Introduction

Welcome to the September 2008 issue of “Daltons in History”, in which you will find a full report on our Gathering in Birr. All those who came to Ireland enjoyed a full programme of events over the weekend, which had a distinctly Irish flavour from beginning to end. Kate and I returned home from Ireland in the middle of August and, as usual, it has been a busy time on DGS matters since then, as the notes below will testify.

2008 Gathering in Ireland

There is no doubt that the weekend in Birr was a resounding success. For those who attended, I know that each of us will have memories of the event that we will treasure for a long time. For those of you unable to be there, we hope that the diary below, the comments from some of our delegates and the photographs (www.daltongensoc.com/gallery/birr2008) on this website, will capture a little of the spirit of the occasion and convey it to you.

I just want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who helped us to put the weekend programme together and ensure that everything ran smoothly. Particular thanks go to Ciaran Dalton, our Irish Secretary, who with his wife Collette, ensured that we all participated in a memorable Irish experience; and to Jo Duignan and all the staff at Dooly’s Hotel who looked after us so well; also to Des Connole and his team at The Thatch who made Sunday evening so special.

Apart from the social aspects of the weekend, the gathering provided a serious opportunity to further our knowledge of Irish Dalton family history. The Saturday morning conference enabled delegates to share the many strands of Irish Dalton ancestry and, of course, this continued informally throughout the weekend. Many delegates extended their stays in Ireland before and after the weekend and visited locations associated with their particular lines. I am sure we will be hearing more from each of them here in “Daltons in History” or in the pages of the DGS Journal, as they piece together their individual Dalton family jigsaw puzzles.

The Dalton International DNA Project (DIDP)

Since I returned from Ireland, Family Tree DNA has announced a special promotion, which entitles individuals to join DIDP at greatly reduced prices. Initially this promotion was to run only until 31st August, but I have just received an announcement from FTDNA that it has now been extended to 30th September. As an example, the cost of a 37 marker Y DNA test, the one we would normally recommend, has been reduced from US$189.00 to US$119.00, a saving of $70. I have been working with our local secretaries to ensure that we advise prospective testees of this opportunity and we already have about 10 new recruits to the project. The extension of the promotion to the end of September now gives me the opportunity to publicise it here in “Daltons in History”, and I hope that many more of you will take advantage of this offer. If you would like to join, please be in touch with me by email (michaelndalton@aol.com) and I will provide you with an FTDNA weblink that enables you to join DIDP and order your test. Orders must be placed and paid for by 30th September at the latest. If you are not sure, or you have any questions or concerns, please email me and I will respond by return.

I am expecting that, with this promotion, we can increase substantially the number of testees from known old English and Irish Dalton families in our database. This will enhance the value of DIDP enormously for us all.

Current DIDP participants will be aware that the DGS retains the services of Chris Pomery as our project consultant. I hold regular review meetings with Chris and updates are published on this website. We have already had an encouraging number of new participants join DIDP since the beginning of the year, and it is particularly pleasing to see that the test results for many of these are placing them in existing genetic families and therefore we are able to put them in direct touch with new “genetic cousins”.

At Birr, it was possible for many delegates to meet their genetic cousins face to face for the first time. This was particularly the case for genetic families “B” and “D”. Karen Preston, from Las Vegas, USA is the appointed coordinator for Group “D” and, with help from her husband David, on returning home from Ireland, she has set up a website for her group, which will enable them to share information, and in particular their individual family trees. The family tree data is password protected but you may wish to visit the site at www.dalton-dna.net to see how it looks. Other genetic families may want to do something similar and Karen and David will be happy to help. Just contact Karen at karen@golden-hills.com for further details.

With about 120 Y DNA project participants, DIDP is one of the largest and most respected projects of its type internationally, but we still need to expand it, particularly with individuals who have documented ancestral lines that take them back to known English or Irish Dalton origins. The strength of the database as a family history research tool lies in its size, and its continued growth is of paramount importance to us all.

For further information please look at the “Dalton DNA Project” section of the website, and as I have already said above, do please contact me by email if you would like to join the project, or if you have any questions which you wish to raise.

Future DGS Events

With the events programme for 2008 concluded, we now turn our minds to 2009 and beyond. The major event next year is our Annual Gathering taking place in Orange, New South Wales, Australia on the weekend of 14th/15th March 2009. Initial details are already available on this website and Maureen Collins and Helen Smith made a presentation about the event at Birr. Please do register your interest as soon as possible for what promises to be another memorable Dalton weekend.

Later in 2009, we will hold the DGS Annual General Meeting here in England. We expect it to be a one day event, incorporating a visit with a Dalton connection and it will be in the North of England, probably in Lancashire. As soon as details are finalised, we will announce them here on our website and, of course, they will be included with the next issue of the DGS Journal at the end of this year.

2010 marks the 40th Anniversary of the founding of the Dalton Genealogical Society and we plan to hold a special Gathering and Annual General Meeting here in Surrey, England in the summer. Initial planning is under way and, again, more details will be announced as they become available.

For 2011 and beyond we have a number of suggestions already. If you have any particular thoughts about where you might like to meet, or a particular Dalton theme you think we should incorporate, please let us know.

The DGS Journal

Back issues of the DGS Journal continue to be available. On this website you can access the DGS Journal Index from the homepage. Here you will find a full synopsis of the contents of the Journal of the Dalton Genealogical Society commencing with Volume 1 published back in 1970 through to Volume 41 published in December 2004. Lists of contents are available for Volumes 42 to 48 and the full synopses will be available shortly. Copies of all back numbers are available for purchase and these can be obtained from DGS member, Mrs Pat Robinson (address: Mallards, 3 High Street, The Green, Barrington, Cambridge CB2 5QX, UK email: gandprobinson@waitrose.com.) Details of prices, including postage and packing, will be found with the index.

The DGS website

Recently, I have met with Martin Fitzgerald, our web consultant, to review the next stages in the development of this website. Those of you who visit the site regularly will have noticed updates in the sections for Forthcoming Gatherings, Past Gatherings, the DGS Journal Index, and the Daltons in History Archive. We are now turning our attention to the photo gallery, where shortly you will find additions including Birr. We are also actively working on the Dalton Data Bank to determine the best way forward for this immensely valuable DGS resource. Watch this space for further news.

Conclusion

Enjoy this month’s issue of “Daltons in History”, your regular monthly update on everything that is happening in the world of Dalton family history. We will be back again at the beginning of October.

Thank you for your attention and best wishes to you all.

Yours very sincerely

Michael Neale Dalton
Chairman and Honorary Life President of the Dalton Genealogical Society

2008 DGS ANNUAL GATHERING - BIRR, COUNTY OFFLAY, REPUBLIC OF IRELAND

Friday 1st to Monday 4th August 2008

The Chairman’s Diary


Wednesday 30th July 2008

Left Reigate after lunch and drove to Parkgate on the Wirral where I stayed overnight with Dick and Jenny Stock.

Thursday 31st July 2008

Up in good time for a planned 8.30am departure for Holyhead where I arrived at 10.15am in more than ample time for the noon ferry crossing to Dublin. The weather was dull and the sea was described as moderate. In the event the crossing was very comfortable with a near empty club lounge and excellent complimentary refreshments. Disembarked at Dublin soon after 2.00pm and drove north through the new tunnel out to the airport and found a quiet spot to relax before picking up Kate and Maureen who were scheduled to land at 4.25pm. A text message from Kate informed me that their Ryanair flight was delayed by an hour and a half, so I settled down to some final preparation work for the Gathering. Drove over to the airport and parked the car around 6.00pm – met Kate and Maureen and, after telephoning Dooly’s and The Maltings to advise of later arrivals, we set off for Birr around 7.00pm. After a good run we arrived in Birr well before 9.00pm and found Mel & Dairne, John & Sheila, Pam & Dave, Howard and Velma Boudreau in the bar. John & Sheila were very impressed with the Walcot B&B where they had been moved to for the first night (four poster bed and all); Howard was less impressed with his enforced move to the Spinners B&B (Dooly’s had failed to book him in for Thursday night). Kate, Maureen and I had a late dinner in the bar and took an early night after what had been a long day of travelling for us all.

Friday 1st August 2008

After breakfast in the coffee shop, we set up the Cumberland Suite for our Gathering. With the help of the other committee members, plus Kate and Sheila, we soon had everything ready – projector working, displays arranged, charity raffle prizes set out, programmes and badges ready for the delegates. Mel and I sorted out the intricacies of the Gathering finances and worked out the balances in euros owed by each delegate. Before 12 noon delegates started to arrive – our 2008 Birr Gathering had begun. It was a pleasure to greet our many new delegates, attending their first ever DGS Gathering and, of course, to renew old acquaintances.

By 2.30pm there were well over 30 assembled in the group to walk over to Birr Castle for a tour of the grounds and the Scientific Heritage Centre. One of the highlights was a talk about the wonderful old telescope that has recently been restored and shortly will be in use again to view the night sky. Following the talk, delegates were free to wander around the grounds at leisure and enjoy the impressive parkland with its lake, its formal gardens, its magnificent specimen trees and its beautiful views. We were also blessed with warm sunshine – an added bonus.

Forward Facing View of Birr Telescope as it is Today

At 6.00pm we opened the registration desk again and welcomed the later arrivals. Then at 7.00pm there was a wine and cheese reception in the Cumberland Suite, which allowed all of us to mingle, meet old faces and exchange news, and get to know our new delegates. Howard organised the tables for dinner in the Emmett Restaurant and ensured a steady flow into the dining room, which enabled the hotel staff to manage our large party without a bottleneck. Howard did this impeccably, but the Dooly’s staff appeared rather overwhelmed and some of us still suffered a little delay! Following dinner there was time for mingling before retiring to bed.

Saturday 2nd August 2008

Delegates were asked to assemble at 9.45am for the Saturday morning conference, scheduled to commence at 10.00am. Some were there well before then to take a closer look at the displays and most had arrived in time for our prompt start at 10.00am when I opened the first session and welcomed all present and, in particular, those attending their first ever DGS Gathering, of whom there were no less than 18. Delegates had travelled from all over the world – Australia, New Zealand, the United States including Alaska, Canada including Newfoundland, together with Ireland and the UK, a total of 42 and a truly international gathering. After running through the programme for the weekend, we moved into an interactive session introducing the Dalton Genealogical Society and our Irish Dalton ancestors. I reported briefly on the Society’s AGM held at Camberley, Surrey on Saturday 7th June and then Geoffrey spoke about the superb tour of the medal collection at the Headquarters of the Royal Logistics Corps, which of course included the James Langley Dalton VC. Our editors, John and Dairne followed with updates on the DGS Journal and on the monthly web newsletter, “Daltons in History”. I gave an update on the Dalton International DNA Project – it was particularly good to see so many members of identified genetic families amongst our delegates, many of them meeting their fellow genetic cousins for the very first time. Then Maureen and Helen Smith informed us all about the plans for the next DGS Annual Gathering, taking place in Orange, New South Wales, Australia in March 2009. This concluded the first session and everyone took a well-earned and welcome coffee break.

Following coffee, we moved on to the talk given by Ciaran on Richard D’Alton Williams. Ciaran gave a witty and informative account of this interesting man, who he described as one of our more famous forebears. Born in Dublin in 1822, Richard D’Alton Williams spent his early life at Grennanstown in Tipperary. He studied medicine but then achieved recognition as a leading poet, writing in the “Nation” newspaper, a forum for new political thinking on Ireland in the mid 19th Century. Ciaran’s talk was illustrated with excellent slides and gave us an insight into the life and thinking of Richard, and concluded with details of his later life in America, where he died of consumption in Louisiana in 1862, just short of 40 years old. Power Point Presentation: www.daltongensoc.com/presentations/dalton-williams08.

The remaining time before lunch was used for short presentations by delegates about their Irish Dalton ancestry. Contributions were made by Karen Preston (coordinator of genetic family D), Wendy Fleming (coordinator of genetic family B), Tom Daulton from genetic family X, Mike Dalton of Oregon with roots in Co Kerry, Margaret Engler (Co Waterford and Co Wexford), Mel Irwin (Co Tipperary), Velma Boudreau (Co Waterford and Co Wexford), Kathleen Casey (Co Galway), Cathy & Regina Negrycz (Co Cork), Ana O’Connell (Co Westmeath) and Pat Robinson (Co Tipperary). Their individual accounts about their ancestors and their researches informed us all and, along the way, were very entertaining as well. Just after 1.00pm, I had to draw the proceedings to a close and we adjourned for a buffet lunch set up for us in the adjacent room.

Emmett Square and the missing Duke of Cumberland

In the afternoon, we were joined by Margaret Hogan, a well known local historian, and member of the Birr Historical Society, who had agreed to take us on a guided walk around Birr. Before setting off, she gave us a short illustrated presentation to provide some historical background to our walk. We then commenced the walk in Emmet Square and learnt about the Duke of Cumberland, whose statue used to be at the top of the column in the square. From there we went along John’s Mall to see many fine Georgian buildings including John’s Hall. We walked on to the Birr Library, now housed in what was the Convent for the Sisters of Mercy, a very fine Gothic building designed by Pugin. Inside there were many interesting displays, including a facsimile copy of the Gospel Book of Macregol of Birr, a very fine 9th Century illuminated document, which is an important relic of the early Christian monastery at Birr. The original is in the Bodleian Library in Oxford. Adjacent to the library is St Brendan’s Roman Catholic Church, another fine Gothic building opened in 1826, which includes some beautiful stained glass windows. Our walk continued along the walk by the side of the Camcor River to Market Square at the bottom of Main Street, where there is a somewhat controversial monument to the Manchester Martyrs, three Irish nationalists executed in England in 1867. Margaret’s knowledge of Birr and her lively commentary enabled us to see much that would otherwise have been passed unnoticed and we are most grateful to her.

Dooly's Hotel

There was a little time for delegates to relax before the DGS Annual Dinner and some of us walked on and explored other parts of what is a very interesting old town. At 7.00pm we assembled for the pre-dinner drinks reception and then 44 of us took our seats at five round tables for what we all agreed was a superb dinner prepared by the Dooly’s Hotel chef. Margaret Hogan joined us as a guest, as did Dave and Ann Hegarty, friends of Ciaran. Dave had been invited in order to entertain us after the meal by playing the Uillean pipes, an Irish version of the Scottish bagpipes. We much enjoyed the beautiful and subtle sounds of these Irish pipes and the programme of Irish folk music that he played for us. Following this musical interlude, we held our annual charity raffle, ably organised by Kate who had sold 236 euros worth of tickets. The chosen charity was the British Heart Foundation and a donation of £200 will be sent in memory of the late Dr Lucy Slater, for many years DGS committee member and Executive Secretary.

Dave Hegarty with his Uillean Pipes

To conclude the evening, Ciaran and Collette invited us to join in some Irish country dancing. They provided the music and the directions, and amongst much hilarity, DGS members were to be seen taking to the floor, and enjoying each other’s company in this way. Some displayed great talent on the dance floor and it was good to add this new dimension to our Gathering - another milestone for the Society!

Sunday 3rd August 2008

Sunday morning brought more fair weather and, following breakfast, we set off for a visit to Clonmacnoise. Pam and John had ensured that all delegates had seats in cars for the 30 minute drive and we met at the site at 10.30am. Clonmacnoise lies on the banks of the River Shannon, a few miles south of Athlone. It is an important ecclesiastical site founded in the 6th Century by St Ciaran. Our tour started in the Visitor’s Centre, which includes superb displays and some of the original high crosses, now housed inside to preserve them. The excellent audio-visual presentation gave us an insight into the history of the site and then we went outside to be shown round by Sean, one of the site guides. The amazing collection of churches, towers, crosses and gravestones is amongst the most extensive of their kind in Ireland. We know that Daltons are buried there, but unfortunately we were not able to locate the graves – only limited work has been done to record the inscriptions, but it is hoped to extend this and make it available in years to come. Adjacent to the site is a new churchyard where we found and recorded the inscriptions on six Dalton gravestones. A number of us also walked to the Nun’s Church, a fine Romanesque nave-and-chancel structure with a finely carved doorway and chancel arch. Clonmacnoise proved a most interesting place for the DGS to visit and it is perhaps fitting that our Irish Secretary shares his name with the founder. St Ciaran was well known for performing minor miracles, an attribute that perhaps he has passed on to his namesake!

The Whispering Arch at Clonmacnoise

From Clonmacnoise we drove to the Shamrock Lodge Hotel in Athlone where an enjoyable light buffet lunch had been arranged in a private room. Suitably refreshed, delegates embarked on an afternoon that provided a choice of activities. Some stayed in Athlone and looked round the very fine castle. Others went to Shannonbridge for a trip on the Bog Railway. This guided tour across the Offaly peat bogs provided an insight into the historical importance of peat to the Irish economy – indeed peat is still used today as fuel for the generation of electricity. A third group found a local distillery to visit and sample the Irish whiskey.

The Bog Railway

Everyone returned safely to Birr in the late afternoon to ready themselves for the traditional Irish evening arranged at The Thatch Restaurant at Crinkill, a small village just a couple of miles outside Birr. Des Connole, the owner, welcomed us and showed us to the private room reserved for our party. A magnificent three-course dinner was served and, after the obligatory group photograph and some rearrangement of the room, it was over to Ciaran and Collette again to lead us in an evening of traditional Irish music, interspersed with many contributions from delegates – songs, recitations, jokes (clean ones!) and reminiscences about the weekend. It was truly an evening to remember for its camaraderie and the demonstration of such diverse talents displayed by us Daltons. What a talented group we are! All too soon the evening drew to a close and we returned to Dooly’s where many of us enjoyed a nightcap before retiring.

Sunday Evening at The Thatch

Monday 4th August 2008

And so to the conclusion of the weekend and bidding our farewells. From the start of breakfast through until late morning, I found myself busy saying goodbye, but before the final farewell, there was many a further conversation, and these demonstrate the true fellowship that has become a hallmark of our DGS Gatherings.

All agreed that it had been a superb Gathering, bringing together a wide and international group of people, sharing the common bond of Dalton ancestry. The mixture of family history, and the opportunity to enjoy and participate in some unique and truly Irish experiences, provided something for each of us to remember.

Kate and I finally packed up our car and departed from Dooly’s around midday. We set off for a week of exploring in Co Clare, Co Galway and Co Mayo with many happy memories of Birr fresh in our minds.

Reminiscences of Birr 2008

It was wonderful to meet everybody during the Gathering!

I thought the Gathering was a great success! For me, the best part was having a chance to meet so many of the people I have been exchanging emails with since I became a member. Meeting the other folks in my Genetic Family from the DNA Project was a highlight. Making that personal connection allowed us to share more family history. By the end of the weekend there was a real feeling of "family". And, it was a great reason to make a trip to Ireland!

We are looking forward to the next event in Australia in March!

Karen Preston, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Just a quick note of thanks for all of your efforts in organising the meeting in Birr. I know that Karen has already sent a note, but as a 'dispassionate attendee' (no Dalton connection), I was a bit hesitant to attend the formal sessions.

Rest assured that your efforts created an event that was informative, fun and a wonderful opportunity to meet interesting people from all over the world. It was a magnificent event, despite the very minor issue some apparently had with the first dinner. We felt well-taken care of, and the mix of events was spot on.

Whilst we were working, both Karen and I had to organise similar functions for sales and marketing groups. We understand the level of effort and planning it takes to have such an event so seamlessly flow.

As you know, I have provisionally committed to our attending the next meeting in Orange; this is in no small way due to your excellent design and execution of the Birr meeting.

Again, many thanks for all of your efforts!

With kind regards.

David Preston, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

I can only say that I had a great first experience of the DGS Annual Meeting.

It was wonderful to meet so many nice people and to see that everybody is genuinely and seriously interested in the Dalton family history. It felt good to meet like minded people, who may also be distant cousins!
I found out a lot of information about my branch of the Daltons as well as other branches. Thank you to everyone who makes this possible.

Ana O’Connell, London, England

This was the first time that I have attended a Gathering. I found it very informative and greatly enjoyed meeting our "family". The evening entertainment was great fun!!! I am hoping to attend the gathering in Australia.

Etta Dalton Rodriguez, Saugatuck, Michigan, USA

As one of the Irish Dalton family, it was a great pleasure for myself and my wife Pat to meet so many international Daltons in Birr, and to welcome them to Ireland. It would have given enormous satisfaction to my late father, Patrick Dalton of Waterford, to see such a gathering as he often spoke of the DGS with pride.

I would like to compliment all those involved in the arrangements for the Gathering, which had an attractive mixture of informality and interesting discussion, allowing for lots of interaction between all present. Maybe at a future time, some French Norman Daltons would be interested in participating in the DGS, to represent the original source of the family name.

Pat and Pat Dalton, Enfield, Co Meath, Ireland

Just want to say thank you, to all who were on the organizing end of the Birr Gathering. You did a wonderful job. I enjoyed every minute! I made friends and memories, that I'm sure will last a lifetime. The stories we heard, were all so interesting. I found it most intriguing to hear how we all got to that space in our lives ....a sort of odyssey.

I look forward to seeing you all again, maybe not next year, but possibly the following year. By the way, Birr was the perfect venue.

Velma Dalton Boudreau, Conception Bay South, Newfoundland, Canada

You asked for a reply or comments on the Birr Gathering this year. Well I have started to answer several times now, but each time I get saturated with all of the events we experienced on our 26 day tour of England, Wales, then Ireland followed with a visit to Scotland and down back through England and back again to Dublin and Birr Ireland. It was a lot to take in all at one time. I must say that the Birr trip was a good finishing touch to the long tour. It was really a good chance to meet not only some of the Dalton's and to put a face to the names I have read about, or e-mail, but by being in the center of Ireland and in a rural setting it was a chance to see up close some of my Irish friends as well as the Dalton friends. I was astonished to find out that Ireland had a world class telescope in the mid 1800, long before other nations, then to top it all off the tour of Clonmacnoise and to realize all of the people who were touched by the events and times of that location for the many centuries. The mind can only wonder at the emotions they must have felt, the joy, peace, dreams, love and success to down right fear and terror of all the invaders and attacks they dealt with as they lived their lives there on the River Shannon. I did set out to understand the meaning and purpose of the Celtic cross while on this trip and the time at Clonmacnoise answered that. As far as the location of the meeting, it was excellent to actually see real Irish people in a place where they live and work, in hotels, bed and breakfasts, retail store keepers, customers and waiters . A very good opportunity, I must say. As for the Gathering, it was very much worth the time and money spent there. I now can see Michael Dalton's face and demeanor as I hear or read about him. The same applies for all of the other officers as I hear of or from them as well. I was impressed with our Clan Chieftian Ciaran Dalton, a good choice was made there. He has a leader quality about him that shows him to be a caring and humble person, who is outgoing and personable, a good combination. And when I left the States I wanted for sure, to see and know the clan colors and dress, much as the Scottish have (naive American) only to find out there are none, which seems very Irish, at that. All in all it was very Good Experience. Hope to do it again some day.

Tom and Carol Daulton, Kasilof, Alaska, USA

Hope you had an enjoyable time after that most successful and enjoyable Gathering in Birr. It was so nice to meet all the Irish and we much enjoyed the two musical evenings as well as all the other events. We had a good few days in Donegal afterwards, with generally good weather.

Sir Geoffrey and Lady Jane Dalton, Catherington, Hampshire, England

Regina and I had a great trip and truly enjoyed the Birr meeting. It was a very interesting meeting and we enjoyed talking with Daltons and their descendants from around the world. Just emailing Maureen before the meeting, I was able to trace one of my grandfather's brothers to Brisbane, Australia. I was able to get ships' records, marriage certificate and birth certificate, something I hadn't been able to do via the internet without her direction. As you will see below, my great grandfather, William Dalton, seems to have been living in an area very near where Eric's Daltons came from.

As mentioned above, we found another Dalton birth listing in another county, in Limerick (not far in distance from Co. Cork where we knew them to be a few years later, and have not yet figured out if this is the same person as one we knew immigrated to the US. The problem is the "year" is the same, but the first name is different. Having had a McCarthy (my grandfather Dalton married a McCarthy) been baptized Bartholomew, but entered into the civil registration as Patrick, it could very well be. Interestingly, we saw some information from Eric and this Dalton seems to be within 4k of where his Dalton came from. We will be investigating that further. We did convince a Dalton living near Mitchelstown to do the DNA test, so that might help lead us to where some of the older generations lived, especially if he is in the same genetic family.

Part of the new information we received, on one of our last days in Ireland, had to do with Daltons who went to England and married there.

Cathy and Regina Negrycz, Punta Gorda, Florida, USA

THE DALTON GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY

Minutes of the 2008 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

held at the Royal Logistics Corps Museum, Deepcut, near Camberley, Surrey
on Saturday, 7th June 2008, at 1.30 pm

1) Welcome and Opening Remarks by the Chairman

Michael Neale Dalton welcomed members to the meeting. A most interesting programme for the day had kindly been arranged by Sir Geoffrey Dalton with the chance of viewing the Victoria Cross awarded to James Langley Dalton, for his part in the battle of Rorke’s Drift in the Zulu War of 1879.

He first invited John Dalton to inform those gathered of the sad news of the passing on 4th June 2008 of Dr. Lucy Joan Slater, former DGS Executive Secretary and Committee member, and a guiding influence for many years in the affairs of the Society.

John had first met Lucy at the 1983 DGS Lancashire Gathering where a family link was discovered. A firm friendship was forged with Sheila and John and their children, with many visits to Lucy’s Cambridge home in the ensuing years. She was a true friend also to many a Dalton researcher, always ready with information and encouragement, and her major contribution to the DGS Journal over many years stands as enduring testimony to her devotion to the Society.

2) Apologies for absence

These were received from Millicent Craig, Michael Cayley, Ciaran Dalton, Kate Dalton, Dairne and Mel Irwin, Joy Goater, Trew Mehaffy and Martin Fitzgerald, the Society’s website consultant.

3) Minutes of the 2007 Annual General Meeting and matters arising

The Minutes of the 2007 Annual General Meeting were accepted by the meeting and signed by the Chairman as a true record with no matters arising.

4) Chairman’s Report

Michael Neale Dalton thanked the Officers and Committee for all their efforts towards yet another successful year for the Society. The monthly “Daltons in History” on the DGS website had enabled him to keep in regular touch with members and provide up to date news on all the Society’s activities. He stressed that the strength of the society was founded on a co-ordinated team effort by all the people involved. The DGS was now recognised worldwide through its activities, its journal and its website, and with an ever increasing membership.

Margaret Deyes made a plea for the continuation of postal contact for those without the benefit of the use of a computer, and the Chairman assured her that the twice yearly mailing of the journal will continue.

5) Treasurer’s Report

Members were asked to refer to the Accounts as circulated to the meeting and appended below. The Chairman reported on behalf of Mel Irwin that 2007 was a year of consolidation with increased membership. The excess of income over expenditure for the year was just £43.87. The Treasurer sounded a caution about the printing and distribution costs of the Journal, which continued to increase.

The Treasurer was in the process of investigating the best terms for an interest bearing account, and the increase in membership fees would be reflected in the coming year. He was glad to report that the capital account was healthy.

The Chairman thanked Mel Irwin for his excellent handling of the accounts. Maureen Collins noted the ongoing costs of the DGS DNA Consultant and the Chairman stressed the benefits to the Society from this. Discussion took place on the need for two Journals per year but it was agreed this was vital to encourage membership and maintain regular contact.

The Chairman moved adoption of the accounts and this was proposed by Sir Geoffrey Dalton, seconded by Alicia Riley, and approved by the meeting.

6) Secretary’s Report

Pam Lynam reported an excellent response to the sending out of Gift Aid forms. There were 276 active members of the Society.

Maureen Collins emphasised the need for the Overseas Secretaries to be kept briefed on new member details. Stocks of back numbers of the Journal could be obtained from Pat Robinson and she was thanked for her kind assistance in this matter. The Chairman thanked Pam Lynam for all her work.

7) Election of Officers and Committee

The Chairman informed the meeting that Michael Cayley had decided to stand down from the position of Librarian and Archivist. Tribute was paid to the immense contribution made to the Society by Michael over a long period in the development of the Dalton Data Bank, in conjunction with Millicent Craig, and the wealth of information gathered. His would be a hard act to follow and his work was greatly appreciated by the Society.

There were no further nominations and all the other Officers and Committee members had indicated that they were willing to stand again. Howard Dalton proposed that they all be elected en bloc. This was seconded by Pat Robinson and passed unanimously. The Chairman noted that the search for a new Librarian & Archivist would continue.

8) Reports by the Editors of the DGS Journal and “Daltons in History

John Dalton stressed the need for a constant flow of material for the Journal. Contributions could vary in length and he suggested that more MN&Q’s would be appreciated by readers. A similar plea was conveyed by Dairne Irwin for “Daltons in History”, where all snippets of information, however small, are always welcome. The Chairman proposed a vote of thanks to the Editors for their hard work, and this met with unanimous acclaim.

9) Report on the Dalton International DNA Project

Michael Neale Dalton reported on a successful year for the project with the number of participating members already increased from 99 to 111 since January 2008, and the formation of a new genetic family. He thanked Chris Pomery for his guidance and expertise. Out of the twelve new participants, nine had established links with existing genetic groups. Agreement had been reached on a forward programme. Issues included the size of the task involved, and difficulties for some in interpreting findings. He stressed that the DNA project is a tool and it only has value when used in conjunction with traditional family history research.

Howard J Dalton highlighted the costs involved in upgrading from 25 markers to 37 or 67.

10) Australian Secretary’s Report

Maureen Collins reported that membership levels had remained stable over the past year. The plan to hold a meeting in the city of Orange, New South Wales, was well in hand with the dates fixed as 14th and 15th March 2009. She and Helen Smith were co-ordinating this event together with Ros Chapman, a DGS member related to a large Dalton family of Orange, Virginia Higgins, and Jill Warren. An enjoyable meeting had been hosted in February by John and Lyn Dalton at their Melbourne home. New Zealand membership was growing and it was good to meet Peter and Noeline Dalton, from Dunedin in the South Island, on a recent visit to Sydney. The Dalton International DNA Project continues to be of great interest in Australia and New Zealand due to some positive results.

11) American Secretary’s Report

The Chairman and all present at the meeting sent greetings to Millicent Craig, now recovering from her recent illness. She had sent her apologies for not being able to attend the AGM and the forthcoming gathering at Birr and sent her good wishes to all.

Michael Neale Dalton was dealing with queries at present with the kind assistance of Mary Lou Elias Weber, and Dairne and Mel Irwin. Membership levels and interest remained high thanks to Millicent’s phenomenal input over the past years. There was ongoing discussion about providing assistance to look after the USA members. The Chairman was glad to report that Millicent was much improved in health.

12) Irish Secretary’s Report

Ciaran Dalton had sent his apologies for being unable to attend the meeting, but reported that he was very actively engaged in the preparations for the forthcoming DGS Gathering in Birr in August. This event is destined to be a most enjoyable and informative weekend. There is tremendous interest in Dalton family history in Ireland.

13) Forthcoming Gatherings and AGM’s

Michael and Kate Dalton had visited Birr at the end of May to finalise arrangements. 40 delegates had so far registered their attendance, but there was still the opportunity for others to join this weekend in Ireland. The Chairman thanked Ciaran Dalton for his work as Irish Secretary and his help in planning the 2008 gathering.

The Chairman then referred to the forthcoming 2009 gathering in New South Wales, Australia. A folder was displayed showing the plans for the weekend and possible venues with a plea to publicise the event as much as possible. He thanked Maureen Collins for her work on this and asked that she pass on thanks to those ably assisting her.

Suggestions were sought for a venue for the 2009 Annual General Meeting in the UK, with a tentative plan to hold it in early September, perhaps in Lancashire.

The Chairman confirmed that the 2010 Gathering and AGM, celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Society will take place in Surrey, England in the summer. Further details will be announced in due course.

14) Any Other Business

There being no other business the Chairman formally closed the meeting at 3.00pm with grateful thanks to the Royal Logistics Corps Museum for providing such a splendid venue.

 

DALTON GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
Accounts for 2007
   
Charity Number 298251
   
INCOME ACCOUNT for period 1 January to 31 December 2007
   
Income: Expenditure:      
   
2006 2007   2006 2007
Subscriptions       Journals Dec-05
Jun-07
459.22 400.00
  Jun-06
Dec-07
557.90 734.00
Australia   287.16 293.30 Dec-06   525.63  
UK   534.00 624.50    
USA   815.45 1247.21   Distribution Jun-05
Jun-07
232.43 291.02
    Costs Dec-05
Dec-07
370.19 340.34
Bank Interest 2.08 0.29 Jun-06   284.17
  Dec-06   322.22
       
Binders, Journals       Journal Reprints
  - 70.00
and Leaning Book 65.00 -   Associated Expenses
  - 19.20
     
Sales of Memorabillia
- 201.00   F.F.H.S. Subscription   - 75.00
       
Gift Aid Rebate 251.89 -   Secretarial Expenses   - 46.00
    Treasurers Expenses   32.22 57.93
       
Donation from Tom Dalton 1500.00 -   DNA Consultant   500.00 500.00
Anonymous Donation
- 400.00   IT Consultancies
- 592.73
   
Income for Worcester 2007 - 5470.50   Expenditure for Worcester 2007 - 5066.71
   
    Excess of Income over expenditure 171.60 43.87
   
3455.58 8236.80   3455.58 8236.80
         
         
     
CAPITAL ACCOUNT at 31 December 2007
     
HSBC Bank Account 6233.78 6478.65   Capital Account at 31 Dec 2006 6447.62 6619.22
       
Stock of Memorabillia 385.44 184.44   Add Surplus for 2007 171.60 43.87
   
   
   
6619.22 6663.09   6619.22 6663.09

DGS Meeting at Orange, NSW, Australia - 13 - 15 March 2009

The plans to hold a meeting at Orange, N.S.W. are moving ahead and it is hoped that many DGS members will be able to attend.

Chairman and Hon. Life President of the DGS, Michael Neale Dalton and his wife Kate will be in Australia for the meeting. At this time, the Australian and New Zealand branch of the DGS has reserved space for Saturday 14th March 2009 at Duntryleague (perhaps in the Dalton Room) and this will need to be confirmed. For this reason it would be helpful to find out approximately how many members, family and friends, intend to attend the meeting to be held over the week-end of the 13th to 15th March 2009.

Would you be kind enough to indicate your interest in attending so that arrangements can be made at the Central Caleula Motor Inn. “Heritage House” is adjacent to the motel, and run by it, and it is likely to be used for the Saturday evening dinner. Other definite arrangements can be made at a later date, depending on numbers.

Please indicate below your interest in attending the whole or part of the week-end and return by mail to Maureen Collins, 1/11 Moruben Road, Mosman NSW 2088 or email to mmcollins@ozemail.com.au or to h-smith70@bigpond.com or to wendy.fleming@optusnet.com.au.

Name...................................................................................................

Address................................................................................................

..............................................................................................................

Tel No.................................. Email........................................................

Please address any queries to: Helen Smith at the above address or if in Victoria to Wendy Fleming or to myself. It would be appreciated if your replies could be received by 31 October this year to allow for further information to be published in the DGS Journal published in December.

 

DGS Meeting at Orange, NSW, Australia - 13-15 March 2009
Description of Duntryleague (Pictured Above)

James Dalton arrived in Sydney on the convict Barque Hive on the 11 December 1835, having been deported from County Limerick, Ireland to serve a 7 year term in the Colony. He was granted his freedom in 1842 and by 1848 he had established a general store in Summerhill, some 5 miles from what is now the City of Orange [named after the Prince of Orange, it is generally accepted, rather than the growing of oranges]. In 1849 James Dalton’s 15 year old son James joined his father, who was then living at Bathurst, NSW.

In 1876, James Dalton the younger built Duntryleague, a mansion with magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. The mansion was sold to Orange Golf Club in 1935 when an eighteen hole championship golf course was established. The house itself is used as a club house with some guest house accommodation.

Sergeant James Dalton, The Terror of Australian "Larrikins"

As next year’s Annual Gathering (2009) will be held at Orange, New South Wales, Clan Dalton decided to introduce something of an "Aussie" flavour to this month’s "Daltons In History". Australian slang as we know, is a mixum gatherum of a number of words and phrases with Cockney, American, Irish etc, etc. influences.

One word in particular of Australian slang might interest us Daltons however, for according to one source a great, descriptive, expressive word was introduced into the language by none other than a famous character … Sergeant Dalton. The word was "Larrakin" and this is a brief story of how one writer suggests it came about . (1)The word means "a rowdy, irresponsible and rascally boy or young man" or as we would say in Ireland "a bla(ck)guard" pronounced blagard, or hooligan.

It seems this Sergeant Dalton was a bit of a character as they say. While on duty in court on this particular day, having arrested a certain hooligan, he was heard to say to the Judge, in his best Irish accent, the immortal words:

"Plaze your worship, Oi found the prisoner a larrakin (larking) about the place".

The word caught on anyway in Australian lingo and for evermore hooligans were known as larrikins.

Sergeant James Dalton emigrated from Kilkenny, Ireland, to Australia and was described as "a kindly, good natured, giant with a yellow, wrinkled, sunburnt face". Many stories, yarns and bulls were associated with him. His name was a byword in Melbourne in 1870.

Excerpt from J.B.Castinieau, "The Reminiscences of Detective–Inspector Christie", (n.d.), quoted in Bill Wannan’s "The Wearing of the Green" (Landsdowne Press), London 1966.

(1) Another source attributes the word to Jack Staunton.

This is the 4th part of an article from Rodney Dalton, USA

Let's now go back to Sir Robert de Dalton, son of Sir Richard de Dalton II who was born about 1270. Below is an article copied from the Dalton Genealogical Society Journal, by Dr. Lucy Joan Slater.

"The Flower's Visitation of Yorkshire in 1563-4 gave the main pedigree of the Dalton family. It started with Sir Rychard of Byspham born about 1230 and holding the manors of Byspham in Lancashire and Kirkby Misperton in Yorkshire. He had two sons, Sir Robert and Sir John. Sir John held the manor of Kirkby in 1332 and may have founded the Yorkshire line of Dalton's. Sir Robert was born in 1284 and died in 1350. About 1320, he married Mary, the daughter of Sir Thomas Lathom and she bore him a son, Sir John Dalton. Sir Robert had sided with the Earl of Lancaster who was beheaded in 1322 and Sir Robert was confined to Pontefract Castle for a time. However, his friends raised a ransom for him, so he was released and allowed to go back to his home at Byspham Manor. In 1327, when Edward II came to the throne, the fine was returned to Sir Robert and he was made Keeper of the Royal Forests and then the Constable of the Tower of London.

In the spring of 1346, King Edward II prepared to invade France. He assembled the greatest army seen in England up to that date. With the King were his son, Richard the Black Prince, 12 Earls, over 1000 Knights, 4000 esquires, 20,000 archers and an unnumbered host of yeomen, blacksmiths, messengers, masons, cooks, minstrels and other camp followers.

So we can imagine Sir Robert riding from his home in Byspham, clad in his best armour, wearing his plumed helm and carrying his great broad sword, his lance and with his shield in azure blue with the silver lion on his chest. He would be riding his great war horse which would be clad in armour. By his side was his son, Sir John, also in his best armour and behind them an esquire carrying a banner with the full coat of arms embroidered on it, complete with the green Griffin. They were also accompanied by a priest who bore a portable altar and some new winding sheets, just in case things did not go too well. The party rode down through Lancashire gathering more men of arms at every town and joined the Earl of Manchester. Then they brought the French to face them at Crecy, one of the most historical battles of all time. The English had the new technology of the day, bows and arrows, and of course easily won the battle."
End

"Sir Robert Dalton was the first direct Dalton ancestor whose life is documented in some detail. The documentation comes about because he was actively engaged in public affairs during the reigns of Edward II and Edward III. His Grandfather was Sir Richard de Dalton, the some what legendary ancestor whose exploits crusading earned the green griffin crest for his family.

Sir Robert had the upbringing appropriate to his position in feudal society and appears to have been knighted at a young age. He succeeded to his inheritance at the death of his father in 1293; owning land, largely in the Hundred of Leyland at Bispham and Dalton. Land in the latter manor was held with the Holland family. In references to Sir Robert in the official records, various members of the Holland family are often associated with activities of the Daltons. UpHolland, their original manor, is close to both Bispham and Dalton but the families were not only neighbours but very probably related. Their coat of arms were only distinguished by the cross-lets of the Daltons and the fleur de lys of the Hollands. Mrs Leaning produces further evidence of such a link, "in one manuscript pedigree, drawn up by an unknown hand, our pedigree it surfaced by several of the Hollands, one of them Adam being the immediate progenitor of the first de Dalton".

Sir Robert was one of the knights in the train of Thomas, Earl of Lancaster Edward II's cousin. He is mentioned in various deeds relating to the Earl's affairs and another relation John de Dalton was the Earl's bailiff. The "favourite knight" of the Earl, however, was Sir Robert de Holland on whom was lavished lands and money. Sir Robert was created a Baron in 1314.

The Earl of Lancaster was one of the great landed magnates of England and he became a focal point for the growing opposition to Edward II's unsuccessful regime. The loss of Scotland and the corruption of the government by the favourites of the King, who incidentally was a homosexual, were more than many feudal notables could stand and rebellion followed. Lancaster, however, made the mistake of trying to enlist the support of the Scots and this rallied some otherwise wavering nobles to the support of the King.

Thomas, Earl of Lancaster, had been raised to an even greater position, and was in fact among the most powerful nobles in the realm. He was of the blood royal, and within seven generations could count five kings as his direct ancestors, to say nothing of Rollo, Duke of Normandy and Charles III of France, before William the Conqueror.

In 1320 our Sir Robert Dalton was one of the witnesses to a charter granted by the Earl and it was not at all surprising that when the Earl used force to separate the weak King from his favourites that a conclusive family like the Dalton should be in the Earl's party. The results were disastrous. Not all of the Earl's broad land, or his great popularity, or even his kinship with Royalty availed to save him. When a great man falls, so do other lesser ones fall with him.

The rebellion was defeated at the Battle of Boroughbridge in Yorkshire in l322 where Sir Robert de Dalton fought with the Earl. Sir Robert de Holland, however, arrived too late with his reinforcements and then, seeing the Earl's cause was lost, wasted no time in pillaging the belongings of the Earl's supporters, taking goods to the value of £1,000. He made his peace with the King and advanced in royal favour. In 1328, however, the followers of the Earl had their revenge and he was ambushed and killed. His head was sent to the new Earl of Lancaster as a symbol of revenge.

Thus in July of 1322, we find our Sir Robert Dalton in big trouble. An order was issued by the King to Thomas Deyvill, Constable of Pontefract Castle, to receive Phillip de la Beche, John de Acton, Robert Dalton and John Blaket as prisoners. Sir Robert was arrested and imprisoned in the dungeons of Pontefract Castle and his lands forfeited. The Earl was executed and many of his supporters hanged, but Sir Robert escaped with one year's imprisonment and a small fine which was afterwards cancelled. The Holland connection may have helped in this respect.

The next twelve months must have been a black year for our Sir Robert. His land had been lost, his wife and little son, living one supposes, on sufferance, and his friends clearly making frantic efforts to raise the great sum necessary for his ransom.

On August 12th, 1323, the King "ordered Richard de Mosele, Constable of Pontefract Castle to release Sir Robert, Knight, a late rebel from prison in that Castle, so that he may come to the King to make security for his good behaviour, hereafter, as certain persons have prayed the King to deliver him and to have made security for 100 marks, wherein they made fine to save the said Sir Robert's life."

A week later, the King further ordered: “to John de Lancastre, Keeper of certain rebels land in the County of Lancaster, to deliver to Sir Robert Dalton, Knight, his lands as he has made ransom to the King for his life and lands.” Sir Robert Dalton made good use of his restoration to favour, for three years later he is found holding the position of keeper of the King's Royal Forest at Blakeburnshire Chase on the borders of Lancashire and Yorkshire.

Sir Robert's military talents were also put to use and he was connected with the Bishop of Durham, the Earl of Derby, Henry de Percy and Ralph de Neville, in organizing the defence of Northern England. He also served abroad since, in April 1341, he received a payment of £46 "for wages in the King's services beyond the seas".

Between Nov 1343 and Feb 1346, Sir Robert held the lucrative position of Constable of the Tower of London, the King's most important prison. He was not continuously in residence there as some of the directives he received about his duties refer to Sir Robert "or to him who supplies his place there". He relinquished his position in 1346 and received a grant of the "farm revenue" of Apthorpe in Northamptonshire which amounted to 40 pounds a year.

Leaving the Tower, Sir Robert immediately resumed his military career and joined Edward III in the invasion of France. He was present at the Battle of Crecy in 1346 and the Siege of Calais. Among his relatives and connections accompanying the King were the inevitable de Hollands, Sir William de Dalton, Controller of the King's Household and later his Treasurer, and John de Dalton, the Royal Sergeant-at-Arms".
End
Source: by Mrs Morag Simpson; from an article in Vol. 5, page 22, of The DGS Journal

Extracts from the Brooklyn Eagle, 1878

From Theckla Ledyard, Washington State, USA

9th January - A question of ownership – John Gibson brought an action in the City Court to recover $1,700 and damages from Padrick Dalton and Arthur Sentian for goods alleged to have been wrongfully seized by them from a grocery at 883 Third St. E.D. (Eastern District).

22nd February - Patrick Dalton of Flushing, age 21, married a widow, aged 50, who has children older than he.

22nd March - At noon a son of Mr W Dalton of 1445 Pacific Street found a strange man in one of the sleeping rooms of the house, engaged in making bundles of valuables, preparatory to stealing them. The boy, who is only about 12 years old, seized a rifle belonging to his father and drove the robber from the house.

1st April - Patrick H Dalton executor of estate of Brigid Ellie Blanchfield.

20th April - Brother Gregory of the St Francis Monastery brotherhood, whose name in the world was Patrick Dalton.

2nd July - St Mary’s Catholic School – end of year closing ceremonies for male department. A Dalton and J McQuire rendered an instrumental duet.

22nd July - The Potter Investigation – from New Orleans, La. 20th July – Appearing before the sub-committee among others was T W Dalton recanting all their testimony previously given before the Home Senate Committee, saying their statements were not true and that they gave them at the instance of others for political purposes.

4th August - Ladies List: Mrs Edward Dalton (for mail at post office).

16th August - Englewood N.J. – Recent Brooklyn arrivals: George Dalton.

6th September - Michael Dalton files for bankruptcy King County.

8th October - Flahertyites – Results of Primaries: 9th Ward – Patrick Dalton.

11th October - Bridget Dalton, aged 72, of 239 Hoyt Street, fell on the sidewalk and received a severe cut to the head. She was taken to Saint Peter’s Hospital.

14th October - Jerome Park – End of the racing season. A large number of Broolynites were present. Isaac Dalton, among others.

31 October - Wanted: Situation as barkeeper by young man with good references and long experience. Call or address J A Dalton, California House, cor. Myrtle and Washington Avenues.

12th November - Letter Carrier’s Association Annual Ball – 1,500 people participated. Among those present was George Dalton.

28th December - Patrick Dalton’s grocery store at corner of 3rd and N. 8th Streets was robbed.

Millicent has once again been unable to make her normal contribution due to unforeseen circumstances. She sends her apologies and her best wishes to all Daltons. She hopes to be back next month.

Thank you to all who have contributed to the September 2008 issue of “Daltons in History”. I am still hoping we can have some information, which I can include in one of our future issues, about the Scottish Daltons.

We would like to hear from people who attended the Gathering in Birr, Co. Offlay with their further comments, etc. Thanks are extended to those who have already contributed (see above). By the way, did anyone know that there was a Stephen Dalton working at Dooly's Hotel?

Please continue to send to me any ideas for future articles and also keep looking for any information to include in the Dalton Strays section.

A Can You Help? Section was suggested by one of the delgates at Birr. Comments and queries regarding this to me please.

Contributions for the October issue need to be with me no later than 25th September 2008. (e-mail: dairneirwin@ntlworld.com).