Colleen's Surnames

Colleen’s family surnames.

Kennedy Sarah Headstone

Great Grandmother Sarah Kennedy, a Tough Woman to Research

My great grandmother Sarah Kennedy Flanagan has been extremely difficult to research, mainly due to her children being orphaned at a young age, and her children being split up and lost to each other. Yet even the records I have been able to find offer conflicting information. I also have not identified a single other descendant who is actively researching Sarah or Sarah’s line, with whom I could collaborate on this tough woman.

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My Family History

King’s Soldier and Alta California Ranchero Manuel Nieto

My entire life, I have heard my father’s family claim that we are descended from THE Manuel Nieto, the Spanish Army soldier who was part of the Gaspar de Portolà expedition of 1769 into Alta California, and who was awarded one of the largest Spanish land grants in Alta California. Every year I have to explain that as a historian and librarian, I cannot accept things as historical facts until I can verify through actual documented evidence. So I have decided that I am going to try to prove or disprove our connection to the famous Manuel Nieto. Join me on the Manuel Nieto Project!

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Hispanic Genealogy My Family History, ,
Viola Mara

My Great Grandmother Agnes Viola Elizabeth Maud Mara Died 43 Years Ago Today

My 48th ancestor is my great grandmother Agnes Viola Elizabeth Maud Mara (1893-1971), who went by the name Viola. I have mentioned Viola in posts about her father, mother, brother, and mystery half-brother, but I have never actually profiled my great grandmother. Today marks the 43rd anniversary of her death.

My Great Grandmother Agnes Viola Elizabeth Maud Mara Died 43 Years Ago Today Read More »

My Family History
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