Can you help a family locate their Inishowen heritage?

A “fourth-generation New Zealander with strong Irish blood” is hoping people in Donegal can help him connect with his heritage. 

Sean McGruddy, who lives in Scotland, is of the understanding his family can be traced back to the Moville area and hopes to visit Inishowen and find the home of his forefathers. Anyone who might have information can contact Sean on this email.

“My name is Sean McGruddy, a fourth-generation New Zealander with strong Irish blood,” Seah wrote to DonegalLive. “From what I know, my family originated and/or lived in Donegal, specifically somewhere between the Carrowblagh or Leckamy, and Meenletterbail areas. I am currently living in Scotland, and very keen to visit with my sister, and connect with our roots.

“My third great-grandfather Michael McGruddy - often misspelt Michl McGrudy from what I can find - was raised a family on a farm in this area. From what I can see, he was born in Moville in about 1820 and died in Leckemy in about 1894. I have not been able to find a gravestone or memorial for him. I am hoping to find his memorial or any other family members who may be buried in the area.

“I have a photo of the farmhouse in question (within the last 40 years I think), taken by an elderly distant relative of mine. Unfortunately, I do not have any information as to the whereabouts of this building, other than the description on the photo.

“I am wondering if you would perhaps be able to help me locate this building, and any other information about my family, including any living relatives that may still be in the area?

“I know it is a long shot, but I appreciate any help you can give. I want to come back to Ireland and reconnect with my heritage. I have a photo of the farmhouse for your reference. I do have other information about the family, including wives/children etc if this is of any use to you. Thanks in advance, Sean McGruddy.”