Help with potentially orphaned ancestor
My GG-grandfather was born in 1853/54 in County Armagh, Northern Ireland. This is the only information we have about his history before he came to the US. There was always a family story that he was orphaned/adopted, and during my research I discovered his death certificate which listed his place of birth but that his parents were unknown.
Given that I have his name, an approximate DOB and approximate location or birth, I am hoping for help continuing my search. His name is common, James Burns, and the potential also exists that this is not the original spelling( although this has not been confirmed).
Are there specific resources I can use even though I don't have any information on his parents? I feel stuck without more details.
Comments
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In that time period, you will rely on church records - baptisms - because civil registration of Irish births began only in 1864. Do you know his religion? What exists, what survived, and where to find it will vary depending on the religion.
Best of luck with the search!3 -
Thank you for your reply!! I am almost 100% sure he was Catholic. I've done some reaching out to some of the local churches already, but many have said that without more specific information (ex: at least one of the parent's names) they are unable to help me.
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