This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: javatestcase Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/surnames.halligan/80.1.1.1.1.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Michael, That's great! How interesting that a picture helped you make this connection. I'd love a copy of the picture if you can make a digital image, I don't know if I have one. The Monsignor James J. Halligan was my Great Grand Uncle. My mother remembers him, he lived until 1971, he baptized her and he married my grandparents (and probably most of the Halligan ceremonies in the NYC area). His brothers had many children, and there are many cousins out there I have met online. The Monsignor also served as the chaplain to the "Lost Battalion" in WWI, there is some text about his experience here: http://www.longwood.k12.ny.us/history/upton/miles16.htm It's unlikely your Mary was his sister. He did have an older sister Mary Ellen... but she came with the family to the US and passed away in 1928. We do know the Monsignors parents (John Halligan and Winifred Rowan) were from Mayo. The Monsignor's father John had a brother Hugh born in Kilbeagh in 1856 (and possibly other siblings) could that be the relation? We also know his grandparents (John Halligan and Eleanor Gannon married in Kilmovee in 1839) were from Mayo, but don't know any of their other children... Anyway, I'd be happy to share anything that will help you identify your Mary Halligan. What do you know so far? Any dates, or places? Bill Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.