Hi,
my name is Stephen McStravick and my father is James and he was one of seven brothers. Their father was Charles and apparently he was 1st cousins with Patrick the saddler. He told me that Charles father was James and he had a brother Patrick who was Patrick the saddlers father, and they had another brother Felix. I dont know who their father was.
I dont know if this is helpful or if you already knew this.
Maybe you know who my GGGrandfather was?
My dad grew up in Derryclone on a farm which roughly borders Co. Antrim and Armagh. The farm has land touching Lough Neagh. So the theroy about houses or boats made of straw could make sense if the farm has been in the family for generations.
If you have any information that might help me know more I would appretiate it.

Thanks
Stephen........