Agnes Walsh Lahiff

Home Page - Walsh/Langan Introduction - Photos of the children of Joseph Walsh and Maggie Langan

Margaret Walsh Petersen and Agnes Walsh Lahiff

Photo collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla

Birth of Agnes Walsh

Agnes Walsh, born March 2, 1908 in New York City, was the 8th child of Joseph Walsh and Maggie Langan.

Marriage of Agnes Walsh and John Lahiff

Agnes Walsh, age 23, born Ireland*, father, Joseph Walsh, mother, Margaret Langan, address, 121 E. 82nd Street, married John M. Lahiff, age 25, clerk, born in Ireland, father, Thomas, mother, Anne Barrett, address 3625 Waldo Avenue on July 4, 1931. The witnesses were John Nealson and Anne Reilly. The address of the officiating clergy was 980 Park Avenue (1931 Manhattan Marriage Certificate #14838).

*"Ireland" is obviously in error.


The wedding announcement of Agnes Walsh and John LaHiff, 1931

WEDDING CHIMES AND CARROLLS

Less than twenty-four hours after Nancy Carroll, screen star, wed Bolton Mallory, her brother, John Marcus La Hiff, wed Agnes Walsh yesterday. But Nancy on honey moon, wasn't there. Above, wedding party leaves St. Ignatius Loyola Church, Park Ave.

New article courtesy of Peggie Goehle Edgar

Nancy Carroll starred in silent movies and made the transition to the talkies. She was the first actress to sing and dance in a Hollywood movie.


Photos from the collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla

John Lahiff

John Lahiff and his cousin Mary Keckler, August 1955, Newport, RI

"Recent guests of Mr. and Mrs. Keckler were Mr. and Mrs. J Kenneth Wares of Patterson, N.J., Thomas Lahiff of Radburn, N. J., Martin, John C. John C, Jr. and Maria Lahiff of Riverdale, N. Y.

Newport Daily News 1955 August 2


Agnes Walsh and Catherine Foley

Catherine Foley married Agnes' brother, Charles, on July 5, 1930.

Photo from the collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla


Agnes Walsh Lahiff

Photo from the collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla


Agnes Walsh Lahiff and John Lahiff

Photo from the collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla


Children
Agnes and John had seven children:
  1. Martin born May 16, 1932

    Death: May 12, 2014

  2. Martin Patrick Lahiff 81, died May 12, 2014 at home in Patagonia, Arizona. He was born in New York City and graduated from Power Memorial Academy in Manhattan and Iona College in New Rochelle, N.Y. Mr. Lahiff left his job as a copy editor of the New York Journal American in 1957 to take his severely asthmatic younger brother to Arizona. Mr. Lahiff worked as a reporter at the Bisbee Daily Review and played for a local baseball team. In 1959 he joined the federal government. He won the Ewell T. Bartlett Award for Humanity in Government for his work on behalf of the Braceros in Yuma. Later, he served as a U.S. Consul, stationed by the State Department in Mexico City and Athens, Greece. His career took him all over the Americas, the Mediterranean, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. He received a Meritorious Honor Award for his services during the aftermath of the 1985 Mexico City earthquake. Mr. Lahiff and his wife retired to Mexico, where he wrote books of poetry, history and observations of the world he had seen. Two years ago, they moved to Patagonia to be closer to their children. Mr. Lahiff was a poet and a writer. He loved music. He sang, played piano, and danced. He loved Mexico and its culture, and he took great pleasure in traveling and meeting people from all over the world. Above all, he was devoted to his wife and family and his faith. He is survived by his wife of more than 53 years Cecilia; son, Jorge and his wife, Teresita of San Francisco, CA; daughter, Ema and her husband, Andrew and daughter, Ines and her husband, Grant of Tucson, AZ; five grandchildren, David, Liam, Gavin, Waris and Michael. He is also survived by his sister, Maria; brothers, John and Joe and many nephews and nieces. Martin was preceded in death by his brother, Bill. His Memorial Service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 6, 2014, at St. Therese of Lisieux Catholic Church, 222 Third Avenue, Patagonia, AZ. Arrangements by MARTINEZ FUNERAL CHAPELS, Nogales.

  3. Maria born December 17, 1936

  4. John born December 14, 1937

  5. William (Bill) born September 4, 1940 - died 1999

  6. Marriage: Margaret Shea
    1999 - LAHIFF, Margaret Shea, released her magnificent mortal spirit and returned to the arms of God in Tucson, AZ, Tuesday, March 9, 1999. Margie had been asked to wage a lifelong struggle against respiratory and skeletal illness but neither was enough to diminish her sense of humor or love of life. She had just begun a life of retirement spending winters in Tucson and summers in Woodbury, Vermont when she was called and without complaint went home. Margaret Diane Shea was born in Montpelier, VT and attended St. Michael's grade and high school. She attended Fairleigh Dickenson University. She had lived in New Jersey, Arizona and Barre and Woodbury, VT. She worked for 22 years at Paige and Campbell Insurance Agency, and was an SRS Proxy for the state of Vermont. She was a member of American Association of Insurance Women. Her great joy in life was sharing her sense of humor with others and she took an active part in arranging reunions for her class of 1952 at St.Michael's. She was an avid reader, an intense college basketball fan, was an excellent interpreter regarding anything political and had a distinctive laugh that those who knew her will long remember. Margaret was predeceased by her first husband, Nicholas Roy Giordano and her sister, Marolyn Shea. Survivors include her husband, William Lahiff; sons, Michael, Winchendon, MA, Nicholas, Oakland, NJ and Kevin Giordano of Wilbraham, MA; sister, Ellen Brigham, Woodbury, VT; brothers, Harold P. Shea of Montpelier, VT and Charles Shea of Burlington, VT; grandchildren, Monica, Matthew, Nicholas and Emma. Friends may call from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 12, 1999 at HEATHER MORTUARY, 1040 N. Columbus Blvd. A Mass will follow at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 1300 N. Greasewood Road at 12:00 noon. Cremation will take placeafter the mass. Arrangements by HEATHER MORTUARY, an aftercare provider. http://www.genealogybuff.com/az/state

    Death: July 17, 2003 William (Bill) Lahiff

  7. Joseph (Joe) born January 8, 1943 - died 2015

    Marriage: Jackie

    Death: Joseph was born on January 8, 1943 and passed away on Sunday, June 14, 2015. Joseph was a resident of Tucson, Arizona. Funeral Mass Jun 18. 11:30 AM Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church 1300 N. Greasewood Road TUCSON, AZ, US, 85745.

    Joe Lahiff was a coach operator for Sun Tram

  8. Agnes born February 23, 1945

    Death: February 23, 1945

  9. Female Lahiff, 666 W 237 Street, Bronx, born February 23. 1945, 2 hours old, died February 23, 1945 4:20AM, father, John Lahiff, born in USA, mother, Agnes Walsh, born in USA, cause of death, 159 0, place of death, St Clares Hosp, Manhattan, death reported by John Lahiff, father. Agnes was buried in Calvary Cemetery, February 24, 1945. The death certificate does not list an actual cause of death but includes a statement that the death was not due to accident, homicide, suicide, etc., but to natural causes (Certificate #4679, 1945 Manhattan)

  10. Margaret born October 6, 1946

    Death: Margaret Lahiff, 6666 W 237 Street, Bronx, born October 6, 1946, NYC, age 13 days, died October 19, 1946, 2:15 AM, father, John Lahiff, born in USA, mother, Agnes Walsh, born in USA, cause of death 159 0, place of death, St Clares Hosp, Manhattan, death reported by John Lahiff, father. Margaret was buried in Calvary Cemetery, October 21, 1946. The death certificate does not list an actual cause of death but includes a statement that the death was not due to accident, homicide, suicide, etc., but to natural causes (Certificate #22068, 1946 Manhattan)

Notes by Maria Lahiff Pedulla :

  • Maria provided the dates of birth for herself and her siblings
  • On the death of Agnes: "I remember (at age eight) the relatives gathered at my house to give my father support. It was an evening and I was in bed listening. A Friday?"
  • On the death of Margaret: "She was placed in a small white casket with a crown on top and "waked" at Connor's Funeral Home on Fordham Rod, Bronx (not there today)"
  • On both deaths: "They were both born prematurely (7 mos pg) and neonatal care was not as good as today."
  • "They are buried at Calvary with Nancy Carroll and 5 other Lahiffs."


Martin and Maria, 1937

Photo collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla


Martin, Maria, John, William, and Joseph Lahiff

Photo collection of Bill Lahiff


Joe, Bill, John, Maria, and Martin

Photo collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla


Joe, Bill, Maria, John, and Martin Lahiff

Photo collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla


Arizona
Agnes and John Lahiff moved to Tucson, Arizona in 1959

Agnes in Tucson

Photo collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla


Agnes and the rainbow

Photo collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla


Agnes and Ema Lahiff, Martin Lahiff's oldest daughter.

Ema married Andrew Simm. They have a son, Michael, age 2. They live in Tucson.

Ema identified by Joe Lahiff. Additional information on Ema from Joe Lahiff, January, 2003.

Photo collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla


Agnes and Mary Pedulla, Maria Pedulla's daughter.

Date printed on side of photo, October 1974.

Mary is now Mary Lake, married to John Lake, in La Porte, Indiana with their six children. Mary identified by Joe Lahiff.

Additional information on Mary from Joe Lahiff, January, 2003.

Photo collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla


Written on back of photo
"Mom and Dad
Summer 1976
Ed Dunn, Christopher, Jackie, Joe, Mom and Dad
826 Tombstone Canyon
Bisbee, Arizona"

The child is Christopher, the oldest son of Joe Lahiff. Information from Joe Lahiff, January, 2003.

Photo collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla


Written on back of photo
"Bisbee 12/27/80

The Lahiffs in action"

Photo collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla


Biographical Notes by Agnes's Children, Maria Lahiff Pedulla and Martin Lahiff Walsh

Maria made the following notes at the time of her mother's death in 1985.

Youngest daughter of 9 children.

Agnes Walsh was the "Best all-round student I ever taught" (Mother St Daniel, Principle, St Jean Baptiste School, NYC)

Won scholarship to Villa Maria Academy which she could not accept due to family's need for financial assistance. Attended Grace Institute at night and was an excellent stenographer and secretary. Worked full time from age 13 on Wall Street and financial district mostly. At 39 returned to work at New York Times, then Manhattan College, University of Arizona (Tucson), Pima County Board of Health. Was President of Arizona Secretaries Assn.

Married John Marcus Lahiff on July 4, 1931 (He died April 24, 1977 and is buried in Bisbee, Arizona) at St Ignatius Loyola Church, Park Avenue, NYC.

Her (their) picture was on front page of New York Times due to dad (husband) being brother of famous actress, Nancy Carroll (Lahiff).

A sweet, unusually refined, precise, and particular person of strong religious faith and moral sense. She also had an unschooled and spontaneous artistic style which was extra-ordinary for its color sense and unique arrangement. It was individual, inexpensive, slightly "gypsy", unrepeatable and absolutely charming-- like her wit and whole personality. She was generous and cared sincerely for those in need. A good cook. Stern though loving MOTHER.

On February 28, 2004 Martin Lahiff Walsh wrote
You talked with my sister, Maria, but perhaps I can contribute what could be a correction: my mother never attended Villa Maria Academy, an upper-crust private Catholic School in Manhattan that burned down after her alleged attendance. She selected it precisely for that reason, and got good secretarial jobs with the false credentials. It was easy to believe her, for she wrote and talked like any classy girl, and enjoyed telling the secret later in life.

Death of John Lahiff

John Lahiff SSN: 098-01-2420 Last Residence: 85603 Bisbee, Cochise, Arizona, United States of America Born: 28 Sep 1905 Died: Apr 1977 State (Year) SSN issued: New York (Before 1951) (SSDI)

He was buried in the Evergreen Cemetery in Bisbee Arizona


Death of Agnes Walsh Lahiff

Agnes Walsh Lahiff died on February 9, 1985 in Tucson Arizona, age 76 years, 11 months, and 7 days. She was buried in the Evergreen Cemetery in Bisbee Arizona

Agnes Lahiff SSN: 090-24-4998 Last Residence: 85706 Tucson, Pima, Arizona, United States of America Born: 2 Mar 1908 Died: Feb 1985 State (Year) SSN issued: New York (Before 1951) (SSDI)


Tombstone of Agnes Walsh Lahiff and John Lahiff

Photo collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla


Martin Lahiff

Click on the photo of Martin for more photos of Martin and his family.

Photo collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla

Maria Lahiff Pedulla

Click on the photo of Maria for more photos of Maria and her family.

Photo collection of Peggie Goehle Edgar

John Lahiff

Click on the photo of John for more photos of John and his family.

"The ocean at low tide in the background
This is the southern part of the island- Merizo (village)
Those are fish traps you see in the background- the rock is coral.
John Thomas Lahif, Ari Force, Guam, 1960"
Photo collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla

Bill (William) Lahiff

Click on the photo of Bill for more photos of Bill and his family.

Photo collection of Maria Lahiff Pedulla

Joe (Joseph) Lahiff
Click on photo of Joe and Jackie Lahiff to see more photos of Joe Lahiff.

Collection of Joe Lahiff

The Lahiffs

Co. Clare Ireland, Australia, Rhode Island and New York City

John Lahiff born Ireland 1845 and Elizabeth (Eliza, Elisa) Fitzgerald

La Hiff contributers to this page:
  • Vin La Hiff, October 2010
  • Jan Brown, April 2010
  • Theresa Heimbuch, September 2008
  • Dennis LaHiff, Aug 2006
  • Bob Bolderson, 2005
  • Maria Lahiff Pedulla, from 2004
  • Jan Brown

Birth of John Lahiff: 15 June 1845 Co. Clare Ireland (Jan Brown)

Marriage of John Lahiff and Elizabeth Fitzgerald: Elizabeth Fitzgerald*

*"I do have a copy of my grandfather's birth certificate discovered by my sister ANN when she married Patrick Boland in Ireland. She needed this info to become an Irish citizen. His parents were, John LaHiff and Elizabeth Fitzgerald."

Theresa Heimbuch, September 2008

Migration and Immigration:

According to research done by Jan Brown the Lahiffs were in Australia between 1865 and 1870. At least two of their children, Bridget (1865) and Elizabeth Catherine (1867), were born in Australia according to US census and other records.

They returned to Ireland as their son, Thomas, claimed to have been born there in 1868.

Rhode Island Deaths lists Patrick Lahiff son of John Lahiff Eliza Lahiff died 4 Aug 1872 17 mos (died of Meningitis per Jan Brown - June 2019)

According to the obituary of their daughter, Mary Ellen (1873), she was born in Providence Rhode Island (1873 per Jan Brown). Rhode Island Births on Ancestry.com lists: Mary E Lahiff of John Lahiff and Eliza Lahiff 8 Jun 1873. Not other children of John and Eliza were listed.

The obituary says: She was born in Providence, the daughter of John and Elisa Fitzgerald Lahiff, and was reared in County Clare, Ireland. She returned to this county at the age of 16. If this is true it means she returned circa 1889.

According to the censuses, their child, William (1883), was born in Rhode Island circa 1882. However, his obituary said he was born in Ireland and came to the USA at age 2.

"Soon after Mary Ellen was born and Patrick, their son, died and was buried in Providence, RI John and Elizabeth took their family back to Ireland. They returned in 1893 with mostly the younger children. The older children in Ireland as they reached the age of 18 immigrated to the USA on their own. Bridget the oldest child settled in Newport, RI and the others followed.

Vin La Hiff, October 2010

Immigration to Australia: Victoria, Australia, Assisted and Unassisted Passenger Lists, 1839-1923 about John Lahiff Name: John Lahiff Estimated birth year: abt 1843 Age: 22 Arrival Date: 18 Mar 1865 Arrival Port: Melbourne, Australia Departure Port: Liverpool Ship: Vernon Nationality: Irish (Jan Brown)

Children of John LaHiff and Elizabeth (Elisa) Fitzgerald:

  1. Bridget (1865-1956)

    Birth of Bridget Lahiff: Australia, 1865 (Jan Brown)

    Marriage: Never married

    1930 Census: 16 Carroll Ave, Newport Rhode Island, Bridget Lahiff, Own $5,000, age 60 born Australia, immigrated 1894.

    Association with other Lahiffs: Listed in William F (Billy) LaHiff's obit in 1934.

    Death of Bridget Lahiff: Newport, R. I. 1956 (Jan Brown)

    Miss Bridget Lahiff Native of Australia

    Miss Bridget Lahiff, 91 of 392 Thames St, formerly of Carroll Ave. died yesterday in a nursing home.

    She was born March 17, 1864 in Melbourne, Australia, daughter of John and Elisa Fitzpatrick (sic) Lahiff. she was a member of the Rosary and Scapular Society of St Augustin's Church.

    A sister, Mrs. James Collins, of this city and a brother, Peter Lahiff of Union City, New Jersey, survive.

    The funeral will be held from the O'Neill Funeral Home Monday with a mass of requiem at 9 o'clock in St Augustin's Church Burial will be in St Columba's Cemetery.

    DIED

    LAHIFF - In this city January 20, 1956, Bridget Lahiff, daughter of the late John and Elisa Fitzpatrick (sic) Lahiff, formerly of Carroll Ave........

    Newport Daily News, January 21, 1956

    Mary T Collins, Helen M Collins and Elizabeth Collins shared equally in the will of their aunt Bridget Lahiff whose estate was valued at $5,200. (Newport Daily News, January 23, 1956)

  2. Catherine Elizabeth Lahiff (1867-1943) and Henry Stone

    Birth: Australia circa 1867

    In April 2010 Janice Evelyn Brown wrote:

    "My great-grandmother (maternal) was Catherine Elizabeth Lahiff. She was the daughter (2nd child?) of John and Elizabeth Lahiff from Ireland.

    She was born in Australia, perhaps on board ship in Australian waters.

    She married Henry Stone and they had three children:

    Cecil McClintock Stone (my grandfather) He disappeared in 1928 during the Great Depression and Prohibition. No one has ever figured out what happened to him.

    Charlotte Agnes Stone who married Jackson Taylor who had 2 children from a previous marriage. They owned a liquor/grocery store in Hempstead and they may have moved to Florida.

    Cyril Granville Stone who was married twice. First to Irene (she was age 16) and then to Dollie. He died in Santa Barbara, CA. in 1964. He died of a sudden heart attack. Cecil married Elizabeth Redpath Brown both were from Jersey City,New Jersey and later moved to Hempstead, NY (Rhodes Avenue) They had seven children. My mother Evelyn Stone Farrington is their youngest child. She now lives with me and is 83 years old. She and her brother Wilbur Kenneth (Kenny) are the sole remaining children the others have all passed on.

    They lived close by to Henry and Catherine Elizabeth Lahiff Stone who lived in Richmond Hills.

    I have visited the grave of Henry and Catherine at Mt Olivet Cemetery in Mispeth NY. They are buried in the same plot along with Henry's father John Stone. Henry died in 1930 of kidney stones. Catherine lived until 1943 when she died of a stroke.

    After Cecil's disappearance the oldest of the seven children Harold went into the aero industry and moved the family to San Diego CA.

    Birth of Catherine Elizabeth Lahiff : 1866 Australia (Jan Brown)

    Marriage of Catherine Elizabeth Lahiff to Henry Stone: 12 July 1888, Henry Stone

    Children:

    1. Cecil McClintock Stone

      Birth:

      Marriage: Elizabeth Redpath Brown

      More:

      "My grandfather Cecil Stone her eldest son disappeared in 1928 and no one knows what happened to him. They lived in Hempstead, NY at the time of his disappearance. I have put up a lot of info about it on ancestry.com. My grandmother eventually moved ten years later to San Diego CA because her eldest son Harold was working in aerospace right before the war. We lost touch with the LaHiff side at that time."

      Jan Brown May 2010

    2. Charlotte Agnes Stone

      Birth:

      Marriage: Jackson Taylor

    3. Cyril Granville Stone

      Birth:

      Marriage: Irene and Dolly

    1920 Census: Brooklyn, 76th Street, Stone, Henry, age 53, immigrated 1886, born England, manager cutlery, Catherine E, age 53, born Australia, immigrated 1886, both naturalized in 1892, Charlotte A, age 25, Cycil -, age 15, both children born New Jersey.

    1930 Census: They were listed in Hempstead in the 1930 census where Catherine's parents were listed as from the Irish Free state and her immigration was given as 1870.

    Association with other Lahiffs:

    Death: Her death certificate listed her parents as John Lahiff and Elizabeth Fitzgerald. Date of death 15 April 1946, widowed, born Australia, died Marlborough, Ulster, NY (Jan Brown)

  3. Thomas Lahiff (1868-1943) and Annie Barrett

    Birth of Thomas Lahiff: November 27, 1868, Ireland

    Immigration: Circa 1890. Not listed Castle Gardens.

    Naturalization: Supreme Court New York Feb 21 1912 per passenger list, August 1932.

    Pass port #529288

    Property purchase Newport, Rhode Island:

    Mary E and Annie M Sheekey have sold to Thomas and Annie Lahiff a lot of land on Potter Street containing 1930 (?) square feet

    April 17, 1897 Newport

    Marriage: Annie Barrett, date and place unknown before 1897.

    Children:

    1. Martin (1897-1975)

      Birth of Martin Lahiff: Martin J, born Rhode Island circa 1897 (per census), May 5, 1896 per DR.

      WWII Draft: Martin Joseph Lahiff 3625 Waldo Ave NYC Bronx, age 46, born Newport, Rhode Island, telephone Ki 6- 2636, date of birth, 5, 5, 1896, name of person who will always know your address, John Lahiff, same address, unemployed

      Marriage: None listed in NYC Grooms Index

      1930 Census: With his parents.

      Entrance into US 1941: from Hamilton, Bermuda, December 8, 1941 arriving port of New York on the Evangeline, Lahiff, "Jr", Martin, age 45, born 5 May 1896, Newport, R I, address, 3625 Waldo Ave, New York

      Death: 1975

      SSDI Martin Lahiff 5 May 1896 died Scarsdale, Westchester, New York September 1975

      The New York Times, September 1975

      Lahiff - , Martin, J of Riverside, NY September 19, 1975, Son of the late Thomas and Anne Lahiff. Beloved brother of Elizabeth Wares and Teresa Robertson and John Lahiff and the late Nancy Carroll, Elsie Schmitt, Sarah and Thomas Lahiff, uncle of Marie Lahiff Pedulla. Friends may call at the residence of Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Pedula, 63 Brendon Hill Rd. Scarsdale, N. Y. (Beech Hills Area of Yonkers) All day Sunday. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Gabriel's Church, Riverside, NYC Monday 10:00 A.M.
    2. Elizabeth LaHiff (1898- ) and Kenneth Wares

      Birth of Elizabeth Lahiff:

      Elizabeth born Rhode Island circa 1898

      Marriage: Kenneth Wares (per father and brother's obituaries and Maria Lahiff Pedulla).

      Not listed under groom or bride's index for NYC

      Children:

      1. Kenneth, per Dennis Lahiff, 2009 and Maria Lahiff Pedulla, 2010

        Circa 1925 per 1930 census

      2. Ann, per Maria Lahiff Pedulla, 2010

        Circa 1930 per 1930 census

      3. David, per Maria Lahiff Pedulla, 2010

      1930 Census: East 184th Street, Bronx, "Ware", Kenneth, head, rent $49, plasterer building age 50, Elizabeth, wife, age 45, Ann daughter age 8 months, Kenneth Jr son age 5, all born New York.

      Several family members say that Elizabeth LaHiff and Kenneth Wares lived in Patterson in the 1950s. Vin says that Elizabeth died in a nursing home in West Milfred in 1993.

    3. Sarah ✟ (1899-1913)

      Birth: Circa 1900 New Jersey

      Death: 1913 per Maria Lahiff Pedulla, April 2010

      Lahiff, Sarah A, 14 y, Nov 21, 1913, 33377, Manhattan L100

    4. Paul

      Per Marie Lahiff Pedulla April, 2010

      Death: Died as an infant? No death listed under Paul in NYC Archives.

      Note: Per 1900 census Annie was the mother of 4 children 3 of whom were still living.

    5. Theresa LaHiff (c 1901-1985) and Franklin Robertson

      Birth of Theresa Lahiff:

      Theresa born circa 1901 NY

      October 23, 1900 per SSDI

      Stage and Screen:

      Went under the name "Terry Carroll" at the time of the marriage of her sister Elsie in 1931.

      She acted under the name "Terry Carroll". She appeared in City Streets (1931) [woman's prison inmate uncredited per www.imdb.com - [Esther March, per www.cinematexasnotes.com] and Personal Maid (1931) as Anna Ryan [her sister Nancy was the star of this film]. (info from www.imdb.com)

      Marriage: Franklin Heddon Robertson (Mrs. Robertson per father's obituary, Franklin per Maria Lahiff Pedulla, 2010, ancestry.com records)

      Franklin Heddon Robertson: Born August 15, 1900 (WWIDR), died August 1968 Flushing, Queens, SSDI, In 1920 census in Queens with parents.

      More of Franklin Robertson: "Aunt Theresa and Uncle Franklin lived in the Beechhurst section of Flushing. So did the Boggs family. Franklin owned a liquor store in Beechhurst." (Maria Lahiff Pedulla, April 2010)

      Children:

      1. Dolores (Sookie) married who Cicel Boggs and had 4 daughters, Valerie, Cynthia and ? &? (per Maria Lahiff Pedulla, 2010

      1930 Census: Flushing, Queens, Robertson, Franklin, age 28, married at 28, manager theatrical, Teresa J age 24, none Dolores J, age 2 and 9 months, all born New York

      Terry Carroll on Broadway:

      Chamberlain Brown's Scrap Book [Original, Musical, Revue, Vaudeville] Performer: Terry Carroll [Herself in "Moving Pictures"] Aug 1, 1932 - Aug 8, 1932

      Hired Husband [Original, Play, Comedy] Performer: Terry Carroll [Nina Travis] Jun 3, 1932 - Jun 1932

      The Wiser They Are [Original, Play, Comedy] Performer: Terry Carroll [Marion Wheeler] Apr 6, 1931 - May 1931

      America's Sweetheart [Original, Musical, Comedy] Performer: Terry Carroll [A Stenographer] Feb 10, 1931 - Jun 6, 1931

      Song of the Flame [Original, Musical, Opera, Romance] Performer: Terry Carroll [American Ballet] Dec 30, 1925 - Jul 10, 1926

      Big Boy [Original, Musical, Comedy] Performer: Terry Carroll [Show Girls] Jan 7, 1925 - Mar 14, 1925

      [Internet Broadway Database]

      Death of Franklyn Robertson: Franklyn Robertson BIRTH: 15 Aug 1900 DEATH: Aug 1968 - Flushing, Queens, New York, United States of America CIVIL: New York (SSDI)

      Death of Theresa Robertson: Theresa Robertson BIRTH: 29 Oct 1900 DEATH: Jun 1985 - Flushing, Queens, New York, United States of America CIVIL: New York (SSDI)

    6. Thomas Francis LaHiff (1902) and Sara Ellen Meagher

      Birth: 1902, New York

      Marriage: Sarah E. Meagher, Jul 10 1926 Manhattan #20604

      Children:

      1. Paul 1927
      2. Sally 1929
      3. Dennis, 1943

      1930 Census: Fair Lawn, New Jersey, Thomas Lahiff, head own $8,500, age 27, born New York, cashier brokerage, Sarah wife, age 26, born England, Paul, son age 3 yr. 2 mo. born New York, Sally A, daughter age 4 mo. born New York.

      Email from Dennis LaHiff, Aug 2006

      My father was Thomas Francis Lahiff, brother of John, Nancy, Martin, Elizabeth, Theresa, etc. Unfortunately, my recollection of the Lahiff family on Waldo Avenue are slim. I was too young as a child to remember either of my grandparents, but I do remember being at the house on Waldo Avenue as a young child.

      I am the youngest (by far) of the three Lahiff children born to Thomas Francis Lahiff (RIP 10/25/56) and Saraellen Meagher (RIP 5/25/86). My father ran the Dutch House Tavern in Fair Lawn NJ up until his death. I was born on March 18, 1943. My brother Paul Thomas Lahiff is living in West Creek, NJ. He was born Feb. 18, 1927. My sister, Sallyann Lahiff Krauss, was born Nov. 10, 1929 and is living in Beach Haven, NJ. I have three sons, Brendan (8/24/72) Martin (8/29/75) and Conor (4/8/78) and two grandchildren, Ayla Lahiff (6) and Aedan Lahiff (2).

    7. Ann Lahiff (Nancy Carroll) (1903-1965)

      Birth: November 19, 1903, father, Thomas Lahiff, coalman, mother, Ann Barrett, address 163 Amsterdam Avenue. Nancy was the 6th of 6 children (NYC 1903 cert. #50328). Note: She may have actually been the 7th. There was the unknown child who died as indicated by the 1900 census.

      Ann Lahiff became the movie star, Nancy Carroll.

    8. Marriage: Jack Kirkland (1925-1930 divorced)

      Child:

      1. Patricia Kirkland - actress - born 18 July 1925 NYC died 14 August 2000 married Donald Bevan

        Marriage:

        Children:

        1. Nan

      Marriage: Francis Bolton Mallory (1931-1935 divorced)

      Death: 1965

      In April 2010 Maria Lahiff Pedulla wrote:

      "Nancy and Elsie are buried in Calvary Cemetery. Her dates are on her Tombstone as are Elsie's. They are both buried with my two sisters who died in infancy of prematurity. Agnes (Feb '45) and Margaret (Oct '46). Four other's are there. My dad's mom (Anna) and father (Thomas) as well as his other (oldest) sister Sarah and his brother Martin whose written records agree with the cemetery records. He was a bachelor and very precise!"

      Broadway:

      For Heaven's Sake, Mother! [Original, Play, Comedy] Performer: Nancy Carroll [Lucinda Lawrence] Nov 16, 1948 - Nov 20, 1948

      An Undesirable Lady [Original, Play] Performer: Nancy Carroll [Sally Marsh] Oct 9, 1933 - Oct 1933

      Mayflowers [Original, Musical, Comedy] Performer: Nancy Carroll [Jane] Nov 24, 1925 - Jan 30, 1926

      Big Boy [Original, Musical, Comedy] Performer: Nancy Carroll [Show Girls] Jan 7, 1925 - Mar 14, 1925

      The Passing Show of 1923 [Original, Musical, Revue] Performer: Nancy Carroll Jun 14, 1923 - Sep 15, 1923

      [Internet Broadway Database]

      Movies: See below

    9. John Marcus Lahiff (1905-1977) and Agnes Walsh

      Birth: 28 September 1905 per SSDI, New York City

      Marriage: Agnes Walsh July 4, 1931 Manhattan #14838, see above.

      For more information on John Lahiff and Agnes Walsh see top of page.

    10. Elsie Lahiff (1906-1942) and Frederick Schmitt

      Birth: Circa 1906, New York City

      Marriage:

      Lahiff - Schmitt

      Special to The New York Times

      NEW BRITAIN, Conn. Nov 18 - Miss Elsie Lahiff, sister of Nancy Carroll, screen star, and Mr. Frederick Schmitt, son of Mr and Mrs. Henry Schmitt of 648 East Main Street, will be married Thanksgiving Day in the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, it was announced here today.
      Miss Theresa Schmitt will be bridesmaid and Martin Lahiff, brother of the bride, best man.
      Members of Miss Lahiff's family who will attend the nuptials will include her patents Mr. and Mrs. Patrick (sic) Lahiff of 3625 Waldo Avenue, Riverdale, N. Y. and her two sisters, Nancy Carroll and Terry Carroll.
      Mr. Schmitt is a physical instructor in New York City at Horace Mann School. Miss Lahiff has appeared in a number of Broadway productions.

      The New York Times, November 19, 1931

      Broadway:

      Bye, Bye, Bonnie [Original, Musical, Comedy], Performer: Elsie Carroll [Ensemble], Jan 13, 1927 - Apr 30, 1927

      The Great Temptations [Original, Musical, Revue], Performer: Elsie Carroll, May 18, 1926 - Nov 6, 1926

      Big Boy [Original, Musical, Comedy], Performer: Elsie Carroll [Dancer], Jan 7, 1925 - Mar 14, 1925

      [Internet Broadway Database]

      Children: None per Maria Lahiff Pedulla, 2010

      More from Maria Lahiff Pedulla:

      "Born 1906 died November 23, 1942 - She was my godmother

      She was a diminutive darling who died young (36 years old) due to rheumatic heart disease. At the end of her life she was bedridden. I used to visit her with my older brother, Martin, (I was about 5-6 years old.) She would tell us to keep looking at the mirror across the room from her bed as she acted out different parts (with sound effects such as crackling paper bags) directed into the mirror. She had a great sense of humor and a lovely singing voice. She was so kind, sweet and funny and was first a friend to my mother before my mom met my father.

      Death of Elsie Lahiff Schmitt: November 23, 1942 - buried in Calvary Cemetery with 7 other family members including her father and mother and her sisters, Sarah Lahiff and Nancy Carroll and brother, Martin. (per Maria Lahiff Pedulla, 2010)

    11. Unknown - per 1910 census there were 10 children born with 8 still living.

    1900 Census: West End and Amsterdam: Thomas Lahiff head November 1869, born Ireland, immigrated 1890, age 30, married 7 years, coach man, immigrated 1890, Naturalized, Annie wife August 1868, born Ireland, immigrated 1892, age 31, married 7 years 4 children 3 still living, Martin J son May 1896 age 4, born Rhode Island, Elizabeth daughter April 1897, born Rhode Island, Sarah daughter age 9 mo, born New Jersey.

    1910 Census: West End Avenue, Manhattan, Thomas, head age 41, married 15 years, immigrated 1890, PA, coachman family, Ann, wife, age 47, 10 children 8 still living, born Rhode Island, none Martin J. son age 13, born Rhode Island, Elizabeth daughter age 12, born Rhode Island, Sarah daughter age 9, born New Jersey, Theresa daughter age 7, born New York, Thomas Jr son age 6, born New york, Ann daughter age 4, born New York, John son age 3, born New York, Elsie daughter age 1, born New York

    1920 Census: West 79th Street, Manhattan, Thomas, head age 51, immigrated 1890, Na 1912, chauffeur family, Ann, wife, age 40 immigrated 1892 Na 1912, none Martin son age 23, born Rhode Island, clerk groceries, Elizabeth daughter age 22, dressmaker, Theresa daughter age 19, stenographer automobiles, Thomas Jr son age 17, runner brokers, Ann daughter age 16, stenographer lace house, John son age 14, none Elsie daughter age 12, none

    1930 Census: Bronx, 3625 Waldo Ave, Thomas Lahiff, head own $1000, age 61, immigrated 1892, chauffeur private, Annie wife age 61, immigrated 1894, Martin son age 33, cashier restaurant, John son age 24, clerk, elec light store, Elsie daughter age 23, actress theatrical

    1932 trip to Ireland: 7 August 1932, on the Scythia from Galway, Thomas Lahiff, age 63, married passport, 529288 Naturalized "Supreme" Court New York February 21, 1912 Annie Lahiff, passport no. 529288, 3625 Waldo Ave. Bronx, New York.

    1934 trip to West Coast: May 14, 1934 on the Virginia from the West Coast to New York, thomas La hiff, age 65, married naturalized "Superior" Court New York Feb 21, 1912, address, Riverdale, New York

    Death of Thomas LaHiff:

    Thomas Lahiff, 3625 Waldo Ave, Bronx, length of stay in NYC, 43 years, married, wife, Annie Barrett, date of birth, November 27, 1868, trade, retired chauffeur, born Ireland, how long in US, 49 years, name of father, John Lahiff, born in Ireland, name of mother, Elizabeth Fitzgerald, born in Ireland, place of death, 3625 Waldo Avenue, Bronx, length of stay at place of death, 19 years, seen by physician from September 3, 1943 to October 7, 1943, last seen by physician alive October 5, 1942, 10 AM, cause of death, ____ (can't read) cerebral hemorrhage, with _____ (can't read) Hemplegia (?), onset, September 1942, contributing cause of death, severe _____ (can't read) septicemia, informant, Martin Lahiff, son, 3625 Waldo Avenue, buried Calvary, October 11, 1943 (Bronx certificate #10013, 1943).
    The New York Times, October 9, 1943
    Nancy Carrolls' Father Dies

    Thomas Lahiff, father of Nancy Carroll, film and stage actress, died on Thursday in his home, 3625 Waldo Avenue, the Bronx, after a long illness. Mr. Lahiff, who was born in Ireland and came to this country as a young man, was a retired chauffeur. He leaves a widow, Anne Barrett Lahiff and five other children, Mrs. Elizabeth Wares, Mrs Theresa Robertson, John Lahiff, Thomas Lahiff, Jr. and Martin Lahiff.

    Buried Calvary Cemetery per Maria Lahiff Pedulla, April 2010

    Death of Anna Barrett LaHiff: 1951 - Buried Calvary Cemetery per Maria Lahiff Pedulla, April 2010

    The Lahiff Sisters, Actresses and Dancers: Using the surname Carroll, Theresa (Terry), Ann Veronica (Nancy) and Elsie were all on the stage. All three were in the chorus of Big Boy a 1925 musical comedy staring Al Jolson at the Winter Garden Theatre from January 7 to March 14, 1925. The show was a big success and was made into a movie staring Jolson in 1930 [without the Carroll sisters].

    Elsie born in 1909 appeared in a number of Broadway show [See Elsie] before marrying Frederick Schmitt. Terry born in 1901 appeared in several Broadway shows and several Hollywood movies. Nancy was the most famous of the three. There are a number of Nancy Carroll video clips on You Tube.

    NANCY AND SISTER PLAY SISTER PARTS

    "The demand for realism has invaded film families, it was revealed today when Terry Carroll was cast as the screen sister of her sister, Nancy Carol, in the red-haired star's current Paramount staring picture, "Personal Maid".

    Terry Carrol, blonde, is also and actress, appearing recently in "America's Sweetheart" and The Wiser They Are" on Broadway. Terry and Nancy began their careers as a sister team in vaudeville.

    A third sister, Elsie, has black hair and is not on the stage."

    Nevada State Journal, Reno, October, 25, 1931.

    Note: According to the obituary of Nancy Carroll in The New York Times, Thomas Lahiff was born in County Clare and Annie Barrett was born in County Roscommon. Nancy Carroll was "the seventh of 14 children in the family and the child of a seventh child". Father or mother?

  4. Patrick ✟ 1871, County Clare, Ireland died age 1, Ireland (Jan Brown)

    Death: Patrick Lahiff John Lahiff Eliza Lahiff 4 Aug 1872 17 mos Rhode Island Deaths, Ancestry.com

  5. Mary Ellen (1873-1965) and James Collins

    Birth: 1873 (Jan Brown)

    Rhode Island Births, 1636-1930, Name: Mary E Lahiff, Parent 1: John Lahiff, Parent 2: Eliza Lahiff, Birth Date: 8 Jun 1873

    Marriage: James Collins

    Children:

    1. Mary

    2. Helen

    3. Elizabeth

    4. Girl

    5. Girl

    6. John P

    7. James Lahiff (1899-1974)

      Born Newport Feb 20, 1899, son of James and Mary Ellen Lahiff Collins, Sheetmetal worker at Naval Torpedo Station, Army vet, retired in 1962, wife, Elizabeth Wetherell Collins, two daughters, Mrs. John W. Nelson of Middletown and Mrs. John F. Finn of Newport, a son James A of Newport, four sisters, May, Helen and Elizabeth Collins, of Newport, and Mrs. Olin Fellows of Binghamton, NY, a brother John P. brother of the late Dennis Collins. Newport Mercury, March 7, 1974

    8. Dennis
    Children taken from the obit of Mary Ellen Lahiff Collins

    Death of Mary Ellen Lahiff Collins: 1965

    Mrs. J Collins of Potter St.

    Mrs Mary Ellen LaHiff Collins of 1A Potter St died this morning at her home after a brief illness. She was the widow of James Collins.

    She was born in Providence, the daughter of John and Elisa Fitzgerald Lahiff, and was reared in County Clare, Ireland. She returned to this county at the age of 16. Mrs. Collins was a member of the Queens Daughter and of the Rosary and Altar Society of St Augustine's Church.

    She leaves five daughters, the Misses Mary T, Helen M. and Elizabeth R Collins of this city, Mrs Thomas W. Kelly of Levittown, Long Island, and Mrs. Owen H (?). Fellows of Binghamton, N.Y.; three sons, John P Collins of Middletown, and James A Collins and former Sheriff Dennis E Collins of this city, 13 grandchildren, 15 gread gandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

    DIED

    COLLINS - In this city, October 9, 1965, Mary Ellen (Lahiff) Collins wife of the late James Collins, Residence, 1A Potter Street

    Newport Daily News, October 9, 1945

    Buried St Columba's Cemetery

  6. Peter (Paeder) Lahiff, born circa 1875 Ireland, and Mary (Marie) O'Neil

    Theresa Heimbuch wrote in September 2008 to say that she is the granddaughter of Peter Lahiff, who was a brother of Thomas and Billy (William) Lahiff.

    Birth: March 29, 1875 Ireland, per WWIDR

    Marriage: Mary (Marie) O'Neal

    Children:

    1. Peter unknown

    2. Catherine born circa 1895 Rhode Island.

      "Catherine, married to Jim Kelly and they had 9 children" (Theresa Heimbuch, September 2008)

    3. Thomas circa 1898, New Jersey

      "Died in his youth". (Theresa Heimbuch, September 2008)

    4. Dorothy circa 1901, New Jersey

      "Dorothy, married to Eddie Hart and they had 6 children." (Theresa Heimbuch, September 2008)

    5. John circa 1903, New Jersey

      My mother's brother, John LaHiff, and his wife Anne Malloy of Baltimore, had 7 children and they are scattered throughout the US." (Theresa Heimbuch, September 2008)

    6. Veronica circa 1911, New Jersey (1920 census)

      "Veronica, never married and passed away at 35 years of age." (Theresa Heimbuch, September 2008)

    7. Virginia circa 1914, New Jersey (1920 census), Regina (1930 Census)

      In September 2008 Theresa Heimbuch wrote;

      "My mother, who just passed away on April 21st, 2008 in W. Long Branch, NJ. was the daughter of Peadar (Peter) LaHiff and Mary O'Neill LaHiff of Union City, NJ. My grandfather, Peadar LaHiff, was Thomas and Billy LaHiff's brother.

      My mother was #7 of eight children. She was the last to pass away. She had three brothers, John LaHiff, Peter LaHiff and Thomas Lahiff. Both Peter and Thomas died in their youth."

    8. Margaret circa 1916, New Jersey (1920 Census), Marcia (1930 Census)

      "Marcella who passed away at age 83, one daughter Veronica". (Theresa Heimbuch, September 2008)

    WWIDR: Peter Lahiff, 714 Elm Street West Hoboken, NJ age 43, born March 29, 1875, naturalized, Chauffeur, employer, Peter Lahiff, place of employment 336 W 70th Street NYC, wife Marie Lahiff dame address in West Hoboken, medium height, medium build, blue eyes, dark brown hair.

    1910 Census: 714 Elm Street West Hoboken, Peter, age 35, married 16 years, immigrated 1892, conductor railroad, Mary, wife, age 36, 5 children 4 still living, immigrated 1892, Catherine, age 15, born New port, Rhode Island, Thomas, age 12, Dorothy, age 9, John, age 7, rest of children born New Jersey.

    1920 Census: West Hoboken 714 Elm St, Lahiff, Peter, head age 44, immigrated 18-3, naturalized in 1899, born Ireland, chauffeur, Mary wife, age 44, born Ireland Helen (?) daughter age 24, bookkeeper, Thomas son age 22, chauffeur, Dorothy daughter, age 19, cannot read occupation, John age 17, steno, Veronica daughter age 9, Virginia daughter age 6, and Margaret daughter age 4 children all born New Jersey.

    1930 Census: 714 Elm Street (29th Street) Union City, Peter head age 55, immigrated 1891, laborer county, Margaret wife age 54, both born "Northern Ireland", immigrated 1892, Regina daughter age 16, John son age 29, Veronica daughter age 19, Marcia daughter age 14.

    Death of Peter Lahiff: 17 DEC 1958 - UNION CITY, NJ (Jan Brown)

  7. Michael Lahiff (c1881-1934) and Mary Ryan

    Birth: Circa 1881 Ireland (Census)

    Immigration: Circa 1888 based on census record

    Marriage: Rynn (sic), Mary A , Sep 24, 1916, Manhattan, 22104 R500

    Children:

    1. William

    2. Margaret

      Death of Margaret Lahiff: 1944

      Margaret Lahiff, 531 W 134 Street, NYC, single, born April 22, 1919, age 25 years, 3 months, and 12 days, born in NYC, USA, trade, none, father, Michael Lahiff, born in Ireland, mother, Mary Ryan, born in NYC, place of death, Bellevue Hosp., Manhattan, length of stay 10 days, time of death, August 4, 1944, 9:00AM, there was no specific cause of death listed instead there was a statement that the death was not due to anything but natural causes, death reported by Mary Lahiff, mother, 501 W 134 Street, buried St Raymond's Cemetery (Manhattan certificate #16976, 1944).

    3. Rita

    4. Florence

    5. Doris

    1930 Census: Michael Lahiff, head rent age 49 married at 35, born Ireland immigrated 1883, carpenter, Mary wife age 39 married at 24, William age 12, Margaret age 11, Rita age 9 Florence age 7 Doris age 5, rest born NY.

    Association with other Lahiffs: Mentioned in William (Billy) Lahiff's obit in 1934.

    Death of Michael Lahiff: 1934 - New York City (All Boroughs), New York, USA (Jan Brown)

  8. William (Billy) Francis Lahiff (1882-1934) and Helen ________

    Birth: Providence Rhode Island per census. 15 September, 1882, Rhode Island, per 1927 entry in New York from Havana. Providence, Rhode Island, September 15, 1883 per WWIDR. Ireland per obituary.

    Marriage: Helen

    Children:

    1. Helen, c 1904
    2. Mary, circa 1906
    3. William Jr, circa 1911 Died 1990

      Billy La Hiff Jr. took over his father's business.

    1910 Census: West 169th Street, William Lahiff, age 28, married 7 years, liquor dealer cafe, born New York" Parents German*, Helen wife, age 28 two children two living, Helen daughter age 6 Mary daughter age 4

    *Note: His parents were born in Irleand.

    WWIDR: William Francis La Hiff 3810 Broadway New York age 35, born Sept 15, 1883, owner La Hiff Street Cafe, 1573 Broadway, New York, next of kin, Helen La Hiff, 3810 Broadway, New York medium height, medium build blue eyes brosn hair.

    1920 Census: 720 West 172nd Street, New York, Manhattan, Lahiff, William, age 40, born Rhode Island, parents born Ireland, owner cafe, Helen wife, age 35, Helen daughter age 16, Mary daughter age 14, William Jr age 8.

    1927: LaHiff, William age 44 born Providence R. I., September 15, 1882, 156 W 48th Street New York City on the Orizabar from Havana Cuba March 17th, 1927

    1928: On list of US citizens sailing from Bermuda to New York on the Araguaya arriving April 22, 1928, La Hiff, Helen age 46, married, born 1882, Helen F age 24 born 1904, May age 23 born 1905 all born New York City

    1930: Norton Ave Beverly Hills, California, La Hiff, Helen, head r $155, age 48 married at 20, married, born New York, Helen daughter age 26, William age 18 born born New York, no occupations for any of them.

    Billy Lahiff's "The Tavern" at 158 W. 48th Street: Billy Lahiff had a restaurant, The Tavern" which was a hang out for show people, journalists, sports figures, and other people about town including: Damon Runyon, Ed Sullivan, Jack Benny, Jack Demspey, Bugs Baer, Toots Shor, Gene Fowler, and as noted belwo Fatty Arbuckle and Barbara Stanwick.

    • Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle By Stuart Oderman: Page 2,

      "That same evening, a joyous Roscoe and Addie went to dinner at a restaurant owned by friend, William Lahiff. They were joined a the West 48th Street establishment by prizefighters, Johnny Dundee and Johnny Walker. It was a double clelbration; the completion of Roscoe's three shorts, and the first anniversary of Roscoe's marriage to Addie."
      Addie was Arbuckles third wife. The night was June 28, 1933. After leaving Billy Lahiff's Tavern the Arbuckles returned to their rooms in the Park Central Hotel. Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle died that night at the age of 46.

    • The Leading Men of MGM By Jane Ellen Wayne: page 172
      Billy LaHiff, owner of the Tavern on forty-eighth Street, fed young hopefuls and tied to help them find jobs."
      One of the young hopefuls he helped was to take the stage name, Barbara Stanwick. Barbara Stanwyck was born Ruby Stevens in Brooklyn, New York on July 16, 1907

    • Toots Shor the famous "saloonkeeper" managed Billy Lahiff's West Side Tavern between 1936 and 1940. Toots Shor quit after an argument with Billy's son, Billy Jr.. He opened his own place on West 51st street and took many Lahiff patrons with him. Toots Shor's and the art of celebrity male bonding

    Death: age 51, Jun 7, 1934 Cert # 14001 Manhattan

    NEWPORT MECURY, Friday June 15, 1934

    WILLIAM F LAHIFF DIED IN NEW YORK

    FORMER NEWPORTER WAS PROPRIETOR OF THE TAVERN

    Became Widely Known as Host to Number of Broadway's Chief Celebrities

    William F (Billy) LaHiff, Newporter, who became widely known in New York as the host to Broadway's chief celebrities, died Thursday in that city. The end came despite a gallant fight for life, which included six blood transfusions. At his bedside were his wife, Mrs. Helen A LaHiff, his daughters, Helen F. and Mary E, and his son, William F Lahiff, Jr.

    Billy LaHiff, as he was known, was born in Ireland, son of John and Margaret Fitzgerald LaHiff and came to this country when only two years old. He attended school in this city, going as far as the Forth grade, but educated himself later. At 16 he left home for New York, where he was engaged in the wine cellar of the Old Waldorf Astoria, where he met famous personages and acquired the friendship of many which was of benefit to him in later years.

    In 1905, at the age of 25, he went into business for himself, and owned and conducted several establishments before locating Billy LaHiff's Tavern, which became his best known place and was a favorite gathering place for many famous figures. the lease on one of his former establishments he sold for $250,000. Broadway had countless legends on his generosity. It was said that he never refused to donate to a charitable institution, and that he had never failed to help a friend down o his luck.

    Such famous personages as Jack Dempsey, Tex Rickard, Al Jolson, Thomas Meighan, Lew Cody, Willard Mack, Bert Wheeler, Bert Lahr and many others had their favorite tables at the Tavern, while Mae Clarke and Barbara Stanwyke were first noted there and raised to stardom.

    The funeral was held Saturday at St Patrick's Cathedral, New York with burial in Woodlawn cemetery. In addition to his wife and children, Mr LaHiff is survived by a brother, James J LaHiff, two sisters, Mrs John P. Collins and Miss Bridget LaHiff, of this city and three brothers, Peter, Michael, and Thomas LaHiff, in New York. Peter Lahiff is father of Nancy Carroll, widely known motion Picture actress"

    Thomas, not Peter, was the father of Nancy Carroll.

    Estate:

    Billy Lahiff Left $46,811

    William F. (Billy) Lahiff, Broadway restaurateur, who died June 7, 1934, left an estate appraised yesterday at $59,992 gross and $46,811 net, of which $40,201 net, of which $40,201 was in securities. The residuary estate went in trust to the widow, Mrs. Helen Lahiff, a son and two daughters. May 12, 1936 New York Times

    Death of Helen Lahiff: Born 23 Jan 1882, died Aug 1971 New York, SSDI

    Fun Web site: Jack Spooner, 1886-1963

    Jack Spooner was a friend, colleague and employee of Billy Lahiff. His grandchild has a great site in his honor with lots of pictures.

  9. James Joseph Lahiff (1887-1946)

    Birth: April 1 1887, County Clare (WWIDR) (Jan Brown)

    Marriage: Annie

    Child James J Jr. born circa 1912

    WWIDR: James Joseph Lahiff, born city Hospital cannot read, April 1, 1887 Native born, cannot read, County Clare, Ireland, occupation, hospital attendant cannot read, Blackwell Island, City Hosp. married medium height slender, blue eyes brown hair, June 5, 1917.

    1910 Census: Newport R.I., Son in law with John A Leary, born Ireland circa 1887, age 23, married cannot read occupation.

    1930 Census: Pond Ave, Newport, with wife and son, indicates a 1890 immigration

    WWIIDR: James Joseph Lahiff 17 Pond Ave Newport R.I. age 55 born County Clare, Ireland April 1 1887, Annie Lahiff 17 Pond Ave Newport employer, John Hancock Life insurance 172 Thames St Newport

    Newport Mercury, February 1, 1929: In an article about Billy Lahiff promoting the fighter Jack Dempsey in Madison Square Garden: Lahiff is the brother of James J Lahiff of this city well known insurance salesman"

    Death of James Lahiff: 26 Feb 1946 - NEWPORT, RI (Jan Brown)

    Death of Ann Lahiff: Widow of James of 17 Pond Ave. Newport, 1967-07-03 Newport Daily News

    She left her estate of $24,511 to the Carmelite Monastery

Immigration of John LaHiff:

Naturalization: Lahiff, John Newport, R. I. Pt 45, Appelate Div. Supreme, Newport, Birth Ireland June 15, 1845, Arrival April 1889, New York, Date of Naturalization, Oct 23, 1896.Index to New England Naturalization Petitions, 1791-1906 (M1299) (Jan Brown)

Death of John Lahiff:

Death of Elizabeth Fitzgerald Lahiff: 1899 Newport, R. I. (Jan Brown)

James LaHiff in Newport, R. I.

May 7, 1924

Estate of James Lahiff

"Petition in writing is made by Annie J Lahiff of said Newport requesting that she of some other suitable person may be appointed guardian of the estate of James Lahiff of said Newport a minor under fourteen years, son of James (?initial) and Annie J Lahiff..........."

Newport Mecury

Thomas Lahiff born circa 1839, Ireland in Providence, R. I.

Naturalization Record E Providence Rhode Island Lahiff, Thomas (p) B850 US Circuit Prov. Birth County Clare, Ireland ----- 1839 date of arrival in US Mar 3, 1864 New York date of naturalization Nov 4, 1878

More information from Theresa Heimbuch, September 2008

For years I heard stories of them entering the US thru Rhode Island. I also heard of Aunt Bridget from Greenwich Village, never married but called Mom on every holiday til her passing. Also, always heard about Billy's Tavern in NYC. Nancy visited us when she was in town and I can remember vividly asking her to let her beautiful red hair down as she always wore it up. She came to my wedding in Aug 4, 1962 and that was the last I saw of her. I learned of her death while watching TV... "cousin" Martin visited us in Weehawken quite often, always on a Sunday afternoon. These are some of my memories of the LaHiffs. I wish I could find out more about any or all who are living in the NYC/NJ area.

Ireland

I have not researched the name in Ireland. However, I found a record for Lahiff in Shrule Parish. I have no idea if it is related. Note: Shrule was the parish were Maggie Langan was born.

  1. Mary Lahiff of Pat Lahiff and Celia Walsh of Mohologan was baptized on the December 23, 1831

Jane Lahiff Gavigan

Birth: circa 1851, Ireland

Marriage: Jane Lahiff to Patrick Gavigan 10 Feb 1871, Rhode Island Marriages

1900 Census: Providence, Rhode Island, Gavigan, Patrick, Head, Male, Jan 1846, 54, Married 29 1871, Ireland , 1869 Providence City, Providence, Rhode Island, Gavigan Jane, Wife, Mar 1851, 49, Married 29 1871, Ireland 1867 Providence City, Providence, Rhode Island, Gavigan, Margaret L, Daughter, Sep 1871, 28 Single, Rhode Island, Providence City, Providence, Rhode Island, Gavigan James, Son, Mar 1874, 26 Single, Rhode Island, Providence City, Providence, Rhode Island, Gavigan, Mary, Daughter, Nov 1878, 21 Single, Rhode Island Providence City, Providence, Rhode Island, Gavigan, Patrick, Son, Nov 1880, 19 Single, Rhode Island, Providence City, Providence, Rhode Island, Gavigan, Annie, Daughter, Jan 1884, 16, Rhode Island, Gavigan, Rose, Daughter, Nov 1885, 14, Rhode Island, Gavigan, Jennie, Daughter, Nov 1887, 12, Rhode Island, Gavigan, William, Son, Nov 1888, 11, Rhode Island, Gavigan, Julia, Daughter, Feb 1891, 9, Rhode Island

In November 2005 Bob Bolderson emailed me the following information:

My grandmother, Margaret Hammond, was the daughter of Patrick Gavigan (born in Ireland) and Jane Lahiff. I remember my mother, who passed in 1985, mentioning a cousin (Nancy Carroll) who was a famous actress. We have lost all family connections. My grandmother married a Protestant (Lyman Hammond) and all children were raised Protestant. My grandmother was excommunicated from the church and I was always aware of hard feelings to the Catholic side of the family (Gavigans/??). Jane Lahiff Gavigan (great-grandmother) must have had a brother(s) directly related to Ann Lahiff's (Nancy Carroll) family.

Hope Hammond Bolderson (1911-1985)

Father: Lyman George Hammond (Born, Salem, NY 9/21/1878 died Cranston, RI 4/30/1936, Son of David L. Hammond (Newport, Vermont) and Celia Flanders (Beebe, Quebec)

Mother: Margaret Loretta Gavigan - Born September 3, 1871; Died June 16, 1936 Daughter of Patrick Gavigan (born in Ireland ) and Jane Lahiff

Robert V. Bolderson (1922-present)

Father: Dr. Vincent DeConti (April 19, 1887- Marzano Appio, Italy, buried @ St. Ann's Cemetery, Cranston, RI) Son of Agostino and Francesca (Cipolla) deConti. Vincent remarried Emma Cianci- son- Dr. Buddy DeConti - N. Providence, RI

Mother: Violet McNally Bolderson (buried North Church Cemetery, Concord, NH). Parents divorced when Robert was child, Violet married Ernest Bolderson (prominent textile executive) and adopted Robert , who assumed Bolderson name.

Grandfather: Royal Norton buried @ North Church Cemetery, Concord, NH

Grandmother: Pearl Carlton buried @ North Church Cemetery, Concord, NH

Children of Robert V. Bolderson/Hope Hammond Bolderson:

  1. Violet Barbara Hodgkins, Newport, RI
  2. Carolyn Janice Payne, Vero Beach, FL
  3. Robert V. Bolderson, FtL, FL
  4. David H. Bolderson, FtL, FL

More on the LaHiff family from Jan Brown - March 2109

I've been doing a lot more research on the Lahiff line and have found where they came from in County Clare.

I've managed to trace where John Lahiff and Eliza Fitzgerald lived before and after their second son Patrick's birth in Kilcorney and his death in Providence, Rhode Island.

The area is in the Burren of County Clare, Ireland. They lived first in Kilcorney in the Burren about a 20 minute wagon ride from their church Saint Columba's in Carron, County Clare, Ireland. I was able to visit this church when I was in Ireland last October, 2018 the church where most of the children were baptized. This includes: Thomas, Patrick, Peter, Honora, William, James Joseph, and Michael.

It is a simple country church with straight backed pews and windows to let in the sun. It's the kind of church that reflects the humble heritage that surrounds it.

John would have spent his time as a tennant under the Kinney family who owned a lot of the land in County Clare. He was a sheep and cattle herder, but I think he also must have learned his trade as stone mason living there in the Burren where they piled rocks for fencing that went on for miles and miles.

Here is a bit more of their story: Before leaving for America the first time in 1872, Thomas J. was born (11-11-1868) in Kilcorney, County Clare and baptized at St Columba Church by Father O'Carroll in Carron, County Clare Ireland (11-16-1868) with his sponsors Patt McGuane, Margaret McGuane. I believe Margaret may have been Margaret Fitzgerald and thus an Aunt to Thomas. The church records many Fitzgerald's and Lahiff's (also spelled Flahy and Lahive).

A few years later while still living in Kilcorney, sweet Patrick was born in Kilcorney, County Clare in the Burren. He was born March 2, 1871 and baptized March 5, 1871 at Saint Columba Church in Carron, Ireland. The sponsors listed are Timothy Fitzgerald and Maria Davoren. Maybe Timothy was Eliza's brother and uncle to Patrick.

Not long after Patrick's birth, they go to America on the ship "City of Antwerp" and arrive in New York Harbor July 2, 1872. The family consists of Bridget age 40 the mother of John Lahiff and his wife Eliza Fitzgerald and their children Bridget and Kate. Thomas and Patrick are recorded in a separate group that may have been quarantined due to illness. They are eventually released and go to Providence, Rhode Island.

The journey must have been hard on the baby, for just weeks after reaching their destination in Rhode Island, Patrick passes away Aug 4, 1872. Eliza is then pregnant with Mary Ellen. On June 8, 1873, Mary Ellen is born in Providence, Rhode Island. Soon after, they return to Ireland to live once again in the Burren, at Kilcorney. It is not known if they return because they are not allowed to stay or if of their own decision.

We know they return to Kilcorney in the Burren because In 1875, there in Kilcorney Peter Bliss Lahiff is born (3-29-1875) and also baptized at Carron (4-6-1875) with sponsors John McGuane, Bridget Hehir. Bridget is most likely a Fitzgerald or a Lahiff. There is only about 200 people living in Kilcorney and many are related.

By the time Honora is born in 1878, the family has moved up the road a bit closer to Carron (about a 10 to 15 minute wagon ride) to the small town of Ballydoora also in The Barren and along the same road to Kilcorney. Honora is born Nov 11, 1878 and baptized Nov 16, 1878 at St Columba's in Carron.

It is likely that William (Billy) Francis Lahiff and James Joseph were born in Ballydoora, but currently the records for those years are not available. Their births are recorded in the Ballyvaughan civil records in County Clare prior to leaving once again for America.

I believe this gives us all the evidence we need for where our ancestors lived. It is highly likely that John's parents (John and Bridget) lived in or near Kilcorney as well as Eliza's parents (Patrick and Bridget). I've found some evidence of this but not finalized the proof.

Prior to going to America, the family's name was often spelled Flahy. Vin Lahiff believes this was because "In the pronunciation the F may have been silent or said in such a way it rolled into the following letter L. If you drop the F you wind up with Lahy and then perhaps Lahiee and then Lahive and then to Lahif." The record of Patrick's birth as well as the marriage record of Eliza and John both list this spelling of Flahy. After returning from America, the name is spelled Lahiff or Lahiffe and occasionally Lahive.

I have sent for the birth records of all the children born in County Clare. The exceptions are Bridget and Kate born in Australia (Kate supposedly born on ship) and Mary Ellen born in Providence. I have record of Bridget and Kate the oldest children returning to South Australia as domestic help going to the port of Adelaide staying about 3 years and then going on to America.

We have a Facebook group called "Descendants of John Lahiff" for the descendants of John and Eliza Lahiff of County Clare, Ireland. If anyone would like to join us here is the link. Lahiff of County Clare


Nancy Carroll and Pat O'Brian in PERSONAL MAID

Photo collection of Maggie Land Blanck

Nancy Carroll

She was nominated for an Academy Award for her role in The Devil's Holiday in 1930. She starred with such leading men as, Douglas Fairbanks Jr., Gary Cooper, and Cary Grant.

For more information on Nancy Carroll go to Child of Manhattan, A TRIBUTE TO THE LIFE AND CAREER OF ACTRESS NANCY CARROLL (1903-1965)

My thanks to Suzanne for pointing out some inconstancies I had in the LaHiff family records.

Photo collection of Maggie Land Blanck

Terry and Nancy Carroll

Lowell Sun June 10, 1931

Theresa Lahiff

Courtesy of Jan Brown

Elsie Lahiff Schmitt 1906-1942

Courtesy of Maria Lahiff Padulla

Elsie Lahiff Schmitt 1906-1942

Courtesy of Maria Lahiff Padulla

Maria Lahiff Padulla wrote in April 2010:

"Aunt Elsie Lahiff Schmitt, my godmother, the baby of a large family of Lahiffs including my father. Those children were: Sarah, Elizabeth, Martin, Paul (died infancy) Thomas, Anne, Theresa, John, Elsie"

Catherine Lahiff Stone (1867-1943)

Courtesy of Jan Brown, May 2010

Michael Lahiff (1881-1934)

Courtesy of Nancy58789 and Jan Brown, May 2010

Martin Lahiff and John Lahiff

Courtesy of Nancy58789 and Jan Brown, May 2010

Elizabeth (Elisa) Fitzgerald Lahiff

Courtesy of Nancy58789 and Jan Brown, May 2010

Billy Lahiff

Courtesy of Nancy58789 and Jan Brown, May 2010

Billy Lahiff's Tavern, 156-58 W. 48th St

The Sign reads "LaHiffs Tavern"

Courtesy of Jan Brown, July 2010

Between 6th and 7th on W 4th street - south side. La Hiffs tavern is gone but the building may be still standing with a new facade. The current building looks similar on the first two floors. However, it has an additional floor and the widow treatment is entirely different. The building to the right is is still standing and looks much the same. Currently at this address is Manny's 48th Musical Instruments.

"I had often heard tales of this Tavern, but never saw a photo. One story I had been told is that Uncle Billy was very good to some up and coming stars and performers and often rented out rooms upstairs to young folks who were just starting out in Theater and Vaudeville. One of them was Frank Sinatra.... so, I have been told. I beleive it's true, since I remember when Uncle Billy died, and my father - John Austin LaHiff attended his wake and Frank Sinatra was there, paying his respects - since Uncle Billy had helped him out in earlier years.

Mary Woods, July 2010

Toot Shore
He eventually moved on to a management position in 1936 at a popular tavern owned by Billy Lahiff (158 W. 48th Street), acquiring from his famous clientele the confidence and ease of a celebrity himself.

If you have any suggestions, corrections, information, copies of documents, or photos that you would like to share with this page, please contact me at maggie@maggieblanck.com

If you wish to use any of the images or information on this page please feel free to do so provided that you give proper acknowledgement to this web site and include the same acknowledgments that I have made to the provenience of the image or information. Thanks, Maggie

©Maggie Land Blanck - Page created 2004 - Updated June 2019

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