I am a new lister who has recently returned to the US after spending 15 days in beautiful Ireland. My husband is descended from a Donovan (John, Foster, Francis or Timothy) who left County Cork about 1650. I have traced him back to 1674 in Virginia, USA. My daughter and I spent 1 1/2 days at the County Cork Library trying to find links to our family line. We copied many records but have not found any direct links so far. We found the people very friendly and helpful. A visit to Castledonovan revealed that the site has been taken over by Duchas (?) and there was scaffolding inside the castle ruins. We would like to keep abreast of what is happening to the castle and was wondering if there was some kind person near Drimoleague who would be willing to share occasional info with us. We are also wondering if someone knows why a young man from County Cork would choose to go to the "New World" in the 1650? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Joana Donovan Maryland, USA