My great-grandfather, Peter Kelly, was born in Townland of Meedian (Irish-Meeden), Civil Parish of Clonfad, Catholic Parish of Rochfortbridge, Barony of Fartullagh, Co. Westmeath in 1842. His father was Michael Kelly and mother was Ann McDonnell. In searching Tithe Applotment and subsequent valuation lists, I haven't found a Kelly listing in this 24-family community - obviously, they did not come from that Townland originally. I did find a McDonnell family, however. Inasmuch as Michael Kelly was rumored to have been a soldier, probably stationed in nearby Mullingar, I think that Ann McDonnell went to a McDonnell relatives home to have her baby, Peter Kelly. I'm interested in researching the following: 1) finding the original Townland of my Kelly ancestors so I can include these Kellys' in my family history. All I have now is that Peter Kelly was born in Meedian. It is apparent that my Kellys' did not originate in Meedian. 2) Peter Kellys' siblings, if any, in Meedian. 3) Ann McDonnell's parents and siblings in Meedian. Has anyone done any research on these names in the Mullingar or Meedian areas? If so, I will gladly exchange my information on the New York branch of the Kelly family. Further, does anyone know the names and addresses of any priest contacts in the Catholic parish of Rochfortbridge, the Catholic Church in Mullingar and librarians in the library in Mullingar, so I can correspond with them? Lastly, since I have never had to ask for church records before, do I make a "donation" to the priest, parish, etc.? If so, how much money should I send? Can it be by personal check, cash, Irish money? Do I send international postal coupons with my initial letter to make sure I get a reply? Thanks, John M. Kelly jmk_07628@yahoo.com __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Get email at your own domain with Yahoo! Mail. http://personal.mail.yahoo.com/