I’m on a bit of a mission, though it may prove to be fruitless.
I recently had my DNA tested via Ancestry & have made a fascinating connection with the Kenny’s of Ballinrobe, Mayo. One member of the family David Courtney Kenny 1779-1847, Lt. Gen. in the Madras Army appears to have had a child out of wedlock by a South African woman. His illegitimate son went on to produce heirs, 2 generations later, a daughter Violet Johanna Maria Kenney 1881- 1973 married an immigrant from the U.K. in the Cape, South Africa. His name was John Henry Ramsden 1888-1934 & his father Rhodes Ludlam Ramsden, born in Huddersfield in 1855 came down from Henry Ramsden 1764-1804 born in Elland.
Now, my DNA match to the Kenny’s of Ballinrobe led me to an ancestor Agnes Bickerstaff Ramsden born Halifax in 1793 who married John Rhodes Ralph born Halifax 1786. BTW these connections come via Burke, B. (1912). A genealogical and heraldic history of the landed gentry of Ireland. Harrison & sons, so pretty trustworthy I’d say.
The thing that has grabbed my interest is the surname Ramsden from Yorkshire plus the middle name Rhodes, both of which appear prominently in my maternal line, along with the name Ludlam. I’ve done some reading & realise Ramsden & Yorkshire is like Cheddar & cheese, but the coincidence of both those names coming together by marriage in Halifax has made me wonder if my maternal line is somehow connected to the other Ramsden line.
I’ve tried unsuccessfully so far to find a common denominator ancestor, hence my post here - are there any Ramsden experts who may be able to help me link the 2 different branches? 🤞🏻
I’m looking forward to hearing from you.
Cheers
Chawi
