William Doherty was born in Cork, Ireland around 1832 [1] His parents were William Doherty, freeman of Cork, and Jane Baylor [2] His parents are mentioned in the Doherty family lineage in the 1912 edition of Burkes Peerage of Ireland. This book suggests the Dohertys are descended from Niall of the Nine Hostages and other mythical figures, but seems more reliable in the modern entries, where they can be verified elsewhere. [3]
William's siblings were Jane (1825-1880), Edward john (1827-1900), Elizabeth (1828-1908), Mary Ann (1830-), and James (1833-) . Both Edward and Elizabeth also immigrated to Australia, Edward and wife Amarantha from Barbados in 1853, and Elisabeth Somerville as a widow aged 60 in 1889.
William's father died some time around 1838, when William was 6, [4] and our family history suggests William immigrated in 1856, although I have not found a matching record.
William is listed as residing at Alberton (Port Albert) in 1856. [5] Family history says he immigrated to work in a shipping company. The local paper in 1861 advertises - WILLIAM DOHERTY Licensed Custom House Commission & Forwarding Agent, Port Albert. PA coach to sale, booking office, commission agent.[6]
By 1864 William is running a general store at Doherty's Corner, in Bairnsdale. [7]
William married Alice Patten, a solicitor's daughter from nearby Sale, on 9 Feb 1864. [8]
The announcement reads: On the 9th inst, at St. Paul's Church, Sale, by the Ven. Archdecon Stretch, William Doherty of Bairnsdale, Gippsland, to Alice, youngest daughter of the late Thos. Patten, Esq., Solicitor, Sandhurst. [9]
Alice and William settled in Bairnsdale where they had 6 children. Photos from the time show Williams as important and well upholstered, obviously enjoying a convivial life! In 1876, aged 44, William died suddenly of heart attack, leaving Alice with a baby in arms and 5 older children. [10]
Death entry: Mr. William Doherty, an old Gippslander, was taken suddenly ill yesterday morning, and died at 9.30 last night ; it is supposed from disease of the heart. The sudden event has cast a gloom over the whole community, all our places of business being partially closed in respect to the deceased gentleman's memory, and in token of sympathy with his bereaved family. His loss will be very keenly felt throughout the district, where he was universally respected. [11]
DOHERTY.-On the 18th inst., at Bairnsdale, Gippsland, William Doherty, second son of the late William Doherty, Esq., of the city of Cork, aged 46. [12]
William's will and probate indicates he had acquired a substantial number of land holdings, as well as 18 horses, and some cattle. [13]
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Categories: Cork City, Ireland | Doherty Name Study | Cork Doherty, Doherty Name Study