The Brennan Family, Clawinch 1911

My grandfather Michael, was born on Clawinch, Co. Longford in 1911, the fourth son of Thomas Brennan of the island and Margaret Tracey of Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. In the Census of April 2nd, 1911, Michael was one month old and was living on the family farm with Thomas and Margaret and his brothers Patrick (7) Luke (6) Thomas Joseph (2) and Mary Kate (4). Bernard Kelly (70) helped on the farm. Everyone in the house was born in Co. Longford.
Life on the island had changed enormously between 1901 and 1911. In 1901, it was a quiet place. Thomas was living alone on the island with his mother Bridget aged 72. Within the space of 10 years Thomas buried his mother, married Margaret and had 5 children.
The House and Building Return tells us that Thomas and his family and Bernard Donnelly live in the only house on the island. It is built of stone with a thatch roof. There are 3 windows to the front of the house and 3 rooms in the house. There is one distinct family living in the house. The house is judged to be a second class house. There are 4 farm buildings adjacent to the house, a cow house, a calf house, a piggery and a barn. 

​Read the story of Patrick Brennan, Clawinch my great great grandfather here        
Brennan Clawinch Island, Co. Longford
​  

---