I recently picked up a bible at a garage sale, dated 1865, with the names Patrick and Mary Dignan engraved on the front. It was published in New York.

I have sent you an email about this bible. Thanks.
Alison

Do you think it's the right time period, the bible is dated 1865 and was
published in New York. During this time period do you think it could have
been for them if they were in New Zealand?
There aren't any family notations in the bible, it is just engraved on the
front.
Thanks,
Tina

It is possible that Mary's brother Andrew Derrom received it (maybe as gift?? maybe one of the family visited the US in 1865??). The Dignan's were very Catholic so a bible wouldn't be unusual if it were a gift. Andrew lived in Patterson, New Jersey. I don't see any significance as far as the date goes when I look at births, deaths and marriages that jump out at me although I don't have all of the dates recorded. Both Patrick and Mary were alive in 1865.

I am attaching some pictures for you. I flipped through the bible hoping to find some notes or something, but no luck. I picked this up at a garage sale in Waterloo, Iowa about a year ago. I could not believe that someone was selling the family heirloom

more pics

Wow, great photos! It looks pretty sizable! How interesting that you found it in Iowa! I will send this link to my Dad and see if he can think of the significance of the bible. Thanks so much for sharing the photos!
Alison

I have found a description of the bible (it seems to be the one with the date 1865?):
http://bibles.wikidot.com/douayrheims-america
It seems to be signed by the Archbishop of New York, John Hughes (John, "the dagger" Hughes)although it doesn't match one that I found online
http://secondat.blogspot.com/2010_06_01_archive.html
and because he died in 1864. Maybe he approved of it before he died. It looks like a very valuable bible. What a wonderful find!
Alison

yes, it's big. I bet it weighs at least 10 lbs!

After much thought, I have decided to list this bible for sale on Ebay. I have recently lost my job and could use the money. I wanted to let you know before I listed it. I was really hoping to find the family that it belongs to.
Thanks
Tina