Derrivalley[1] 25th July 1873

 

My Dear Sal[2],

            I think I would hardly have written to you only for sending the enclosed letter from Andy[3] which will occupy your mind and attention more than anything I can say.  I took the liberty of opening it as we were all anxious to know what he had to say.  He is wishing for Nancy Jackson's[4] address, but I forget the Woman's name that used to call to [????][5].  I got home safe and well, and called to see Mrs. Stratten[6] as soon as I got to BBay[7].  I will send the butter & eggs by her, as she seemed very willing to take all I would send.  I hope Mary[8] will stop with you and that Mr. Jackson[9] will go to you.  Love to Mary[10] & the children, ever

                             Your loving Father

                               Thos McCullagh[11]

 



[1] Derrivalley, Co. Monaghan

[2] Sarah “Sallie” (McCullagh) Whiteside

[3] Andrew Bradford McCullagh, brother of  Sarah “Sallie” (McCullagh) Whiteside

[4] Nancy JACKSON – haven’t a clue!

[5] NOTE: 1873 is two years before Margaret JACKSON would have married her first husband, Robert Hamilton REID. She married Andrew Bradford MCCULLAGH after the death of REID. I wonder if this is related.

[6] STRATTEN (?)

[7] Ballybay, Co. Monaghan

[8] possibly Mary McCULLAGH, older sister of “Sallie”.

[9] Mr. JACKSON – but which one?  “Sallie” would be 21 years old at this time and did have a love interest that did not end up in marriage (see diary).

[10] possibly Mary McCULLAGH, older sister of “Sallie” – she had several children already with her husband Rev. William REID.

[11] Thomas McCullagh  1793-1877