I am seeking info on Hugh O'Beirne who was from Brianstown, Longford, about 1765 to 1835. He was married to Jane Finley, who was a schoolteacher. He was supposedly in the British Army in the late 1700's / early 1800's. I have been unable to find any trace of this family in Ireland and am hoping someone can give me some help. How and why would an Irishman be in the British Army? Are there any RC records from that area that go back that far and are still in existence? Is there a cemetery in and around Brianstown that someone could check for a stone containing the name Jane Finley O'Beirne? Why did these people leave, @1835? Hugh left with his sons and migrated to the U.S. We understand that Jane had died by that time. And he would have been in his 70's or 80's. Are there any O'Beirne's in the Brianstown area? My brother is planning a trip to Ireland next month and any suggestions or information that he should check on while there would be most welcome. Thank you for your help. Susan K. Spies