This is almost certainly a Kilkeel connected family. This James Brennan is likely the husband of the Charlotte Higgins who was born in Kilkeel (per Fiona's research) about 1840, daughter of Francis John Higgins and Margaret McCartan. Chicago Tribune Dec 22 1916 Brennan James J dearly beloved husband of the late Charlotte Higgins Brennan, fond father of Mrs Margaret Beazley, Mrs T. F. McCarthy, Vincent C. and Selina A Brennan. Funeral Saturday December 23, at 9am for the late residence 523 W 37th St. to Nativity Church, where high mass will be celebrated. Interment Mt Olivet by automobiles. Note wife Charlotte died Dec 6 1913 at the same (above) Chicago address. She was 60 years old. Her death cert is online and confirms born Ireland, and father "Frank" Higgins of Ireland.