Thomas O'Donnell of New York City, c1860
My basic information comes from a family history handed down in the family with names but no dates.I am trying to confirm and find more information.What follows is from the family history and my research.
Thomas O'Donnell born about 1835 - 1838 in New York City, married Rosanna McAleer, also of New York City.They had three sons: twins, Frank J. and John R., born in New York City June 1862, and William Charles born 24 April 1864 also in New York City.Thomas was reported to be a lieutenant in the New York City Police Department.
In the 1870 census, the boys are living with the family of Jeremiah Quinlan in Manhattan.Rosanna O'Donnell is living with her mother and sister, also in Manhattan, and she is working as a clerk in a fancy goods store.I can't locate her or the boys in 1880.
Rosanna eventually lived with her son John R. O'Donnell in Pelham, Westchester County, NY, where she died 6 Dec. 1915 and is buried in Beechwoods Cemetery, New Rochelle.John R. O'Donnell died 28 Nov. 1925 in Pelham and is also buried in Beechwoods.William Charles died 4 April 1915 in Manasquan, Monmouth County, NJ and is buried in Hackensack Cemetery, Hackensack, NJ.Frank J. was living in 1910 in Manhattan where he was the chief clerk (accountant) for a railroad and I lose him after that.
I cannot seem to locate Thomas O'Donnell in any census, unless he is the son of Jeremiah O'Donnell and Mary Nugent of Brooklyn.Jeremiah was a well-to-do construction contractor.I find this Thomas in the 1850 and 1860 censuses, Brooklyn, but in 1860 he is working with his father as a contractor, not a police officer.I realize that family history gets confused as the family of William Charles' wife were police officers.
Another hint is that my mom told me she used to visit an elderly lady in Brooklyn but can't remember who.Mom is 84 now and although her memory is good overall she has forgotten much.
Thomas is not buried with Rosanna in Beechwoods.Apparently he had died before 1870 or they were otherwise parted.
I am posting this with the hope of sorting out the various New York City O'Donnells and that someone somewhere might recognize this family.
Thank you!