Little is actually known about the Callaghan branch. I am in possession of a Callaghan family bible which was a gift from a Patrick Callaghan to his wife (Nellie O'Connor) on the occasion of their wedding (1884). Although I cannot definitively trace this Patrick to the O'Brien line, the bible was passed along to me through the O'Brien family. So, I must assume some connection.
Inserted in the bible was an undated newspaper clipping of Patrick's obituary which states: "Patrick Callaghan died at his home in this city Thursday evening after a short illness. Mr. Callaghan was born in Milltown, County Clare, Ireland, January 24, 1855 and lived there until 15 years of age when he came to this country with his parents and settled in Polo, Illinois. He resided there about twelve years and came to Darlington in 1882 where he has since made his home. In 1884 he was united in marriage to Miss Nellie O'Connor and three children were born to this union, two of whom--Lillie and Willie together with their mother survive. Pat Callaghan was a big whole-souled man. He was charitable and thorougly honest. His friends were legion and he will be sadly missed by all who knew him. The funeral was held from the Catholic church in this city Saturday morning, Rev. Toeller officiating, and the remains laid to rest in the Catholic cemetery. The Darlington Fire Department, of which organization he was a charter member, attended the funeral in a body.
Martin Neylon and wife of Polo, Illinois; William Callahan and son of Woosung, Illinois; J. S. Wogan of Apache, Oklahoma; John Smith and wife of Hennessey, Oklahoma, Mrs. D. S. Rose, Mrs. Frank Anthony, Mrs. James Kennelly and Jas. Callaghan of Milwaukee; Patrick O'Connor of Perry, Iowa; Mrs. Grace O'Connor and Miss Kane of Mineral Point; Mrs. Thomas Leahy of Janesville and James Leahy and family of Shullsburgh were in the city Saturday to attend the funeral of the late Patrick Callaghan."
Patrick, his wife Nellie (O'Connor) and their son William P. are all buried in the Darlington cemetery. |
