Michael Cavanagh was my great great great grandfather.

He was probably born in Inishowen, Co. Donegal. The date is unknown but could be as early as 1800.

Michael was a Blacksmith in Carrowhugh. His original Smithy was at the top of the "Wee Loanin'", but at some time he moved a few hundred metres to the Upper Road, between Moville and Stroove. He is recorded in Griffiths Valuation of Donegal (1857) as renting 23 acres of land in Carrowhugh.

Muchael married, and had at least three daughters, Frances, Mary and Nancy, and a son, John.

 

This is believed to be the site of Michael Cavanagh's original smithy in Carrowhugh, County Donegal