Flynn, or O Floinn in Irish, is high on the list of the most popular names in Ireland. It is derived from the Gaelic personal name Flann, which, when applied to a person, connotes a ruddy complexion. The name can be traced throughout Ireland, but is more frequently found in the south around Cork and Waterford and in the north in Counties Roscommon, Leitrim and Cavan.
The Flynns from County Cork separated themselves into two main factions; one living at Ardagh Castle between Skibbereen and Baltimore while the second were once lords of Muskerrylinn, until they were forced east by the McCarthy clan.
The clan’s northern counterparts situated in Kiltullagh and Kilkeevin in County Roscommon were erenaghs, in charge of maintaining lands and collecting taxes in the Parishes of St. Dochonna near Boyle, and the Parish at Errew by Lough Conn. The Flynns also owned land in South Armagh; here they were the senior branch of the Clanna Rury of Ulidia and traced their lineage all the way back to Colla Uais, King of Ireland in the fourth century.
Flynns have always been prominent in the religious world; in 1255, Fiacha O’Flynn became Archbishop of Tuam and, in 1820, Reverend Jeremiah O’Flynn played an instrumental role in sending the first Catholic missionaries to Australia. Modern members of the clan are still active in the religious field; Harry Flynn is the Archbishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, a position he has held since 1995.
Flynn descendants are also medaled soldiers, with two members of the clan receiving Medals of Honor during the Civil War. Sergeant James E Flynn of the 6th Missouri Infantry was awarded the Medal of Honor for gallantry in the charge of the volunteer storming party at Vicksburg, Mississippi. Sergeant Christopher Flynn of the 14th Connecticut Infantry received the award after he captured the flag of the 52nd North Carolina Infantry at the Battle of Gettysburg.
A soldier in a different sense, Elizabeth Gurley Flynn was a labor leader, activist and feminist. At the age of 16, Elizabeth gave her first political speech on “What Socialism Will Do for Women,” and though she was expelled from high school as a result, the speech set off a long career in the field of social activism. From 1907 until 1916, she became involved in the International Workers of the World, organizing campaigns for factory workers, restaurant employees and miners. Elizabeth was so passionate about her work that during this period she was arrested on ten different occasions. She was also a founding member of the American Civil Liberties Union and an avid supporter of the Birth Control Movement and Women’s Suffrage.
In the field of science and technology, James Robert “Jim” Flynn (born 1934 in Chicago), as a professor of political studies at the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand, researched the year-after-year rise of IQ scores in all parts of the world, giving us the term “the Flynn effect.”
Meanwhile on the sports field, another famous Flynn tore up the tracks in the 1980s. Irish mile great Ray Flynn, who ran 89 sub-4-minute miles, now owns and operates Flynn Sports Management, a firm that represents a number of top American runners.
The phrase “in like Flynn” is attributed by some to American politician and lawyer Edward J. Flynn — “Boss” Flynn (1891-1953), who was a campaign manager for the Democratic Party during FDR’s presidency. Flynn’s machine in the South Bronx in New York was so successful at winning elections that his candidates seemed to get into office automatically.
One of the more famous contemporary Flynns in politics is former Boston Mayor Ray Flynn, who was elected as Boston’s 52nd mayor in 1984 and served until 1993. A devout Catholic, Flynn was appointed by President Clinton as the American Ambassador to the Holy See. He held this position from 1993 until 1997 and currently is the National Chairman of Catholic Citizenship, a group he started in 2004.
Members of the Flynn family have also crossed the divide from the political world to the literary. John T. Flynn became one of the premier American political commentators during his career as a journalist in the 1920’s and 30’s. In the early 30’s Flynn was an avid supporter of FDR during his initial bid for the presidency; however, Flynn split from Roosevelt in 1936 due to differing opinions on FDR’s New Deal. He went on to become a founding member of the America First Committee, which opposed Roosevelt’s foreign policy. A more contemporary political writer is Vince Flynn, who has written six New York Times best-sellers since 1998.
One of the clan’s most flamboyant members was actor Errol Flynn, who owing to his seductive powers, is also an alternative candidate for the expression “in like Flynn.” A swashbuckler both on and off the silver screen, he was immortalized in films like The Adventures of Robin Hood and The Sun Also Rises. In 2004, Flynn was portrayed by Jude Law in the Howard Hughes biopic The Aviator. A more modern-day actor with a connection to the Flynn clan is Lara Flynn Boyle, the attractive actress who made a name for herself on the drama series Twin Peaks and the Emmy Award-winning show The Practice.
Flynns also made their way in the world of music. The renowned jazz pianist Frank Emilio Flynn (1921-2001) was born to Digna Maria and Francis Joseph Flynn in Havana, Cuba. In the business sphere, Irish-American William Flynn is Mutual of America’s Chairman Emeritus and the first Irish-American chairman of the NCAFP (National Committee on American Foreign Policy). Flynn received the National Committee’s first Initiative for Peace Award in 1997 for his work in promoting peace in Northern Ireland. He was this magazine’s Irish American of the Year in 1995 and was also honored as one of Irish America’s Irish of the Century.
Jim O' Flynn says
Back in the time of the famine 1845 – 1847, the British soup kitchens demanded loyalty to the crown, before you were given soup. You had to swear an oath of loyalty to The King. If you did “take the soup”, you were disowned and hence no “longer the son of”, so the “O'” was dropped from your name. So, to say your name is Flynn, as opposed to O’ Flynn, has significance in Ireland. Greetings to all my clan around the world. I’m in the County of Cork, Munster.
Ray Flynn says
Jim the phrase “taking the soup” is a myth and did not exsist during the famine, that phrase arose in the turn of the century American politics. If it were true then how are you O Flynn and not O Floinn, unless somewhere along the line your family took the soup. The main reason we are all Flynn or O Flynn is simply for literacy and educational reasons.
Owen o'flynn says
That saying does come from soup kitchen’s and spread to eastern US, more as a result of anti catholic bigotry. There are many references to it’s use from the late 1840’s..
Barbara Flynn————— says
My great great grandfather was named Owen Flynn, or perhaps “O’Flynn, from Cavan, Ireland. He ended up in Iowa, and started his family there. I grew up in S. W. Iowa,, maiden name is Flynn.
Owen o'flynn says
My Grandmother would tell us, “we did’nt leave our O in the soup!!
Liam Flynn says
I worked a trawler out of Castletownbere, Cork Co. and I heard ¨Did you drink the Queen´s Soup¨ all the time. Back in the States, everyone says it was lost during the Ellis Island registry.
Just an aside, I just reopened a second business in Baltimore, Maryland and named it Ó Flynn´s Crab & Cask House. It has been a real pain trying to push the Gaelic ¨Ó¨ as opposed to using the Anglicized ¨ O´¨. Going full Gaelic with Ó Floinn name would confuse the locals. Baltimore has it´s very own way of pronouncing things.
Ellie Stevenson Cerasuolo says
My ancestor is Honora O’Flynn (some supposed captured Irish Princess off the coast of Ireland). I live in Maryland. I will try your place…. Loved my visit to Ireland to try to find out some Irish ancestry as we’re full of it! But I don’t get my 26% Scandanavian?
Take care….
Mike Logsdon says
We share the same great Grandmother. She was wed to William Logsdon. As far as Scandanavian Descendcy look at the Viking Invasions in the 700’s-900’s in Ireland.
Melinda Logsdon says
Many blessing cousins
Mike Logsdon says
Hello! must be a heck of a great guy with a name like that! i’m of the Kentucky Logsdon part of the family. Have tried for many years to pinpoint the O’Flyyn part of our roots. According to all i’ve read we were of County Kerry, but when i visited there i was told it would have been County Cork. Just researching some more and saw your post and had to say hi.
Peggy Curtis says
The Vikings loved Ireland and intermarried with the Irish women that’s how you got your Scandanavian heritage. THE real irish have black hair and blue eyes while those who intermarried with the Vikings had red hair and blue/green eyes… (AS was told to me by my red-headed irish grandmother).
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi I have seen the name Honora O’Flynn mentioned in the Down Survey for 1670. This is the only female I know of recorded in relation to property so I believe this is the lady. From memory it says David O Flynn husband to Honora
Patrick
Mike Logsdon (Kentucky) says
Hi Ellie. We share the same O’Flynn ancestry. Honora is a legend in this part of the country.
Rileymoon says
I am Descended from Honora and William two ways, thru the mcKenzies and Logsdon who came to Fayette Illinois then on to Missouri. I am just catching on to this Irish Princess story and I love it.
vicki hay says
I am mollie bell Logsdon Hornback granddaughter and my granddaughter has the flaming red hair and is stunning so I believe all of this and is logged in the Baltimore catholic church where William and Honora were married she was mary Honora O’Flynn Logsdon and brought catholic faith with her. my grandmother’s father was joseph Logsdon from cub run , ky. or cash , ky. we are from Kerry col Ireland and Berkshire England and I married a Scottish lord Bert Hay.from Shepherdsville
, ky.
Fìrinne says
I’m also a descendant of the Honora who was allegedly kidnapped. My tenth great grandmother. The name Honora was used often.
I have a stunning red haired daughter and most of our family is red haired. I just found the story of the kidnapping today . Amazing what one finds in researching!
eileen Hardacre says
I dont get my 26% Scandanavian either.. My dad, Patrick O’Flynn, who came from Timaleague, Courtmacsherry & Broadstand was very dark with brown eyes but his mother was fair with blue eyes and she was an O’Ryan. I have assumed that my Scandinavian input must have come from her.
Peter Budds says
Probably Viking blood.
Linda Mascioli says
Interesting. I am also an ancestor of Honora O’Flynn/William Logsdon. My mother was a Logsdon and tracing the genealogy goes to Honora and William’s marriage and children.
Machiel says
I am from family Flynn, Errol Flynn was a 2nd cousin of My grandmother,.. I am told he came to there wedding., pretty cool.(waves) Hi Flynn,s!
Emmilyn Flynn says
Hi Machiel!
I am also related to Errol Flynn, he is my great uncle!
Though it is sorta embarrassing due to the fact that he was such an awful person. Do you have your Irish citizenship? My side of the family can’t because the church containing all the birth records burnt down.
Flynn says
He was definitely not a saint but he was not as bad as many people who have worked or still work in Hollywood.
Debbie Wiggins says
Hello
My name is Deborah
I am 3rd cousin of Errol Flynn my fathers was Thomas Eric Flynn was born in Launceston Tasmania Australia, my dad spoke many times of Errol Flynn in the family and my grandfather was a dentist in Launceston he was well know for his famous violinist in England. My great grandfathers name in Hobart Tasmania was very well known as a wonderful Professor in scientist. My fathers sister Frances did a incredible family tree on our Flynn’s family. So we must be relate I guess..
Jeanne G O'Flynn says
Hi I am also 3rd cousin to Errol Flynn my father used to tell us storey about him when they were young …. hi cousins
Mary Dority says
Hi, Jim. I am trying to locate my Great Grandmother Bridget Flynn from Cork. She immigrated here to the states around the late 1800’s-Early 1900’s. Not sure who her parents are and if she had siblings. I thought you might be able to help! Thank You ?
mark o flynn says
Hello i have found a relative of mine called bridget.I can send you a population census form via email with her name and family
Michael Flynn says
I’m also related to Bridget. I’ve only just begun to delve into my family history, and I’m amazed at what I’ve found so far! Good luck in your search, and hello to all of the other Flynn’s and variations!
Shawn says
Would love more about u myself could be fun. Y havent u called you said u would in few days please don’t lie to me?
Georgianna Taylor says
Hello, I am trying to find ancestral information on my great grandmother. She was born in Castleria 1865. Her name was Della Flynn sometimes penned Flinn. If you have any information I’d appreciate it.
Kristen Beitzel says
Hi All – My grandfather’s grandmother was Bridget Flynn. From what I’ve been able to find she was born in Ireland in 1864 (I believe around Cork) and moved to the states with her father, Timothy Flynn, and Mother, Mary (couldn’t find her maiden name). Married to a Martin Galvin and had one daughter, Mary. Died 11.1.1950 Hope this helps! If anyone has found any other information on her, I’d love to see it!
Katelyn Riggs says
My 3rd great grandfather was a John Flynn, born in 1837, who emigrated in 1846 with his parents. But I don’t know where he came from specifically. He landed in Northern Kentucky (where we still reside). I have his civil war draft record and know his mother was Ellen Carroll and father was Edward. Edwards mother was a Mary Carroll. Anybody have a guess based on those two surnames? Or how to pinpoint a better location.
Debbie Colson-McCarthy says
Hi Katelyn, Our Flynn’s maybe related somewhere back in time. My 2x great grandfather came to Cincinnati. I have some Flynn’s around in Northern Ky, Cincinnati and Dayton (where I am).
Debbie
vicki hay says
I am the great-great-great great-grandaughter of chieftain King Edward o Flynn
Mary E. Joyce-Ware says
Just learned that my father is Sean Flynn of Ireland. I will be 74 years old on 12 December 1950. My mother was Ellen Joyce of Joyce Country by Shannafararhan. I probably spelled that wrong, but by Finny., Loch Na Gooey. Sorry for the spelling. I have colorectal cancer and under chemo treatment. Wish I had picture of him??
Dave says
Jim and Ray,
Another reason we dropped the O was to get work in the U.S.. We were confronted with N.I.N.A. laws when we arrived. No Irish Need Apply. Modifing your surname was a survival tactic used by many nationalities.
James Flynn says
Don’t forget this fella! A great young amateur boxer from Glasgow. He works as a postman and said of his victory “The postman always delivers!” http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charlie_Flynn
Sheila Flynn says
My grandfather was Henry Flynn from Hendersonville , N.C .. (Bat Cave)
I would love to know more about this side of my family.
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Sheila
Maybe Henry in your Flynn family originated from a Marriage between Flynn and Henry in Stroke town Roscommon Ireland or may have originated in Sligo where both names are common
Patrick
Mark W. Ó Brien says
FYI: the Ó stands for “Grandson of.” Mac/Mc is “Son of.” Fitz is “Bastard Son of.” And Ní is “Daughter of.”
Steven Brennan says
I am trying to find my mothers relatives, Flynns, and think I have narrowed the search. Is there a good way of nailing down the details? It has been a tough task. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!!
Karmyn Hauger says
Familysearch.org is best. And hello cousin.
Jesse A. Flynn says
I am looking for lost relatives in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and else where who share a relative the late Bernard Flynn who past away when living in Lowell, MA.
There is a whole family away from the rest of the Flynn side of the family residing in Woburn, Wilmington, Salem, NH, and Portland, ME.
Please contact with any info.
John Flynn says
My family traces it’s routes from South Berwick Maine back 5 generations and subsequently spread out across seacoast NH and Mass. There’s still Flynn’s all over South Berwick, ME; Exeter, Dover, and Portsmouth, NH.
Sarah says
I’m curious if anyone has information on King Edward O’Flynn. I am a direct relative (9th great granddaughter) and don’t seem to be able to find much information on him.
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Sarah I have done a lot of Research on the O’Flynn Clan and might be able to help
Linda Jacobs says
Hi Patrick – King Edward OFlynn is my 9th great grandfather and I am doing research. Anything that would help or point me in the right direction would be appreciated.
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Linda the First Edmund O’Flyn we have located was born in the 17th century his father was Columb O’Flyn . He was Chief of his name. I never heard of a King associated with our name but the Chief O’Flyn was the representative of the Clan . The O’Flynns of Ballinlough are the most prominent and easiest to trace . Their territory was in West Roscommon and East Galway
My contact number is 0867761897 I am in Roscommon Ireland
Patrick O’Flynn
Shannan says
I am a descendant of Miles O’Flynn, born September 15, 1810 in Listrin, County Ireland. He came to America with his brothers in 1839. He joined the US Army, discharged 1844. Resettled in Sevier County, Arkansas. He joined the Masons and the babtist church with his wife Sarah and was banished from the family, I am Dorothy Dalton Flynn’s granddaughter, 03/23/1918. I am going to Ireland in September 2017 and would like to look up family history while there. Any information would be helpful.
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Linda
Very interesting was Miles in my family born 1819
I think the county you are referring to is Leitrim
Patrick
Sharron Flynn says
I have posted before that we have a family story of how our ancestor came to America, 7 brothers traveled to America together and went their separate ways never to reconnect again. Our earliest record is my Great Grandfather James Marcus who dropped the O’ when he married in 1861, Lamar County, Alabama. He told this story to my Grandfather that his father was one of the brothers. My grandfather would tease us kids by talking in the Irish brogue he learned from his grandfather he called Pappy.
Robert Flynn says
Patrick O’Flynn this is Robert Flynn arriving in Ireland on the 19 of May and spending my first night in Galway, is it possible for us to make a stop on the 20th or 21st to briefly visit face to face? It would really be nice to tell when I return to USA. You name the time and place and we’ll meet you there. Thanks for the online help to everyone.
Patrick O'Flynn says
Yes Robert no problem I will be in Galway 19th and 20th as I said you can call me on 0867761897 when you in Galway so we can meet up
I am very interested in where you got these early dates re O’Flynn’s
Patrick
Margaret Lundien says
Well, I have a membership to ancestry.com … I usually follow the paternal line of grandparent across but occasionally with an occasional dip into the grandmothers’ lines. So I trail through with the common question after I find a grandfather … “and who is your father?” Then I go through all the other ancestry trees, any and all documents that may attached. After that I go and type their name in google and review OTHER genealogy sites’ familial trees. Then I go to Wikipedia … if I can find enough information from several sources, I will say … “ok” that seems to be as right as i can get it. I reeeeally try to ask questions and search out answers. But I am never 100% sure because … I’m relying on others’ information… which is quite often pretty reliable. Have I messed something up? I am so excited to be related to the O’Flynns. I am a writer and will be completing my book by September and thought “Ok I’m going to research and write a book about Honora!” But … alas … someone has already written a book about her .. and I have ordered it from Amazon. Cannot wait to read it.. I also can’t tell you how much I appreciate your communications.
Robert Flynn says
Patrick, we will leave Galway the morning of the 19th, will you be there the night of the 18th or on the road heading to Galway on the 19. We’ll leave on the 19th heading down to clifts. Thought if that was the case we might stop roadside. What do you think?
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Robert
I will be travelling to Galway from Roscommon on the 19th leaving Roscommon at about 11.30 there was a Honora mentioned in the 17th Century only woman recorded Ann this was for the O’Flynn’s of Ballinlough County Roscommon
Patrick
Robert Flynn says
I’ll be traveling from the East crossing your county on my way to Tuam – St. Mary’s Cathedral on the 18th, I’ll be calling
Margaret Lundien says
I just found King Edward O’Flynn the father of Honora O’Flynn who was stolen from him by the English and put on a boat to become a wife of one of the colonists. My 5xggf was Logsdon who married Honora. Edmund was his father but I show King Edmund’s father as Thomas O’Flynn whose father is listed as George Flinn. ? Courtesy of Ancestry.com …
Ellie says
I’m a decendant of Honora O’Flynn Logsdon. Just found out today. In the States. I live near Annapolis, MD.
Robert Flynn says
To be sure we are talking about the same Edmund and Thomas, can you give me their birth dates, and any other pertinent information?
Julie Chrismer says
Hello Cousins! I, too, am a descended grand-daughter of Honora O’Flynn. Would you be willing to share your information?
Would you also have information on King / Chief Edward O’Flynn’s wife? I am tracing my mitochondrial line and am stuck on finding concrete information about them.
Carlee Paul says
Hi Margaret!
I’m also related to King Edward O’Flynn, Honora would be my 8x great grandmother. Did you ever find out more information on this family line? I would be curious to know if he actually ruled for any time.. looks like maybe he was just born into the clan and had some land? Did you ever read that book on Honora?
Adrian Logsdon Parker says
I am also a descendant of the O’Flynn Logsdon Line. I have a hand written lineage sheet going to 1652 for William Logsdon specifically stating – Wed Honora Flynn (no “O”) “an Irish catholic”. we were all protestant, so I assume the quotation was a bad thing back then in 1702
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Linda
I have concentrated on the O’Flyns of Connaght and I do know that there was a mention of a Collogh O’Flinn husband to Onora this is from the Book of Survey a Distribution this may refer to the Hanora it was in reference to a Townland in O’Flyn territory in the Barony of Ballintober and Parish Kiltullagh County Roscommon.
Patrick
Clayton Jackson says
Hello Patrick, have chased this line over the years intermittently I find a direct line to Mary Honora O’ Flynn in just 9 generations.
Diana says
Hi Patrick,
I am the 7th great granddaughter of King Edward O’flynn. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Diana for a start there is a Hanora recorded in The Book of Survey and Distribution for Ballintubber Barony County Roscommon.
The Chief of the O’Flynns was never refered to as King rather O’Flynn Chief of his Nation or Lord.
Hanora was recorded in the context as in John O’Flynn husband to Hanora
My email smarterfones@yahoo.ie
Patrick
Robert Flynn says
Thank you Patrick, there seems to be an ongoing misunderstanding of what the difference is between king and honora
Patrick O'Flynn says
This lady who was in Maryland may have been your ancestor and also the Hanoria I have refered to as she is the only woman recorded in the Book of Survey and Distribution she may very well have been recorded because she was the daughter of the Chief but also because of her disadisappearance. I do know that there were close ties between the Carrols and the O’Flyn’s in Ireland and both names are recorded in Maryland and seem to have got grants of land there
Patrick
michelle says
I would love t know more about the Flynn,s
eileen Hardacre says
You seem very knowledgeable about the O’Flynn genecology so I am wondering if you can help me. I love research and have traced my mothers ancestors to the 1400’s. With my Dad’s O’flynn ancestry it has been a non starter as there are not many records available. What I do know is that my dad grew up in Courtmacsherry. His farther grew up in Augha but when his farther died (I can find no reference of him) he moved with his mother Ellen to her home village of Broadstrand. I think she was a Donnelly but once again no information about them. My farthers mother came from Timoleague. She was an O’Ryan and they lived in Mill Street where her farther was a cobbler.. How can I get more information please particularly of Ellen and who her husband was. Thank you.
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Sarah there was never a king Edward Flynn but the Chierarchy was Edmond who was chief my email is smarterfones@yahoo.in
Contact number 0867761897
Patrick
Ellie Stevenson Cerasuolo says
I’m an ancestor of Honora O’Flynn his daughter…
Angel Carter says
Also my kin Cave City, Ky
SCallahan says
I found quite a bit of information on the King on ancestry. He is my 10th great grandfather 🙂 My last name is Callahan. The Irish never left the family though we left our land.
Sharron Flynn says
Great Grandfather James Marcus Flynn married in 1861@ La Mar County Alabama. Have no info prior – he relocated his family including my Grandfather James Oliver Newton Flynn to Oklahoma. My Dad Herman Cortez Flynn born Jan1915 in Paul’s Valley Okla. He was one of 7. Family story is that 7 brothers immigrated to New York City and as they left to find their fortunes they never reunited. Familiar? Do not know if James Marcus was one of the Brothers or a son of one of the Brothers. My Grandpa Flynn only remembered his Grandfather as Pappy.
Sharron Flynn says
Born in Fresno Ca, Father Herman Cortez Flynn born 1915 Paul’s Valley Okla., Grandfather James Oliver Newton Flynn born 1891 La Mar County, Al, Great-Grandfather James Marcus Flynn, married in La Mar County, Ala, no other verifiable information. Family story about origins – 7 Brothers immigrated to New York City and left singly or in pairs to seek their fortune and never reunited.
Robert Flynn says
Do you have the names of the seven (7) brothers who came to NYC?
Chelsea Flynn says
In the 1900’s my great grandfather John came to the United States with the last name O’flynn. The government made him take the o off did this happen to anyone else’s family member?
Shannan says
Yes.. they didn’t want to be associated with Irish.. most O’Flynn became Flynn
Sarah Brown says
I’m a few years late with this post however had to comment!
My ancestors came to Scotland from Ireland, first Colmonell in Ayr for a short time before moving to Wigtownshire then finally Glasgow. The story goes that they had to drop the ‘O’ in Flynn due to the stigma attached to being Irish. Nothing to do with soup!
Jeremy Lynn says
I’ve done enough research to trace the Lynn line back to the mid 1600s , and I’m trying to figure out when the Lynn branch dropped the ‘F’. If anyone could me some insight, I would be massively appreciative.
M Flynn says
Another variant of the name, I have direct cousins with a Blinn , and Flinn variant and that started over 150 years ago. Lynn….that’s a new one to me.
Patrick O'Flynn says
The F of Flynn was dropped by the northern branch of the Flynns in the 17th century and some of them called themselves Lindsay as Edward McLysaght (The Surnames of Ireland ) said out of mistaken pride and example of the use of the Lynn name was Vera Lynn the famous singer she is from the famous O’Flynn Clan that gave the Normans such difficulty in conquering the north eastern part of Ireland Indeed Sir John DeCourcy barely escaped with his life when his army was defeated by Cumhie O’Flynn
M Flynn says
I was told in my family that the O was dropped to anglicanize the name. Now in my family as it was heard and read, our Flynn name has differerent variants in my direct family alone. We have Flynn, Flinn, and Blinn. This is weird.
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Shannon you can contact me when you come to Ireland
My email is smarterfones@yahoo.in
Patrick O’Flynn
Noel O'Flynn says
Greetings to all O’Flynns , My grandfather Michael Paul O’Flynn born Cork [mallow lane/now Gerald Griffin Street]] [late 1800s/1966] brothers John.Joseph. Dinny.Fr. Christy/James & sisters Monica.&Cissie Their Father Cornelius O’Flynn married Catherine Upington [cork] [Corneilus former 2 wives died] The family were successful in meat& livestock business, My queries on the Upington connection brings me to a cul-de-sac, It was said that Cornelius [aforesaid] went to the USA and was friendly with O’Donovan Rossa I would love any info,to, noelfoflynn@hotmail.com
Robert Flynn says
I’m coming to Ireland and Northern Ireland hoping to connect more closely to our roots. My older brothers have done quite a bit of research telling me that we originated from the Bloodline of Edmond Flynn (1570-1646) and his son Laughtin Thomas Flynn (1620-1680) from County Down. Yet, when I research it looks like Flynns are everywhere in the Continent. Do does anyone have any suggestions for me and when I arrive in Dublin whether I should travel straight to County Down or elsewhere? Thank you
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Robert is there a chance your ancestors came from Ballinlough County Roscommon where we have the family located until the present
It is also represented by Brien Murphy O’Flynn of SanFrancisco
Regards
Patrick
Robert Flynn says
My older brothers who have done the research have told me that our ancestry has been traced back to (By DNA) Laughtin Thomas Flynn (1620-1680) and his father was Edmond Flynn (1570-1646) and that we originated from County Down
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Robert we have both Loughlin and Edmond locategory at a place called Turlagh Ballymoe parish of Ballinakil County Galway both have first names mentioned in 1744 in anew Irish Proclamation re Abductions but would be interesting to see if the Down Flynns are of the same DNA
Patrick
Robert Flynn says
We will arrive May 18th into the Dublin Airport at 6:50 a.m.; rent a car at begin our road trip northward and wondering if we should go to County Down since my brothers have traced our ancestors to that county or should we move on cross country to the west coast of Ireland, arriving May 18 in the evening for our first sleep over at Seashore Lodge in Galway. On May 19 we will travel and hopefully visit Loughlin and Edmond locategory at a place called Turlagh Ballymoe parish of Ballinakil County Galway. Our second night will be in Blarney Cork Area in the Muskerry Arms, enjoy the Blarney Castle and the square, restuarants, etc. But what are some churches or cathedrals we should see along the way in any city since the Flynn Clan has close ecclesiastical connections. May 20 we will spend our second night in the Muskerry Arms. On the morning of May 21 we will travel through Southern County Tppereary, over to County Waterford, County Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow and arriving in Dublin that evening. We will sleep over in Dublin May 21-22 in the Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel. We plan to visit J. Joyce Museum, Dalkey Castle and other sights. (any more suggestions)/?
On the evening of May 23 we will transfer to the airport and stay in the Glenmore House for our final evening. We will leave Ireland on May 24 at 8:55 a.m. having had a memorable week in Ireland. Any suggestions along the way would be appreciated.
Patrick O'Flynn says
Ireland is bigger than you apparently seem to think as a visit to the west of Ireland alone would take up your holiday and you seem to be all over the place I haven’t even traveled that much in Ireland
It’s like a race around touching bases
Enjoy your trip I will be in the Merrick Hotel Eyre Square Galway on the 19th May at a family wedding my contact no is 0867761897
Patrick
Robert Flynn says
I’m meeting with my friend for dinner and I’ll share this email.
Patrick O'Flynn says
Great
Derek Flyn says
My tuppence worth s that Ireland is slower than you probably think. 30mph can be a good average on some trips.
Patrick O'Flynn says
Yes if you on a Raleigh bike you need to enjoy your trip not just say you were there as if it was a baseball game as in bases……
Patrick O'Flynn says
Yes if you on an old Raleigh bike, you need to enjoy your trip not just say you were there as if it was a baseball game as in touching bases……
Patrick
Patrick O'Flynn says
Then you were on an old Raleigh bike
Derek Flyn says
.Flynn / Nevada
I am travelling from UK this year to follow the route of the Pony Express through Nevada.
Thomas Flynn was a Pony Express rider.
Are there many Flynn in central Nevada?
Robert Flynn says
I have so much to learn. can you make any sense of this I’m attaching?
Edmund Flynn 1570-1646
Thomas Flynn 1620-1680
Laughlin Flynn Sr 1679-1731
Laughlin Flynn Jr 1697-1758
John Flynn 1732-1780
William Flynn 1760
John Flinn
John R. Flinn 1826
William A. Flinn 1859-1941
John Terry Flinn 1880-1915
Fred Flynn 1906-1981
Robert C. Flynn 1948
I don’t know when this line first came to America. In 1800’s I know last 5 or 6 names were in Virginia, USA and my father moved to North Carolina in the 1920’s, two of my siblings moved to South Carolina where their families are now near Charleston, South Carolina.
Robert Flynn says
I’ve found they first came to America in 1600s. With Thomas and Laughlin
Margaret Lundien says
Robert: Here is my family tree .. such as it is … just to the two generations after Mary Honora O’Flynn … tell me if you believe it has incorrect information:
Flynn (Flinn) (1450 – )
12th great-grandfather
Ireland Flinn O’Flynn Flynn** (1470 – )
son of Flynn (Flinn)
George Flinn (1565 – )
son of Ireland Flinn O’Flynn Flynn**
Thomas O’Flynn (1600 – 1646)
son of George Flinn
King Edmond O’Flynn (1635 – 1750)
son of Thomas O’Flynn
King Edward O’Flynn (1655 – 1750)
son of King Edmond O’Flynn
Princess Mary Honora O’Flynn (1680 – 1741)
daughter of King Edward O’Flynn
John Lawrence Logsdon (1716 – 1797)
son of Princess Mary Honora O’Flynn
William Logsdon (1747 – 1818)
son of John Lawrence Logsdon
Joseph Logsdon (1796 – 1881)
son of William Logsdon
Thank you every so much.
Margaret
Terri L Dobbins says
MARGARET LUNDIEN I am also related to Mary Honora O’Flynn! What you have found has really helped me with some completion of my family tree.
I am still trying to figure out how far back Mary Honora O’Flynn is as my Grandmother.
My Great Great Great Grandfather was Joseph Logsdon (1796 – 1881).
My Great Great Grandfather was James Logsdon (1805-1867) and
my Grandfather was James William Logsdon (1869-1952) Married Adelia Myrtle Richter
My Mother was Roxie Myrtle Logsdon (1920-2009)
Somewhere down the lineage, you and I are related. So hello Cousin 🙂
Terri Dobbins 330-242-6337 sunkist7001@yahoo.com
Micky Dawson says
Terri- Honora O’Flynn & William Logsdon are my 9th great grandparents.
Here is the info I have:
James Logsdon – married Jun.26, 1662 at St. Johns Ch. Bedfordshire Eng. to
Jane James b. abt. 1641-d.?
Their son-
Wm Logsdon b. Sept. 19, 1752 Bedfordshire, Eng.
At 10 yrs old, accepted indentured passage & arriv. Baltimore 1673/74 on ship commanded by Capt. Samuel Smith – indentured & sold to tobacco farmer for 4 yrs. Afterwards worked as tobacco laborer until he bought land & by 1702 owned a plantation named “Brotherly Love” near the Patapsco River, Md.
In 1702, he was abt. 38 yrs old, while working his farm, he saw a British ship anchored in the Patabsco River & decided to see what cargo they had. He found the ship had many young, mostly Irish women who had been kidnapped from the southern coast of Ireland & were to be sold to settlers as wives. Among them he met & purchased, for a barrel of tobacco, 16 yr old Honora O’Flynn b. 1686 in Co. Cavan, Kerry, Ireland- d. 1741 Baltimore, Md. They married , some say in nearby Tobacco City, Md. by an itinerant Catholic priest, other records refer to Sept. 19, 1702 St. Ignatius Catholic Church in Baltimore, Md.
Their first child was my 8th ggrm.*Anne Logsdon
B. 1703 on the Plantation Brotherly Love, Md.-d. 8, Jul. 1770 Westminster, Carroll Co.,Md.
On Jul. 4, 1723, she married *Samuel Durbin
b. 1698 in England-
d. 19 Sept. 1752 Carroll Co, Md.
Anne’s siblings were-
William II- b.1705-d. After 1770 married Ann Davis
Honora -1708-1802
Edward C. – 1709-1793 in Yohogania, VA.
married Sarah McQueen
Joseph- “Big Joe” 1710-1818
Lawrence – abt 1711-?
Prudence- 1712-1799 married James Kelley
Thomas S. – 1715-Oct. 9, 1797. Married Mary Vaughan
25 Sep 1784: Thomas was living in Garrett County, Maryland when George Washington visited his home. Thomas’s son, Joseph Logsdon served as Washington’s scout through the wilderness.
John St.- 1716-Oct 1797 Md.
married Margaret Wooley
In the Hall of Records Annapolis, Md. Vol 15 there are severaldocuments stating that Honora was kidnapped from the shore of her home in Ireland by pirates, some say British to be sold to settlers who wanted wives. Honora is referred to as the “Captive Maiden” & William as the “Indentured Servant”. (His story is also incredible to us- as an adventurous ten year old, he, with some young friends were encouraged by the ships captain to travel to the Maryland colonies & to agree to 4 years indentured service to pay their passage. His parents agreed & he worked aboard ship for the four month journey.) Honora (O’Flynn) Logsdon eventually owned some of the large property that she & William Logsdon farmed as it is recorded that she disclaimed her dower rights to that land & turned it over to three of her sons to sell. She is claimed to be one of the first Catholics who brought the faith to the area. (However, after the battles fought between the British & the Catholics in Ireland, Maryland was known by Scottish & Irish settlers to be generally a safe place.)
I would love to know Honora’s true ancestry as there seems to be some confusion about it paternal & maternal.
Hope this helps.
Happy researching!
Wendy Hawthorne says
Margaret, I do believe we are related. Today we found out Honors was in our family line. The daughter of Edward. My sister Terie Vase is doing our ancestry research.
Wendy Hawthorne
Robert Flynn says
I compare this and try to find some similarity.
Margaret Lundien says
Many many thanks!!! and a Hug!
Robert Flynn says
Oh you sound like a Southern Flynn LOL
Margaret Lundien says
I am … bless your heart. 🙂
Robert Flynn says
Thanks Patrick
Kathleen Kay Ek(Flynn) says
I have a Flynn family tree on Ancestry.com and would love for anyone with more information to email me or contact me on Ancestry. My Father’s name was Hubert McCoy Flynn. I have found my siblings through Ancestry and Facebook. I have a question about the Flynn name. And I’m sorry if it sounds stupid but are all of the Flynn’s related? By originating from one family in Ireland?
Thank you in advance for any and all replies.
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Kathleen
The Flynn name was fairly widespread in Ireland but the main navigation strongholds were Dal Riada in what is now Northern Ireland also a region on the Cork Kerry borderby which was called Muscairelinn and Ballinlough County Roscommon was another Strònghold these 3 locations are the original settlements of the Flynns and they spread out from there
Patrick
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Kathleen
The Flynn name was fairly widespread in Ireland but the main strongholds were Dal Riada in what is now Northern Ireland also a region on the Cork Kerry borderby which was called Muscairelinn and Ballinlough County Roscommon was another Strònghold these 3 locations are the original settlements of the Flynns and they spread out from there
Patrick
Donald Flynn says
I see nothing about Flynn’s being sheep stealers which I am told bothered my Great-Grandfather tremendously. At least the implication did.
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Donald
Roscommon people were jokingly referred to as sheep stealers as Roscommon was a big sheep rearing county and also where the O’Flynn’s had one of theIreland territories and stronghold it points to the fact that maybe your Flynns came from there
Is Donald a Family name
Edward Flynn through his efforts had a breed of sheep recognised as The Roscommon Sheep in 1848
Patrick
Patrick
F. X. Flinn says
We need more Ó Floinn males — however you might spell it! — to do the FTDNA y testing (https://www.familytreedna.com/products/y-dna).
It is highly likely that the branch originating in SW Cork are part of the Isles branch in Haplogroup I, meaning they were among the first settlers who arrived in Ireland at the end of the last Ice Age before the Doggerland went under the English Channel. That is what our DNA shows.
We are still trying to locate the family of origin of our gateway ancestor — James Flynn b 1834 — and it would be fun to find a Flynn in Ireland with a good match.
As to why we spell it Flinn, apparently James’ wife Susan Jones was English and she wanted the family to spell it the “English” way, i.e., dump both “O’s” from Ó Floinn (the oi being a Gaelic dipthong equal to the short i in English, but when written in script looks an awful lot like a y without the descender) and winding up with Flinn (and besides there is no letter y in Gaelic) AND she wanted the family to go to the C of E, the Episcopal Church in the USA, not the Catholics. She succeeded in part — her oldest some spelled it Flinn, but he was a Catholic. Or maybe just married a Catholic and went along. Anyway, my family descends from that kid. The other 2 boys and 1 girl, well, they stayed Episcopal. But they spell it Flynn.
If you’re laughing and this sounds like something that might happen in your family, get that DNA test done, we may be related.
Patrick O'Flynn says
I am also of the opinion that the Cork/Kerry (Muscairelinn) O’Flynns and the Connacht O’Flynns are closely related from at least the 7th Century in St. Caoilinn’s time. She was patron Saint of the Blind and Abbess of a Nunerry at Moore, Castlerea, County Roscommon their is recorded in the Annals that she acted as Guarantor of a land settlement between the local Chief Enda and The Ciarriage who had come from the South of Ireland to where O’Flynns territory lay
Jaci says
I’m a Flynn from new Zealand who can trace my lineage back to Ireland. My ancestors hail from county cork. I found this article really interesting.
Mary says
I live in New York State,and am trying to trace my Great Grandmother Bridget Flynn from Cork, Ireland. I don’t have a middle name or parents, siblings, etc. But she came to NYC sometime in the late 1800’s-Early 1900’s. I think she was married to William Henry Dugan from NYC early 1900. She died at 26 years old here after giving birth to 3 children-2 sons and 1daughter, who is my Grandmother. Anyone have any information to share, please.? Thank You!
Emmilyn Flynn says
Do you have Irish citizenship?
Patrick O'Flynn says
St Caoilinn was always regarded as an O’Flynn and the Churches in the parish of Kilkevin (Castlerea) are dedicated to her. Her Feast day was observed up to modern times a Holy Well also existed and numerous miracles attributed to her.
There is also a reference in the Annals the the church of Emlagh Brochada with its full of O’Flynns, three priests and black nuns (obviously referring to their dress) was wantonly burnt my enemies of the Clan. There is a broken Celtic Cross that stood at the entrance to this church still to be seen on the site of this church.
This is testimony to the fact that from the establishment of Christianity in the Kingdom of Ireland the O’Flynns played a central role
Robert Flynn says
Top of the morning to ya, Patrick. If it is not too much to ask, please send me a picture of the altar area in the Cathedral of Tuam. Thank You. I hope you are well. Blessings!
Tracey Billings says
My 4 X GF was a Laurence Flynn. Born Roscommon or Mayo 1818. Moved to Staffordshire around 1848 with children who’s mother is stated as Mary Kearns/Kerins . Had my DNA test results which say 40% Ireland (N Connacht) Led me to lots of 4th cousins with lots of them having the name “Duffy”. There are a few marriages between Duffy and Flynn and this is obviously a branch of the family tree but I cant find out any more info on Laurence or Mary
Kurt Roudabush says
My maternal grandmother was a Flynn. Her grand father was John Flynn (b 31 May 1815 in Kings County (Offaly), Ireland. According to some sources, he came to America, returned to Ireland, and then came back again. His parents George Edward and Anna Flynn settled in Nova Scotia. He moved to the US and served in the army in the 2nd Seminole War and the Mexican War. His father, George Edward Flynn, may have been from Kings Country or Galway and was born about 1770. Like his son, he may have sailed to America twice. First in 1823, returning to Ireland in about 1831. Then, arriving in Nova Scotia, in 1833 when their ship was blown off course. I can find no further connections in Ireland. If any of this information can help find additional ancestors, I would be very appreciative. Thanks, Kurt
Tracey Billings says
Hi My 3 x ggp were Flynns. I wonder, do you have a tree on ancestry.com? You certainly have more information than I have on my ancestors
Kurt Roudabush says
Yes, my tree is on Ancestry. But on the Flynn side, almost everything I know is in the post other than the siblings of my ancestors. The frustrating part for me is not being able to make a connection to the family in Ireland.
Donna wade says
My great grandfather John James Flynn left Cork to come to usa in 1888. He married Lena Deter. One of his sisters came to visit only once, which I have a wonder photo of her and my great grandfather. I do not know her name nut i do know they had a large family. I am aware Flynn is a common name but if anyone knows my great grandfather s family I would love to hear about it. thanks
Patrick O'Flynn says
I will include your request in my 5 year plan…..
Will do.. . this year meeting my cousins in Fortlauderdale and NJ
May 9th to 20th
Patrick
Robert Flynn says
Are you that busy and having to schedule things to do 5 years in advance?
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Robert I went to Tuam to see if anything to photograph in relation to Archbishop but while it is an ancient church ruin and graveyard didnt locate what you wanted
Patrick
Patrick O'Flynn says
Just joking Robert I will make a point of getting that picture in Tuam shortly that you requested
Patrick
Kathleen Flynn Kuritz says
Anyone connected to David Flynn and Catherine Lyons Flynn, married in the Roman Catholic church of St. Mary’s in Castlemagner, near Mallow, County Cork? They were my great grandparents. Their children were: Cornelius, William, Mary ( Minnie) and Bridget who emigrated from Ireland to Australia, and David and Daniel (ending up in Chicago) and Denis (Cleveland, Ohio) and John – US location uncertain.
Hank Cardello says
My dad went to PS3 in Bronx, NY in 1940. I just came across a book he had that commemorated his school days. On one page he lists his hero as “Edward Flynn”. I don’t seem to find info on that person. Anyone have any ideas? Thanks.
Sharron Flynn says
Hank I found this online:
Edward Joseph Flynn (September 22, 1891 in The Bronx, then New York County, now Bronx County, New York City – August 18, 1953 in Dublin, Ireland) was an American lawyer and politician. Flynn was a leading Democratic politician of the mid-1900s, known for his tight control of the Bronx Democratic Party organization after 1922.
Hank Cardello says
Wow, thanks Sharron. As my dad was a republican in his days that is interesting. My grandfather, his dad, was born sometime in the 1890s in NYCity and Im thinking my grandfather may have been involved in politics in the 1940s and influenced my dad at that time. Also interesting is that Sept 22 is my birthday.
Thanks so much for your time and reply.
Sharron Flynn says
You are welcome Hank. Most of the working Flynns of my Dad’s generation were democrats because of the Unions.
Ed Flynn says
That is my Great Uncle, Edward J.Flynn. He was Time magazine man of the Year, many don’t remember. He also was involved in the worlds fair in NY as well as being Eleanor R. Good friend. My grandfather passed away at a very young age. Edward L Flynn my uncle was involved in McDonald’s as well as many other businesses. He still resides in NYC area. There is a book on Edward J. Flynn “You’re the Boss”
Jimmy Flynn says
Anyone on here related to John and Ellen Sheehan Flynn, from Banteer, Co. Cork? They are buried in Clonmeen North Cemetery, died in 1904, 1905. They were my Great Grandparents, their Son Denis was my Grandfather. He came to Savannah, Georgia in 1905, moved to Macon, Georgia, married, and my Father Howard M. Flynn was born. My Wife Jo and I Live near Columbus, Georgia in Midland. Anxious to see any answers. Thanks, Jimmy
Robert Flynn says
How far back have you traced your ancestors. Our blood line back to Edmond Flynn 1560 in County Downs, Downspatrict, N. Ireland
Jimmy Flynn says
My great grandparents are as far as we can trace now, John Flynn was born around 1825, married Ellen Sheehan, and think her parents were Thomas Sheehan and Bridget Evans Sheehan. Would love for earlier research to become known. Jimmy Flynn
Wendy Tippett (nee Flynn) says
I’ve traced my ancestors on the Flynn side back to Nicholas & Mary Flynn, father and mother of Hugh Flynn. They all came to Liverpool, presumably in the famine..but nowhere can I find where in Ireland they came from..there are several Nicholas and Marys, all born about 1835..somewhere in Ireland
Jacqui Burke says
Hi my grandfather was Denis Flynn born in Banteer . His father Edmund Flynn ( my great grandfather) was born in 1886 in Coolroebeg Clonmeen
Banteer and is buried in Clonmeen cemetery with a lot of his Flynn family.I know Edmund was one of 10 children . His siblings names were Michael, John, Anthony,Daniel,Eugene,Mary Denis, William and Nora.Their parents were Mary McAuliffe and Owen Flynn (AKA Eugene) . More than likely we are of the same Flynn family. I’ve been doing the family tree and would be willing to share my information with you , hopefully to find a connection so you might have information for me.
Jacqui.
Patrick O'Flynn says
Try Kilcorky parish County Roscommon for Nicholas Flyn
Wendy Tippett (nee Flynn) says
Thank you ! I will!!
Patrick O'Flynn says
Seen Tombstone there in Kilcorky Graveyard to Michael, Nicholas and Conor Flyn its a rare Name amongst the Flyns in Roscommon so worth a try let me know if I can help further. The dates recorded there is around end of 18th century beginning of 19th. Liverpool is where most people from Connaght esp Roscommon would have gone in search of work or in route to the US
My email smarterfones@yahoo.ie
Patrick O’Flynn
sandy wilson says
my god are we all kin that have the last name flynn? my mother is a flynn from crossville tn who were the first settlers in that city. my 3rd great grandfather was Richard Lafayette Flynn who hid union soldiers and slave during the civil war. that is my life line. Edmund flynn who came from northeastern ireland is my kin. i think it was ulster not sure. ARE WE ALL KIN I WONDER?
David Smith says
I just posted some Fynn photos on facebook. Richard Flynn’s wife is sister to my 4th Great-Grandfather, James Wyatt.
Kristin says
I am trying to trace my grandmothers family and have hit a roadblock. I am related to a Hugh Flynn (we suspect O’Flynn) who was married to Margaret and they were both born in Roscommon Ireland in about 1831. They are on a census in Liverpool in 1871. Then I know that Hugh and daughters Nellie and Minnie showed up on a US Cencus a few times in the early 1900’s and would have to have been here before my great grandmothers birth (Minnie’s child)in 1900.
I would love to have some information on Hugh or Margaret’s family in Ireland.
Kendra Flynn says
Hi Everyone my name is Kendra Alicia Flynn daughter of Doglas Alexander Flynn and GrandDaughter of Keith Alexander Roberto Flynn I am looking for any possible relatives that might be around on this website let me know if anyone has any information on this thanks
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Kendra
Alexander O’Flyn is recorded in a postulation to nominate a Bishop in 1748 for the Diocese of Elphin. He was from a place called Drymills near Ballintubber County Roscommon Ireland. Alexander as a first name amoungst the Flynns was rare however I seen it used in the Irwin family who lived close to the Flynns
My email is smarterfones@yahoo.ie
Patrick O’Flynn
Leah Connelly says
Hello I have traced my roots back to a Hugh Flinn and an Elizabeth Carter Flinn who moved to Scotland from Ireland and had several kids there (Michael Benedict, Susan and John (twins), Minnie, Nellie, Thomas, Bridget) some of whom did not survive. They came to the US in 1870’s (changed to Flynn) and settled in Salamanca NY before moving 1/2 hour away to Bradford, PA. I would like more info on them before they moved to Scotland as I am unable to trace their parents, siblings etc. Any info or resources for Irish records in the 1830’s would be great.
Karen Young says
Hi Patrick,
i need to be pointed in the right direction to find the home of my Flynn ancestors. My gg grandmother was Catherine Flynn b 1839 in Cork to Patrick Flynn b 1811. Unable to find Catherine’s mother s name or the exact area of Cork where they lived. Sometime during the 1850’s the entire family went to Swansea Wales for work. However, for decades they traveled back to Cork each summer and the story goes that some part of the family had a
very large horse farm. Have checked Griffith’s and the tithe books but I have no info on other members of Patrick’s family. Have you any suggestions as to where else I should look?
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi Tracey
I feel your Flynns came from the Parish of Tibohine County Roscommon where both the Duffy and Flynn name was common and also the given name Laurence
My email is smarterfones@yahoo.ie if you wish me to check anything
Patrick O’Flynn
Ed Flynn says
I am Edward Laurence Flynn from Virginia my father from the Bronx NY and my Great Uncle is the Edward J. “Boss” Flynn who I am named after. Proud of my heritage and know now why my Uncle said I had a lot to live up to with this name. Greetings from Virginia!
Kathleen Flynn Kuritz says
Great grandparents were David Flynn and Catherine Lyons Flynn from the Mallow area of County Cork. They lived in Castlemagner, Kanturk, and other small towns and villages in the Mallow area. Their three eldest children, Marry (Minnie), Cornelius, and Bridget left for Melbourne, Australia. Three younger sons, David, Denis, and Daniel ended up in Chicago and Cleveland, Ohio. Sons John and William probably left for Melbourne or United States. Denis was my paternal grandfather. Would love to find more about David and Catherine, who most likely remained in and died in Ireland. W
F X Flinn says
Again I’d like to ask for more Flynn / Flinn males to get a yDNA test done at FamilyTreeDNA: https://www.familytreedna.com/products/y-dna
There is a group devoted to the study of the family via male-line Y chromosome DNA testing. It’s especially useful for those of you in Ireland to have this test done, as you may know more about your pre-famine ancestors through family oral tradition than those of us in the USA and OZ have access to on paper. For those of us scattered around the world it would be useful in identifying clumps of family members related back to ancestors in specific geographic areas of Ireland in the 1700s and earlier. For example, I sure would like to know for sure that I can concentrate only on Cork Flynns who are part of the Haplogroup I Isles-C neolithic settlers of Ireland instead of the the Haplogroup R Celts elsewhere on the Emerald Isle.
So …. if you are a male; and your father was a Flynn or Flinn; please consider jumping in and gettting a yDNA test done.
Cheers
F. X.
Patrick O'Flynn says
Hi F X i am a Roscommon Flynn and I have done the y dna test
Looking forward to hearing crom you as we are both investigating ame subject
Patrick
Patrick O'Flynn says
Please email me smarterfones@yahoo.ie
Patrick O’Flynn
Mary Dority says
I am 37% Irish through my Ancestry.com DNA. My Great GRANDMOTHER, Bridget Flynn, came to America NYC area in the late 1800’s. She married a man named William Henry Dugan. She died in 1910 at the age of 26, after giving birth to a baby boy named Joseph. She also had two other children named Mathew Aloyisious Dugan and Mary Frances Dugan. Is there anyone who has information that can help me locate Family members of theirs? Thank You ?
Mary Dority says
I am 37% Irish through my Ancestry.com DNA. My Great GRANDMOTHER, Bridget Flynn, came to America NYC area in the late 1800’s from Cork. She married a man named William Henry Dugan. She died in 1910 at the age of 26, after giving birth to a baby boy named Joseph. She also had two other children named Mathew Aloyisious Dugan and Mary Frances Dugan. Is there anyone who has information that can help me locate Family members of theirs? Thank You ?
David Moore says
Looking to establish any information about Catherine (Kate) O Flynn died 1st May 1914 aged 58y believed to be native Kanturk, Co Cork married Thomas Roche b 1856 Newmarket, cattle dealer. They hat a public house at 11 Corn Market St, Cork, childless but lists a niece Kathleen 3 years old residing with aunt Kate & Thomas in 1901 census. Thomas died in 1906 suddenly in Queenstown, Cork. Kate listed as licensed vintner at No 11 Corn Market St in 1911 census along with nephew Patrick Joseph O Flynn 18 y & niece Cathleen O Flynn 13 y. Mr.Charles O Neil, stockbroker administered Kate’s will in 1914, farm in Mahon went to her bro in law Wm Roche of Brooklodge, Glanmire, Co Cork. There is a Margaret O Neil interred in the Thomas Roche & Catherine (Kate) grave St Joseph’s cemetery in Cork, Margaret O Neil died 20th July 1959…she may have been related to Kate. Any information greatly appreciated on Kate O Flynn.
Gary Flynn says
Hi there, just saying hello to my fellow Flynn’s, would love to know more about my family, really only know my father who is a twin and his name is Gary Flynn and knew my grandma when I was younger, her name was Geneva Flynn, not sure what other info I could give in order to find out more. Thank you Flynn’s, you Rock!
Debbie Colson-McCarthy says
Hello cousin Flynn’s!! My Flynn’s are from Boherbue, Cork County. My great grandfather 2x Michael Flynn born 1837 and died in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1883. His parents were Thomas Flynn and Nora Keefe. His first wife was Mary Quinlan and she died around 1879. He remarried Johanna Boland/Bolan. Any Flynn’s have ancestors from the Boherbue area? I am hoping to visit the area next year. It would be so cool to meet a distant Flynn cousin.
thanks!
Debbie
Michael Flynn says
Hello from Minnesota! I’ve been doing a bit of research, and the furthest back I’ve been able to track my family was a fella named Laurence Flynn, who was born 1717 Killaloe, Clare, Ireland and died there in 1788. Not much more is known. Does this look familiar to anybody?
Wendy Tippett (nee Flynn) says
Hi there,
I’m still looking for my great grandparents Nicholas & Mary Flynn. I have found several pairs with the same names but dont know if any of them are the ones from our family.I don’t know Mary’s surname as the census didnt ask–Same with where in Ireland they came from. They were born around 1830’s.They moved to Liverpool perhaps in 1850s & their children were Hugh, James ,Mary & Margaret . As far asI can see they stayed in Liverpool.
Ed Flynn says
Looks familiar to me as my middle name is Laurence. Here in Virginia and I was told that the Laurence has connections to Alsace-Lorraine region of France and Germany going back well before any records were kept. My G-Uncle was the Edward Flynn in the story above.
S flynn says
A man (my Great-Grandfather). calling himself James M. Flynn or Flinn (est. birth 1860) married Jerusha Otts on 14 October 1880 in Lamar, Alabama, United States. Prior to his marriage record, I have not been able to find any previous records what so ever. No birth records, no census records, nothing. His son, my Grandfather called him pap or pappy and said he spoke with a brogue. Family tradition states that either James or his father came to America with 6 brothers. They all went different ways and never reconnected again. I am looking for my Great-Grandfather’s brothers or Uncles to continue tracing our roots. Looking for someone with a similar migration story.
Jake Flinn says
Howdy from Texas, my grandad and great grandad have done extensive research on our direct lineage dating back to the early 1800s to a Jasper O’Flynn settling in Hardeman County, TN. His son Isiah changing the family name to Flinn with an “i” to Americanize it, and later his descendants move to Hutto, Texas outside of Austin, late 1800s. I know we have many distant kin in Texas but have only met on rare occasions. I do have paperwork with our direct lineage back to Ireland. Do not know of relatives in the old country.
Diane says
My Grandmother was Barbara Flynn from Connemara area of Ireland
Betty Ann says
Hi from Savannah , Ga.
My grandfather….James F Flynn born in West Orange, NJ ..1872
His father John Flynn and mother Maria O’Connor from Roscommon and married @St John’s Catholic Church in Orange!NJ
John’s father……James Flynn …John’s mother ….Winifred O’Rurk
Maria’s father…James O’Connor…..Maria’s mother… Mary Brennan
Info came from baptismal records from St John’s.
Can’t verify any info before 1880 US census
Any help would be appreciated.
Anthony says
Anyone aware of the seven Flynn brothers from Ballina, Co. Mayo, who all fought in WW1 and all survived?
Their father William was also a soldier in The Connaught Rangers and had eight boys from his first wife and six boys & three girls from his second marriage. One of the six boys was my grandfather.
Heather says
Thomas Flynn married Sophia .Early 1940s.Carter.They had 7 children.
Alice,Allen,Lesley,Kenneth and Patricia. 2 children deceased during the 2 WW.
Would love to go back farther .
Tosha says
Hi. Honora is 7th great grandma. It was easy to trace my ancestry to her but then I’m stumped. Is she actually related to the King of Ireland or is this speculation. I’m just not sure what direction I need to go in tracing back further.
Julia says
Hi everyone! I just came across this post and was wondering if anyone would have any information on Flynns entering canada. I have a great great grandfather Michael Joseph that was born in 1849 on the island of Newfoundland. His parents were apparently a Thomas Flynn and Bridget Ryan (NL Birth certificate) born around the early 1820’s, but we don’t know if they were the first to come to Canada or were born here.
Rumor is our flynns left Ireland after dark….and quickly. I’ve found a record of a Thomas and Bridget in Australia but timelines do not match up…..
Thank you!
Sharron Flynn says
Flynns from Lamar County Alabama – looking for family history mid 1800’s and earlier. My Grandfather, James Oliver Newton Flynn was born there in 1890. His father’s name was James Dalafayette “Marcus” Flynn (1860) and mother was Jerusha Otts – Flynn (1858). I have a marriage license 1n 1880 for my great-grandfather and a photo of a note, signed Miss. S. F. Filinn, with the assumption it was from his mother giving her permission for him to marry. And a 1870 census for Safrona Flinn as head of household in Sanford, Alabama listing four children, including James w Flinn age 8, all living on a working farm. Any information will be appreciated.