Hi Bill! Yes, we have had basically the same problems you describe. Our Branagan ancestor, Thomas, came to Boston in 1885, but we have no clue as to where he lived in Ireland. We had one of those name maps that showed County Monahan as a lkely place for Branagans. Will let you know if we ever find anything more substantive. By the way, the best search outfit in Ireland is reported to be the one at the National Archives of Ireland in Dublin. They have a website and are NOT cheap. Best of luck in your search. from, Carolyn