Genealogy & Family History

Records, events, and milestones useful for genealogical research and family history.

Newport Heiress Elopes Across Class Lines, Settles in Springfield, 1911

Keith A. S. / June 5, 2026

John Edward Paul Geraghty and his Newport heiress bride, niece of Mrs. French Vanderbilt, fled to Springfield after their shocking cross-class elopement. The couple abandoned plans to return to Newport, recognizing the social gulf that separated them.

Irish Americans Honor Executed Patriot Patrick O’Donnell with Memorial Mass in 1884

Keith A. S. / May 30, 2026

Irish-American communities organized memorial services for Patrick O’Donnell, executed in London in December 1883. The commemorative events included a mock funeral and fundraising for a permanent monument.