Martin Morrissey

Native of the old Civil Parish of Kilmacduane which today is known as the Parish of Cooraclare/Cree. After marriage to Mary O'Dea resided on the farm at Cloonreddan (a townland - the smallest division of a parish) of approximately 710 acres situated in the old Civil Parish of Kilmacduane. The townland of Cloonreddan was sited about 2 miles north east of the village of Cooraclare. When translated from Gaelic, Cloonreddan means "the field of reeds". Martin Morrissey was shown leasing a house, offices (sheds) and land. The land area amounted to 16 acres 25 perches. It was valued at 7 ponds and 5 shillings. While his house had a valuation of 15 shillings. This, in turn, brought his total property valuation to 8 pounds. From the Land records of the day (according to The Clare Heritage Centre) there were two Martin Morrisseys leasing property in Cloonreddan in 1855 from Marquis Conyngham. However, this Martin is believed to be the father of the line that emigrated to the United States because sometime between 1864 and 1872 the Land Records show transfer of the land to a Patrick Carey. That is believed to be the time of emigration.