Early in the antipodean Spring of 1973 I stood on the deck of an old passenger ship, Ellinis, as it sailed through the heads of Sydney Harbour and made its way slowly towards the iconic Bridge and Opera House. It was the end of a … Continue reading Arrival
The passing of an archbishop
Recently (11 September 2018) I attended Donald Robinson’s funeral. Don was my father’s cousin, 10 years older than Dad. Their mothers were sisters, Gertie and Winnie Ross. I remember Don fondly because, among other things, he was the keeper of the family history, and a … Continue reading The passing of an archbishop
The Byrnes and our Irish origins
My grandmother’s oldest sister was named Kathleen Byrne, but the family usually called her Lena. She was born in 1886 in Sydney, the first child of George and Susie Byrne, who were both Irish migrants from County Kerry. Her parents were reasonably well off; some … Continue reading The Byrnes and our Irish origins
Munster: Kenmare River
I found an old book on my father's shelves. It is called "Munster, Pictured by Alexander Williams, Described by Stephen Gwynn,” and on the frontispiece in elegant cursive writing: "Kathleen Byrne. 1913. From Mother.” Opposite this inscription, on the inside of the cover, my mother … Continue reading Munster: Kenmare River
Reconstructing the Byrne family
I am descended from four Kerry families of the nineteenth century: their names are Byrne, Hickson, Needham and Ruddle. My maternal grandmother was Gertrude Byrne and her parents, both Irish born, were George Byrne and Susie Hickson. George’s parents were George Byrne (senior) and Sarah Ruddle, while Susie’s … Continue reading Reconstructing the Byrne family
Forgotten tales 