Shea/O'Shea/Hawkins



My father, Patrick Shea, was born in Sligo, Ireland in 1909 (or so he always said). Orphaned at an early age he was placed in an orphanage operated by the Sisters of Mercy in Sligo where he remained until the age of 16. Boarding a ship he headed for Canada landing at Quebec City.

My father had little recollection of his parents, aunts/uncles, etc. Sporadically, he would say he "thought" he had a brother or an uncle but that was usually as far as the conversation went. Thusly, we, my parents' eight children, have never had contact with possible relatives (past or present) living in Ireland.

In 1980, shortly after my father’s death, we came across a Bible in which were inscribed the names: Patrick O'Shea and Maureen Hawkins --> names we have come to believe were those of his biological parents (and hence, my grandparents).

Since 1961 I personally have written many letters (well over 200), communicated with many people, and, to this date, have been unable to trace my surname beyond that of my grandparents.

Any and all suggestions appreciated.