for which be made me Major to a Regiment. My quarters is in this towne 10 miles from the city of Derry but I am for the most in Derry myself. My wife I have neither seen nor heard from since Christmas last at which time I parted with her at Dublin. She went to her father’s house near Waterford. I hope shortly to hear from her. Our English company is broken up and gone to their Winter Quarters, the Head Quarters is at Lisnegarven. There is little done, only many men dead. I think you will hear of little action from us this winter. Pray do me the favour as to present my humble service to Mr. Rodger and all the good familie, to the everlasting constable, and to my noble friend the vitlar. When you see any friends that will ask for me pray tell them that I am in good health and am still in hopes that I shall not die in the field. (Historical Manuscripts Commission, 12th Report, p.264) 

From transcript of The Minutes of the Laggan Meeting 21 Aug 1672 – 31 Dec 1695 held at the Union Presbyterian Coll. Belfast:

Meeting at St Johnston 3 July 1678 Robert Holms R E Donaghmore. 

29 July 1691 at St Johnston “Mr Will Holmes haveing come from New England to this place, and appearing this day before this meeting.  The meeting having receaved from him satisfieing testimonials, after welcomeing of him to the meeting they do appoint the said Mr Holmes to  preach upon Heb: 10, 38 – the Just shall live by faith, and upon tuesday next before the ministers, and there to undergo what farther tryals the meeting shall think fit to try him with, and Mr Rob Creaghead, Neil Gray, Jo: Ruet, Rob Campbell, James Alexander and Andrew Ferguson are to be present.”

29 March 1692 – Urney, Donogheady and Strabane also wish William Holmes as their minister.

15 May 1692 – Strabane offer Wm Holmes £30 p a.

27 July 1692 at St Johnston “this day appeared from Iniskillin Archibald Elliot with supplication to the meeting and desyring a visit and prosecuting a call to Mr Will: Holmes ….”

31 Aug 1692 – Meeting at L’derry: “appears from Urney John Holmes.

25 Oct 1692 “This day Mr Will Holmes delivered his exegesis, de universali redemptione, and sustained his disputes, his Thesis being: Christus pro omnibus et solis electis mortuees est; he was approven …This meeting appoints Mr Holmes to expone the 23 Hebrew psalme, and the greek new testament ad aperturam Libri with the catecheticall questions, at their next meeting.”

“Presbetry at Strabane 21 Dec 1692.  This day Mr Rob Craghead preached (upon 1 Tim: 4, 16) according to appointment, at Strabane, and after sermon haveing proposed the ordinary questions to Mr Will: Holmes that are usewall before ordination, he with the rest of the ministers then present did ordain the said Mr Will: Holmes by Imposition of handsand solemne and serious prayer to God; they solemnly sett him apart for the work of the ministrie in the congregation of Strabane.  [he is also appointed to visit Inniskilling and Clougher before the next meeting].

8 Feb 1692 – meeting at St Johnston: Wm Holmes preaches [is appointed to, or has preached?] at Omagh, Culdaff and Glendermot.

Rev. WILLIAM Holmes, Presbyterian minister, b. Ireland, emigrated to Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts but returned to Ireland in July 1691 and was ordained here on 21 Dec 1692.  He marr. Katherine, dtr Rev. Robert Craighead of Derry 26 Sep 1693 (see Londonderry), and in 1715 he returned to New England, where he remained for the rest of his life.  (HCPCI p. 761)

WILLIAM Holmes marr. Katherine Craighead 26 Sep 1693 in Derry Cathedral.  He was a Presbyterian minister; see Strabane, Co. Tyrone, for further details.  (DCVR) (According to his diary, “Mr. William Homes [the diarist} and Katheren Craghead were marryed Sept 26th 1693 by the Revd. Mr. Craghead of Londonderry in his own house about 8 at night in the presence of Mr. Thomas Craghead, Mr. James Hamilton, John Wilson, James Smith and his spouse, and those of Mr. Cragheads own family. It was a Tuesday.” Katherine Craighead’s father was the Rev. Robert Craighead, prebyterian minister at Donoughmore 1658-88 and Londonderry from 1690 – 1711) (DRWH)

JOHN Humes, Strabane, Co. Tyrone, gent to Edward Rice prin cred., admin granted 22 May 1691 ((BGA, Series 2, admons.: v. 24 “H” 1668-1725) [Possibly JOHN Homes, brother of Rev. WILLIAM Homes, whose death is recorded as 20 Maij 1692 – see Donaghmore.]

THOMAS Holmes is listed as one of the tenants of the Baronscourt estate having holdings in the town of Strabane 16 Aug 1693 (IAL)

Will dated 26 Dec 1693 of Thomas Wilson of Strabane, merchant, bequeaths to wife Agnes Wilson als Stewart the house and lands called Burnes tenement for life and then to son John Wilson. Also named are sons Thomas and Francis. Son John Wilson to be administrator and friends Mr. John Crawford and Mr. WILLIAM Homes to be overseers. Witnessed by John Crawford and WILLIAM Homes. (TGA, Bundle 11 nos. 2081-2562, File 173, Source: Diocese of Derry Will) and (Restoration Strabane, 1660-1714, William J Roulston, Dublin, 2007, p. 52 with reference to PRONI T1026/6 p.20)

From The Minutes of the Laggan Meeting 30 Dec 1690 – 11 Sept 1700 [at Union Theol. Coll.] [In a foreward to this vol.] At a meeting at Strabane 20 Sept 1699 Mr Hallyday, Mr ffisher, Mr Homes senr and Mr Wensly were appointed “to take care in overseeing the recording of the Presbytery Minuts from their first meeting after the late revolution unto this time, by a Clark in a fair hand, in a convenient book ..”

1 Dec 1696 at L’derry – Urney call Mr Will Homes offering £30 p a and 30 barrels of corn and that they will plow and sow his land for the first year [this is evidently William of Strabane’s cousin – see what follows].  “Mr William Homes haveing defended his Theses and passed his questionary tryals and giveing a taste of his skill in the Hebrew and greek by expounding the 28th  Psalm in Hebrew, and the Greek New Testament ad appertura libri, he is approved …..in order to ordination.”  

22 Dec 1696 his day Mr Will. Homes of Strabane having lectured upon John 21 from the 15th verse to ye 18th and Mr James Alexander having preached …Mr Homes was solemnly ordained .to the work of the Monistry in the congregation of Urney.

24 Feb 1696/7 at St J. – present are both the W H’s. ” Mr ffoster is recommended to the several congregations within the bounds of this meeting  as an object of Charity [to this date there have been c 4 such instances].
1 Dec 1697 Mr William Homes of Urney suspended fr. exercise of his ministry “because of some scandalous cariage in Mrs Rowat’s house …..” To appear before the synod of Coleraine.  Later restored having shown penitence.

27 May 1698. Sasine. Robert Holmes, merchant of A__heigh (in Glasgow) for tenement of land with back house and wasteground and middensted on the north side of the Trongate upon resignation of Robert Adame merchant and indweller of Strabane in Ireland … (Glasgow Deeds 1694-1713)
……………..see following…………….
26 Jun 1707 Mr Robert McGown [McGoun, McGowan] , merchant of Glasgow for myself … and for Marion Holmes my spouse and Robert, Alexander, Janet and Barbara McGown our bairnes (children) .. Robert Adam, Merchant indweller in Strawban [Strabane] in the Kingdom of Ireland by his here bond… 23 May 1698…Robert Holmes my brother-in-law… house near Trongate …27 May 1698 … Robert Holmes … assigned to my wife and bairnes …and that Susana Adam, sister germain and heir to the said Robert Adam, spouse to John Gillespie of Stranorlan within the County of Donegal in the Kingdom of Ireland has made payment ot me (GLR 26 Jun 1707)

THOMAS Holmes in 1700 filed a claim for an estate in fee for a house in Strabane. The property was transferred by deed dated April 30, 1676 to John Moore who mortgaged to the claimant’s father. By deed dated April 10, 1677. Witnesses, John Buntine, etc. and devised to claimant by his will noncupative. (ALC, p.349)

Thomas Brown filed a claim for property in Strabane for an estate in fee farm through deed dated May 10, 1696 which was witnessed by WILLIAM Holmes, etc. (ALC p.349)

In the name of God amen, I James Hamilton of Strabane in the county of Tyrone, merchant being sick and weak of body, but of sound and perfect memory … make this my last will and testament in manner following. That is to say I … bequeath my soul to almighty god (our creator) … my body to be buried in the church yard of Strabane in decent manner as my executor & other my nearest relative shall think fit and as for what worldly state and interest wherewithal God hath been pleased to bless me … I here bequeath and dispose of the same as followeth. Item Item my will is that all the debts I justly owe shall be paid by my executrix out of such assess and effects as shall come to her hand I leave and bequeath to my dearly beloved wife Elizabeth Hamilton during her natural life the townland of Tullyards with George Blewart’s holdings and parks and meadows which I kept in my own hands these several years past all in the parish of Leckpatrick together with my dwelling house and all other my houses tenements, parks and parcells of land in Strabane with all the appurtenances to be held and enjoyed by her during her natural life as aforesaid. Item I further leave and bequeath all my plate and household furniture to my said wife. Item I leave and bequeath to my son James Hamilton my silver sword and belt, my case of pistols and my saddle. The reason I leave him no more is because I have done sufficiently for him already. Item whereas by an indenture bearing the date the 7th of February 1798 made between me the said James Hamilton senior and my son James Hamiton junior of the first part and Archibald Richardson, Esq., Andrew Stewart, gent of the second part, James Moore Esq. and William Okinlek? of the third part and Hanna Moore the now wife of my son James of the fourth part, I have conveyed and made out unto the said James Moore and William Okinlek? and their heirs the two townlands of Ardnebluske and Tullyards in the parish of Leckpatrick with my dwelling house and several other houses and tenements parks and parcels of land in Strabane aforesaid in trust and to and for several uses intents and purposes in the said indenture mentioned ans as there remain yet a possibility of reversion and return of all the said land tenements and … to me or my heirs … if my said son James shall happen to die and his issue begotten or to be begotten by him on the body of Hanna his wife become wholly extinct (my wife having first had her lifetime of Tullyards) to my daughter Catherine Hamilton during her natural life, and after her decease to her lawful issue and failing such issue to my daughter Marjory during her natural life and after her decease to her lawful issue and failing such issue to my daughter Margaret during her natural life and after her decease to her lawful issue and failing such issue, then to my daughter Lillias during her natural life and after her decease to her lawful issue forever. Item my will is that such of my said daughters as come to the enjoyment of said lands shall pay the sum of fifty pounds to my daughter Margaret. Item my will is and I hereby leave and bequeath my dwelling house and all other houses tenements parks and parcels of land in Strabane (my wife first having her life time of them) to my daughter Marjory Hamilton during her natural life and after her decease to her lawful issue and failing such issue to my daughter Margaret during her natural life and after her decease to her lawful issue and failing such issue, then to my daughter Lillias during her natural life and after her decease to her lawful issue forever. Item I leave and bequeath all the debts due to me and all my stock and market ware at home and abroad to my three daughters Catherin, Marjory and Margaret to be divided amongst them by my executrix and the overseers herein after named or the major part of them as they shall think fit and proper …. And bequeath to my grandchild Elizabeth Wilson the sum of twenty pounds sterling to be paid her by my daughter Marjory when she comes to the enjoyment of the house tenements, parks and parcells of land in Strabane aforesaid. I hereby nominate, constitute and appoint my dearly beloved wife Elizabeth Hamilton to be Executrix of this my last will and testament …. William Maxwell of Strabane aforesaid merchant, Oliver McCausland of Rash Esq., Mr William Homes, minister of Strabane and my son-in-law Thomas Willson merchant to be overseers that this my will be duly performed and to give their best assistance and advice to my said executrix in the management thereof. Hereby revoking all wills by me formerly made and declaring this to be my last will and testament. Item it is my will that my executrix and overseers in the distribution of my goods, chattels, stock and merchant ware aforesaid amongst my said daughters shall have a .. regard to them according to the agreed seniority and minority. In witness whereof I have set my hand and seal this 29th day of April 1703. Ja: Hamilton. Signed, sealed and published in the presence of William Maxwell, Thomas Willson, Arthur Maxwell, Hugh Brown. (PRONI D623/B/3/6)

Will of James Hamilton of Strabane, merchant dated 29 Apr 1703, pd. 28 Dec 1703 names wife Elizabeth, son James Hamilton and his wife Hannah Moore, daughters Catharine, Marjory, Margarett and Lillias, granddaughter Elizabeth Wilson, son-in-law Thomas Wilson. WILLIAM Homes to be overseer. (BGA, Prerogative Wills. (Phillips Mss) v.30, H 1700-1718) and (Restoration Strabane, 1660-1714, William J Roulston, Dublin, 2007, p. 52 with reference to PRONI D623/B/3/6) and (Fisher Mss Will Notes A; Ireland. Genealogical Office. Published / Created: (1859), p.154) 

Memorial of deed of release bearing the date Feb 21, 1708 whereby Henry Noble of Drumconell, Co. Donegal and William Noble of Bonnybrook, Co Donegal, Gent. release unto William Hadskis of Strabane, nailer the property current in the possession of Henry and William Noble and bounded on the southeast with a tenement belonging to THOMAS Holmes and on the northwest with Thomas Brown’s tenement then in William Firbetts (sp?) possession fronting to Main street and bound…by the river Moren with one acre of land being in the Home of Strabane commonly known as Fittmorn lying between the foot road that leads to the Lifford ferry through the said Home on the east side of the river Moren on the leftside…witnessed by George Keys of Corroughalane, Co Donegal, farmer; John Heal and Robert Hunter of Strabane. Memorial signed by Ursley Hadkis, widow of William Hadkis and witnessed by George Keass [Keys] and Robert Hunter, dated Oct 31, 1740. (RD 102/133/70023)

In their 1709 wills, both William Maxwell and his daughter Mary left cash bequests to Rev WILLIAM Homes. (Restoration Strabane, 1660-1714, William J Roulston, Dublin, 2007, p. 52 with reference to PRONI T581/3 p,192,202) 

Prerogative Will: William Maxwell Strabane Co Tyrone Mercht 1709. I Wm Maxwell of Strabane Co Tyrone Mercht &c do make my will &c – Body to be buried in Church yard of Strabane &c I bequeath to my Son John Maxwell 20/- he having been already provided for. My Son in law Wm Cairnes now of Limerick Mercht deposited  £100 I received by hands of Wm Cairnes late of Dublin Mercht dec. for use of my grandson Wm Cairnes son of sd Wm Cairnes of Limerick &c &c I order the £200 marriage protion I promised my Son in law Mr Wm Aghanleck with my eldest dau Rebecca be pd to him. I bequeath to my dau: Jane Maxwell £110 towards her Marr: portion & I bequeath to her the house now possessed by Rob Patterson in Strabane I lately purchased from the heirs of Thos Coningham Merch“ Dec. &c &c. I bequeath to my dau: Mary £210. I leave to the poor of the Par of Camus juxta Morn £8. I bequeath Mr Wm Holmes Presbyterian Minister of Strabane £3. I bequeath all my plate to my daus Rebecca Aughenleck Jane & Mary & household goods. I bequeath to my dear brother Oliver Mocausland &c &c. My Exors to have the care of my Tan house &c. I constitute my good friends Mr John Wilson & Mr John Love both of Strabane Merchts Exors – My good friends Arthur Maxwell of Drumbeg Co Down. Sd Oliver McCausland Esq & Alexdr Tomkins of Prehen of Londonderry overseers.
Dated 9 Ap 1709
Proved 15 June 1709 by John Love
[Jane Maxwell on 7 Dec 1711 m. Gervais Kennedy b. 24 March 1684-5 d. 17– Their eldest son was Wm Kennedy who m. 1 Nov. 1739 Easter Crookshank dan. of Geo. Crockshank of Derry]
(PRONI T581/3 p,192) 

Derry Will:Mary Maxwell Strabane Date 1709
I Mary Maxwell of Strabane Co Tyrone youngest daugh: of Wm Maxwell late of Strabane Merch dec: &c &c. do make this my last will &c this 16 Sept 1709 – &c &c And as to such legacies goods &c which was left me by the will of my Father W Maxwell &c &c – 1 bequeath the same as follows – I bequeath to my brother John Maxwell 3 guineas with a silver Server & 1 Small silver cann which two pieces of plate are now in possession of John Wilson of Strabane Mercht &c &c I bequeath to my sister Jane Maxwell  £200 &c with all my share of the household goods which was left me by my Father’s will &c &c, & all my wearing apparel &c The remainder of my plate I bequeath as follows To my nephew W Cairnes 1 silver Tankard To my niece Jane Harvey 1 Silver Tumbler To my Sister Mrs Rebecca Aughinleck 1 soup spoon 8 small spoons & 2 silver salts. I bequeath to my coz Alexander Tomkins of Prehen gent 1 guinea to buy him a ring Also to my Aunt Mrs Rebecca Tomkins, my uncle Arthur Maxwell of Drumbeg Co Down Esq. my Aunt Katherine Maxwell his wife 1 guinea Ea to buy rings Also to my brother in law Mr John Harvey Minister My uncle Mr Richd Maxwell & my brother in law Mr Wm Aughinleck guinea ea to buy rings. I bequeath to the poor of the Par of Camus als Strabane  £5 to be pa to my Aunt Mrs Rebecca Tomkins to dispose of 1 bequeath to Mr Wm Holmes Presbyterian Minister of Strabane 2 guineas I bequeath to Mrs Joanna Hamilton wid for attendance during my sickness £6 &c I bequeath to James Lyon of Strabane for his trouble &c £3. I bequeath to my foster sister Elisth Wilson daugh of Saml Wilson  £3 &c &c Balance of goods &c to my two sisters Mrs Rebecca Achinleck & Mrs J. Maxwell equally. I appoint my cousin Mr Alexr Tomkins Prehen, my brother in law Mr Wm Aghinleck & my sister Jane Maxwell Exors
Dated 16 Sept 1709
Witnesses: Horas Kennedy, Mathew Morray, Robt Houstown, John Harvey
(PRONI T581 p.202-3)

Memorial of Deed of release dated March 4, 1712 whereby Mr WILLIAM Homes of Strabane, clke and his wife Catherine, in consideration of 60 pounds transfer to Samuel Sinclair of Bairnie [Bearney] in the parish of Camus, Co Tyrone all that messuage, house or tenement with backhouses, backside and gardens situated in the town of Strabane containing in front to the streetwards 45 feet and extending eastwards to the back lane that leads from the upper end of town to Coll. Hamill’s Orchard (which orchard Coll. David Creighton now enjoys) and bounded on the southeast by a tenement heretofore belonging to William Maxwell, merchant, deceased (now to Thomas Powrdon) and on the northwest by a tenement heretofore belonging to John Gamble, merchant, deceased (now to said Samuel)… witnessed by James Smelie, Robert Smelie and Samuel Sinclair, Jr. Memorial dated July 6, 1713. (RD 13/30/4751) [This is the Rev. William Homes (1663-1746) and his wife Katherine Craighead Homes.]

Memorial of deed of lease and release dated Oct 7, 1729 whereby Robert Johnston of Strabane, innkeeper let to William Hood of Knockroe, Co. Tyrone house in Strabane where Johnston now dwelt. Witnessed by William Johnston of Castlefin, Co. Donegal, farmer; Thomas Henderson and JOHN Homes (sic), both of the parish of Camus, Co Tyrone, farmers. (RD 84/122/58588)

BENJAMIN Holmes’ lease with the Earl of Abercorn was renewed in 1736.  (IAL p.3)

Dates : [c.1736].
Description : The tenants of the jointure lands to Hon. James Lord Viscount Paisley in or near London. Signatories include: Robert and William Cunningham, Thomas and William Patton, William, John and James Stinson, William Woods, John Knox, James Knox, Benjamon Holmes, Adam Smith. Petition in reply to warning by Capt. Nesbit “to come and treat about their respective holdings for a seven year lease, otherwise that he will (by my Lady Dowagers Order) cant their lands over their heads notwithstanding your petitioners has for the most part three or four years to come of their last lease, provided her Ladyship lives so long…”… your petitioners are timorous to renew their leases for fear Her Ladyship has no farther power then her own live-time … until your Lordshipp advises them what to doe in the premisess, your petitioners cannot venture to treat with Captain Nesbit but are resolved to sitt out their lease or leave it if forced thereto, ’till it comes into your Lordshipps hands. Having great experience of your Lordshipps goodness never to sett land over the old tenants head your petitioners expects your Lordshipp will favour them with an answer directed to themselves at the post office of Strabane”. (PRONI T2541/IA/1/1A/18)

Dates : [c.1736]
Description : Petition from the tenants of the jointure lands to Hon. James Lord Viscount Paisley in or near London. Signatories include: Robert and William Cuningham, Thomas and William Patton, William, John and James Stinson, William Woods, John Knox, James Knox, Benjamon Holmes, Adam Smith in reply to warning by Capt. Nesbit ‘to come and treat about their respective holdings for a seven year lease, otherwise that he will (by my lady Dowagers order) cant their lands over their heads notwithstanding your petitioners has for the most part three or four years to come of their last lease, provided her Ladyship lives so long…. your petitioners are timorous to renew their leases for fear her Ladyship has no farther power then her own livetime … untill your Lordshipp advises them what to doe in the premisses, your petitioners cannot venture to treat with Captain Nesbit but are resolved to sitt out their lease or leave it if forced thereto, “till it comes into your Lordshipps hands. Having great experience of your Lordshipps goodness never to sett land over the old tenants head your petitioners expects your Lordshipp will favour them with an answer directed to themselves at the post office of Strabane’. (PRONI D623/A/6/37)

Strabane Presby reports that they have entered on First Tryals Mr James Kerr do design to enter Mr BENJAMIN Holmes (RGS, p.254)…..Letterkenny Pby have ordained Mr. Jon Marshal at Balindreat July ye 27th, 1743, and Mr . Wm. Laird at Rye, May the 15, 1744, and have entered Mr . BENJAMIN Holmes on 2d Tryals (RGS, p.295)

Memorial of deed of lease dated 1 Jun 1746. Andrew Knox of Prehen to John Thompson and John McKee, both of Dromirohill, Co Donegal, half of Greimstown then in their possession for the lives of John Thompson, William McKee son of John McKee and Thomas Thompson son of John Thompson. Witnessed by James Soden of Murvagh and John Reynolds of Dromore, both in Co Donegal. Memorial dated 6 Mar 1755 and witnessed by John Reynolds and Manus Holmes of Strabane.(RD 200/532/134199)

Memorial of Lease dated Nov 19, 1748 whereby Robert Brown of Strabane, Gent let to NATHANIEL Homes of Strabane, wheelwright, the house and garden he now possesses bound on the one side with a wall joining Mr McAnalley and round along the back street and on the other side joining Thomas Quin commencing the first day of May past for a term of 31 years or the lives of the said NATHANIEL Homes, JOHN Homes, son of sd NATHANIEL Homes, and John Knox, son to John Knox of Strabane. Witnessed by Thomas Wilson and John Graham, both of Strabane, Gent. Memorial dated Jan 24, 1750 and witnessed by John Graham and John Thompson of Strabane. (RD 144/293/97558)……..See 1762 lease from NATHANIEL Homes to Thomas Smith for this same property 

Memorial of Lease dated June 21, 1750 between Thomas Wilson of Strabane let to John McCrea of Latines (sp?) Hill in the parish of Arigile, Co. Tyrone, farmer all that house where John Smith Sayer now dwells and barn adjoining and the little house where Thomas Avilion has timber …commencing Nov next for the lives of John McCrea, John Knox the younger and Samuel Knox, both sons of John Knox of Strabane, Innkeeper. Witnessed by William Baird, John Knox, NATHANIEL Holms and Francis Diven, all of Strabane. Memorial signed by John McCrea and witnessed by Nathaniel Holms and John Thompson of Strabane, dated Jan 24, 1750 (RD 145/178/97557)

Lease dated 22 June 1751. Earl of Abercorn to Joseph Brown of Strabane, the tenement known as Patrick Hamilton’s tenement where John Driven formerly dwelt and now occupied by Joseph Brown, merchant and also the house where Thomas wallace dwelt, for the lives of John Brown (age 16) and Thomas Brown (age 10), sons of Joseph Brown and James Rouse (age 10) son of Simon Rouse of Strabane. Witnessed by John Holmes and Nathaniel Nisbitt. (RD 200/533/134200)

The last Will and Testament of GABRIAL HOLMES dated Dec 28, 1752. I sign over all that I have to my wife SHUSANNAH Millar house and land cows and horses and plenshing……. Only one shilling and a penny MARION Holems and Hugh McMullen for hir and his part of legacy and one shilling and a penny to JOHN Holms……….and this is all I have”. Witnesses: – Robert Beers & John Donaldson. Probate granted to the widow……..26 April 1755 (PRONI T681/1 Page 393)

NATHANIEL Holmes, turner, was mentioned in the Abercorn letters 10 Apr 1752.  (IAL p.39)

PRONI D623/A/30/146
Title : Jo. Colhoun, Strabane, to [Earl of Abercorn]….
Dates : 10 April 1752
Description: Jo. Colhoun, Strabane, to [Earl of Abercorn].
… There was a large tree lately out in the mearing between Mr Auchinleck’s park in Clochogall manor and Edward Moran’s freehold garden in the lower end of this town; the tree stood fully in Mr Auchinleck’s side of the ditch, and upon a serch Mr Nisbitt and I found it cutt in pieces in the house and custody of on Nathaniel Homes a turner in Strabane, who confessed he bought it from said Moran at £0. 15. 6. and cut it himself and there it is. Now as it grew mostly in Clochogall manor I have lodged examinations against Homes and Homes against Moran to the quarter sessions but Lieut. Colhoun applys warmly in favour of Moran and says he shall submitt to your Lordship’s pleasure and considering Mr Colhoun’s friendship in another affair Mr Nisbitt and I have postponed such prossecution untill the July sessions. Our Provost is gon for England, it’s belived he will wait on your Lordship but that he must be at Liverpool to setle some affairs of consequence to himself, with Oliver McCasland Esquire relateing to our market house and this town; others think he’s to be married, but he has left our market house unfinished and so it will stand still he returnes. I have remitted Messrs. Mitchell and Macarell £200 last post for my Ladys use; also I have remitted to Dos. £300 for your Lordship’s use …..’.

PRONI D623/A/31/63
Title : Nathaniel Nisbitt, Lifford, to [Earl of …
Dates : 4 March 1755
Description :Nathaniel Nisbitt, Lifford, to [Earl of Abercorn].
Answers to 24 queries of your Lordship’s, relative to tenements in Strabane, and who was proprietors at the time of Mr Starats survey.
John Knox, rent 12s. 6d., Jon. Someral (?) was proprietor, and refers to No. 126 in rent roll.
John Masterson, rent 12s. 6d., Thomas Wilson was and refers to No. 127 in rent roll.
William Homes; rent 15s. 0d., Samuel and William Sinclair were, and refers to No. 113 in rent roll and part of the sum they pay.
Thomas Joanes rent 15s. 6d.; Duncand McMackin was and refers to No. 123 in rent roll.
Margery Hamilton, rent 15s. 0d.; this refers to No. 113 and No. 138 paid between Sinclairs and Brown; I never coud gett a very clear account of this tenement tho: I know the spot it stands on, and dose believe your Lordship receives the 15s. 0d. betwixt them.
John Gamble, rent 10s. 0d.; Widow Gamble was and paid in No. 78 in rent roll.
Oliver McCausland, Esq., rent £2. 10s. 0d.; this refers to No. 103 and No. 113 in rent roll; £2 paid by Thomas Wilson and 10s. 0d. by the Sinclairs, they were proprietors at Mr Starats survey.
Marg. Lock, rent 6s. 3d., Jon. Someral(?) was and refers to No. 122 in rent roll.
Marg. Foster als. Scott, rent 9s. 4d.; Thomas Scott was and refers to No. 124 in rent roll. Patrick McKeever, rent 15s. 0d.; Jon. Wilson was and refers to No. 135 in rent roll.
James Robison, rent 9s. 5d.; Margrett Robison was and refers to No. 128 in rent roll.
James Hamilton, Gentleman, rent 10s. 0d.; refers I beleive to No. 84 in rent roll; all the account I coud ever gett of James Hamilton was that he was Patrick’s father from whom your Lordship purchased.
Edward Tradinick, rent 19s. 8d.; James Tradinick was and refers to No. 108 in rent roll.
David Bratly(?), rent 5s. 8d.; Jon. Sim and William Hunter were and refers to No. 150 in rent roll.
James Davison, rent £1. 10s. 0d.; James Davison was, and refers to No. 130 in rent roll.
George Hamill, rent £1. 15s. 0d.; James Ector(?) and James Macky were, Macky pays 15s. 0d. in No. 136 and Ector pays £1 in No. 141 in rent roll.
Hugh Knox, rent 18s. 8d.; Jon. Egar was, and refers No. 114 in rent roll.
James Lyon, rent 6s. 0d; James Lyon was and refers to No. 101 in rent roll.
George Maghee, rent 18s. 8d.; William Stinson was and refers to No. 87 in rent roll.
Thomas Brown, rent 15s. 0d.; John Sheilds was and refers to No. 86 in rent roll.
James Knox, rent £1; James Knox was and refers to No. 110 in rent roll.
Andrew McCarter, rent £1; William Loughridge was and refers to No. 109 in rent roll.
James Cunyngham, rent £1; James Cuningham was and refers to No. 116 in rent roll.
Anthony Cousy, rent 15s. 0d.; Cairns Henderson was and refers to No. 111 in rent roll.

WILLIAM Holmes sublet a house from Samuel. and Wm Sinclair 4 Mar 1755; Abercorn property.  (IAL p.46) (PRONI D623/A/31/63)

Nathaniel Nesbitt, Lifford 4 Mar 1755 to Earl of Abercorn: “Answers to Your Lordship relative to tenaments in Strabane and who was proprietor at the time of Mr Starat’s survey: 1. WILLIAM Homes tenement; has William Sinclair’s tenement or house where Widow Knox dwells at the lower end, and Margery Hamilton’s at the    upper and going to the meeting house. (PRONI D623/A/31/84)

JOHN Holmes was a tenant of the Earl of Abercorn from 1704 until 29 Mar 1755, when a new lease was negotiated and he was described “an old man”.  (IAL p.47) 

NATHANIEL Holmes born 17 Mar 1757 to GABRIEL Holmes and Isabella Thompson. Brothers include JOHN b.1748, JAMES, GABRIEL, ELIZABETH, THOMAS b.1759.(Cape May County Magazine of History and Genealogy V.XII, Issue 3, dated 2011)

Memorial of Marriage Agreement dated 1758 between Robert Brown of Strabane and Lucinda Parke of Mounthall, Co Donegal, spinster. Browne grants to Thomas Young of Lougheask and Johnston Mansfield of Killygordon, the sureties the following: tenements in Strabane possessed by Thomas Short, tenement possessed by Rev George Bracegirdle, tenement and orchard possessed by Thomas Wallace, the dwelling house possessed by John Count, the 4 dwelling houses possessed by NATHANIEL Holmes and his undertenants, the house possessed by James Knox, staymaker, with the towns and lands of Gortnagree, Manor of Killygordon subject to a jointure of 26 pounds payable to Jane Brown, mother of said John [probably transcription error, should be Robert] to hold to Robert Brown for life and for lives of issue of him and Lucinda. Remainder to sister Margaret Hamilton als Brown. Witnessed by Robert Forrester of Cloverhill, Co Londonderry, and by John Mansfield and Edward Mansfield both of Killygordon. Memorial dated 14 Jan 1758 and witnessed by John Mansfield and Simeon Rouse. (RD 191/86/127139)….same property is part of deed dated 1789 from Thomas Brown of Eaton Street and Sophia Hales of Chelsea (RD 404/490/269863)

1759 A Memorial of an Indre of Lease dated 15 Oct 1759 between Thos Willson of Strabane in ye Co of Tyrone demised to Arthur Leeper of Strabane sd Co all the House out Houses & Garden next to House wherein Robt Scott, Carpenter now dwells, a parcel of ground in field with Mr Alexander Sinclares in Dumbalogh now held under him by Pat Cassidy who now dwells in ye next House to the sd Arthur Leepper now dwells Wm land is commonly called y Half acre … for term of 999 years… witnessed Margt Diven Spinster & James Holmes both of Strabane. Memorial witnessed by James Homes & John Brown of Strabane. (RD 141353)

Marriage Articles being a Memorial of lease and release dated 27 Sep 1760. James Stevenson of Strabane, merchant to marry Margaret Hamilton, widow and relict of William Hamilton, late of the city of Londonderry, merchant. James Stevenson released unto Conolly McCausland of Fruit Hill, Esq. and James Sterling of Wallworth, gent. the towns and lands of Ardnaganna, Gleneely, Minlaught, Inmreagh and Carnbrough and also a rent payable by Robert Barclay, Esq. to James Stevenson out of the lands on Meenahannis in the parish of Donaghmore, Barony of Raphoe… Witnessed by the Rev Benjamin Holmes & Robert Brown, gent, both of Killygordon & Bryan Rogan of Castlefin, Innkeeper & the same was executed by James Stirling in the presence of said Robert Brown & Abraham Hope of Londonderry, Innkeeper. Memorial witnessed by Robert Brown (above 30 years) and Simeon Rouse of Mellmount and dated 30 Sep 1760. (RD 205/539/137255)

Memorial of assignment or endorsement dated July 2, 1762 whereby NATHANIEL Holmes of Strabane assigned to Thomas Smith and James Cudbert his lease dated Nov 19, 1748 between Robert Brown and NATHANIEL Holmes concerning a tenement and gardens which Nathaniel Holmes then possessed being bound on the one side with a wall joining Mr McAnely and round along the back street and on the other side joining Thomas Quin. Witnessed by John Inch, JAMES Holmes, and John Thompson all of Strabane. Memorial perfected by Thomas Smith and James Cudbert in the presence of John Thompson and Archibald McCrea on Aug 4, 1762.  (RD 226/18/145307).

Memorial of instrument in writing dated Nov 9, 1763 whereby Robert Barclay and James Hamilton, both of Strabane, trustees for the sale of the tenements of Patrick Wilson and Thomas Wilson, convey them to  BENJAMIN Holms of Killygordon who was the highest bidder at auction. Witnessed by James Gregory and Simeon Rouse, both of Strabane, Gent. Memorial dated Apr 23, 1764. (RD 231/343/150284)

Rev. BENJAMIN Holmes of Killygordon was one of the parties [Robert Barclay and James Hamilton of Strabane and Thomas Gledstanes of Ferdrass all in the County of Tyrone Esqr of the first part , James Read of Strabane aforesaid Breeches maker of the second part, Patrick Wilson and Thomas Wilson both of Strabane aforesaid of the third part, and William Smyly of Camus in the said County of Tyrone the Revd Benjn Holmes of Killygordon and William Orr of Strabane aforesaid Merchant of the fourth part] to two deeds dated Dec 1, 1764 wherein the parcel of land at the Head of Town Park purchased by Benjamin Holmes with the dwelling house in Strabane where the said Patrick Wilson lived with the office, houses backside and garden was purchased by the said William Orr all subject to yearly chief tenant rent to the Earl of Abercorn. See Killygordon for more detail. (RD 239/110/156391) and (RD 245/43/157282) 

Indre quadrupartite duly Executed bearing date 1 Dec 1764 made between Robert Barclay and James Hamilton both of Strabane and Thos Gledstanes of Fordross all in the County of Tyrone Esqr of the first part the Revd Benjamin Holmes of KillyGordon in the County of Donegall Clerk of the second part; Patrick Wilson & Thos Wilson both of Strabane aforesd Gent of the third and Wm Smyley of Camus, James Reed breeches maker and Wm Orr Merch both of Strabane aforesd of the fourth part Reciting a deed poll Executed by the said Pat & Thos Wilson vesting their Land.. in and about Strabane in the said Robt Barclay, James Hamilton and Thos Gledstanes for the paymt of their Debts the end therefore whereof the above is suttemr Witnesseth that in Considr of one hund & Eighteen pounds by the sd Benjamin Holmes to the said Robt Barclay James Hamilton and Thos Gledstaets in hand paid they did grant bargain and sell .. to the said Benjamin Holmes the Tenaments in that Street in Strabane called the Head of meeting house Street called William McAtees and George Givens Tenaments and the part or parcell of Land Commonly called and known by the name of the head of the town park Situate in the Barony of Strabane and County of Tyrone aforesaid To hold to the sd Benjamin Holmes and his heirs and assigns for ever and reciting that the said  Bargained and sold premes and the dwelling house in Strabane wherein John McCrea lives with the office houses Backsides and yard in thereunto belonging purchased by the said William Smyly that part or parcell of Land on the north side of Strabane called the holywell park formerly possessed by the said Pat Wilson purchased by the said James Reed with the Dwelling house in Strabane wherein the said Patrick Wilson lived purchased by the said William Orr are all subject to a yearly Chief rent in the whole of six pounds twelve shillings and four pence payable to the Care of Abercorn his heirs and assigns forever and charging the thereby bargained & sold premies with two pounds nineteen Shillings , the Team purchased by the sd Wm Smyly with one pound six Shillings the Tenant and part purchased by the sd James Reed with two pounds seven shillings and four pence and acquitting the  Tenamt purchased by the said Wm on from the same , which Ind was Executed in presence of Simon Rouse of Mellmount and Robert Orr of Gallony both in the said County of Tyrone Gent and this mem was executed in presence of the S. Simon Rouse and Robert Orr this Eleventh day of June one thousd Seven hund & sixty five Benjamin Holmes ℗ Signed and sealed in presence of , Simon Rouse – Robt – Robt Orr On above named aged forty years and upwards maketh Oath that he saw the Indr whereof the above is amem duly Executed and also the above meml duly Executed by the above named Benjamin Holmes and Deposeth that the name Robert Orr subd as a witness to the sd Indr and this mem is this Dept name and proper handwriting , Robert Orr Sworn before me at Strabane in the County of Tyrone this 11th day of June 1765 (RD 262/290/169206)

A Memorial of an Indenture quadpartite duly Executed bearing date 1 Dec 1764 made between Robert Barclay and James Hamilton of Strabane and Thomas Gledstanes of Ferdrass all in the County of Tyrone Esqr of the first part , James Read of Strabane aforesaid Breeches maker of the second part – Patrick Wilson and Thomas Wilson both of Strabane aforesaid of the third part and William Smyly of Camus in the said County of Tyrone the Revd Benjamin Holmes of Killygordon and William Orr of Strabane aforesaid Merchant of the fourth part , Reciting a Deed poll Executed by the said Patrick and Thomas Wilson vesting their Lands and Tenements in the said Robert Barday, James Hamilton and Thomas Gledstanes for payment of their debts.. the said Robert Barclay, James Hamilton and Thomas Gledstanes in hand paid they did grant bargain and sell alien enfeoff and confirm unto the said James Read that part or parcell of Land on the North side of Strabane aforesaid called the Holy well Park formerly possed by the said Patrick Wilson with the appurs Situate in the Barony of Strabane & County of Tyrone , To hold to the said James Read and his heirs and assigns for ever and reciting that the said bargain and sold premist the Dwelling house in Strabane wherein John McCrea lives purchased by the said William Smyly the Tenements in that Street in Strabane called the Meeting house Street called William McAles and George Givens Tenements and the part or parcel of Land called the Head of the Town park purchased by the said Benjamin Holmes with the Dwelling house in Strabane wherein the said Patrick Wilson lived with the office houses Backside and Garden thereunto belonging purchased by the said William or are all subject to a yearly Chief rent in the whole of six pd twelve shillings and four pence payable to the Earl of Abercorn and his heirs and assigns forever and charging the thereby bargained andsold premes with two pounds Seven Shillings and four pence the Tenem purchased by the said William with one pound six Shillings the Tenements and premes purchased by the said Benjamin Holmes with two pounds nineteen shillings and acquitting the said Tenement purchased by the said William Orr from the same which Indre was Executed in the presence of Simon Rouse of Millmount and Robert Orr of Gallony both in the County of Tyronagent , and this Mem was Executed in the presence of the said Simeon Rouse and Robert Or on this Eleventh day of June one thousand seven hundred and Sixty five (RD 239/110/156391). 

A Memorial of an Indenture quarripartite made 1 Dec 1764 between Robert Barclay and James Hamilton both of Strabane and Thos Gledstanes of Ferdross all in the County of Tyrone Esqr of the first part, William Orr of Strabane aforesd Merchant of the second part , Patrick Wilson and Thomas Wilson of Strabane aforesaid gent of the third part , and William Smyly of Camus in the said County of Tyrone gent the Revd Benjamin Holmes of KillyGordon in the County of Donegall and James Read of Strabane a Breeches maker of the fourth , Reciting a Deed poll Executed by the said Patrick and Thomas Wilson vesting their Lands and Tenements , in and about Strabane in the sd Robt Barclay, James Hamilton & Thos Gledstanes for the payment of their debts the Indenture therefore whereof this is a mem witnesseth that in Considn of three hundred and twelve by the said Wm or paid to the said Robert Barclay James Hamiltonand Thos Gledstanes they did grant bargain and sell alien Enfeoff and Confirm unto the said William Orr the Dwelling house in Strabane aforesaid wherein the said Patrick Wilson lived … To hold to the said William Orr and his heirs and assigns for ever and reciting that the said bargained and sold premes and the Dwelling house in Strabane wherein John McCrea lives with the office houses Backside and garden thereunto belong  purchased by the said Wm Smyly the Tenements in that Street in Strabane Called the head of the Town or meeting house Sheet called Wm McAles and George Givens Tenemt and the part or parcell of Land called the head of the Town park purchased by the said Benj Holmes and that part or parcell of Land on the north side of the said Town of Strabane called the Holywell part formerly possed by the said Patrick Wilson purchased by the said James Read are all subject to a yearly Chief Rent in the whole of six pounds twelve  Shillings and four pence payable to the Earl of Abercorn and his heirs and assigns forever and charging the said Tenement purchased by the said Wm Smyly … in the presence of Simon Rouse of Mill and Robert Orr of Gallony both in the said County of Tyrone Gent and this mem was executed in the presence of the said Simeon Rouse and Robt Orr this Eleventh day of June one thousand seven hundred & sixty five (RD 245/43/157282)

Memorial of an Indenture quadpartite dated 3 Dec 1764 made Between Robt Barclay and James Hamilton both of Strabane and Thomas Gledstanes of Ferdrass, all of Co Tyrone, Esqrs of the first part; William Smyly of Camus, Gent of the second part; Patrick and Thomas Wilson both of Strabane aforesd Gent of the third part and the Revd Benjamin Holmes of Killygordon in the Co of Donegall James Reed Breeches maker and William Orr, merchants both of Strabane aforesd of the fourth part reciting Deed poll Excuted by the sd Patrick and Thomas Wilson vesting their Lands and Tenants in and about Strabane the sd Robt Barclay James Hamilton and Thomas Gledstanes for payment of the Debts the Indre therefore whereof the Memorial witnesseth that in Consion of one hunded and six the sd Robt Barclay James Hamilton and Thos Gledstanes did grant Bargain and sell .. unto the sd Wm Smyly and his Heirs and asss forever the house in Strabane wherein John McCrea lives with the office house Backside and Garden thereunto belonging and reciting that the sd premis and the rent in the Street in profane called the head of the Town or meeting house that called Wm Waters Tenent and George Givens Tenament and the park called the head of the Town park purchased by the said Benjamin Holmes and the park on the north side of Strabane called Holywell park formerly possed by the said Patrick Wilson purch by the sd James Reed with the Dwelling house in Strabane wherein the sd Patrick Wilson lived, … & thereof the Terent part purchased by the sd Benjamin Holmes.. and the part purchased by the sd James Reed .. all situate in the Barony of Strabane & County of Tyrone .. in the presence of Simion Rouse of Willmount and Robt Orr of Gallony both in the sd Ct of Tyrone Gent and this memorial was Exec by the sd Wm Smily in the presence of the sd Simon Rouse and Robt Orr 11 Jun 1765 .. Robt Orr above named aged forty years and upwards maketh oath .. this 11th day of June 1765 (RD 248/574/160941)

Memorial of Indented Articles of Agreement bearing the date Oct 9, 1770 made between the Rev. WILLIAM Holmes of Ballinashee [possibly Ballyrashee] of Ballyeaston in the County of Antrim of the one part and Richard Gregg of Malmount, Co. Tyrone, Gent. of the other part, whereby the said William Holmes for the consideration herein does covenant that he will make and execute with all convenient speed unto the said Richard Gregg, his heirs, etc and effectually grant all the half tenement house and garden in the town of Strabane, Co. Tyrone where John Moore formerly and Dennis Haggerty lately dwell having the tenement heretofore of Robert McManus and now of James Flemming on the south and the tenement heretofore of Henry Noble and now of Hadskiss on the north and extending from the main street backward to the river Morne…witnessed by CHARLES Holmes of or near Carnone, Co. Donegal and John Parkinson of Strabane, Co. Tyrone, Gent. Memorial dated May 11, 1771. (RD 284/636/186289)…………………Ads: Mr. Gregg, Melmount, James Blair, Camone, Robert Gray, Gortin and Richard Cowan, Lifford to sell the interest of Richard Gregg, deceased, in lands now held by George Keys and John Denning, at the house of Arthur Blair, innkeeper, Strabane. (Londonderry Journal, Mar 8, 1776)………………….. On Nov 4-5, 1783, Rev David Gregg, eldest son and heir of Richard Gregg, late of Melmount, and Barbara Gregg, widow of said Richard Gregg gave their consent to a transfer of property in Strabane, currently occupied by George Keys, Esq and known as Henderson’s tenement, from Robert Gray of Gorton and James Blair of Carmone and Richard Cowan of Lifford, Esq., all of Co. Donegal to Edward Pollack of Lisglass, Co. Londonderry (RD 355/216/238979)

Rev. BENJAMIN Holmes of Castlefin, Co Donegal leased property in Strabane, Co Tyrone to Thomas Patton of Whitehill, Co Donegal on Oct 1, 1776. In consideration of 160 pounds Benjamin Holmes leases all the tenements in the town of Strabane known by the name of William McAles and George Givens Tenements…and at the east end of town called the head of town park then in the possession of said Thomas Patton. Thomas Patton to pay chief yearly rent to Earl of Abercorn. Witnessed by Oliver Leckey of Gortnamuck, Co Donegal, Gent. and Richard Cowans of Lifford, Co. Donegal, Esq. Memorial signed by Thomas Patton, Richard Cowans, and William Wilson on Oct 30, 1780. (RD 338/525/229063)

Marriage Article bearing Date 11 Apr 1783 made on the Intermarrige of James Parker of Stragolan [Stragullin] of the Parish of Camus and County of Tyrone with Cathren Parker daughter of George Parker of Drumnaboy in the parish and aforesaid whereby it was agreed and the said George Parker did thereby in consideration of a Marriage Portion with the said Cathren his said Daughter to the said James Parker gives the one half of all farm that he then held and possessed by Lease under the Earl of Abercorn in the town of Drumnaboy aforesaid stocked and sowed with all the Necessary seeds with the one half of all his houses he then possessed in said premises To hold the said one half of Drumnaboy aforesaid and houses unto the said James Parker his Heirs Executors administrators and assigns his the said George Parkers own Dwelling House Excepted Commencing from the first Day of Novr then last past with all right of Tenure for and during all the rest residue and remainder of said Lease then to come and unexpired subject to the yearly rent and other taxes to be laid on said premes and it was further agreed thereby by the parties thereto that at the Decease of the sd George Parker and Mary Parker alias Rogers Wife to the said George Parker he the said James Parker his Heirs or assigns was then immediately to commence into the full right and Peacable possession of the other half of the premisses then possessed by the said George Parker in the town of Drumnaboy aforesaid Clear of all rent and other Charges with all the rights members appurtenances thereunto belonging to him the said James Parker and his Heirs and assigns and also in consideration of said premisses he the said James Parker paid to the said George Parker the sum of twenty Guineas Ster and the said Marriage article was duly Executed by the parties thereto in the presence of James Holmes Merchant of Strabane and William Parker of Stragolan aforesaid farmer both in the said County of Tyrone and this Memorial was duly Executed by the said James Parker in the presence of the said William Parker and William Morris of Strabane aforesaid Writing Clerk, James Parker ( Seal ) Signed Sealed and Executed in the presence of William Barker William Morris William Parker above named came this Day before me and made oath that he saw the Marriage article whereof the above writing is a memorial duly Executed by the parties there to and saw this Memorial duly Executed by the said James Parker and that he this Deponent is a subscribing Witness thereto and deposeth that the name William Parker subscribed as a witness to the said Marriage Article and this Memorial is this Deponts own Name and proper handwriting William Barker Sworn before at Strabane in the County of Tyrone this 21st day of April 1784 (RD 356/369/240703)

Samuel Moore of Strabane in psh of Camus, co Tyrone. To be buried in the grave yard of Castle Derg. Appt Samuel McLeur (McClure) of Maghernageragh psh Termonamongan, Co Tyrone and John Keys of Strabane in psh Camus, co Tyrone, & Robert Neilsen junior of Balliard, psh Donaghmore in Doneagal to be executors. To my sd executors all my worldly wealth whats.. & all debts due to me, to be by them collected and to disburse of same as follows: … to the support of my natural son Samuel Moore til he be 21 years age & the to have the … to my sister-in-law Sarah Semple … to be paid to my nephew George Neilsen…to be paid to my good friend Geo Boyd … to be paid to my ? servant Sarah Hamilton. The residue to be equally divided between my niece Elizabeth Mary Moderwell & John Keys of Strabane aforesaid. Dated 8 Mar 1785. Witnessed by __ Caldwell, Michael Loague, James Holmes. Probate to John Keys of Strabane …. 17 Mar 1785. (Crossle Genealogical Abstract at findmypast)

Memorial of deed of release bearing date of March 24, 1789 where JOHN Holmes of Strabane, merchant grants to William Fleming of Strabane, merchant that property on Front Street in Strabane that was granted by John Cowan of the city of London, Esq. to William Hamilton and John Porter in a lease dated Apr 29, 1787…and in which JOHN Holmes now dwells… and was subject to release to JOHN Holmes bearing the date Feb 14, 1789. Memorial registered Nov 17, 1803. (RD 555/286/371693)

(auto text – need to review) 4 Jul 1789 Mem of an Indenture of Lease 4 Jul 1789 between the Right Houble Mr Lord Viscount Sudly of the Kingdom of Ireland of the one part and Mr John McCrea Merchant of Finally in the County of Tyrone of the other part whereby the said Lord Viscount Sudley for the Considers therein ment demise Grant Set and to farm let unto the said Mr McCrea that and those parts and parcels of land called Clarboughreach as the same are known by their proper bounderies & mearing that is to say on the East Dongale and the land of Olandrinaghan on the West by James And A Carney , farm and on the North by the River Caskey containg eighty acres one Rood and ten perches of arable and pasture and forty three acres of heath & Bogg pasture be the same more or less To hold the same to the said M. his heirs Exors Admors or ass for and during the note life and lives of John McCred the Lefor James Hamilton and Thos Hamilton Nephew to the said Jno McCrea or for thirty one yes which shall longest last and under the yearly rent in said Indenture of Lease reserved contained as in and by these Indre of Lease relation being had may appear which said Indenture of Lease was duly Executed by the said Lord Viscount Sudley by Henry Crafton Esq by virtue of a power of All . to him for that purpose directed and by the said John McCred in presence of John Barclay of Shabane in the Coy Esqr and Jno Holmes of Strabane afores Merchant and this Memas duly executed by the said Fro McCrea in presence of Jno Holmes and James R of Strabane aforesaid out the 12 Jan 1790 John M Crea Seal Signed Sealed and Executed in presence of John Holmes James Russell the above named John Holmes aged thirty years & up maketh Oath that he is a subscribing witness to the Indenture of Lease 272082 Chugan 6 Haritt Agnes Camp at to Lease of which the above writing is a memonal and saw the same duly been by the above named Henry Croston by subscribing the above named Henry Crafton by subscribing the name and affixing the seal of the above named Arthur Lord Tully Virtue of the power above named to him for that purpose directed and and and saw this Mem duly Executed by the above named Jno McCrea deposeth that the name Jno Holmes Subscribed as a witness to the said Butre of Lease and this Memr is this Depts name and handw . J. Holmes Sworn before me at Strabane in the Coy of Spence this 18 Jan 1790 (RD 272879)

John Holmes was born 12 Nov 1786 to JOHN Holmes of Buncrana

John Holmes;(1812)— Was an iron merchant and manufacturer in this city, and a member of the firm of Craig, Holmes; & Co. He was born November 12, 1786, in Strabane, Ireland. He was a Director in the United States and Schuylkill Banks. He died at Londonderry, July 26, 1834. His two sons, JOHN Holmes; (1841) and SETH C. Holmes (1845), and his brother, VALENTINE Holmes; (1830), were also members of the Society. He left two sons and two daughters. His father was JOHN Holmes;, Buncrana, Ireland. His sister, MARTHA Taylor, lived in Cormekelly, Ireland (HFSP, p.431)

JOHN Holmes signed, with others, a letter thanking the Earl of Abercorn for his donation to the poor fund in 1789.  (IAL p.156)

PRONI Reference :T2541/IA/1/16/33
Title : Memorial of the inhabitants of Strabane …
Dates : [1789?]
Description : Memorial of the inhabitants of Strabane to John James Earl of Abercorn.
‘We inhabitants of Strabane, beg leave, with all due respect and with sincere gratitude to return your Lordship thanks for your liberal donation to our fund established for relief of the poor. With respect of your Lordship, was unsolicited and it comes at a time when the distress of many indigent creatures in this place will require peculiar exertions of charity; this circumstances my Lord enhance the obligation and demand our warmer acknowledgements. Your Lordship may be assured that agreeably to your Lordship’s wishes we will persevere in doing everything in our power to give permanence to the institution to which you have so generously contributed. Such benevolence is the natural result of feelings which do honour to the distinctions of nobility. That you may long live to enjoy these blessings with every happiness they can possibly bestow, is our sincere and ardent wish. [Signed] Adam Harvey Rector of Camus, W. Crawford, Ephraim Stannus, James Sproull, William Smyly, Patrick Fleming, Thomas Hamilton, Jane Hamilton widow, Jocelyn Ingram, George Rea, Andrew Mease, James Rousse, James Hamilton, Claud Hamilton, Benjamin Fention, Robert Porter, John Barclay, Nathaniel Edie, Archibald Allen, Robert Kerr, James Fleming, Nicholas (?) Edwards, William Pollock, James Gaston, John Holmes, William Fleming, James Lyon, David Roulston, Josias Kerr, James Orr, Andrew Gamble, Samuel Morton, James Stevenson, James Patton, George McNeallany (?), William Neilson, Frederick Porter, William Ross, John Alexander, Joseph Gibson, William Hamilton, Andrew Cashone (?), John Evans, Andrew Jenkins.’

PRONI Reference :D623/A/87/14
Title : James Hamilton Jnr, Strabane, Co. Tyrone,…
Dates : 30 March [17]91
Description : James Hamilton Jnr, Strabane, Co. Tyrone, to Marquess of Abercorn, Grosvenor Square, London.
‘Strabane was never in greater distress and confusion than at this moment occasioned by the very sudden and unexpected failure of John Barclay and Mr Homes who were esteemed among its most prosperous and opulent traders. What the amount is can, at present, only be guessed at, but it must be very considerable. Many honest industrious poor men must necessarily be involved in their ruin. Indeed no persons of any dealing can have escaped. Their credit has been unlimited for many years everywhere they were known. They both dealt very extensively in the tobacco business, speculating largely in that, and trading far beyond their capital by means of Bills, has been the occasion of their destruction. There has not been, I suppose, a single remittance from this house for ten years past which Bills from either, and sometimes both, did not compose a part. We always considered them and they were to us, a great convenience when other Bills were not to be had, in the conveyance of your Lordship’s cash to Dublin. How my poor father is situated with them, cannot till the return of the post from Dublin, be ascertained with exactness but £800 of Mr Barclay and £600 of Mr Homes’ have been sent forward with his endorsement within these six weeks. Mr Stannus the collector, Mr Chambers Admiral Forbes’ agent, Mr O’Bryen agent to Lord Erne, Mr Johnston, Mr Edie, Mr Mitchell, and I am sure I could name a dozen more with every merchant worth £100 in this town are all more or less involved. They are thought to have failed for no less a sum than from £6,000 to £8,000 each. They have both hitherto borne the characters of honest men. How it may turn out God know. It is the first misfortune of the kind ever befell my poor father, and he is most exceedingly sunk and dejected under it. There never was greater care and caution used by and [man] on earth. He was always particularly scrupulous but their credit was such and was so established, as never to occasion a doubt in the breast of any man and the event has proved it, for never was there such a string of creditors. My poor father who is almost frantic has been prevailed on to go out a little on horseback. Jammy and myself as soon as I have finished this, purpose going down to be present and assist with other creditors in taking an inventory of all their effects, which I will inform your Lordship of. I have the honour, being with much respect your Lordship’s devoted and ever faithful servant’.

PRONI Reference : T2541/IA/1/18/26
Title : James Hamilton, Strabane to Marquis of Abercorn,…
Dates : 8 April 1791
Description : James Hamilton, Strabane to Marquis of Abercorn, Grosvenor Square,
… ‘If there is distress pictured in every face, occasioned by the failure of Barclay and Holmes. They have not as yet laid the state of their affairs before their creditors. I myself am more than embarrassed by them:
‘Mr Barclay’s bills drawn in my favour and now in your Lordship’s bank amount to £320. 0. 0. There are 2 got by James for Mr. Pemberton £116.16.0. ‘Where Mr. Pemberton’s bills are I know not but probably they will in the end come on me. ‘There are also in the bank bills of Mr. Barclay’s endorsed to me £300. 0. 0. ‘There are also in the bank of Holmes’ bills made payable to me £500. 0. 0. and of Holmes’ bills endorsed to me £350. 0. 0. ‘I have got £50 to discharge one of these bills and my hope is that the endorsed bills will be paid by those who got the cash for them from me. ‘Barclay says he will pay 15/- a pound as he believes. Holmes says he hopes to pay 13/4 a pound. In the meantime many an honest man will be distressed.

PRONI Reference : D623/A/102/19
Title : James McFarland, Strabane, to Marquess of …
Dates : 11 April 1791
Description : James McFarland, Strabane, to Marquess of Abercorn, Grosvenor Square, London.
The failure of Barclay and Holmes of this town, has given all who had money in the trade and otherwise, in the neighbourhood very great confusion. They were both considered honest respectably men; the amount of their debts is said to be upwards of £15,000. Barclay is expected to pay something about 10/- in the pound and Holmes not more than between 6/- and 7/- in the pound. Their bills were always regularly paid and were of great service here, when no other Bills could be got; there will be returned to this office protested upwards of £1,800 of which we have endorsers for about £800. This town will feel this failure severely these many years.

PRONI Reference :D623/A/93/36
Title : James Hamilton Junior, to [Marquis of Abercorn,…
Dates : 15 November 1801
Description : James Hamilton Junior, to [Marquis of Abercorn, London].
‘I had the honour of writing to your Lordship this night sennight informing your Lordship that I remitted £500 to Sir William Gleadone (?) on the 6th inst. I mention this, as the mail of that day was robbed, on its way to Dublin. I have the pleasure of mentioning that by yesterday’s post I remitted £400 in addition. Homes of this town, who with Barclay became bankrupts about 9 years ago has failed again for above £6,000; several of the Derry merchants will suffer heavily by him and almost all the merchants of this town are more or less involved. Thank God we have steered clear of him, a burned child.

PRONI Reference :D623/A/93/41
Title : James Hamilton Junior, Strabane, to Marquis …
Dates : 28 December 1801
Description : James Hamilton Junior, Strabane, to Marquis of Abercorn.
…’Homes of this town is the same merchant who became once before a bankrupt; his field is now set to a solvent tenant; it is not expected that he will be able to pay above 3s. in the £.

University of Galway, Holmes – Weir letters (University of Galway, Digital Colection)

Isabella Holmes, Strabane, County Tyrone, to her son Nathaniel Holmes, Philadelphia, [11 August 1791]: Dear Nathaniel, … I received the letter from John McLaughlin with news of my dear son John’s death. .. I had a fine family of sons .. now all gone. Only Gabby and you …[enclosed is also a letter from sister Elizabeth] I am in haste as the bearer is waiting .. John Knox of Edymore… I have a son named James for your dear brother. When you write let us know if his wife is married and how her son is.

Isabella Holmes, Strabane, County Tyrone, to her son Nathaniel Holmes, Philadelphia, 20 June 1792: Dear Nathaniel, this comes with my love  to you and to John’s widow and my blessing to both yur families…I would be glad to know what has become of Margry Smith and her children…I beg you will let me know how Margaret Smyly and her brother Thomas is doing and if the child is living or not and if his son James is alive and how his mother is doing…let me know if James Thompson and Gabriel is alive for they have not rote to their father these three years, neither has Aleck Orr which is very ungrateful of them all…

Isabella Holmes, Strabane, County Tyrone, to her son Nathaniel Holmes, Philadelphia, 9 September 1792: …Let me know how Margry Smith and her three children is and if John left them anything to sustain them. When you write about them you may enclose it by itself as there are no one here knows about it except myself and Betty … I beg you to let me know how Margret Smyly and her brother is doing and how the child is … let me know about the Thompsons boys where they are or what they are about likewise Aleck Orr for their people has not received a letter these three years… I wrote two letters this year and sent them with Joseph Knox and Tom Barnhill. I received the money you allowed John McLaughlin to send… I hope you will write to me about James his son and his mother and if his mother is married…

Isabella Holmes, Strabane, County Tyrone, to her son Nathaniel Holmes, Philadelphia, 11 June 1794: … as to the money you sent I do by this letter inform you in what manner I paid it out. I lent 50 pounds to James Parker .. uncle Patrick Hale. 20 pounds I likewise lent your Uncle Gilbrath. … I lent your brother Gabriel 30 guineas … Your sister Elizabeth .. has one child, James .. and is 4 years old … P.S. .. let me know how your brother James’ son is and likewise how your brother Thomas’ daughter is…

Gabriel Holmes, Ballydonaghy, County Tyrone, to his brother Nathaniel Holmes, Philadelphia, [?] June 1794: … I have lived as usual in my father-in-laws but have repaired a commodious house … I wrote to you half a year with a John Knox … if I thought myself strong enough in constitution I would like to take a sean and visit you … 

Isabella Holmes, Strabane, County Tyrone, to her son Nathaniel Holmes, Philadelphia, 16 September 1794: I am writing you by James McLaughlin, brother of you dear friend John McLaughlin, deceased … I wrote of in my last concerning brother Gilbrath’s ungrateful sons, will say no more at the moment…

Isabella Holmes, Strabane, County Tyrone, to her son Nathaniel Holmes, Philadelphia, 18 May 1795: … your sister Betty was brought to bed in September of a dear boy as fine a child as ever you saw… let me know about John’s daughter … and Aleck Orr, he writes none to his father. You have a friend in Philadelphia, Mary Parker. She is married to one Moore? A hairdresser. She is a daughter of William Parker of upper Stragullin. … William Knox is just in …

Isabella Holmes, Strabane, County Tyrone, to her son Nathaniel Holmes, Philadelphia, 23 May 1796: … I got a letter from you … brother Gilbrath expected one from you for he expects none from his sons … Josiah received a letter from James this year. He hopes you will not neglect to write him for he is determined not to write one letter to James or Gabriel this year he supposes it is on account of his having a step mother that .. from writing but that need not hinder them for she is a good woman. I sent 3 letters to you last year and Gabriel 1 or 2. Brother Gilbreth wrote one to you and one to James and one to Gabriel… I am at a great loss ever since John McLaughlin died to know how to direct my letters … Nathaniel Thompson is intended to go to you. His father says he will send him to you to put him in what business you think proper. … I send this with Mr John Hatrick, brother-in-law to Josias Thompson. He said he will go see James Thompson and give you this…

Gabriel Holmes, Ballydonaghy, County Tyrone, to his brother Nathaniel Holmes, Philadelphia, 16 June 1796: …Dear Nathaniel, I wish you could come over and spend your Christmas with us… Mr William Mason? Come over from Baltimore this season … This letter will be delivered to you by Mr John Hetrick who is first cousin to my wife and brother-in-law to Josiah Thompson. A genteel young man he has served a time in Derry in the shopkeeping business. … your friendship with Mr Hitrick will oblige me very much as his father was always a friend to me …

Elizabeth Weir, Strabane, County Tyrone, to her brother Nathaniel Holmes, Philadelphia, 2 June 1798: Dear Brother, I and family and friends is well blessed .. hoping to find you the same and all dear brother’s children, not forgetting cousin Orr and children. Her father-in-law and family is gone to live in Monterlong eleven miles from here… John Hatrick gives James Thompson great praise for his kindness to him. His brother Joseph is very glad he befriended him so much that he likewise wrote to his father of your kindness to him. Perhaps you would like to know how dear mother disposed of her money that brother John left her. Just when she got it she lent brother Gaby 30 guineas, she likewise lent to uncle Galbraith 26 pounds and he gave his bond for it and that bond she left to me to get as he could give it or I need it… there was 50 pounds remaining that she put to interest to James Porter which he paid when he went to America. My dear mother was on her deathbed at the time Gabriel borrowed 15 pounds for his father-in-law and gave his bond for it. Joseph Thompson borrowed 5 pounds and gave his bond. Uncle Gilbraith bought a mear from James Parker, Uncle had not the money to pay him when he was going away so mother took his bond for 10 pounds. My husband borrowed 10 pounds to build a house in Clabournmore … that 40 pounds she left to my son…your affectionate sister, Elizabeth Weir.

Gabriel Holmes, Ballydonaghy, County Tyrone, to his brother Nathaniel Holmes, Philadelphia, 13 May 1802: Dear Brother … considering John Hitrick’s affairs… I am sorry to hear of James Thompson’s death. Uncle Thompson experienced a great…he was very much afflicted..Drs Fenton and Sproul made an operation and he is perfectly well… P.S. John Tylor carries this letter. He is brother to Robert Tyler. He is very fine young man. He served his time__ with his uncle John Holmes ..to the mercantile business.

Gabriel Holmes, Ballydonaghy, County Tyrone, to his brother Nathaniel Holmes, Philadelphia, [28 September 1805?]: Sorry to inform you of the death of our worthy friend Uncle Gillbrath [Galbraith] who departed this life January last…I send this letter with our friend William Smyly who is going out to see his brother Andrew regarding the properties of his late brother John. The day before this I was over at Uncle Smileys and they are all well.

C’pt Lease Ld Donegall to  William Porter gent of p of Culdagh, the Q’land of Carrowmore 473 acs from 1 Nov 1793  for 3 lives, in occpn heretofore of John Porter and Gabriel Porter both decd and now occupied by sd William Porter by ….lease granted to sd John Porter dat 1 Oct 1694; bound in is a w’colour plan endorsed on reverse “5 ballyboes or 5/8 to Robert Holmes of Strabane 5/8 rent £37.10.0 ………3 balliboes or 3/8 to John Ewing of L’derry gent surviving trustee in will of JohnPorter decd………dated 26 Dec 1829.” (PRONI D/652/384)

GABRIEL Holmes, Leckpatrick Parish, was awarded 3 spinning wheels in 1796 under the Flaxseed Premium Scheme.  He probably lived in Strabane, in the Leckpatrick part of town.  See above, 1666. (FSL) [He was the brother of Nathaniel and John Holmes of Cape May, NJ – Cape May County Magazine of History and Genealogy V.XII, Issue 3]

Memorial of Deed of Lease dated May 1, 1795 made between Nathaniel Edie, Robert Mitchell and WILLIAM Holmes, all of Strabane, Co Tyrone, merchants, assignees of the estate of JOHN Holmes of Strabane, a bankrupt of one part (who grant to) JAMES Holmes of Naveney [Navenny], Co. Donegal of the other part, all the lands located in the back street of Strabane known as Allen Campbells tenement lately in the possession of JOHN Holmes and formerly in the possession of Thomas McLaughlin for the natural lives of said JOHN Holmes and EDWARD his son. Witnessed by Henry Edwards and John Barcley. Memorial sworn Feb 8 1797. (RD 497/516/328439)

Mem of an Indented Article of agreement dated 17 Sep 1799 between Wm Porter ye Elder of Molony [Mulleny] in Co of Donegal & Isabella Porter ye elder his Wife of ye first part 2) William Porter the younger of Molony and 3d son of sd William and Isabella of the 2nd part 3) the Revd Cunningham Porter of Rosapenny [Rosapenna, Electoral Division of Rosguill, in Civil Parish of Mevagh] in the Co of Donegal,Clke, Mary Porter, Eliza Porter, Isabella Porter & Jane Porter all of Molony all daughters of the said Williams & Isabella Porter, John Holmes of Strabane in the Co of Tyrone, merchant  & Ann Holmes orwise Porter his wife who is also one of the daughters of William & Isabella Porter of the 3d part & 4) Christie Glenn of Grayston and John Cary of Carnowen in the Co of Tyrone of the 4th part; Whereby after reciting articles the said Wm the Elder & Isabella his Wife for ye consons therein ment have granted.. To Christie Glen and John Cary the … Quarterland of Carramore [Carrowmore] then in the possession of  Wm Porter the Elder … and also the lands of Whitehouse…Witnessed by John Finlay of Dublin and John Nemma of Moleny.  (RD 629/444/433765)

Memorial of deed bearing date Oct 20, 1801 between Despard Humphry of Strabane, Esq. and Anne his wife of one part, who transfer to WILLIAM Holmes of Strabane, Gent, of the other part, the property on Main Street, Strabane formerly in the possession of Alexander Sinclair, Esq…. Witnessed by Joseph Manley and James Rouse of Strabane. Memorial dated 22 Feb 1802.   (RD 545/37/350577)

From the Londonderry Journal and Donegal & Tyrone Advertiser: Edn Tues. 1 Dec 1801: Bankrupt – John Holmes of Strabane mercht.

Deeds of Lease and Release 18 & 19 Feb 1802 1) Despard Humphrys of Strabane in the Co of Tyrone Esq and Anne Humphrys orwise Sinclair his wife and 2) Alex Dick of Strabane aforesd Stonecutter of the other part Reciting as therein is Recited the sd Release Witnessed that the sd Dispard Humphry and Ann Humphrys ..t did grant .. that dwelling house .. in the Main Street of Strabane as it was then occupied by the sd Alex Dick together with all that and those primises late in the posson of Wm Hamilton of Strabane .. consisting of two dwelling houses and a Garden adjoining the Garden occupied by the sd Dick said two houses being in the Back Court of Strabane afores and the Garden behind said houses bounded on the North by the back Street on the south by the Main Street on the East by the Land and house occupied by Lawrence Nellis Also a yard and house then in the posson of William Holmes on the by the Tenements now in the posson of Mr William Nelson and Despard Humphrys aforesd Situate lying and being in the sd Town of Strabane… which sd Indenture of Lease and release are Witnessed by Wm Knox and Alex Warnock both of Strabane .. this Memonal is also witness by the William Knox and the Revd Archd Hamilton of Strabane aforesd in the 3d Co of Tyrone Alne Dick and and Sealed by the said Alexr Dick in the presence of … this 27th day of March 1804 (RD 559/304/374896)

Indented deed dated 21 June 1802 whereby JAMES Holmes of Navenny [Navenny], Co. Donegal, makes over to WILLIAM Holmes of Strabane a tenement in the Back Street called Allen Campbell’s tenement lately possessed by JOHN Holmes and formerly held by Thos McLoughlin with a plot of ground at the foot of the town for a garden, to hold for lives of said JOHN Holmes and ROBERT Holmes his eldest son, and EDWARD Holmes his second son; deed and memorial witnessed by James Houston of Strabane, gent. And Hamilton Foster of Strabane, gent, merchant aged 16 and up, sworn at Strabane 14 April 1804. (RD 560/346/375235). 

A Memorial of an Indented Deed 3 Nov 1802 1) Hugh McGowan of Mullindrate in the Co of Donegall Farmer and Ann McGowan orse Ramsey his wife sell to 2) James Barclay of Steatown in Co Tyrone, Esq. …the moiety of the Town farm and lands of Mullindrate as full and ample manner as the same was formerly possd by Dutten Ramsay decd and to Ann McGowan or either of them and also all .. House .. & Lands in and about the Town of Stranolar .. aS the same were formerly poss by the sd Dutton Ramsey & John Griffith decd …… witnessed by Jno McCleary and William Holmes both of Strabane, Merch…. this 6th day of Nov 1802 (RD 543/558/365028)

Memorial of indented deed of lease dated 25 April 1804 [thus] whereby Anne Harrold of Dublin, spinster, grants to JOHN Holmes of Strabane the tenement in Back Street called Allen Campbell’s tenement then in JOHN Holmes’ possession, for lives of JOHN Holmes the lessee aged 30, ROBERT Holmes his eldest son aged 7 and EDWARD Holmes his second son aged 6; yearly rent £9.5.0; John Spotswood and Andrew Spotswood both of Bellaghy, Co. Londonderry witnesses to signature of Anne Harrold; John Spotswood and George McClenachan witnesses to signature of JOHN Holmes; John Spotswood sworn at Strabane 22 April 1803. (RD563/191/375236).

PRONI Reference :D623/A/121/1
Title : [John James Burgoyne, Strabane, to Marquess …
Dates : 6 October 1806
Description : [John James Burgoyne, Strabane, to Marquess of Abercorn, London].
‘… I have made most particular inquiry of every person that I thought could give me information respecting the making of brick, and have had many people to look at the clay in Roosky and Killidart. That in Killidart is in its natural so sandy, and that in Roosky so shallow (in the deepest part not exceeding 12 inches) that I am of opinion, it would be both an expensive, and in the end, a losing job. The only proposal I have received, by which I think your Lordship would be advantaged, is one from William Luke and John Pollock of Ballydonaghy in which they engage to make at Ballydonaghy two hundred thousand of brick yearly 14 shillings and 6 pence per thousand, free of any other expense to your Lordship, and they propose themselves, joined by William Heterick and Gabriel Holmes in a bond for the proper execution of the work.

PRONI Reference :D623/A/124/11
Title : John James Burgoyne, Strabane, to [Marquess …
Dates : 23 February 1809
Description : John James Burgoyne, Strabane, to [Marquess of Abercorn, London].
Letter referring to the slow repayment for cheap provisions provided for his Lordship’s tenants during threatened famine with discussion of rents for brickyards and limestone quarries. ‘The deficiency in the brickyard rent is occasioned by the difference between 3s. 9½d. and 5s. 5d. on 100,000 given up by Barnhill and wrought by Holmes and deficiency of 200,000 at 3s. 9½d. by James McCrea’s making £46 0s. 10d. yearly but the deficiency will I hope be made up by Beard and McEldowny or by some person at Carrickmore or Ballydonaghy. If your Lordship approved of setting bog to Beard and McEldowny where it is plenty and making the allowance of the cost out of the rent, it might be a good plan to let them go on at Tavanaclair. The amount for the year 1808 will be a good deal more than the calculation as Beards McEldowny and McCrea wrought in it and are not included in the article.

PRONI Reference :T2541/IA/2/18/29
Title : James Hamilton Strabane to [Marquis of Abercorn,…
Dates : 19 January 1810
Description :James Hamilton Strabane to [Marquis of Abercorn, Baronscourt]. Letter in reply to his Lordship’s letter of yesterday asking for Mr Leslie’s bog return of 1807. ‘… I have made most diligent search for it, all this morning, through every part of the office, and I have not as yet been able to find it but I should hope that possibly when Mr Burgoyne comes here on Monday, that it may be got. It was always he kept it and I fancy he has most of the bog returns of the years prior and subsequent to it. I am sure Mr Burgoyne and Mr Leslie will tell your Lordship they never saw it for a single moment in my possession. ‘If however it cannot be got, it is more than probably Mr Leslie kept a copy of it, for I am sure he used to do so (?), and if there had been any omissions of bog rent, I am sure I shall be heartily sorry to find it, but I am certain that if on any investigation an omission shall be discovered, it will appear to have been quite unintentional. I will send up the bog book to Mr Burgoyne and the bog day book or any other book or paper in the office to be examined. ‘I shall send summonses for the Bairds (?) of Tavnaclair-“Gaby” Homes (?) James McCrea and the Barnhills, to be at the office on Monday morning when I hope it will be convenient for Mr Burgoyne and Mr Leslie to be present, and I shall take care that the matter shall have a full investigation. Mr Burgoyne will tell your Lordship he never knew me to make out a list of bog arrears since he came to the office, nor kept for a single moment a bog return in my possession, either of Jack Boyd’s or of Leslie’s. Leslie himself knows this to be the case. ‘By a paper which [I] enclose, found accidentally in my search for the bog return, Mr Burgoyne will see that it was he himself who prepared the rough copies of the November 1806 account, in which the 1807 bog arrear was ascertained and taken credit for. He will surely recollect it, and I think on Monday that (if even in the interim the bog return for 1807 should not be found) the matter will be fully explained. Mr Burgoyne knows that no tenant ever paid a shilling of bog, or land rent on any account whatever, without getting a receipt, on the moment for it in the office, either from myself, or some authorised person. Those receipts I will answer for it are all carefully kept by the persons who paid the money for these ten years back. I think it will appear that the amount of all these rents have been properly entered and duly credited to your Lordship. I shall order them to bring in every receipt for this ten years. I mean Baird Homes McCrea and Barnhill etc and if there should be any outstanding receipt not credited, it will in a moment appear who got the money and then it will remain with that person, to account for the application of it. I dont think the Barnhills ever were returned for bog rent or paid any since the time they burned lime which is above 15 years ago. Jammy McCrea paid bog rent but this he paid along with the rent of his farm in Ballydonaghy in which book it had always been charged against him, and was regularly included in your Lordship’s general credit for the manor of Cloghogal. Baird and McEldowny in the years 1806 and 1807 appears to have been charged as having two brick yards. It is probable there may have been a blunder or omission in this case, but surely not a wilful one. On Monday this can be fully seen when the receipts and books are both reduced. ‘It was I myself who desired the Bairds of Tavanaclair to go up to your Lordship to Baronscourt and I would hardly have done so if I had thought there was either a mistake or omission in their rent. “Gabby” Homes I recollect was returned for several years in bog arrear. Perhaps he may have paid it and that the rent has not been entered. Mistakes will happen with the most regular people, but I will be bound to say, there was never made by anybody in this office a wilful neglect or omission. In the last ten year I never of myself prepared an account for your Lordship, and never once made out a bog return or bog list of arrears. Mr Burgoyne knows this, and that it was he himself who I always entrusted to regulate and compile the accounts of the office. ‘I have I fear tired your Lordship with a most stupid statement. It is all that occurs to me. I only wish my feelings could be expressed in better terms. I shall be most ready at all times that your Lordship is pleased to call on me, to explain every transaction in which I have been concerned in the most fair and undisguised manner that it is possible for me. ‘I am most exceedingly unwell, both in mind and body. The barrister is here and a very crowded Sessions. Everybody in the whole town in going tonight to a ball in the Town Hall except me …’

Memorial of indented deed of assignment dat 17 April 1819 betw 1) WILLIAM Holmes of Strabane gent. and 2) John Smyth of same mercht; 1) assigns to 2) one undivided moiety of dwelling ho. office hos. backyard and premises in Main street formerly in possn Alexander Sinclair Esq  and now in possn of sd William Holmes 1) and also a parcel of ground adjoining then used as a Ball alley or Racket Court being pt and parcel of that dwelling house and tenement in Main street in tenure of Alexander Dick.in Manor and Barony of Strabane, …together with the said Brewery fixtures erected and to be erected thereon… to hold for ever; wit William Inch and George Crocket of Strabane gents, G C sw. 20 April 1819 Strabane. (RD 739/482/503817)

Stabane Morning Post, December 5 1820 – Married on the 30th ult. at Leck, by the Rev. Francis Brownlow, DR. McINNIS  [MAGINNESS] , of Dublin, to MISS HOLMES, daughter of the REV. JOHN HOLMES, Presbyterian Minister of Donagheady

Strabane Morning Post, May 18 1824 – We are extremely sorry to announce the death of ISABELLA, eldest daughter of much-respected townsman, MR. WM. HOLMES, who changed a mortal for an immortal state, at one o’clock on the morning of Saturday the 15th inst. after a tedious illness of twelve weeks, which she bore with the greatest resignation. Her mild & gentle disposition endeared her to her parents, and all her friends and acquaintance

A Memorial of an Indented deed dated 3 Feb 1827 made between James McElhinney and Francis McElhinney both of Tullybagley in the County of Donegal farmers of the one part and Robert Cunningham of Dunduff forth in the County of Donegall aforesaid farmer of the other part whereby the said James McKinney and Frances McElhenney for the considerations therein mentioned did grant bargain sell alien release and confirm unto the said Robert Cummingham… during the natural life of William Holmes of Strabane in the County of Tyrone and for and during the life of the Reverend Charles Lillie late of Montford provided he the said he be still living being two lives named in the original Lease under and by virtue of which said lands are held the other life being dead who was also named in said house and for and during all the Estate or term that the said James McElhinney and Francis McElhinney or either and every of them have in the said premises and which said deed as to the perfection thereof by the said parties and this Memorial as to the perfection thereof by the said Robert Cunningham are witnessed by William Wilson Attorney at Law and Moses Wilson apprentice to the said William Wilson Dated this 3  February 1827 Robt Cunningham Seal Signed Sealed and delivered in presence of Moses Wilson William Wilson William Wilson of Raphoe in the County of Donegall and dated 3d day of February 1827 (RD 821/6/552542)

Marquis of Donegall 1st Part and Rt. Hon. Dates : Description : Marquis of Donegall 1st Part and Rt. Hon. Geo. Chichester Macartney, Earl of Belfast 2nd Part and John McCance, Esq., and John Agnew, Esq., (Belfast) 3rd Part and Rev. Arthur Chichester Macartney (Vicar of Belfast) and Jas. Watson, Esq., Brookhill, Co. Antrim 4th Part and Thos. Verner, Esq., and Andrew Alexander, Esq., Belfast 5th Part and The Rt. Hon. Ld. Baron Dufferin of Ballyleidy, Co. Down and Sir Stephen May, Belfast 6th Part and The Most Hon. John Loftres, Marquis of Ely and Chas. Henry Tottenham, Esq., Clonfarm, Co. Leitrim 7th Part to Robt. Holmes, Esq., Strabane, Co. Tyrone; 26 December 1829 ; Lease for 3 lives, renewable for ever. Rent £37. 10. 0. Consid. £820. (Lives, see 33). (Grain cl., see 24.) 295a. 3r. 13p. in Carrowmore. Formerly held by Wm. Porter, Esq., decd., Culduff, Co. Dgl., and Rev. Cunningham Porter. (PRONI T1151/68)

 WILLIAM Holmes held 1.3.36 acres in 1828.  (TAB)

 JOHN Holmes held 111/4 perches of land in 1828.  (TAB)

SAMUEL Holmes marr. Ann Leckey 27 Jan 1828.  He was probably the same man who held a house on Meetinghouse Street in 1858. (GV,IGI)

Strabane Morning Post, March 4 1828 – We are sorry to have to announce the death of WILLIAM, son of our much respected townsman, MR. WM. HOLMES, who died in December last, at Blue Mountain Valley, Jamaica, in the 23rd year of his age

ELIZA Holmes, dtr JOHN/Mary (McCrea) of Donagheady, see below, marr. Robert Hannah 12 Jan 1829.  They had 13 children.  (T2333/1)

From The Strabane Morning Post
12 May 1829
COUNTY OF DONEGAL

List of Persons who have served Notices on the Clerk of  the Peace, of their intention to Register Freeholds at the ensuing Quarter Sessions, to be held at Lifford, in the Division of Lifford, the 3d of June, 1829, as appointed by the Lord Lieutenant pursuant to the 10th Geo. IV, Chap. 8.

• William Holmes, of Strabane Naveny [Navenny]
• Charles Holmes , of Triankeel Triankeel

Persons who have served Notices on the Clerk of the Peace, of their intention to Register Freeholds at the ensuing Special Sessions, to be held at Letterkenny on the 8th June 1829, as appointed by the Lord Lieutenant pursuant to the 10th Geo. IV. Chap. 8.

Raphoe Barony

• William Holmes  Strabane Navenny
• James Holmes  Ballybofey Navenny

A List of Persons who have served Notices on the Clerk of the Peace, of their intention to Register Freeholds at the ensuring Special Sessions, to be held at Buncrana on the 13th June 1829, as appointed by the Lord Lieutenant pursuant to the 10th Geo. IV. Chap. 8.

Enishowen Barony

• John Holmes, Buncrana Carrowmore

A Memorial of the last Will and Testament of Martha Fleming late of Gallony in the County of Tyrone Spinster bearing date 9 Sep 1829 Whereby the said Martha Fleming did amongst other things therein ment give devise and bequeath unto her nephew David Smith his heirs and Assigns her house in the Town of Strabane and County of Tyrone which she held under John Stewart with the Rights members and appurts thereunto belonging and did also thereby give devise and bequeath unto her Nephew Patrick Smith his heirs and Assigns for ever her freehold property called the Hollywell field and the quarry field and houses and tenements & Gardens situate in the Carry Hill hear the Town of Straton aforesaid as bequeath to her in and by the Will of his late father Patrick Fleming decd subject as therein ment and which will as to the Exon thereof by the said Martha Fleming is Witnessed Wm G Adams apprentice to the said David Smith John James Pensioner and Saml Calhown Atty at Law all of Strabane in the County of Tyrone aforesaid and this Memorial as to the Execution  thereof by the said David Singth and Patrick Smith is witnessed by the said Wm G. Adams and Robert Holmes Brewer also of Strabane in the County of Tyrone aforesaid Dated this 12th day of August 1834 (RD 1834/296)

1829 Oct 31 Londonderry Sentinel (LSL), On Thursday, the 29th instant, by the Rev. William M’Crea, John Holmes, Esq., late of Glenville, now of Strabane, to Eliza, eldest daughter of James M’Crea of Glencush, Esq.

Strabane Morning Post, November 3 1829 – Married on Thursday, the 29th ult. by the Rev. W. McCrea, JOHN HOLMES, ESQ. late of Glenville, now of Strabane to ELIZA, eldest daughter of JAMES McCREA, of Glencush

Memorial of Indented deed dat 18 March 1830 [thus] betw 1) Rev John Holmes of Brosney and 2) John Holmes of Strabane Linen merchant his son; recites that 1) is possd of pt of lands of Brosney then undivided, with stock, crop and farming utensils …… and might be entitled to Regium Donum and stipend at decease and now grants same to 2) at his death; wit Samuel Phillips of Tullyard Surgeon and Robert Stewart of Altrest farmer; mem wit R S and Samuel Colhoun attorney; R S sw. Strabane 11 Feb 1840. (RD 1840/4/115)

C’pt Lease Ld Donegall to William Porter gent of p of Culdagh, the Q’land of Carrowmore 473 acs from 1 Nov 1793  for 3 lives, in occpn heretofore of John Porter and Gabriel Porter both decd and now occupied by sd William Porter by ….lease granted to sd John Porter dat 1 Oct 1694; bound in is a w’colour plan endorsed on reverse “5 ballyboes or 5/8 to Robert Holmes of Strabane 5/8 rent £37.10.0 ………3 balliboes or 3/8 to John Ewing of L’derry gent surviving trustee in will of John Porter decd………dated 26 Dec 1829. (PRONI D/652/384)

Memorial of indented deed of mortgage dat 1 June 1830 betw 1) ROBERT Holmes of Strabane gent and 2) Robert Maxwell and William Maxwell of L’derry merchts; 1) grants 2) the five ballyboes of Q’land of Carrowmore 295.0.13 acs formerly possd. by the Rev Cunningham Porter for £1700 ster; wit G Franks of L’derry and EDWARD Holmes of Strabane gent; G F regd Dublin 11 June 1830. (RD 860/209/573709)

Memorial of indented deed of conveyance dat 31 May 1830 betw 1) John Cary of Silverbrook Co Tyr gent surviving Trustee in a deed of 27 Sept 1799, 2) William Porter of Moleney Co Don. farmer eldest son and heir of the Rev Cunningham Porter, and John Porter of Boomhall in Libs of L’derry gent and 3) ROBERT Holmes of Strabane gent; 1) with consent of 2) assigns Carrowmore to 3). (RD 860/209/573710)

Indenture bearing date 23 Jun 1830 made Between Charles James Brown of New Inn in the County of Middlesex in England Esquire of the first part, Leonard Dobbin Jr of Gardiner Place in the County of Dublin in Ireland Gent of the second part, and Thomas Quartermass of Duke Street Adelphi in the said County of Middlesex Gent of the third part … conveying all that piece or parcell of Ground and tenement situate lying and being in the of parish of Camus Juxta , Morne in the Town of Strabane in the County of Tyrone in that part of the United Kingdom called Ireland Extending from the end of the Messuage or tenement late in the The possession of James Lindsay but since in the occupation of Denis Connomey and being in the Lane leading from the front or Main Street of Strabane to the Back Street of Strabane aforesaid which leads to the Meeting House which said piece or parcell of Ground was late in the tenure of James Stevenson but is now or late was in the tenure of John Smith of James Stevenson his assigns and his undertenants. Also all that Messuage or tenement with the Back Houses and backside lane leading to the back Gate thereof situate in commonly called or known by the said the name of Cross House late in the tenure of William Neilson but since of John Smith his assign and hisundertenants togather with the two fields of John Reed and his tenants in Clabermore formerly in the possession adjoining the with the several Messuages tenements and Gardens Same situate in the Town of Strabane of the said William aforesaid late in the tenure William Neilson bet Since of the said John Smith his assigns and his undertenants Also all that large Messuage or tenement situate lying and being in the front Street of Strabane offices thereunto belonging aforesaid together with the back yard Garden and late in the tenure of Samuel Hunter but since in the tenure of his Widow or her undertenants also all that and those the Orchard with the messuages or tenements thereunto attached togather of Ground with the piece or parcell late waste Ground but now converted into a Garden and adjoining the said Orchard containing by estimation three acres and orless and which said now or late were in the roods be the same more Orchard Messuages or tenements and Land adjoining are tenure of Daniel McLaughlin and Richard McLaughlin his undertenay also all those two Messuage or tenements situate lying and being in Barrack Street aforesaid Hugh Harper and Archibald Roddy , Also all those two Messuages or tenements situate lying and being in the front of Meeting House Street in Strabane aforesaid formerly in the respective tenures of John Smnyth and Elizabeth McGowan bounded on the North by the Dwelling House and premises on the west by the said front of Meeting House Street aforesaid and on the south by premises now or lately held under Mrs Anne Humphrys and on the East by Barrack Street aforesaid which said last four last mentioned Messuages .. are respectively situate lying and being in the parish of Camus in the Town of Strabane aforesaid and respective now or late were in the tenure of the said William Holmes or his undertenants also those eight Messuages or tenements situate lying and being in Strabane aforesaid and Next adjoining the upper end of the Orchard now or late of Daniel McLaughlin together with the field in the here of the said tenements and containing about one acre of arable land which said Eight Messuages or legments with the field at the rese thereof are respectively situate lying and being in that part of the Corporation of Strabane aforesaid commonly called or known by the name of labbermore and were respectively formerly in the tenure of William Shest alias William Sherwin but were afterwards in the respective tenures of William Parker and the Widow Weir and their undertenants Also all that Messuage or tenement with the Back House and back yard thereunto attached situate lying and being in the Lane leading from the front street of Strabane aforesaid to the Garden of James Hamilton Esqre and which said Messuage and premises last mentioned were late in the tenure of James Lindsey but were afterwards in the tenure of Denis Connomey his assigns or under tenants Also all that Messuage or tenement with the Back Yard thereunto belonging situate lying and being in the Land leading from the front Street of Strabane aforesaid and late in the tenure of Charles McCawley but since in the tenure of Patrick Holliday his assigns Also all that Messuage or tenement with the Back House and Back Yard thereunto belonging situate lying and being in the said Lane leading from the front Street of Strabane aforesaid and between the houses lately inhabited by the said James Lindsey and Charles McCawley which said last mentioned Messuage or tenement and premises were formerly in the tenure of James Hamilton Esquire afterwards of John Crawford and since in the tenure of Jane Crawford his widow and also all that the Town and Townland with the Bog called Gortnagrace situate lying and being in the Parish of Winey in the Manor of Killygordon in the County of Donegal with the several Messuages or tenements thereunto belonging the cultivated part of the Land now or late let out in parcells and with the said tenements now or lately in the several tenures of Robert Browne James McMenamin Joseph Brown John Brown and John Brown James Brown and William Brown William Kilgrace and John Allgrace . John Daragh Mathew Daragh and Thomas Daragh Michael McMenamin and Robert Orwine and George Erwine or their respective representatives or undertenants Also all other Messuages Ottages and tenements and 2 Hereditaments situate lying or arising in Clabermore one abbermore and Strabane aforesaid or either of them or in the said Parishes of Cams Justa Moore and Camus or either of them or in God pagrace and Killygordon aforesaid or either of them or in the said parish of Urney whereof or wherein the said Charles James Brown is either at Law or in equity seized or interested in tail whether General or special to the said Leonard Dobbin for the joint lives of himself and the said Charles James Brown for being tenant to the precipe and suffering a common Recovery of the said premises to the uses therein expressed which Indenture as to the Execution thereof by the said Charles James Brown and Thomas Quartermass is witnessed by Alexander Thomson of 74 Lombard Street in the City of London Gentn and William Frederick Eaton of 17 Clements Inn in the said County of Middlesex Gent and as to the Execution thereof by the said Leonard Dobin is witnessed by David Bell of Gardiners place in the County of Dublin Gent and William Miller of same place Gent and the said Indenture hereby by the said Leonard Dobbin Seal . Signed and sealed by the said Leonard Dobbin in presence of David Bett William Miller the above name David Bell maketh Oath and saith he is a subscribing Witness to the Deed of which the above writing is a Memorial and also to the above memorial and ┃ Saith he saw the said Deed and Memorial respectively duly executed by the above named Leonard Dobbin and saith the name David Bell subscribed as a witness to said Deed and Memorial is this deponents proper name and hand writing and Saith he delivered said Deed and Memorial to Oliver Moore Esquire Deputy Register at his office & Kings Inn Quay Dublin on Saturday the twenty Sixth day of June Instant at or about the pour of twenty minutes after three oclock in the afternoon of said day . David Bell Sworn before me this 26th day of June 1830 (RD 861/44/574045)

From Londonderry Sentinel 
Edn 25 Sept 1830: “Married Wed. last Mr Robert Holmes to Miss Anne Crawford both of Strabane.” [ROBERT/Ann (Crawford) had the following family: ch. FRANCES, b. 5 Sep 1831, bapt. 20 Sep;   ANDREW, b. 3 Nov 1834, bapt. 13 Jan 1835 ]
(1st Strabane Baptisms) and (1st Strabane Baptisms)

ROBERT Holmes held in 1858 a brewery and some land on Meetinghouse Lane as well as 3 other houses in the Town Parks, one on Back Street, and 8.2.15 acres of land, valued a 12.  (GV)

Strabane Morning Post, June 14 1831 – MR. JOHN HOLMES of this town, who, in May 1830, obtained a diploma in midwifery from the Lying-in Hospital in Dublin, was admitted a Member of the Royal College of Surgeons, London, on the 13th ult., and received a diploma accordingly

JOHN Holmes, s. JOHN/Elizabeth (Duncan), b. 5 Sep 1831  (CR)
(1st Stabane Baptisms)

1831 Strabane Morning Post (SMP) On the 27th ult., at his son’s residence in Killygordon, in the 70th year of his age, Mr Robert Holmes [b.1761]  [also see Stranolar]

From The Strabane Morning Post, 27 March 1832. On the evening of Tuesday last, as two men, servants of Mr William Holmes, of the Brewery of this town, were drying barley, they fell asleep, and there being a very great smoke in the loft, they were nearly suffocated. Had it not been for a dog which was in the premises, both lives would have been lost, as on hearing the moans of the men, the dog alarmed Mr Robert Holmes, who, with the greatest promptitude, dragged them to the door, and instantly sent for medical assistance; and by the unremitting exertions of Dr. Leney, Surgeons Holmes and Mitchell, they were restored to life, and are now completely recovered.

From The Strabane Morning Post, 22 May 1832. DIED “On Tuesday last, after a lingering illness, which he bore with christian fortitude and resignation, Mr William Holmes, of this town, Brewer. In him were united all the good qualities that could adorn the christian. A tender parent, a loving husband, and one whose hand was always open to the call of the needy. His loss is deeply lamented by all who knew him, which was fully testified by the numerous and respectable assemblage that followed his remains to the graveyard at Stranorlar.” [see Stranolar for headstone inscription – also headstones of many other family members]

Mr WILLIAM Holmes of Strabane died 15 May 1832 in the 63rd year of his age (Belfast Newsletter, 25 May 1832, p.2)

William Holmes, born Strabane 6 Sept 1832 and came to Philadelphia in the summer of 1848. Was in wholesale grocery business. Died 17 Aug 1874 at Delaware Water Gap, and buried in North Laurel Hill Cemetery.  (HFSP, p.431)

Memorial of indented deed dat 22 May 1832 betw 1) Samuel Holmes of Strabane wheelwright and 2) James Porter of Guystown Co Donegal farmer; 1) grants 2) to hold for ever two dwelling houses in Butchers street bounded on the west by the street leading to the Bowling green and on the north by the tenement formerly occupd by Mr Chambers; wit Samuel Colhoun attorney and Robert Mease his apprentice; S C sw. 24 May 1832 Strabane. (RD 884/287/585787)

From The Strabane Morning Post,12 March 1833, Married On Thursday last, by the Rev. James Gamble, Mr Graham Ross, of Nt. Stewart, to Miss Holmes, daughter of Mr SAMUEL Holmes, of this town.

From Belfast News Letter edn. 9 July 1833: Married “On Wednesday evening last by the Rev A P Goudy, William Glasse Esq solicitor to Mary eldest daughter of the late William Holmes Esq, both of Strabane.”

Londonderry Journal, July 9 1833, Married Wednesday evening last, the 4th inst., by the Rev. A.P. Goudy, WILLIAM GLASSE, ESQ., solicitor, to MARY, eldest daughter of the late WILLIAM HOLMES, ESQ., both of Strabane

John Holmes M D, 1834. Born Strabane 14 Dec 1809 and came to America 15 June 1833 and settled immediately in Philadelphia. Was a physician and a member of the Union League. Also one of the physicians of the Society 1836-42. Died 25 Feb 1886 and was buried in Laurel Hill Cemetery. Seth Craig Holmes 1845 is his brother in law, and Edward C Holmes of Wallingford, Pa, is a son. (HFSP, p.431)

Memorial of an Indented Deed 7 Nov 1826 made Between John Proffit of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Carpenter and Elizabeth Proffit of Strabane aforesaid Spinster of the one part and John Holmes of Strabane aforesaid Carpenter of the other part Whereby the said John Proffit and Elizabeth Proffit for the Considons therein ment Did Grant Bargain Sell assign transfer and make over unto the said John Holmes his Exors admors and assigns all that and those that Messuage tenement houses and Gardens adjoining the Church Yard of Strabane aforesaid in as full and ample a manner as the same was formerly held and Enjoyed by John White and as then or lately 17 in the possession of the said John Proffit and his undertenants situate lying and being in the parish of Camus Barony of Strabane and County of Tyron To Hold said Messuage Tenement and premises unto the said John Holmes his Exors admors and assigns from the first day of November instruct for the rest residue and remainder of the Term of 999 years from the first day of May 1728 togr with all rights members privileges and appurte thereunto belonging and which said Deed as to the Execution thereof by the said parties and this Memorial as to the perfection thereof by the said John Holmes are witnessed by Thomas Calhoun of Strabane Gent and Samuel Calhoun of Strabane aforesaid Gent Attorney at Law dated this Seventh day of November ( 1826 ) John Holmes Seal Signed sealed and delivered in presence of Samuel Calhan Thomas Calham Samuel Calhoun above named maketh Oath and saith that he is a Subscribing witness to the Deed of which the above is a memorial and to this Memorial and saith that he saw said Deed duly Executed by the parties thereto and this Memorial by the said John Holmes party thereto and that the name of this Deponent subscribed as a witness to said Deed and this Memorial is this Deponents proper name and handwriting and that he delivered same to Francis Armstrong Esqr at the Registry Office Dublin on the 13th day of November 1826  (RD 818/369/551105)

A Memorial of an Indented deed 3 Aug 1832 between John Holmes of Strabane in the County Tyrone Architect of the one part and James Porter of Strabane aforesaid Merchant of the other part whereby the said John Holmes for the considerations therein ment did Grant Bargain sell assign Transfer and make over unto the said James Porter his Exas admors and assigns All that and those that Messuage tenement House and Gardens adjoining the church yard of Strabane aforesaid in as full and ample a manner of the same was formerly held and enjoyed by John White and as lately in possession of John Profitt and his undertenants and as now in the possession of the said John Holmes and his undertenants situate lying and being in the parish of Cannus Barony of Strabane and County of Tyrone aforesaid To hold unto the said James Porter his exors admon and assigns from the first day of May last for and during all the rest residue and remainder of the term of nine hundred and ninety nine years from the first day of May one thousand aght hundred & twenty eight yet to come and unexpered and which deed as to the execution thereof by the said parties and this memr as to the Execution thereof by the said John Holmes are witnessed by David Jenkins Station in the County of Tyrone Gentleman and Saml Cathorm of Strabane aforesaid Solicitor Dated this day 1832 John Holmes seal signed sealed and delivered in presence of David Jenkins Saml Colhorm Saml Colhorm above named maketh oath & saith that he is a subscribing witness to the deed of which the above is a ment & to this meme & that he saw said deed duly executed by the parties thereto & this ment by the said John Holmes & that the name of this deponent subscribed as a witness to said deed & this mem is this deponents proper name and hand writing Saml Colham Sworn before me at Strabane in the County of Tyrone this 7th day of August 1832 (RD 886/415/586915)….see also RD 1881 #70

A Memorial of an Indenture of Lease bearing date 1 Jun 1834 between Thos Conolly Cowan of Westown Somersetshire in England of the one part and William Stevenson of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Merchant of the other part Whereby the said Thos Connolly Cowan …did demise .. unto the said Wm Stevenson .. the Tenement or dwelling house in the front Street of Strabane aforesaid in which William Fleming formerly lived with the Dock Yard and office houses thereunto belonging and also all that Dwelling house and Tenement in which John Holmes formerly lived and lately in the occupation of Rebecca Thompson Widow deceased with the Back Yard and office Houses thereunto belonging all which said Dwelling Houses Tenements and premises are now in the actual occupy and poss of the said Wm Stevenson … to hold unto the said William Stevenson his heirs Exors Admors and Assigns from the first day of November last for &during the life and lives of James Stevenson aged Eleven years and Samuel Stevenson aged five years and William Stevenson aged about two by all sons of the said William Stevenson … witnesses by Saml Colhoun of Strabane Atty at Law and Thomas Browne of Miltown Linn Merchant both in the County of Tyrone (RD 1834/297)

Strabane Morning Post, April 29 1834, Died in this town on Tuesday last, after a short illness MR. JOHN HOLMES, an old and respectable inhabitant

b. 3 Nov 1834 Andrew Holmes, son of Robert Holmes & Ann Crawford, bp Strabane 13 Jan 1835 (https://www.cotyroneireland.com/churchrecord/1stStrabaneBaptisms1834-40.html)

Memorial of Indenture bearing date 28 Sep 1830 made between Charles James Brown of New Inn in the County of Middlesex Esquire of the one part and Robert Hugh Wilson Ingram of the Middle Temple in the City of London Esquire of the other part comprising and appointing and also conveying all that piece of ground tenement now or late in the tenure of John Single or his assigns situate in the ┃ Parish of Camus juxta Morne in Strabane in the County of Tyrone in Ireland such piece of Ground extending from the end of the tenement now or late in the posson of Denis Conney and being in the lane leading from the center ┃ main street of Strabane to the lack Street thereof leading to the meeting House also all that messuage or tenement with the lack houses and backside Lane leading to the back cate thereof situate in the said tour of Strabane and commonly called the Cross House now or late in the tenure of John Smith or his assigns also the two fields in Cobermare formerly in the posson of John Reid or his tenants with the several Messuages tenements and Gardens adjoining the same situate in the town of Strabane aforesaid now or late in the tenure of the said John Smith or his assigns also all that large messuage situate in the front Street of Strabane of with the lack yard garden and Offices thereunto belonging in the tenure late of Samuel Hunter et since of his widow also all the Archard with the messuage or tenements thereunto attached and the piece of Ground late waste ground but now converted into a Garden and adjoining the said Archard containing by estimation about three acres androad which Richard Messuage or tenements and lands adjoining are now or late were in the tenure of Daniel McLaughlin and Richard McLaughter or their undertenants also all those two messuage or tenements situate in Barrack Street in Strabane aforesaid formerly in the respective tenures of Hugh Harper and Archibald Roddy all Mose two messuage or tenements situate in the front of Meeting House Street in Strabane aforesaid formerly in the respective tenures of John Smith and Elizabeth McGowan bounded on the North by the tenement now or late of William Holmes on the West by the said front of Meeting House Street aforesaid on the South by premises now or lately held under the ┃ Humphreys and on the East by Barrack Street aforesaid which last men = tioned messuage or tenements are respectively situate in the Parish of Camus Camels in the town of Strabane aforesaid and respectively now or late were in the tenure of the said William Holmes or his undertenant Also all those eight messuages or tenements situate in Straton afore said and next adjoining the upper end of the Archard now or late — of Daniel McLaughlin also the field in the year of the said tenements and containing about one acre of arable land which eight Tenements with the field in the year thereof are respectively situate in Clabbermore and respectively now are or lately were in the respective tenures of William Parker and the Widow their or their assigns also all that Messuage or Tenement with the back House and back yard thereunto attached situate in the lane leading from the front Street of Strabane aforesaid to the Garden now or late of James Hamilton which messuageor late was in the tenure of Denis Cannoney or his assigns also all that messuage or tenement with the back yard thereunto belonging situate in the said lane leading from the front Street of Strabane aforesaid which messuages or late was in the tenure of Patrick Holliday or his assigns also all that messuage or tenement with the back house and back yard thereunto belonging situate in the said lane leading from the front Street of Strabane aforesaid and between the houses lately inhabited by James Lindsay and Charles McCawley which ┃ Missuage was in the tenure formerly of John Crawford and since of his widow to all that the town and town lands with the Boy called Gartnagrace all which are reputed to be in the Parish of Verney in the County of Donegal also the several messuages or Tenements there unto belonging the cultivated part of the said Land being now or late set out in parcels and with the said tenements now or lately in the several tenures of Robert Brown James McMenamin Joseph Brown Joseph Brown and John Brown James Brown and William Brown William Belgrace and John Kilgroe John Darragh Nathen Daragh and Thomas Darragh Michael McNennaman and Robert Ervine and George Ervine or their respective assigns also all other tenements and Here = ditaments situate within Clabermore otherwise Clabbermare and Strabane aforesaid or either of them or within the said Parishes of James Canta Marie and Camus or either of them or within the said Parish of Verney on the Barony of Raphoe respectively in the County of Donegal or either of them thereof or wherein the said Charles James Brown is now seized for any estate of Freehold of Inheritance or which he hath power to appoint with their respective rights members casements and appurtenances to the use of the Robert Hugh Wilson Ingram his heirs and assigns forever he = vertheless upon certain trust therein declared which Indre as to the exion thereof by the said parties is witnessed by Charles Pitt Demille of No Carty me Upper Manor St Parish of Saint Luke Chelsea in the said of Middlesex Cant and William Smith of Motin New Inn in the said C. Clerk to the said Chas James ┃ Brown and the said Indre is hereby by the said Chas James Brown Required to be ┃ Registered in witness whereof the said Chas James Brown hath hereunto set and subscribed his name & seal this twenty eighth day of September 1835 . Charles James Brown ( seal ) ┃ Signed and sealed by the said Chas Jas Brown in the presence of Chas Pitt Densela forty me Apper Manor St Chelsea Wm Smith ten New Inn Clerk to said Chas Jas Brown . The ┃ above named Chas Pitt Densel of No forty one in the Parish of Saint Luke Chelsea in the Co of Middlesex Cent . maketh Oath that he is a subscribing witness to the deed of which the above Writing is a mem and saw the same duly executed by the above named Chas J Brown and (RD 1835//20)

Memorial of indenture dated 1 Jul 1835 made between Samuel Sproule of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Surgeon of the one part and Samuel Holmes of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Merchant of the other part to be an assignment of the rest residue and remainder of a term of twenty years granted by a certain Indenture of lease bearing date 8 Apr 1819 made between her James Gilbraith then of Shanvally in the County of Donegall Baronet of the one part and Andrew Sproule party thereto of the other part of all that and those that farm and in Glentown lately occupied by John Patton containing a ten acres Cunningham Measure be the same more or less togeth with the new slated house lately erected thereon as formerly occupied by the said John Patton situate lying and being in the Quarterland of Urney, Parish of Urney Barony of Strabane and County of Tyrone with the rights members priviledges and appurtenances thereunto belong To hold the said farm of land tenement and premises with the appur unto the said Samuel Holmes his Exors admors and assigns from the first day of may last for and during the rest residue and remainder of said herein before recited term of twenty years as also for and during all such further term as may hereafter beadded thereto by virtue of the Toties Quoties Covenants in said recited lease contained which said Indenture of assignment is witnessed by William Elliot of Strabane in the County of Tyrone atty at Law , and this Mem is witnessed by the said William Elliott and by James Cook of Strabane aforesaid Merchant … before me this 4th day of July 1835 at Strabane (RD 1835 #108)

A Memorial of an Indenture of Assignment bearing date 15 Feb 1836 made between Charles Humphrey of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Carpenter the eldest son and heir at law of Charles Humphreys late of Strabane aforesaid deceased of the one part and John Smith of Galway and Robert Holmes of Strabane both in the County of Tyrone Brewer of the other part …Charles Humphrey..did grant .. unto the said John Smyth and Robert Holmes .. all that and those the two houses in Back Street of the town of Strabane this and now in the posson of William Rogan and Thomas Rutherland and also the house and Tenement lately occupied by Charles Humphreys deceased situate near the cleared house of Strabane called the hole in the walls .. unto the said John Smith and Robert Holmes .. for lives renewable for ever under Conolly Skipton held under and wife and .. under  John Smart for and unexpired term of years … witnessed by Daniel Cook actor and Glazier and William Glass Atty at Law both of Strabane … this Memorial as to the Execution thereof by the said Robert Holmes is witnessed by the said William Glass and Anne Eliza Holmes of Strabane aforesaid thereto dated this 25 Feb 1836 … at Strabane in the County of Tyron this twenty third day of February one thousand Eight hundred and thirty six (RD 1836/182)

Memorial of indented deed dat 15 June 1836 betw 1) Conolly Skipton Esq and Catherine Skipton o’wise Spotswood his wife of Beech Hill Co L’derry and 2) John Smyth of Galloway and ROBERT Holmes of Strabane Brewers; 1) grants 2) two dwelling houses in the Back street of Strabane to hold for lives perpetually renewable at £4.12.4 p a rent; wit Thomas Browne of Milltown Co Tyr and William Glasse attorney; T B sw. 15 June 1836 at Strabane. (RD 1836/12/171)

1836 b. 21st Aug. Sarah Jane & Elizabeth Blair to John Blair & [Jane] Holmes, bapt. Strabane 27th Aug (https://www.cotyroneireland.com/churchrecord/1stStrabaneBaptisms1834-40.html)

Londonderry Standard, November 30 1836 – Married November 10, at Strabane, by the Rev. P. Gowday, JOHN BAIRD, ESQ., of that Town, to JANE, second daughter of the late REV. JOHN HOLMES, of Brosney, Parish of Leck, and relict of the late HAMILTON MAGINNESS, of Dorset Street, Dublin

Memorial of Indented deed  dat 28 May 1838 betw 1) John Smyth of Gallony Co Tyr Esq and 2) ROBERT Holmes of Strabane eldest son and heir at law of WILLIAM Holmes late of Strabane, Brewer, ISABELLA Holmes of Strabane widow of said WILLIAM Holmes, JAMES Holmes of Glencovitt Cottage Co Donegal Linen Merchant, William Glasse of Strabane attorney and MARY Glasse o’wise Holmes his wife and ANNE Eliza Holmes of Strabane spinster, which said JAMES, MARY and ANNE Eliza are children of WILLIAM Holmes decd; recites that 1) obtained a judgement in Easter term 1819 in H M’s Court of King’s Bench in Ireland against WILLIAM Holmes for the sum of £3000 ster. besides costs, and WILLIAM Holmes being seised in fee of an undivided moiety of a dwelling house, office houses and garden in the Main street of Strabane, formerly in possn of Alexander Sinclair Esq decd; also premises in possn of Laurence Neelis being a dwelling house and cellar and garden, and also a parcel of ground adjoining then used as a Ball alley or Racket Court being pt and parcel of that dwelling house and tenement in Main street in tenure of Alexander Dick …..in Manor and Barony of Strabane ..and that WILLIAM Holmes died in or about the month of May 1832 leaving the said judgement outstanding and instructing that it should be paid out the said property; and also reciting that at his death he was seised of other lands and tenements and premises …….. [a settlement is reached with   John Smyth] ; deed and mem wit Samuel Colhoun attorney and Joseph White his clerk both of   Strabane; J W sworn 12 June 1838 Strabane before Isaac Colhoun. [By the following deed No 21 of same date, ROBERT Holmes of Strabane, Brewer, and the other parties of 2) above, convey the property recited in Deed No 20 “together with the brewery fixtures erected thereon” to David Smith of Strabane mercht from 1 May inst to hold for ever.]  (RD 1838/12/20)….see also 1838 Deed from ROBERT Holmes, son of William Holmes of Strabane [names all the heirs of William (RD 1838/12/21)

b. 27 Jul 1839 Robert Blair to Robt. Blair & Jane Holmes, bapt. Strabane 16 Aug (https://www.cotyroneireland.com/churchrecord/1stStrabaneBaptisms1834-40.html)

b. 4th Feb 1840 John Baird to John Baird & Jane Holmes, bapt.Strabane 6th March (https://www.cotyroneireland.com/churchrecord/1stStrabaneBaptisms1834-40.html)

Memorial of Indented deed of reconveyance of mortgage dat 4 March 1841 betw 1) Robert Maxwell of Manchester and William Maxwell of L’derry merchts and 2) Robert Holmes of Strabane mercht; recites that sd Robert Holmes had granted to 1) in mortgage by deed dated 1 June 1830 the five Ballyboes of the Q’land of Carrowmore being 595. 0. 13 acs. Plantation measure in Culdaff p. Ennishowen B. in consdn £1700 to hold for residue of lease from M of Donegall; 1) now reconvey same to R H; deed and mem wit William Holmes of Dungannon and William Glasse of Strabane gent; W G sw. Strabane 31 March 1841. (RD 1841/7/129)

Memorial of Indented deed of assignment [mortgage] dat 5 April 1841 betw 1) Robert Holmes of Strabane Brewer and 2) John Stephens of Ballyshannon mercht; recites Lease dat 26 Dec 1829 from M of Donegall to sd R H of the five Ballyboes of the Q’land of Carrowmore being 295. 3. 13 acs Plantation measure in Culdaff p. Ennishowen B. formerly in possn Rev Cunningham Porter being pt of parcel of 473. 1. 4 acs demised to William Porter; to hold for lives with covenant for perpetual renewal at £37.10.0 ster. p a rent; R H assigns to J S for consdn £2650, subj to redemption; wit William Haffington solr and James Haffington gent both of L’derry; W H sw. 6 April 1841 L’derry. (RD 1841/7/242)

PRONI Reference : D652/1384
Title : Renewal Lease. Rent £37. 10. 0. Consideration …
Dates : 1 September 1842
Description : Renewal Lease. Rent £37. 10. 0. Consideration £1. 5. 0. Renewal Life: Prince Albert. Marquis of Donegal to John Stephens, Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal (Merchant). 295 acres, 3 roods, 13 perches, in Carrowmore, CO. Donegal, formerly held by Robert Holmes, Esq., Strabane, Co. Tyrone, and before him by Rev. Cunningham Porter. Part 473 acres, 1 rood, 14 perches, demised to William Porter, deceased.

Memorial of indented deed dat 15 July 1842 betw. 1) James Holmes of Navenny [Navenny] Co Donegal farmer and 2) Rebecca Taylor of Navenny spinster; 1) grants 2) for consdn. [not specified] a yearly rent charge or annuity of £6 charged on the lands of Navenny, Glencovitt and Meenan and on his houses and tenements in Ballybofey, to be paid for her natural life, but should he die before her, then she will receive in lieu a payment of £100; wit William Glasse gent attorney at law and Eliza Holmes spinster both of Strabane; W G sworn 3 Jan 1843 Strabane. (1843, Vol 1, No. 61)

A Memorial of an Indenture by way of Renewal bearing date10 Jan 1844  made between the Marquess of Donegall and John Stephens of Ballychannan?, Co Donegall Merchant hereby after renting a certain Indenture of lease bearing date the 20th Dec 1829 and made between the said Marquis of Donegall of the one part and Robt Holmes of Strabane in the Coy of Tyrone Gent of the other part and also reciting one other Indenture of Lease bearing date the 5th day of April 1841 and made between the said Robt Holmes of the one part and the said John Stephens of the other part and also reciting that said Arthur Chichester one of the lives in said rented Lease had then lately died and that the said John Stephens had nominated the life of his Royal Highness Prince Albert… in the place and stead of the said Lord Arthur Chichester … Marquis of Donegall .. did demise grant set and to farm let remise release and confirm unto the said John Stevens in his actual passion then being by virtue of said stated Lease and to his heirs and assigns all that farm or tenement being five Ballyboes of the quarter land of Carrowmore, by admeasurement two hundred and ninety five acres three roods and thirteen perches plantation measure or thereabouts be the same more or less as then formerly in the passion of the Revd Cunningham Porter being part and parcel of four hundred and Seventy three acres one road and fourteen perches be the said quarterland then formerly demised to William Porter deceased as then lately in the poss’n of the said Robt Holmes and then in the passion of the said John Stevens or his undertenants together with all houses out houses edifices and buildings which then were or at any time thereafter should be thereupon erited and built with their appears which said the tenement and Premises are situate lying and being in the Parish of Culdaff Barony of Eneshawen and lay of Donegall as the same were demised by said Indenture of Lease of the 26th day of December 1829 to hold the said Lands tenements and premises with the appurs unto the said John Stevens… witnessed by Paul Britton and Wm McLaughlin late of Belfast… this Memonal thereof as to know is also Witnessed by the said Paul Britton and Wm McLaughlin … 11th day of January 1844 (RD 1844/1/196)

From Emigration Database, Omagh Folk Park: The Vindicator, Died at Phila on the 30th April 1844 EDWARD Holmes a native of Strabane, Ireland.

Died 1 May 1844, Edward Holmes age 30 (Philadelphia Death Records)

From Londonderry Sentinel edn. 12 May 1849: Died 5 May Isabella relict of William Holmes Esq Strabane.

A Memorial of an Indenture bearing date 22 May 1850 made Between Robert Homes  of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Brewer of the one part and Isabella Porter of the City of Londonderry Spinster of the other part Whereby after reciting that the said Robert Holmes stood indebted to the said Isabella Porter in the sum of one hundred pounds sterling and that he was seized and possessed of certain premises in the Back Street of the Town of Shabane aforesaid her three  lives renewable for ever . And the said Isabella Porter had agreed to accept from the said Robert Holmes one annuity of Nine pounds per annum during the term of her natural life to be payable out of said premises in full satisfaction of said debt so due to her as aforesaid , It was Witnessed that the said Robert Holmes in consideration of the said sum of one hundred pounds Sterling so due by him to the said Isabella Porter and in full payment and in full payment and satisfaction thereof which the said Isabella Porter and thereby acknowledge He the said Robert Holmes did give grant and confirm unto the said Isabella Porter one annuity or clear yearly rent charge of Nine pounds per annum to be received taken had and to be issuing out of all that and those the two houses tenements and premises situate in the Back Sheet of the Town of Strabane then in the occupation and possession of John Brown and William Byrne together with the Cellars under the said premises and all the appurtenances thereunto in anywise belonging as the same are situate lying and being in the parish of Camus Barony of Strabane and County of Grone aforesaid To hold the said Connerty or clear yearly rent charge of Nine pounds per annum from the first day of May then instant unto the said Isabella Porter and her assigns for and during the term of her natural life to be paid and payable by two equal half yearly payments on every first day of May and every first day of November during the term at the Natural life of the said Isabella Porter the put payment thereof to be made on the put day of November then next and which said In ture contains a power of distress and several covenants , and as to the execution by the said Holmes, and Isabella Porter respectively is witnessed by William Glass Solicitor and Anne Eliza Holmes Spinster both of Strabane in the County of Tyrone and this memorial as to execution by the said Isabella Porter is witnessed by the said Anne Eliza Holmes and William Macartney of Londonderry in the City and County of Londondeny Writing Clerk , Isabella Porter ” Seal , Signed and sealed by the said Isabella Porter in presence of Anne Eliza Wm Macartney Londonderry – The above named Anne Eliza Holmes maketh Oath and that she is a subscribing witness to the deed of which the above writing is a memorice also to this Memorial and saith that she saw said deed duly executed by the said Robert Holmes and Isabella Porter respectively and this memorial duly executed by the said Isabella Porter , and that the name of this deponent subscribed as a witness to said deed and this mem all respectively is her this deponents proper name and handwriting ” Anne Eliza Holmes Sworn before me at Londondeny in the City and County of Londondeny this seventh any of August 1862 (RD 1862/28/125)

Londonderry Sentinel, February 6 1852 – Died at Strabane, on Sunday evening last, JAMES HOLMES, ESQ., Naveny [Navenny], at the advanced age of 92

A memorial of a deed of conveyance bearing date 13 Jan 1857 between Charles James Brown of New Inn in the County of Middlesex London Solicitor Register 13th Feby 1857 of the one part Robert Holmes of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Ireland Gentleman of the other part . Whereby the said Charles James Brown did grant and convey unto the said Robert Holmes and to his heirs all that and those the two tenements situate in Barrack Street Strabane formerly in the possession of Hugh Harper and Archibald Roddy afterwards in the possession of William Holmes and now in the possession of Robert Holmes party thereto and also two tenements in the front or Meeting house Street Strabane aforesaid formerly in the possession of John Smyth and Elizabeth McGowen afterwards in the possession of William Holmes & and now in the possession of Robert Holmes, bounded on the North by the Steam Mill and premises of Mr David Smith , on the west by the said Front or meeting house Street , on the south by premises held under Mrs Anne Humphreys and on the east by the said Barrack Street all which tenements and premises are situate lying and being in the parish of Cams Junta Mourne town and Barony of Strabane and County of Tyrone To hold unto the said Robert Holmes his heirs and assigns for ever , and which said deed and this Memorial are witnessed by Charles William Brown of No 10 New Inn in the County of Middlesex aforesaid Gentleman and James Harding of No 24 Ceal street stand in the same County Gentleman , Chas Jas Brown seal , Signed and sealed by the said Charles James Brown in the presence of us , Charles Wm Brown , James Harding . The above named Charles William Brown maketh oath and saith that he saw the above named Charles James Brown duly sign seal and deliver the deed of conveyance whereof the above writing is a Masonal and that he did also see the said Charles James Brown duly sign and seal the said Memorial and that the name ” Charles Wm Brown Subscribed as a witness to said deed I and this Memorial is his this deponents proper name and handwriting , Charles W Brown , Sworn before me this thirteenth day of January one thousand eight hundred and fifty seven  (RD 1857/5/130)

A Memorial of an indented Deed bearing date 12 Feb 1857 made between Robert Holmes of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Gentleman of the one part and William Craig of Bally Follard in the County of Tyrone Farmer of the other part whereby after reciting as therein is recited said Indenture Witnessed that the said Robert Holmes for the consideration therein mentioned by said presents did grant bargain sell alien release and confirm unto the said William Craig assigns all that and those the Two Tenement situate in Barrack Street merly in the possession of Hugh Harper and Archibald Roddy afterwards in the possession of William Holmes and then in the possession of Robert Holmes party thereto & thereto and also the two Tenements in the front on Meeting House Street Strabane aforesaid formerly in the possession of John Smith and Elizabeth McGowan afterwards in the possession of William Holmes and then in the possession of the said Robert Holmes bounded on the North by the Steam Mill and premises of Mr David Smith in the West by said rent or meeting house that on the South by the premises held under Mr Anne Humphreys and on the East by the said Barrack street all which said Tenements and premises are situate lying and being in the Parish of Cards Tuxtamanen Town and Barony of Strabane and County of Tyrone and the reversion and reversions remainder and remainders yearly and other the rents issues and profits commodities advantages Emoluments and hereditaments whatsoever to the said Tenements and Premises respectively belonging or in anywise appertaining or which to and with the same them were or at any time theretofore had been held used occupied accepted reputed taken or known as part parcel or member thereof together with the rudits members and appurtenan thereunto belonging and also the Estate right Title Interest use Trust property claim and demand whatsoever at law or equity of the said Robert Holmes of in and to all and singular the said Tenements and premises and every part thereof with the appurtenances and due and every the buildings and improvements then made or thereafter to be made thereon with the appurtenances and also all Deeds Leases Evidences and writings touching or concerning the said premises or any part thereof then in the custody power or possession of him the said Robert Holmes To Hold all and singular the said Tenements and premises therein before mentioned and described and every part and parcel there with the appurtenances unto the said William Craig his heirs and assigns to the only proper use and behoof of the said William Craig his heirs and assigns for ever subject Nevertheless to the provise or condition to redemption & thereinafter contained that was to say provided always and it was thereby agreed by and between the said parties thereto that if the said Robert Holmes his heirs heirs admors or assigns did and should well and truly pay or cause to be paid unto the said William Craig his heirs Exors Admis in assigns the said principal sum of one hundred and Twenty five pounds on or before the Twelfth day of February one thousand eight hundred and fift at with interest for the same after the rate of six per centum per annum from said dateby half yearly payments on every Twelfth day of August and Twelfth day of Feby then not I only said present but a certain Assignment of a Policy of Insurance and a certain Bond with warrant of attorney for confessing was , went thereon therein unted wearing equal date and collated therewith , should become null and void to all intents and purposes whatsoever any thing herein contained to the contrary notwithstanding , and which said Deed and this Memorial as to the execution and perfection thereof respectively by the said Robert Holmes one of the parties to said Deed and party to this Memorial are witnessed respectively by Robert Wilson of Strabane in the County of Tyrone attorney at law and Thomas Sharkey of Lila in the County of Donegal writing Clerk , out lines seal , signed and Sealed in presence of , Robert Wilson , Thomas Sharkey , Now Robert Wilson of Strabane in the County of Tyrone attorney at law above named maketh oath and saith that he is a subscribing witness to the Deed of which the above writing is a memorial and to said Memorial respectively and that he saw said Deed and Memorial all pectively executed by Robert Holmesone of the parties to said Deed and party to said Memorial respectively and that the name Robert Wilson subscribed as a witness to said Deed and Memorial respectively is this Deponent proper name and handwriting , not Wilson , Sworn before me at Strabane in the County of Donegal 12 Feb 1857 (RD 1857/5/196)

Samuel Holmes lessor of unoccupied house on Meeting House Street, Strabane in 1858 (GV)

Wilhelmina Holmes held a house, offices, a yard and a small garden in 1858.  (GV)

From Belfast News Letter edn. 1 Oct 1860: Married ” 30th Sept Mr Henry Stewart Hamilton to Harriet Georgina dau of Robert Holmes Esq Strabane.”

Will dat 17 Dec 1860 Mary Wetheral widow of Ballindrait [d.20 March 1861]; legacies to niece Eliza Munroe; sister Jane Anne Tuthill; cousin Alexander Porter; smaller legacies to Margaret Gordon of Raphoe; Alexander Elliott of Ballyshannon; Mary Delap o’wise Elliott of L’pool; sister Rebecca Brady; Wm Marshall of Camphill; Rev John Porter Dickeyof Carnone; John Speer Henry of Campsie; orphan son and dau of late Wm Thompson of Beltony; Mrs Arbuckle o’wise Lindsay; Margt Wilson of Portlough; Mrs Shaw o’wise Moore and her sister Mrs Walker; the wife of Rev Mr McCrea of Ballindrait; Mary Jane Stevenson of Cavan; Catherine Stillay of Gortin; to wife of Robert Holmes brewer of Strabane; to Widow Lindsay mother to Mrs Arbuckle; Presb congn. of Ballindrait; Alexr Porter of Killenure; exors Rev J Porter Dickey and Wm Marshall of Camphill. (NTTDS)

PRONI Reference : D652/1520
Title : Counterpart Fee Farm Grant for 3 lives renewable …
Dates : 24 March 1862
Description : Counterpart Fee Farm Grant for 3 lives renewable for ever. Rent £37. 13. 6. Marquis of Donegall to Mr. John Stephens, Ballyshannon (Merchant). 296 acres, 3 roods, 13 perches, being five Ballyboes in the Quarterland of Carrowmore, Co. Donegal, formerly held by Rev. Cunningham Porter being part of 473 acres, 1 rood, 14 perches, formerly held by William Porter. recites lease of 1829. Marquis of Donegall to Robert Holmes, Strabane, Co. Tyrone.

Londonderry Sentinel, September 19 1862 – Died September 17, MR. ROBERT HOLMES, of Strabane

26 Jun 1863 . Letters of Administration of the personal estate of Robert Holmes late of Strabane in the County of Tyrone deceased who died 17 September 1862 at Omagh in said County were granted at the Principal Registry to Edward Holmes of Strabane aforesaid Brewer the Son, one of the next of kin of said deceased (Will Calendar 1863, p.93)

A Memorial of an Indented Deed 19 Sep 1863 Between William Holmes of Philadelphia in the United States of America Gentleman eldest son and heir at law of of Robert Holmes late of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Brewer deceased of the one part and Edward Holmes of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Brewer of the other part whereby after Reciting as therein the said William Holmes for the considerations therein mentioned did grant bargain sell assign transfer and make over alien release convey and confirm unto the said Edward Holmes his heirs executors administrators and assigns Firstly all that and those two houses tenements and premises in the Back Street of Straban formerly in the possession of Charles Humphrey and afterwards in the actual occupation and possession of the said Robert Holmes and then or late in the possession of the said William Holmes party thereto and his under tenants measuring in front to the said Back Street thirty two feet or thereabouts and running backwards to Butcher that bounded on the north by the house and premises formerly occupied by Thomas McNewance then in the possession of Michael Bradden on the south by premises then in the occupation of William Barnhill on the west by said Back Street and on the East by premises then in the occupation of James McGee and Hugh Daid and secondly all that and those that dwelling house tenement and premises in the front street of the town of Strabane formerly occupied as a Police Barracks formerly in the possession of the said Robert Holmes deceased and then or late in the possession of the said William Holmes party thereto and his under tenants being the premises comprised in and demised by a certain Indenture of eighteenth December one thousand eight hundred and forty one therein before recited and Thirdly all that and those the two tenements situate in Barrack Street and also two tenements in front or Meeting house Street Strabane as the south were formerly in the possession of one Charles James Brown and his under tenants afterwards in the occupation and possession of the said Robert Holmes and his under tenant and part of which was used by said Robert Holmes as a Brew House Malt House Stable Byre sheds and Yard and then or late in the possession of the said William Holmes party thereto and his under tenants being the premises mentioned and described in an Indenture of 13 Jan 1857  therein before recited with the improvements and appurtenances thereunto severally belonging or in any wise appertaining all which said several premises are situate lying and being in the Town of Strabane Parish of Camus Barony of Strabane and County of Tyrone and all and singular the appurtenances to the said several and respective premises tenements or any part thereof belonging or appertaining and all improvements made and to be made thereon and the rents issues and profits thereof to hold the said firstly herein before mentioned and demised premises and all and singular the rights privileges and appendances thereunto belonging or in any wise appertaining and all the improvements made or to be made thereon respectively with their and every of their appurtenances unto the said Edward Holmes his heirs and assigns to the only proper use of the said Edward Holmes his heirs and assigns for ever and to hold the secondly herein before mentioned and described premises with the rights privileges and appurtenances thereunto belonging or in any wise appertaining and all improvements made and to be made thereon with the appurtenances unto the said Edward Holmes his heirs executors administrators and assigns for and during the rest residue and remainder of the terms for lives and years granted by the original Lease of 18 Dec 1841 therein before recited and for and doing all such further and other term as night for ever thereafter be granted or obtained thereof in any manner howsoever and to hold the said thirdly herein before mentioned and described tenements hereditaments and premises with the appurtenances unto the said Edward Holmes his heirs and assigns to the only proper use and behoof of the said Edward Holmes his heirs and assigns for ever subject nevertheless to the payment of the yearly head rents taxes cesses and impositions then or at any time thereafter to be charged or imposed upon or payable out of or in October 1863 respect of the said several lands tenements hereditaments and premises or any part thereof and which said deed as to the execution and perfection thereof by the said William Holmes is witnessed by George Crump Solicitor British Consulate Six hundred and nineteen Walmett Street Philadelphia in the United States of America and which said deed and this memorial as to the execution and perfection thereof respectively by the said Edward Holmes one of the parties to said Deed and party hereto are respectively witnessed by Robert Wilson of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Solicitor and by Thomas Sharke of Lifford in the County of Donegal writing Clerk Edward Holmes ( Seal Signed and Sealed in presence of Robert Wilson Sol Strabane , Thomas Sharkie Now Robert Wilson of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Solicitor above named maketh Oath and saith that he is a subscribing witness to the Deed of which the above is a memorial and to his memorial respectively and saith that he saw said Deed and this memorial respectively duly executed by the said Edward Holmes one of the parties to said Deed and party hereto and that the name Robert Wilson subscribed as a witness to said Deed and this memorial respectively is this deponents proper name and hand writing Robert Wilson Sworn before me at Strabane in the County of Tyrone this 7th day of October 1863 (RD 1863/32/246)

(autotext – need to review) memorial of articles of Agreement 27 Nov 1863  Edward Holmes of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Brewer of the one part and John Thomson and Edward Harris Clarke both of Belfast on behalf of the Belfast Banking Company , of the other part ; which articles witnessed that on ment therein mentioned and for effectually securing to the Belfast Bankling Company and the time thereof for the time being , and their assigns all sum and sums of Money which then were or at any time and from time to time thereafter should be due or owing to them , on the leaf the account of the said Edward Holmes subject to the Limitation therein after mentioned 5 said Edward Holmes for himself his Heirs Executors and Administrators did thereby covenant that all and every the deeds and writings mentioned in the Schedule therein Insure and then depunted with the said Banking Company , and the Lands Tenement and Hereditam therein comprised , and which premises cosist of . All those two now Tenement and premore in the Back Street of Strabane Lately in the possession of William Holmes his under Tenants man in front to the said Back Street Thirty two feet or thereabouts and in and backward , to the Street , bounded as described in the Conveyance No 7 – in said Schedule , also all that has or Tenement and premises in the Front Street of the Town of Straban you occupied and Police Barracks lately in the possession of said Foling so those ments situate in Barrack Street Also two Tenem Front of Meeting house Strabane as formerly in the possession of Robert Holmes and my under an which was used by said Robert Holmes as a Brew House all house stable by the and lately in the possession of said William Holmes and and appurtenances thereunto belonging all wouch and seven and Town of Shabane in the parish of Camus, … remain a security unto the same company for at ing and then by payment of all such sums of attoney as then was or were or hand as any time or from time to be Thereafter be due or owing from the said Edward Holmes his executor administrator and to said Banking Company , or the Members of the said Company for the account of the said Edward Holmes with said Banking Company but imitate therein after mentioned ) and all sum and sums of money to her when a reality or engagement his been or should or might be entered into or Incured by the said none other or Tountly , with any other person or persons upon or by reason or means of the trees or of accepting paying the Checks drafts Bills or Tromisary notes of the same or by directing of Exchange or promissory Notes , or by affording other pecumary assistance with Interest thereon at ument rate charged or the time being by said Belfast Banking on house upon one drawn accor upon demand clear of all deductions whatsoever . And that all such sum and sums of money in Interest thereon until payment thereof should therefore a and charge upon the son lands Tenements Hereditaments and premises an form all other charges and cum and whatsoever provided Nevertheless that the soral Amount on Thomas Money or balance to ultimately recoverable by means of the Security thereby had annot Exceed the sum therein mentioned besides Interest and Costs , and which prices as to the execution thereof by the said Holmes is witnessed by William Smith of Shabane aforesaid at anger and as to the Execute of his memorial by said Edward Home , & witnessed by said Willam Smith and Andrew Reed of Shabane aforesaid Gentleman – Saward Hoems . Signed and said by sell and to In presence of Wm Smith Andrew Reid , There then named William Smith maketh oath and saith , That he is a subscribing witness to the station of the Articles of Agreement when the within writing is a memonal and Saith he was present and did see said articles duly Executed and the within Memonal duly perfected by the within named Edward Holmes July to Thereto . and saith that the Main Austin Smith subscribed as a Witness to the late Memorial Respectively is this Deponents proper name and handwriting . Wm Smith Sworn me at Strabane in the County & Tyrone this 29th day of November 1863 (RD 1863/38/247)

a memorial of an Indenture of Mortgage 9 Dec 1865 between James Holmes of Naveny in the County of Donegal farmer of the one part and Oliver White of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Woollen Draper of the other 15th December 1865 part whereby after reciting as therein said Indenture witnessed that past 30.6 the said James Holmes for the considerations therein mentioned , did grant bargain sell assign alien release convey and confirm , unto said Oliver White his heirs and assigns , Firstly . All that and those that part of the lands of Naveny therein aforesaid called the Eastern Division Bounded on the North by the River Fun , on the East by the lands of Heenan , on the South by the lands of Glencovit and knock , and on the West partly by the road leading to the Bleach Green , and partly by that Division of Naveny in the possession of Andrew Jenkins situate in the Manor of Stranorlar Barony of Raphoe and County of Donegal , containing in the whole fifty three acres two roods and thirty eight perches . Cunningham measure more or less , with the the houses Buildings and improvements thereon , and all the Mills Mill dams , Waters Water courses and appurtenances thereunto belonging or appertaining . Excepting as in an Indenture dated Twentieth November one thousand eight hundred and ten , and in said memorializing Indenture mentioned is excepted and reserved . and all advantage to be derived from the covenant for renewal contained in said recited Indenture subject to redemption as therein after mentioned , and secondly . All that and those the said Dwelling house Tenement and premises in the Town of Ballybofey granting the Great Road leading from Ballybofey to taveny , and ranging with what was formerly William Taylors dwelling house , with all and singular the rights and appurtenances thereunto belonging situate lying and being in the Parish of Stranorlar , Barony of Raphoe and County of Same or , excepting as in an Indenture of Ninth November , one thousand eight hundred and fifty eight therein recited is excepted and reserved to Hold unto said Oliver White his heirs and assigns for ever . Subject also to the provise for redemption therein contained , that was to say . That if said James Holmes his heirs executors administrators and assigns , on or before first November , one thousand eight hundred and sixty six , paid said Oliver White his heirs exors admors or assigns the sum of Two hundred and thirty pounds sterling , with interest at six per cent per annum , and also fulfill the conditions and obligations of a certain land of equal date and collateral with said presents . Then said presents should be void , and if said sum of Two hundred and this pounds remained out standing and the interest thereon to be regularly paid on the days therein appointed or within one month from the said respective days of payment . That the said interest should be reduced to six per cent per annum . Which said Indenture and this memorial as to the execution thereof respective by the said James Holmes , are witnessed by Robert Wilson Joe Strabane and Henry Joseph Moran , Law Clerk both of Strabane in the County of Tyrone , James Holmes seal . Signed and Sealed in presence of Robert Wilson Sole Strabane , H. G. , Moran Straban , Henry Joseph Moran of Shabane in the County of Irone Law Clerk and Twenty five years and upwards maketh oath and saith he is a subscribing witness to the deed (RD 1865/35/293)

Memorial of an indented deed 9 Dec 1865 between Edward Holmes of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Brewer of the one part , and Miss Mary Jane Holmes of Strabane in the County of Tyrone , Spinster of the other part Whereby after writing as is therein recited said Indenture witnessed that for the considerations therein mentioned . He the said Edward Holmes did grant bargain sell assign transfer and set over , alien release convey and confirm , unto the said Mary Jane Holmes her heirs executors administrator and assigns , firstly . All that and those two houses tenements and premises in the Back Street of Strabane formerly in the possession of Charles Humphrey , and afterwards in the actual occupation and possession of the therein named Robert Holmes, and then or late in the possession of the said Edward Holmes party thereto and his under tenants measuring in front to the said Back Street thirty two feet or thereabouts and running backwards to Butcher Street . Bounded on the North by the house and premises formerly occupied by Thos McNeilance then in the possession of Michael Braddan , on the South by the premises then in the occupation of William Barnhill , on the West by said Back Street , and on the last by premises formerly in the occupation of James Miller and Hugh M Daid , and secondly . All that and those that dwelling house messuage and premises in the Front Street of the Town of Straban formerly occupied as a Police Barracks afterwards in the possession of the said Robert Holmes deceased and then or late in the possession of said Edward Holmes party thereto and his under tenants being the premises comprised in and demised by the said Indenture of lease of Eighteenth December one thousand eight hundred and forty one therein before recited and thirdly all that and those the two Tenements situate in Barrack street and also two Tenements in Grant or Meeting House Street Strabane as the same were formerly in the possession of the therein mentioned Charles James Brown and his under tenants afterwards in the occupation and possession of the said Robert Holmes and his undertenants , and part of which was used by said Robert Holmes as a Brew House , Malt house stable byre sheds and yard and then or late in the possession of the said Edward Holmes party thereto and his under tenants , being the premises mentioned and described in the said Indenture of thirteenth January one thousand eight hundred and fifty seven therein before rented and fourthly all that and those the said dwelling house in the Front Street of Strabane then in the occupation of Nancy McCanly held by Lease under the Reverend Alexander Sinclair Humpheys with all and singular the improvements and appurtenances thereunto belonging or in any wise appertaining , all which said several premises are situate lying and being in the Town of Strabane Parish of Camus Barony of Strabane and County of Tyron , and Fifthly , all that and those all the Household goods furniture and chattels , stock in trade Moneys Book and other debts Brewery and all the fixtures in said Brewery and implements and utensils for Brewing and carrying on the Brewery trade Horses carts drays barrels . Black cattle and pigs , and all and every , the articles utensils goods and chattels in said Brewery or connected therewith and all other the goods chattels and effects of every nature and kind whatsoever of him the said Edward Holmes or which he could claim , and the appurtenances , and all his estate and interest therein To Hold the said firstly therein before mentioned and described premises , with all and singular the rights privileges appurtenances and appendances thereunto belonging or in any wise appertaining , and all improvements made or thereafter to be made thereon respectively with their and every of their appurtenances , unto the said Mary Jane Holmes her heirs and assigns , To the only proper use of the said Mary Jane Holmes her heirs and assigns for ever , and to Hold the said secondly therein before mentioned and described premises with the rights privileges and appurtenances thereunto belonging or in any wise appertaining , and all improvements made and to be made thereon , with the appurtenances , unto the said Mary Jane Holmes her heirs executors administrators and assigns for and during all the rest residue and remainder of the Term for lives and years granted by the said Original lease of Eighteenth December one thousand eight hundred and forty one therein before recited , and for and during all such other and further term as might for ever thereafter be granted or obtained thereof , in any manner howsoever . and to Hold the said thirdly therein before mentioned and described Tenements hereditaments and premises , with the appurtenances unto the said Mary Jane Holmes her heirs and assigns , to the only proper use and behoof of the said Mary Jane Holmes her heirs and assigns for ever . and to Hold the said fourthly therein before mentioned and described premises unto the said Mary Jane Holmes her heirs executors administrators and assigns for and during all the rest residue and remainder of the said lease thereof , therein before mentioned , and to Hold the said Fifthly therein before described goods chattels and effects therein before mentioned and described unto the said Mary Jane Holmes her heirs executors administrators and assigns , as her and their proper goods and chattels for ever . Subject however to the respective head rents taxes and charges payable out of the said several and respective Tenements hereditaments and premises , or any part or parts thereof , and which said deed as to the execution and perfection thereof by the parties thereto . And this memorial as to the execution and perfection thereof by the said Edward Holmes are respectively witnessed by James Holmes of Naveny in the County of Donegal , Farmer and Henry Stewart Hamilton of Londonderry in the City and County of Londonderry Merchant , Edward Holmes Seal . Signed and sealed in presence of James Holmes, Henry Stewart Hamilton , James Holmes of Naveny in the County of Donegal , Farmer , aged thirty years and upwards maketh oath and saith he is a subscribing witness to the deed whereof this writing is a memorial , and to said Memorial respectively , and saith he saw said deed and Memorial respectively duly executed by the said Edward Holmes party thereto , and saith the name James Holmes subscribed as a witness to the execution of said deed and memorial respectively is deponents proper name and handwriting as Holmes Sworn Before me at Sharon in the County of Tyrone this Eleventh day of December one thousand eight hundred and sixty five (RD 1865/35/294)

A Memorial of articles of agreement bearing date 23 Feb 1866 made Between Mary Jane Holmes of Strabane in the county of Tyrone spinster of the one part and The Belfast Banking Company of the other part which artides witnessed that pursuant to the agreement therein mentioned and for effectually securing to the Belfast Banking Company and the members thereof for the time being and their assigns all sums and sums of money which then were or at any time or from time to time thereafter should be due or owing to them on the balance of the account of Henry Stewart Hamilton and the said Mary Jane Holmes trading under the firm of Holmes and Company subject to the limitation therein after mentioned the said Mary Jane Holmes for herself her heirs executors and administrators and thereby covenant and declare that all and every the deeds and writings mentioned in the schedule thereon endorsed and then deposited with the said Banking Company and the lands tenements and hereditaments therein comprised and which premises consist of all those two houses tenements and premises in the Back Street of Strabane then lately in possession of Edward Holmes A a his undertenants measuring in front to the said Back Street Thirty two feet or thereabouts and running backwards to Butchers Street also all that dwelling house tenement and premises in the front street of the town of Strabane aforesaid formerly occupied as a police Barracks and then lately in the possession of the said Edward Holmes also those two tenements situate in Barrack Street also two tenements in front or Meeting House Street Strabane as formerly in the possession of Robert Holmes and his undertenants and part of which was used by said Robert Holmes as a Brew House Malt House stable Byre sheds and yard and then lately in the possession of Edward Holmes and his undertenants and also that dwelling house in the front Street of Strabane then or lately in the occupation of Nancy McCauley all which premises were more particularly described in the conveyance No 8 in said schedule and are situate in the town of Strabane in the parish of Camus Barony of Strabane and County of Tyrone aforesaid should be and remain a security unto the said company for the same being and their assigns for the payment of all such sum and sums of money as then was or were or should at any time or from time to time thereafter be due or owing from said Henry Stewart Hamilton & Mary Jane Holmes trading as aforesaid their or either of their executors administrators or assigns to the said Banking Company or the members of the said Company for the time being on the balance of the account of the said Henry Steward Hamilton & Mary Jane Holmes trading as aforesaid with said Banking Company but subject to the limitation thereinafter mentioned ) and all sum and sums of money to pay which a liability or engagement had been or should or might be entered into or incurred by the said Henry Steward Hamilton & Mary Jane Holmes trading as aforesaid either alone or jointly with any other person or persons upon or by reason or means of cash advances or of accepting or paying the checks drafts bills or promissory notes of the said Henry Stewart Hamilton & Mary Jane Holmes having as aforesaid or by discounting Bills of Exchange or promissory notes or by affording other pecumary assistance with interest thereon at the current rate charged for the time being by said Belfast Banking Company upon over drawn accounts upon demand clear of all deductions whatsoever and that all such sum and sums of money and interest thereon until payment thereof should thenceforth be and remain a charge upon the said lands tenements hereditaments and premises free from all other charges and encumbrances whatsoever provided nevertheless that Holmes & Belfast Banking Company agreement the total amount of the principal money or balance to be ultimately recoverable by means of the security thereby made should not exceed the sum therein mentioned besides interest and costs and which articles as to the execution thereof by said Mary Jane Holmes is witnessed by William Smith of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Bank Manager and this memorial as to the execution and perfection thereof by the said Mary Jane Holmes is witnessed by Robert S. Smith of Strabane aforesaid Bank Clerk , and said William Smith … at Strabane in the County of Tyrone this 24th day of February 1866 (RD 1866/6/225)

A memorial of an Indenture of Conveyance dated 29 May 1866 made between Mary Jane Holmes of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Spinster of the first part Isabella Porter of Ballintra in the County of Donegal Spinster of the second part and Neal Bradley of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Merchant of the third part after Reciting amongst others an Indenture dated the twenty second May one thousand eight hundred and fifty whereby Robert Holmes granted an annuity of pounds to said Isabella Porter chargeable upon the premises conveyed by said memorializing Indenture and Reciting an Indenture dated 25 Aug 1864 whereby said premises were absolutely conveyed to the said Mary Jane Holmes and Reciting that for the considerations therein said Mary Jane Holmes had agreed to convey said premises to said Neal Bradley and said Isabella Porter agreed to release said premises from the annuity so chargeable thereon said Indenture witnessed that said Mary Jane Holmes and Isabella Porter according to their estates rights and Interests thereon and thereto did grant bargain sell assign transfer and make over alien release convey and confirm unto said Neal Bradley his heirs exors admors and assigns all that and those the two houses tenements and premises in the Back Street of the town of Strabane formerly in the possession of the said Robert Holmes and of Charles Humphreys and his underte : nants afterwards in the possession of the said John Smith and Robert Holmes and their undertenants and subsequently in the possession of the said Robert Holmes and after wards in the possession of the said William Holmes & his undertenants and subsequently in possession of said Edward Holmes and his undertenants and then or lately in the possession of said Mary Jane Holmes and her undertenants measuring in front to said Back Street thirty two feet or thereabouts and running backwards to Butcher Street bounded on the North by the house and premises formerly occupied byThomas M Neilance and subsequently by Michael Braddon on the south by the house and premises formerly in the occupation of Andrew Connell and thereon the occupation of William Barnhill on the west by the said Back Street and on the East by the premises formerly occupied by Patrick M Garrigle and James Faulkner and subsequenty in the occupation of James McGee and Hugh M Said with rights privileges and appurtenances thereunto belonging or appertaining situate in the Parish of Camus Barony of Strabane and County of Tyrone and all the estate right title and Interest at Law and in Equity of said Mary Jane Holmes and Isabella Porter their heirs exors & admors therein discharged of said annuity with the rents and profits thereof To hold unto said Neal Bradley his heirs exors admors and assigns from first of May then instant for ever freed from said annuity and free from incumbrances of any nature or kind save the yearly head rent of four pounds twelve shillings and three pence clargas thereon as therein particularly mentioned which said Indenture and this memorial as to the execution thereof respectively by said Mary Jane Holmes are witnessed by Henry Joseph Moran of Strabane Law Clerk and Felix By me of Strabane and as to the execution thereof respectively by said Isabella Porter are witnessed by James Mulholland of Strabane Drayman and James Griffith of Ballentra in the County Donegal Schoolmaster Mary Jane Holmes ( seal ) Isabella Porter seal ) signed and sealed by said Mary Jane Holmes in presence of H. J. Moran Law Clerk Strabane Felix Byrne Strabane Signed and sealed by said Isabella Porter in presence of James Mulholland Orayman Strabane and Griffith Schoolmaster Ballontra The above named Henry Joseph Moran maketh oath and saith he is a subscribing witness to the deed whereof this writing is a memorial and to said memorial also and saith he saw said deed and memorial respectively duly executed by the said Mary Jane Holmes and saith the name Henry Joseph Moran subscribed as a witness to the execution of said deed and memorial respectively is this deponent proper name and handwriting H. J. Moran Sworn before me at Strabane in the County of Tyrone this 9th day of June 1866 a Commissioner for taking affidavit for her Majesty Superior Court of Common Law in Ireland for said County I know deponent Oliver Whate Commissioner The above named James Mulholland maketh oath and saith he is a subscribing witness to the deed whereof this writing is a memorial and to said memorial also and saith he saw said deed and memorial respectively duly executed by the said Isabella Porter party thereto respectively and saith the name James Mulholland subscribed as a witness to the execution of said deed and memorial respectively is this deponents proper name and handwriting James Mulholland , Sworn before me at Strabane in the County of Tyrone this 9th day of June 1866 (RD 1866/18/84)

A Memorial of an Indenture bearing date 15 Oct 1866 made between Mary Jane Holmes of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Spinster of the one part and Isabella Porter of Ballentra in the County of Donegall Spinster of the other part Whereby after Reciting as therein is recited said Indenture witnessed that for the considerations therein mentioned the said Mary Jane Holmes did grant a pure and confirm unto the said Isabella Porter one annuity or clear yearly rent charge or sum of nine pounds sterling a year to be charged and chargeable upon and to be issuing and payable out of all that and those the dwelling house tenement and premises in the front Street of the town of Strabane formerly occupied by a police Barrack and then in the actual occupation and possession of the said Mary Jane Holmes under a certain Indenture of lease of 18 Dec 1840 and of her undertenants and also all that and those the two tenement situate in Barrack Street and also two tenements in front or Meeting House Street Strabane held by the said Mary Jane Holmes under a certain Indenture of 13 Jan 1857 and then in the actual occupation or possession of the said Mary Jane Holmes and her undertenants and also all that and those the dwelling house in the Front Street of the said Town of Strabane held by said Mary Jane Holmes under a lease from the Reverend Alexander S Humphreys as the same had been formerly in the occunation of Nancy McAuley and then in the actual occupation and possession of the said Mary Jane Holmes and her undertenants with all and singular the appurtenances thereunto severally belonging or in any wise appertaining all which said houses tenements and premises are situate lying and being in the Parish of Camus Barony of Strabane and County of Tyrone . To hold the said annuity or yearly rent charge or sum of nine pounds pounds a year unto the said Isabella Porter her executors administrators and assigns for and during the term of her natural life the said annuity yearly rent charge or sum of nine pounds sterling to be paid and payable to the said Isabella Porter during the term of her natural life as aforesaid on the first day of May in each year said annuity and all arrears thereof having been paid and discharged up all the day of the date thereof which the said Isabella Porter did thereby acknowledge which said deed and this memorial as to the respective execution thereof by the said Mary Jane Holmes and Isabelle Porter are respectively duly witnessed by John Peck of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Law Clerk and Felix Byrne of Strabane in the said County of Tyrone Brewer Mary Jane Holmes seal , Isabella Porter seal signed and sealed in presence of John Risk Strabane Felix Byrne Strabane Brewer Now John Risk of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Law Clerk maketh oath and saith that he is a subscribing witness to the deed whereof the above is a memorial and to said memorial respectively and saith that he saw said deed and memorial respectively duly executed by both parties thereto respectively and that the name John Kisk subscribed as a witness to said deed and this memorial respectively is this deponent proper name and handwriting John Reck . Sworn before me at Strabane in the County of Tyrone this 15th day of October in the year 1866 (RD 1866/30/139)

A Memorial of an Indenture of Mortgage 19 Nov 1866  made Between Anne Eliza Holmes Spinster of Strabane in the County of Tyrone of the first part William John Glasse of Strabane aforesaid Gentleman of the Second part and Robert Wilson of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Attorney at of the third part after reciting as therein is recited said Indenture with 4 essed that for the considerations therein mentioned the said Anne Eliza Holmes & William John Glass Did Grant Bargain Sell assign alien release convey and confirm unto the said Robert Wilson his heirs and assigns All that and those that Tenement in the Back Street of the Town of Strabane called in a therein before recited Indenture of 6 Mar 1861 Allen Campbells Tenement theretofore in the possession of one John Holmes therein before mentioned and formerly held by Thomas McLaughlin Containing in front thirty four feet and in depth fifty six for together with a plot of Ground at the foot of the said Town of Strabane granted by said recited Indenture 6 Mar 1861and to the therein recited Mary Glasse and Anne Eliza Holmes for a Garden and then in the possession of the said Mary [nee Holmes] Glasse and Anne Eliza Holmes and their undertenants situate lying and being in the said Town of Strabane Parish of Camus Barony of Strabane and County of Tyrone aforesaid together with all and Singular the appurtenances thereunto belonging or in any wise appertaining To Hold all and Singular the said premises with the appurtenances unto the said Robert Wilson his heirs and assigns to the only proper use and behoof of the said Robert Wilson his heirs and assigns for ever in as full large ample and beneficial a manner as same were held and enjoyed by said time Eliza Holmes and William John Glasse under and by virtue of and with all Benefit and advantage to be derived from said Indentine of South March one thousand eight hundred and Sixty one subject however to redemption on payment of the said sum of one hundred pounds to be paid on or before the first day of December one thousand eight hundred and Seventy Six with interest at the rate of five pounds per centum per annum and which said Deed as to the Execution thereof by Anne Eliza Holmes as witnessed by Isabella Glasse Spinster and Michael McCreary Writing Clerk both of Strabane in the County of Tyrone and this Memorial as thereof by the said Anne Eliza Holmes is witnessed by the said Isabella Glass and Micheal McCreary and said Deed as to the Execution thereof by said Robert Wilson same is witnessed by Richard Jennings Cobertor Strabaneand said Michael McCreary Anne Eliza Holmes Seal Signed and sealed in presence of Michael McCreary Writing Clerk Strabane Now Michael McCreary of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Writing Clerk within named Waker oath and Saith that he is a subscribing witness to the Deed of which the within is a Memorial and to this Memorial respectively and Saith that he saw said Deed duly executed by Anne Eliza Nolanes and Robert Wilson Two of theparties thereto and this memorial by the said Anne Eliza Holmes party hereto and that the same Michael McCrary subscribed as a witness to said Deed and this Memorial respectively is this Deponents proper (RD 1866/34/244)

Londonderry Sentinel, January 3 1868 – Married October 31, at Auckland, New Zealand, by the Rev. James Hill, WILLIAM FRAZER, son of the late MR. CHARLES FRAZER BELL, Edinburgh, to ELIZABETH, third daughter of the late MR. ROBERT HOLMES, Strabane, county Tyrone, Ireland

Memorial of an Indenture 1 Jun 1870 between Miss Anne Eliza Holmes of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Spinster and William John Glasse of Strabane aforesaid Gentleman of the first – part, Oliver White of Strabane aforesaid Esquire and William Wilson of Raphoe in the County of Donegal Solicitor executors of the last will and Testament of Robert Wilson late of Strabane aforesaid Col . deceased of the second part and John Norris Baird of Strabane aforesaid Clothier of the third part Whereby after reciting as therein said Indenture witnessed that for the considerations therein mentioned they the said Anne Eliza Holmes, William John Glass, Oliver White and William Wilson according to their several and respective estate and interest therein did grant bargain sell assigns release convey and confirm unto the said John Storrie Baird his heirs and assigns all that and those the Dwelling house tenement and premises with the appurtenances in the Back Street of the town of Strabane as then in the any of James Kelly situate lying and being in the Parish of Camus Barony of Strabane and County of Tyrone with the appurtenances thereunto belonging and the rents issues and profits thereof To hold unto the said John Morris Baird his heirs and assigns from the thirtieth day of March one thousand eight hundred and seventy forever subject to the yearly rent of Three pounds fourteen shillings and three pence which said Indenture and this Memorial as to their due execution by said Home Eliza Holme W J Gause Oliver White and William Wilson are witnessed by Richard Jennings of Strabane and William Wilson of Strabane Anne Eliza Holmes seal W Glass Seal Oliver White seal William Wilson or Seal Signed and sealed by the said Anne Eliza Holmes Wm John Glasso Oliver White and William Wilson in presence of Richard Jenning sol Strabane William Wilson Strabane Richard Jennings of Strabane in the County of Tyrone colector within named maketh oath and saith that he is a subscribing witness to the Deed of which the within is a Memorial and to said Memorial respectively and saith he saw said deed and this Memorial respectively duly executed by Anne Eliza Holmes W J Glause Dewer White and William Wilson parties to said deed and to said Memorial and saith the name Richard Jennings subscribed as a witness to said Deed and said Memorial is this Depts proper name and hand writing Richard Jennings Sworn before me at Strabane in the County of Tyrone this 27th of July 1870 (RD 1870/22/186)

A Memorial of an Indented Deed 13 Aug 1873 between James Holmes McCrea formerly James Holmes of Glencush near Dunnamana in the County of Tyrone farmer of the first part John Holmes of Brosny near Dunnamana in the said County of Tyrone , J. P. Esquire thereafter called John Holmes , of the second part & John Colquhoun of Strabane in the said County of Tyrone Solicitor of the third part whereby after reciting as therein is rented and amongst other things that the said James Holmes McCrea was then desirous of of barring his estate all in the lands of Glencush Moyagh and part of Glondstown devised to or then vested in him by his Father Will and all remainders estate and powers to take effect after the determination or in defeasance of such estate all and of limiting the same hereditaments to the uses upon the trusts and in the manner thereafter expressed and that the said John Holmes had agreed to execute the said presents for the purpose of granting and assuring any interest which he might have in the said hereditaments or any part thereof said Indenture now being Memorialized witnessed that for effectuating the aforesaid desire and in pursuance of said agreement he the said James Holmes McCrea did thereby grant and the said John Holmes did thereby grant and confirm unto the said John Colquhoun his heirs and assigns , All that and those the said lands of Mayagh Glencash and part of Glouds town devised by the will of John Holmes in the events which happened to the said James Holmes McCrea in fall and all other lands ( if any , in which the said James Holmes McCrea had then any estate fall under or by virtue of said Will which said lands and premises are situate in the Parish of Donagheady Barony of Strabane and County of Tyrone aforesaid . To hold the said hereditaments and premises thereby granted and confirmed or expressed so to be freed and discharged from the estate said of the said James Holmes McCrea therein and from all remainders estate and powers to take effect after the determination or in defeasance of with estate Hall but without prejudice to any charges upon said lands and premises created or made by said Will unto the said John Colquhoun and his heirs Nevertheless to such uses upon such trusts and with and subject to such powers and provisions in all respects as the said James Holmes McCrea should by a certain Deed of assignment and mortgage intended to be executed contemporaneously with or immediately after the execution of said presents now being Memorialized and expressed to be made between the said James Holmes McCrea formerly James Holmes of the first part Charles Albert Holmes of the second part and Benjamin Geale Humfrey and George Ernest McLaren Mason therein described of the third part direct or appoint and in default of and until such appointment and subject thereto and so far as same should not extend to such and the same uses upon such and the same trusts and limitations and subject to such and the same powers and provisions save and except such power of election as therein mentioned which had then already been exercised ) as under the will of the said John Holmes were subsisting in the said hereditaments and premises immediately before the execution of the said presents now being Memorialized , and which said Deed as to the execution thereof by the said James Holmes McCrea and John Holmes respect ively is witnessed by John Cunningham of Lifford in the County of Donegal Law Clerk and said Memorial as to the execution thereof by the said James Holmes McCrea is Witnessed by Samuel Hood of Lisnatunny in the County of Tyrone farmer and John Cunningham , James Holmes McCrea Seal , Signed and sealed in presence of Samuel Hood John Cunningham John Cunningham above named maketh Oath and Saith that he is a subscribing witness to the Deed of which the above writing is a memorial and also to said Memorial and saith that he saw said Deed duly executed by the said James Holmes McCrea and John Holmes and said Memorial duly executed by the said James Holmes McCrea , and that the name John Cunninghame subscribed as a witness to said Deed and Memorial respectively is this Deponents proper name and hand writing . John Cunningham Sworn before me at Strabane in the County of Tyrone this 23rd day of August 1873 (RD 1873/32/6)

A Memorial of an Indented Deed of Mortgage bearing date 13 Aug 1873  between James Holmes Mered formerly James Holmes of Glencush near Dunnamana in the County of Tyrone, farmer of the first part Charles Albert Holmes of Glencush aforesaid Gentleman of the second part and Benjamin Geale Humprey of North ampton in England a Major in Her Majestys Royal Artillery and George Ernst McLaren Mason of Omagh in the County of Tyrone Esquire of the third part whereby after reciting as therein is recited and for and in Consideration of the sum of six hundred pounds they the said James Holmes Meleria ( in his own right & as administrator , and the said Charles Albert Holmes did thereby assign transfer and make over unto the said Benjamin Geale Humprey and George Ernest M Laren Mason their Executors administrators and assigns , All that and those three Legacies of two hundred pounds each so bequeathed by Will of John Holmes to said James Holmes now McCrea Charles Albert Holmes and Joshua Alfred Holmes ( deceased , making together the sum of six hundred pounds and by the said will charged on a portion of the said lands of Glencush therein particularly mentioned and upon the lands of Moyagh allsituate in the parish of Donagheady Barony of Strabane and County of Tyrone said Indenture now being Memorialized also witnessed that for the considerations aforesaid He the said James Holmes McCrea did thereby in exercise of the power to him the said James Holmes McCrea for the purpose given by the recited Indenture bearing even date with said presents and of every or any other power enabling him in that behalf did thereby direct limit and appoint that all that and those the said lands of Glencush containing two hundred and forty five acres and two roods statute measure be the same more or less lately in the occupation and possession of one Robert McCrea Holmes and then in the actual Occupation and possession of the said James Holmes McCrea party thereto and in his under tenants , and also all that and those the said lands of Moyagh containing one hundred and nineteen acres three roods and twenty one perches Cunningham measure be the same more or less lately in the occupation and possession of the said Robert McCrea Holmes and his under tenants and then in the actual occupation and possession of the said James Holmes McCrea and his under tenants and also all that and those that portion of the lands of Gloudstown so devised by the will of the said Robert M Crea to the said Robert McCrea Holmes lately in the occupation and possession of the said Robert McCrea Holmes and his under tenants and then in the actual occupation and possession of the said James Holmes McCrea and his under tenants all which said several lands are situate in the Parish of Donagheady Barony of Strabane and County of Tyrone aforesaid and should with their respective appurtenances thence forth remain and he to the use of the said Benjamin Geale Humprey and George Ernest McLaren Mason their heirs and assigns forever subject to the provise or condition for redemption therein contained on payment of said sum of six hundred pounds and the interest thereof at the times and in manner therein mentioned , and which said Deed and this Memorial as to the execution thereof respectively by the said James Holmes McCrea and Charles Albert Holmes are respectively witnessed by John Cunningham of Lifford in the County of Donegal Law Clerk and John Colquhoun of Shabane in the County of Tyrone Solutor and the execution of said Deed by said George Ernest McLaren Mason is witnessed by said John Colquhoun . James Holmes McCrea ( seal , Charles A Holmes , seal , Signed and sealed in presence of John Cunningham John Colquhoun John Cunninghame above named maketh Oath and Saith that he is a subscribing witness to the Deed of which the above writing is a memorial and also to said Memorial and saith that he saw said Deed and Memonal respectuch Holmes and Ann to Humfrey & our Humfrey duly executed by the said James Holmes McCrea and Charles Albert Holmes and that the name John Cunninghame subscribed as a witness to said Deed and Memorial respectively is his this Deponents proper name and hand writing . John Cunningham Sworn before me at Strabane in the County of Tyrone this 23rd day of August 1873 (RD 1873/32/7)

A Memorial of Articles of Agreement bearing date 9 Apr 1874 made Between Mary Jane Holmes of Strabane in the County of Tyrone Spinister of the one part and the Belfast Banking Company of the other part which Articles witnessed that pursuant to the agreement therein mentioned and for effectually securing to the Belfast Banking Company and the Members thereof for the time being and their assigns all sum and sums of Money which then was or were or at any time or from time to time thereafter should be due or owing to them on the Ballance of the account of the said Archibald and Edward Duncan both of Strabane aforesaid Brewers who made under the style and firm of Holmes & Co. or in the ways and manners therein after and hereinafter mentioned or any of them the said Mary Jane Holmes for herself her heirs executors and administrators did thereby covenant and declare that all and every the Deeds and writings mentioned in the schedule thereon endorsed and then deposited with the said Banking Company and the lands tenements and hereditaments thereinafter and hereinafter described and comprised therein that was and is to say all that and Those the two tenements situate in Barrack Street and also two tenement in front or Meeting house Street Strabane as the same were formerly in the possession of Charles James Brown and his undertenants afterwards in the occupation and possession of Robert Holmes and his undertenants and part of which was used by said Robert Holmes as a Brew House Malt House Stable bye sheds and yard ) afterwards in the possession of Edward Holmes and his undertenants and then or lately in the possession of Mary Jane Holmes and her undertenants and as more particularly described in the Indenture of 13 Jan 1857 Numbered One in said Sebedue all which premises are situate in the town of Strabane in the parish of Camus Barony of Strabane and County of Tyrone aforesaid should be and remain a security unto the said Banking Company for the time being and their assigns for the payment upon demand over and above all deductions whatsoever of all such sum and sums of Money as then was or were or should at any time or from time to time thereafter due or owing from the said Archibald Dawson and Edward Duncan their executors administrators or assigns to the said Banking Company or the members of the saw Company for the time being on the Balance of the account of the said Archibald Dawson and Edward Duncan with the said Banking Company with Interest thereon at the Current Rate charged for the time being by said Belfast Banking Company upon over drawn account and to be computed and charges half yearly as principal after the Custom of Bankers as well while the account was operative as of and when it might become dormant whether during the life time or after the decease of the said Archibald Dawson and Edward Duncan and also for the payment when one of all and every sum and sums of Money to pay which a liability or engagement had been or should or might be incurred or entered into with the said Belfast Banking Company by the said Archibald Dawson and Edward Duncan either alone or jointly with any other person or persons upon or by reason or means of Cash advances or of accepting or paying the Cheques Drafts Bills or promissory Notes of the said Archibald Lawson and Edward Duncan or by discounting Bills of Exchange or promisory notes or by affording other pecumary assistance together with discount Commision and other usual Bankers Charges and also interest on said several transachous after the Rate and in manner therein before and hereinbefore mentioned and that all such sum and sums of money and Interest as aforesaid until payment thereof should thence forth he and remain a charge upon all and Singular the lands tenements hereditaments free from all other charges and Incumbrances what soever and said articles as to the execution thereof by the said Mary Jane Holmes are witnessed by William Smith of Strabane County of Tyrone Bank Manager and this Memorial as to the execution thereof by said Mary Jane Holmes is witnessed by said William Smith and William C Holmes of Strabane aforesaid Bank Official – Mary Jane Holmes – ( Seal ) Signed and sealed by the said Mary Jane Holmes in presence of the obliteration and interlineations initialed W S. being first made Wm Smith . Belfast Bank Strabane – Wm C Holmes Belfast Bank Strabane — The within named William Smyth Maketh Oath and Saith that he is a subscribing witness to the execution of the Articles of Agreement of which the within writing is a memorial and also to said Memorial and Saith he was present and did see the said Articles and Memorial respectively duly executed by the within named Mary Jane Holmes party thereto and that the (RD 1874/14/159)