Hi: We are descendants of the Latchford family; As far as I can tell they were of German Palatine descent, settled originally in the Limerick area (as tenant farmers), and eventually several cousins farmed in the Paradise, Ballynacally, County Clare area until approximately 1830-1840. The names of the men were John, Francis and William and it appears that George was another common name in the group. One of the Johns had the middle name Dougherty from which I wonder if that is a maternal surname. John and Francis both married sisters from Clare- Jane and Mary Guinane. As I said, they emigrated to the Laurel area of Maryland as miners/farmers.
One branch of these Latchfords took the Protestant faith, the other Roman Catholic. I understand that there was a strong revival (Methodist) in the Limerick/ Rathkeale area. Any information on how I might pursue further research in this area would be appreciated. Bob