Vintage 1953 IrelandKodachrome slide: The featured photograph above was taken in 1953 by the late Martin J. Walsh Jr. of Murdock, Minnesota. Details of the original Kodachrome slide include: Information written on slide: Friday May 15, 1953, tour of Liffey Valley and Blessington Lakes. Photo was taken near Curragh. The people are looking for shamrocks, County Kildare. Learn more about the vintage 1953 Kodachrome slides at Father’s Day 2022 blog postat JannetWalsh.com.
Collection of photos from the family of Jannet L. Walsh.
If you are searching for family Irish roots, it’s likely you’ll become part historian, storyteller, and mostly a detective of family antiquities.
My late father late Martin J. Walsh Jr. of Murdock, Minnesota, captured images with his 35mm camera and Kodachrome slide film of a group of tourists searching for shamrocks in County Kildare, Ireland in 1953, photo posted above. This collection of images is now part of my family’s heritage, and a way to connect to Irish culture. He was searching for hints of our family’s origins. There are incredible resources available today my father could never imagined available from the comfort of home and a computer in his hometown in rural Minnesota.
It doesn’t matter if have been searching for years for origins of your family, or just starting, there’s always room for a few new pointers. There were many resources I was not aware of when I really put my genealogy search into full swing about 2010. I curated a free listing of about 100 resources to help search called Irish Genealogy Toolkit found at my website as a result of my genealogy search.
Since the start of my quest to find Irish roots, many church documents from Ireland are now available for searching from your home free, along with a multitude of other resources. Below are ten pointers and resources to help launch a family history project today.
Galway 1953 – Photo by Martin J. Walsh Jr, of Murdock Minnesota, Kodachrome slide. Information written on slide: A small village near Galway. May 14, 1953.
1. Getting started with genealogy, church documents
It’s an overwhelming task to get started discovering family roots as you will become, without knowing, historian, storyteller, but most important, a detective searching for any artifacts ancestors left behind decades and hundreds of years ago.
Home and family, starting point – The best place to start is to inquire and gather any genealogy work that’s been done previously at home and with your family. You might be amazed, or disappointed, significant work has already been done. If you can’t find any previous work, you might be just the person your family needs, and is calling to become the storyteller for your clan.
Personal family search – Read an overview about how I launched my family Irish research at my website or at IrishCentral.
Video, National Archives, Ireland – Watch informative video at YouTube about Irish genealogy and documents from professional genealogist Nicola Morris at the National Archives, Dublin, Ireland. Hear it from a professional on starting an Irish genealogy search. If interested, view more videos YouTube channel of National Archives, Ireland.
Guide, workbook – The National Archives of Ireland created a website and workbook in 2016 geared towards school children to learn about family history. After reviewing the resources, I found many of the items apply to just about anyone with little to no knowledge of Ireland and genealogy, meaning most people starting a search for Irish roots. View the 2016 Family History website, and download a free workbook.
Irish Civil and Church documents: Roman Catholic, Church of Ireland, Presbyterian – Irish church and civil records from Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Ireland, official Irish website, are available to search at no cost. As of March 1, 2022, more historic births, marriages, and deaths were added to the collection by the General Register Office, Ireland. There is no cost to use website resources. Read more on the additional records at IrishGenealogy.ie. Search for church documents at IrishGenealogy.ie.
Understand Irish Emigration, an overview – Read Irish Emigration History by Irial Glynn, 2012, posted at the University College Cork, Ireland, website.
2. Patience, and a lot of it
Trying to find pieces of history of your family might not happen overnight. Starting a genealogy search can be exciting and exhausting at the same time. I would find bits and pieces that would connect to other bits and pieces, and sometime not a connection at all. It’s a great task to undertake, but the results can be overwhelming.
I was propelled to find the origins of my family in Ireland the best I could, and achieved my goal, taking about 10 years. My real search started decades before when I was in college in the 1980s, typing term papers on an electric typewriter. Today you can sit at home and search for family records. We are living in an incredible time to connect the past with the present due to technology and the internet.
3. Start research at home, not Ireland
If you are thinking of flying to Ireland to start your family search, please think again. There are incredible resources to start searching now before going to the island of Ireland. Think of ways of putting together your story the best you can with names and dates of ancestors, cities, townlands, counties, and any details you can find before even packing your luggage, and selecting sturdy walking shoes.
If you need help with research, hiring a professional genealogist is always an option. There are many resources for genealogists, but look at qualifications with professional agencies, but there’s no guarantees. I’ve included several organizations to review for hiring a generalist, see heading of Professional genealogists, resources, code of ethics, at Irish Genealogy Toolkit.
A word to the wise, make sure you understand exactly what you are paying for before hiring a genealogist. Susan Riley, Ph.D., genealogist from Minnesota, notes it’s import to determine the genealogist’s credentials and experience; ask for work samples; insist on a written contract establishing goals, price of research, timetable; meet using video conferencing, such as Zoom, to clarify everything; and start a small, inexpensive project to see if the geologist is reliable.
4. Keep a notebook at hand
It’s important to keep a notebook dedicated to your search. Yes, a notebook! Write with a pen that’s archival quality and a notebook that sturdy and can be easily transported in your pocket, purse or backpack. Take notes of the people you meet, details of what you find. When your computer crashes, you will have notes to look at in the future, and will be something your descendants can use to uncover future details. I have several notebooks from search and travel, and access to family documents, such as letters, diaries, notebooks and more. Check to see what’s available within your family.
5. Genealogy guides, tools
There are numerous genealogy guides to search for online, but look for credible sources. If you must pay to read, move one. The National Archives in Washington, DC, has countless resources devoted to genealogy, including articles, finding aids, webinars, and other information. View Genealogy Resources and Reference Reports for Genealogy online at the National Archives.
6. Military, vital statistics, obituaries, graves, and cemeteries
Your dearly departed relatives, and their details, will point towards your goal of putting together a family history. It’s your task to find out what’s available. I’ve spent a lot of time visiting cemeteries looking for graves of my family in the United States and Ireland. I’ve accidentally found living relatives at cemeteries walking rows of graves searching for details on our family I didn’t know existed. Don’t be shy to spend hours walking in cemeteries, and visit with other people visiting cemeteries as you might be related, or learn something important.
Old newspapers are a great source to search for anything written about your family in the past. I found my family mentioned in numerous old newspapers stories when searching at my local historical society in Benson, Minnesota, Swift County Historical Society and Museum.
Go local – Consider inquiring at local city and county libraries and museums about available resources for genealogy, including old newspapers.
8. Subscription, non-subscription genealogy related search websites, social media Please check with local libraries, historical societies, and museums if they offer free access to Ancestry and other paid subscriptions for searching for genealogy. You might already have access in your city, county or state as part of public services and resources.
Ancestry, paid subscription, with free resources to read online
FamilySearch, paid subscription, with free resources
Search Facebook groups and other social media related to specific areas or counties in Ireland and topics. If your people are from County Kerry, a general themed Facebook group is Kerry is the best county in Ireland. There is an official Facebook page Ireland Family History, hosted by Tourism of Ireland, sharing tips and trivia to help find Irish family history.
9. Travel to Ireland
If you are ready to travel to Ireland, consider Ireland’s official tourism website, Ireland.com, with free resources related to maps, brochures, trip planning and more.
10. Nonprofit, Ireland Reaching Out (Ireland XO) There is a nonprofit organization helping welcome home Irish living in the Irish diaspora, people with ancestral roots to Ireland. I’ve not used this agency, but find their resources intriguing. Consider learning about Ireland Reaching Out (Ireland XO), a volunteer-based, non-profit initiative which builds vibrant, lasting links between the global Irish Diaspora and parishes of origin in Ireland. View a YouTube video about Ireland Reaching Out.
Video from Ireland Reaching Out – A Irish volunteer-based, non-profit initiative which builds vibrant, lasting links between the global Irish Diaspora and parishes of origin in Ireland. View video at YouTube.Crosstown Cottage, Killarney Ireland – Jannet L. Walsh, of Murdock, Minnesota, poses in front of Crosstown Cottage, near Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland, June 1, 2018, before heading to the railway station in Killarney. Walsh spent most of May 2018 living in the historic cottage researching and writing about her family’s Irish roots, connecting with local Irish culture and people. Photo by Olive Horgan.
Last bit of departing advice – Make time to get your genealogy detective work afoot. Best wishes in your searching to reconnect with your family roots! Jannet L. Walsh
About the author – Jannet L. Walsh, of Murdock, Minnesota, is a photographer, writer, and educator. She is the author of the forthcoming creative nonfiction quest narrative Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota, scheduled publication is 2023 by Shanti Arts Publishing. Follow Walsh on Facebook, Twitter, and her website.
Subscribe – Get updates on latest blogs and news from Jannet L. Walsh and her forthcoming book Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota, scheduled publication 2022, Shanti Arts Publishing.
Irish Canadian Roots Photo above –Jannet L. Walsh at Port Metcalf, the foot of Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Canada to the left, and right is the United States, Dec. 30, 2022, self portrait. Read related stories about Jannet’s Irish Diaspora writing project.
Jannet L. Walsh Tuesday, July 1, 2025 77F, sunny Murdock, Minnesota USA
Today is Canada Day, July 1, 2025!
Canadians around the world show their pride in history, culture and achievements. Canada has been celebrating since 1868, with festivities are held across the nation. Learn more about Canada Day at the Government of Canada website.
Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada Roots
Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada — Jannet L. Walsh early morning after sunrise near historic location of Walsh farm, Lot A, 100 Acres where her family leased a farm, 1850-1877. Self portrait, September 12, 2023.
I’m an American with Canadian heritage, very proud to say. My Walsh family from County Kilkenny, Ireland arrived in Canada as early as 1842 to Kingston and Wolfe Island, Ontario. They farmed and raised a family on Wolfe Island, staying 35 years, until departing in 1877, migrating south to Minnesota, joining an Irish Catholic colony started by the late Archbishop John Ireland in De Graff, Minnesota, a few miles from where I live today.
June 20, 1868: Governor General Lord Monck signs a proclamation that requests all of Her Majesty Queen Victoria’s subjects across Canada to celebrate July 1.
1879: A federal law makes July 1 a statutory holiday as the “anniversary of Confederation,” which is later called “Dominion Day.”
October 27, 1982: July 1, “Dominion Day” officially becomes Canada Day.
I’m sharing a listing of resources for searching for Irish Canadian ancestors. If you are searching for your roots in Ireland, here are my top 10 tips for Irish genealogy to help get you started.
* Google Search – Simply do a Google search, or use another search engine, to locate Canadian genealogy documents, and see what you find. Try to be specific, with names, dates, location and other details. Here is the search for the Wolfe Island documents I found using key terms of Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada, and Baptism Records.
Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada – Jannet L. Walsh waves to passersby from Spoor House built about 1870, located on Main Street in Marysville village on Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Walsh spent the Christmas season exploring her family’s forgotten history on Wolfe Island located in the archipelago of the Thousand Islands, near the mainland city of Kingston, Ontario, Canada. Learn about this cottage, and other historic places to stay at Hotel Wolfe Island. (Self portrait by Jannet L. Walsh)
* FamilySearch – Start searching at FamilySearch.org for genealogy records. This is the site I found marriage records to my Great Great-Grandparents in at the Cathedral in Kingston dating back to 1857, and baptism records on Wolfe Island, Ontario. You might be able to search, but will need a free account to view and download documents.
* Free resources – You will find numerous non-subscription databases at the National Archives, Washington, DC. Look at listing for state archives offering free access to paid resources. You might already have access in your city, county or state as part of public services and resources.
* Irish Genealogy Toolkit by Clair Santry, has impressive and comprehensive resources of Canadian immigration resources, view her website.
* Ancestry is a very helpful resource for searching for genealogy, and requires a paid membership.Check with your local libraries, historical societies and museums offering free access in your local area.
Archives, Canadian immigration
Irish Canadian Family – This is a collection of Irish Canadian family photographs by author Jannet L. Walsh. Learn more about the photo in the center of the collection of Catherine Summers Walsh (1833-1909), and her husband Michael J. Walsh Sr. (1812-1901), great great-grandparents of Jannet L. Walsh of Murdock, Minnesota. Undated photo, late 1890s to early 1900s.
Canadian Provinces, search by locations – See FamilySearch, select Places within Canada, and see listing by topics. Searching by location is to find detail to a specific location, see search at FamilySearch website, sign in to search.
Library and Archives Canada – Learn how to begin genealogy search, research by topic and place, research tools, links, and how to get help. Read details at Library and Archives Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
National Archives Ireland – Genealogy services free in person in Dublin and online, census records, resources, glossary, digitized collections and more. Read details at website of National Archives Ireland.
Newfoundland Grand Banks, view documents provided by the genealogical and historical data for the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. View details at Newfoundland’s Grand Banks website. See also FamilySearch.
Nova Scotia Immigrants to 1867, Volume 2 – Available for download at Google Books, and other resources. View details at FamilySearch.com.
Ontario, Canada Roman Catholic Records – Search records by counties at FamilySearch for church records from 1760 to 1923, view search.
The New Brunswick Irish Portal, listing of databases from the Provincial Archives of New Brunswick, Canada, search website
Victoria Harbour – Author Jannet L. Walsh, standing on upper level of city parking building with Victoria Harbour in background, Victoria, BC, Canada, Aug. 17, 2019. | Photo by Bethany Schmidt, used with permission.
Census Records, Canadian
Canadian Census records at FamilySearch, 1881 to 1901, search collection.
Wolfe Island, Frontenac County, Ontario index cemeteries, census records, church records, genealogy, history, land and property, see FamilySearch Catalog, keywords Canada, Ontario, Frontenac.
Church records, Ontario and including Kingston, see Frontenac County, at FamilySearch
This blog originally published March 14, 2023.
This activity is made possible by a grant from the Southwest Minnesota Arts Council with funds from The McKnight Foundation.Learn more about this project writing project, and more details about this grant.
Jannet L. Walsh at Port Metcalf, the foot of Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Canada to the left, and right is the United States, Dec. 30, 2022, self portrait.
Subscribe – Get updates on latest blogs and news from Jannet L. Walsh and her book Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota, 2023, Shanti Arts Publishing.
Top To pointers to launch Irish genealogy search If you are searching for family Irish roots, it’s likely you’ll become part historian, storyteller, and mostly a detective of family antiquities.
Jannet L. Walsh Tuesday, July 1, 2025 77F, sunny Murdock, Minnesota USA Today is Canada Day, July 1, 2025. Canada’s national holiday is celebrated on July 1. Canadians around the world show their pride in history, culture and achievements. Canada has been celebrating since 1868, with festivities are held across the nation. Learn more about…
Jannet L. Walsh Monday, June 30, 2025 Murdock, Minnesota Dear Readers, If you want to receive a letter, you need to write a letter first! I’m writing you today to express my deepest concerns about the lost art of letter writing, including sending postcards, or greeting cards through the mail. To be clear, letters and…
Jannet Walsh is a fiscal year 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National…
With love from Dublin, Ireland, 1953, photo above— This is a part of a letter written at the Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin, Ireland by the late Martin J. Walsh Jr. (1924-2008) of Murdock, Minnesota, to his family at home in Minnesota, 1953.
Jannet Walsh is a fiscal year 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Get pen, paper, and postage stamps ready, send letters!
Jannet L. Walsh Monday, June 30, 2025 7:19 pm 77F, mostly sunny Murdock, Minnesota
Dear Readers,
If you want to receive a letter, you need to write a letter first!
I’m writing you today to express my deepest concerns about the lost art of letter writing, including sending postcards, or greeting cards through the mail, United States Postal Service, or your local country’s postal system.
To be clear, letters and cards you can hold in your hands, write with ink and pen to create letters, forming words, sentences, use an addressed envelope, and attach postage stamps in the upper right corner of the envelope. You finally place it in a mail box for delivery. Some call this snail mail, I call it family history in the making. It’s a gift to your family’s future.
It’s easy to send an email, text message from your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer, but it’s likely not to be seen beyond deletion. It’s through letters, cards, greeting cards, you can learn about someone, your loved ones, parents, grandparents and more.
As a young girl, about 10 or 11, I had a pen pal in Australia through Girl Scouts, and apparently it’s still going on today. Read about Girl Scouts and pen pals at GirlScouts.org.
Letters sent home to Murdock, Minnesota from Ireland, France 1953
Martin J. Walsh Jr., US Passport, 1953
1950s Murdock, Minnesota – Jennie and Martin Walsh Sr., Murdock, Minnesota, parents of Martin J. Walsh Jr., grandparents of Jannet L. Walsh.
It’s May 13, 1953, and my dad is staying at the Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin, Ireland, room 414, according to the hotel register. He’s having trouble booking a hotel room in England before traveling to France, and heading back to the United States. The big snag for his travel is in London, with Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation just a few weeks away, June 2, 1958.
My late father Martin J. Walsh Jr., age 28, (1924-2008), from Murdock, Minnesota, was on a trip of a lifetime in 1953. His nickname was Marty to avoid confusion with his Martin J. Walsh Sr., (1886-1985), with the nickname of Mart.
My father spent his entire career working as a telegrapher and station manager for the Great Northern and Burlington Northern Railroad, 1943 to December 31, 1984. He was working for the same railroad, but the name changed. Learn more about my dad’s vintage Kodachrome images from Ireland at my website, and featured at IrishCentral, Seeing Ireland through my father’s vintage Kodachrome images.
Postcard sent from Paris, May 20, 1953, by Martin J. Walsh Jr., home to his folks in Murdock, Minnesota.
During my father’s trip in 1953, his mother, Mary Jannet “Jennie” Walsh, was writing him at American Express offices in Belfast, Dublin, and Paris, about news from home, Dublin Township, Swift County, Minnesota. The family was living in the village of Murdock, the same location I live today.
The 1950 US Census lists my father living at home with his parents and was likely saving his money from the railroad to finance his travels. I only have a handful of remaining letters and postcards, all with postage stamps have been removed from the envelopes as he was a stamp collector.
Martin J. Walsh Jr. stands in front of the Eiffel Tower, Paris, France, May 1953.
My dad’s letters and post cards sent home to Murdock in 1953 provide a glimpse of my family that would be just lost in time.
It does not need to be a trip around the world to write someone, just send a letter, say hello.
1973 Canadian postage stamp with Queen Elizabeth II
1950s Love Letters — Box of family letters written by the late Margaret “Peggy” Glieden Walsh, Brooten, Minnesota, and her late father Martin J. Walsh Jr., originally from Murdock, Minnesota.
Love letters While working on my nonfiction manuscript Dispatches from Edge of the World Collection of stories from rural Minnesota, part of my Minnesota State Arts Grant, 2024, I developed concerns for current and futures generations. Family history will be lost, if not already, from news once delivered in letters historically only through the postal system.
I’d say writing friendly family letters is almost lost, but could use a boost to get started again. I’m happy to say, just start writing now, yes you!
Just the facts, USPS Decline in United States Postage Service is expected for 2025, see report at USPS, as more people are sending emails, using social media, and texting short messages via smartphones.
“Fiscal Year 2025 Integrated Financial Plan The 2025 IFP projects total mail and package volume of 106.7 billion pieces, a decline of 5.7 billion pieces (5.1%) from 2024, primarily due to projected declines in First-Class Mail and USPS Marketing Mail volume. Revenue is projected to be $82.9 billion, an increase of $2.4 billion from 2024.”
People are expected to migrate from hard-copy mail to digital media, and due to the expected state of the economy, according to the United States Postal Service.
Is the USPS here to stay? Is it possible the United States Postage Service could stop mail delivery? The future is unknown, but there’s something afoot in Europe regarding this topic, starting in Denmark.
Denmark started their letter delivery in 1624. In 2026, the Postnord, Denmark’s national postal service will stop delivering mail, citing a 90% decline in letter volumes since the start of the century. Read the full story at BBC.com. See statement at Postnord website about final letter deliveries.
Simply put, it’s easier and cheaper to sent a letter by email or a quick text, then buy postage, and time time to write a letter. Denmark is saying letters will not be delivered, no matter the weather starting 2026, only parcels.
What to do now?Get writing letters! Start writing letters, especially to your family and friends. Keep your letters simple, and short, but just write. There’s someone in the future not yet born that could be learning about your life from 2025, and will be amazed, and grateful.
There’s other options if you don’t want to write a letter, and put it in the mail. Start keeping a journal, not digital, and that’s another way of recording your life for future generations.
Subscribe – Get updates on latest blogs and news from Jannet L. Walsh and her book Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota, Shanti Arts Publishing.
Top To pointers to launch Irish genealogy search If you are searching for family Irish roots, it’s likely you’ll become part historian, storyteller, and mostly a detective of family antiquities.
Jannet L. Walsh Tuesday, July 1, 2025 77F, sunny Murdock, Minnesota USA Today is Canada Day, July 1, 2025. Canada’s national holiday is celebrated on July 1. Canadians around the world show their pride in history, culture and achievements. Canada has been celebrating since 1868, with festivities are held across the nation. Learn more about…
Jannet L. Walsh Monday, June 30, 2025 Murdock, Minnesota Dear Readers, If you want to receive a letter, you need to write a letter first! I’m writing you today to express my deepest concerns about the lost art of letter writing, including sending postcards, or greeting cards through the mail. To be clear, letters and…
Jannet Walsh is a fiscal year 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National…
1958-1959 Love Letters to Murdock, Minnesota, photo above— This is a box of family letters from the parents of author Jannet L. Walsh, Murdock, Minnesota. The letters were written by the late Margaret “Peggy” Glieden Walsh, Brooten, Minnesota, and the late father Martin J. Walsh Jr., originally from Murdock, Minnesota.
UPDATED June 29, 2025 — A listing of Swift County Minnesota first pioneers, European, has been added below due to numerous people reaching out to me about their own family connections to rural Swift County. Please see below after heading, Writing series underway explained, or view at button below.
Jannet Walsh is a fiscal year 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Author Jannet L. Walsh, March 16, 2024, at the Minnesota State Capitol. Photo by Jannet L. Walsh
From tiny Murdock, pop. 306, Swift County, Minnesota, my voice as an artist is heard! Forget the arts, then forget the soul of culture, especially in rural America.
I’ve been chasing stories of my Irish family since early January 2024, as a grant recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board.
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
ABOUT THE GRANT I am concluding my official work activities related to the project June 30, 2025, and will be submitting my report in July 2025. A list of all grant recipients across Minnesota for Fiscal Year 2024 Creative Individuals can be viewed at the Minnesota State Arts Board website, see grantees, and their projects.
The Creative Individuals grant is designed to help individual artists and culture bearers develop or sustain their creative practices and meaningfully engage with Minnesotans. Grantees may use funds to support their creative practice and meaningfully connect to and engage with audiences, participants, students, and/or communities during the grant period, according to the Minnesota Arts Board.
Artist goal for writing project, Minnesota State Arts Board 2024 “My goal for the grant is to write a new collection of nonfiction family history stories in Minnesota, arriving before the Civil War and eventually homesteading in Swift County. Stories will be used to create a manuscript ready to seek a book publisher.”
Jannet L. Walsh 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board.
About the grant writing project My grant was written with specific writing goals, in my case related to how many pages I planned to write during the grant period. I’m happy to say I’ve achieved my writing goal. The topic is specific to Minnesota, and my mainly Irish family history I’ve been working on for several years. My research was entirely in Minnesota, no travel outside of United States or to Canada.
Manuscript status, June 2025 — Status of my current manuscript is about 50 to 75 percent complete. I set out to write numerous stories related to my family, more than was possible in the time period of the grant. Hunting and gathering information, or research period, is like gathering valuable artifacts, such as personal letters, public documents, then sorting through the pot of gold, deciding what do I do next.
All most all of my original writing takes place in note books, pen and paper. I write where I am researching, visiting, standing, sitting, in farm fields, standing in grand structures, such as Minnesota Capitol, or at home my kitchen in tiny Murdock, population 306.
I write in pencil when researching in libraries or archives, such as the Minnesota History Center, or other library or archives with specific rules for research. I can carry a notebook just about anywhere, not worrying about digital loss, or hiccups, when writing first drafts of a chapter. This method does slow the process, not writing first on my laptop computer, but for me it works. I can can stack my notebooks up, index, and go directly to what I’m writing.
Author Jannet L. Walsh, of Murdock, Minnesota, Feb. 15, 2025, at the Cathedral of Saint Paul, Saint Paul, Minnesota. Self portrait by Jannet L. Walsh.
Writing series underway explained
My nonfiction creative writing practice, literature based on fact, is written in first person and present tense, when possible, engaging readers in Irish family history detective work, first in notebooks to capture thoughts and events in real time.
The manuscript underway for the 2024 Minnesota State Arts Board grant is the third in a series of family stories with a concentration on life as pioneers, making their way as new Americans, to present day. My nonfiction creative writing, prose poetry, and my wit are part of my writing projects.
My first book, published 2023, “Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota” is described by reviewers as follows: Her writing is as ‘you are there’ writing style; sews personal genealogy to world history; and finds the extraordinary hiding in plain sight, affirming history lives beside us in our own homes. This book is about finding Irish roots in Ireland, especially my Foley family, along with stories here in Minnesota related to my Irish family history. My first book started originally as a Masters of Fine Arts thesis manuscript at Augsburg University. Learn more at my book page.
Second writing project, underway, Wolfe Islander: Return to the people of the Land and Sea, a collection of new family history stories in Minnesota and Canada, part of the Irish Diaspora. This is the Canadian writing project, not part of the Minnesota State Arts Board grant. Please see details about funding for this project, and learn more about his writing project at my Irish Diaspora page.
Third writing project, underway, this is funded by a 2024 Minnesota State Arts Board grant, and topics are specific to family stories in Minnesota related to my family history, from about the American Civil War, to today in rural Minnesota. Please view project page for updates.
Author Jannet L. Walsh, of Murdock, Minnesota, July 27, 2024, with Tiger Lilies in bloom. Self portrait.
What I’m sharing about manuscript The manuscript will remain private until published as I’m seeking a publisher for this new collection of stories. A manuscript is the original, unpublished written work, and a book is a finished body of work, ready to be published.
Below is a summary an excerpt from my manuscript underway for my Minnesota Arts Board 2024 grant.
Manuscript title: Dispatches from Edge of the World Collection of stories from rural Minnesota by Jannet L. Walsh
Manuscript Summary: This is a creative nonfiction collection of mainly Irish family history stories in Minnesota by Jannet L. Walsh of Murdock, Minnesota. Her family arrived in Minnesota before the Civil War, homesteading on the prairie lands of rural Swift County, Minnesota. Walsh’s family was among the first in a series of Catholic colonies established in 1876 by Archbishop John Ireland in De Graff, Minnesota. There were 4,000 families selected for colonies, including her family in De Graff, the first colony, 1877, to make new lives as farmers. Her Irish Walsh family left County Kilkenny, Ireland, 1842, to escape famine, the Great Famine, along with religious, racial, and political discrimination under British rule. After arrival in North American, her family followed a long path of migration, about 35 years, from Ireland, Canada, and finally rural Minnesota. Her writing is as ‘you are there’ writing style, along with use of letters, epistolary form, weaving family history to world history, finding the extraordinary hiding in plain sight, and showing readers history lives in our own homes. What is presented here explores the author’s quest to preserve and gather stories, antiquated and modern, understand her family as ancestor’s journey after finding a permanent home living on the edge of the world in rural Minnesota.
Edge of the World, Mudorck, Minnesota — Watercolor and ink sketch by Jannet L. Walsh, Murdock, Minnesota, 2015. The old water town in the sketch was torn down in 2025, replaced by a new water tower with a four-leaf clover, not a three-leaf shamrock, the sign of the Irish.
“This edge of the world in Murdock looks west towards De Graff, about four miles from Murdock, in the nearly open farm fields, separated only by county roads, and onwards to the county seat of Swift County in Benson, about 14 miles away. The view on a clear day includes the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad tracks, green lush corn or soybeans growing in the summer or brown crops in fall before harvest. There are miles of rich black dirt fields before planting or after harvest, or snow-covered ground in the deadly cold winter months. Farmsteads with barns, silos, tractors are loosely spread out in this rural skyline. The edge of world is not always visible, and takes time to closely study this geographic region from where I mark my days and nights.
If the world appears to stop on my edge of the world, if not for a few moments or a day, the edge of the world is even closer to my front porch. “
Excerpt from Dispatches from Edge of the World Collection of stories from rural Minnesota
I made extensive notes, , November 2020 to September 2021, photographs and videos during the pandemic about birds in backyard friends, including rabbits and squirrels. At times I thought I talking to the birds when the world what falling apart. This was a very hyper-local focus nature experience during extreme political and dangerous health conditions globally. I have a chapter devoted to the birds and wildlife in my backyard, living near the edge of the world in rural Murdock.
Female Hairy Woodpecker, January 12, 2021, photo by Jannet L. Walsh, Murdock, Minnesota.
Project Mentors I have engaged with two mentors during the Minnesota State Arts Board Grant, with specialities in history, writing and book editing. Conversations were by phone, online video, and in person during the grant. Mentoring included topics of research, history, planning for research travel, and writing topics.
As June 26, 2025, it’s likely I will have one larger book, or potentially two books due to the work related to my Minnesota Arts Board Grant. This is all part of the writing process, what fits, and what’s for another collection of stories. As I complete writing all the chapters for the book, I’ll be making decisions about the order of the chapters, or deciding to separate work into more than one book.
The Rev. Gary E. Mills, Th. D., is the Director Swift County Historical Society in Benson, Minnesota, and is a history and genealogy expert. Rev. Mills served as a writing and history expert for my grant. View the Swift County Historical Society Museum website.
The Rev. Gary Mills, talking at the Swift County Historical Society and Museum, Benson, Minnesota, July 14, 2022.
Tracy Ross, poet and author
Ms. Tracy Ross has a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Augsburg University. She is a published poet and nonfiction author, educator, and college professor. Ross is a 2025 McKnight Fellow and a recipient of grants from the Minnesota State Arts Board, 2023.
She served as writing mentor, and professional book editor, for my writing project funded by the Minnesota State Arts Board, 2024. View website of Ms. Ross.
Culture bearerlineage, Canadian boost My actual curiosity for exploring my family’s ties in rural Swift County, Minnesota, started sometime as a young girl, in the 1970s. Today, 2025, my childhood desire to collect stories of my immigrant family continues to flourish in Minnesota.
Culture Bearer, Irish Canadian American – First born generation in United States Photo above: Living room, November 1948 Murdock, Minnesota: The late Martin J. Walsh Sr.,(1887-1988) about age 61, at home in Murdock, reading newspapers. He was photographed by his son Martin J. Walsh Jr.,(1924-2008). Martin Sr. is first generation born in the United States. His father, Michael J. Walsh Jr.,( 1858-1929) was born on Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada, 1858, son of Michael J. Walsh Sr. and Catherine Summers, both of Ireland. The Walsh family originates from County Kilkenny, Ireland, arriving in Canada, 1842, before migrating to De Graff, Minn., 1877. The is a copy of original black and white photograph, originally created on black and white negative film. View image at Flickr.
My oral storytelling tradition and skills were passed down from my late grandpa Martin J. Walsh Sr., Murdock, Minnesota, and likely from his Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canadian born father, Michael J. Walsh Jr., 1858- 1929. There’s been a deep understanding of history and heritage running deep for my family, at home in Minnesota. My father Martin J. Walsh Jr., 1924-2008, passed the storytelling duties on to my brother Paul M. Walsh, and me.
Family from Ireland, Canada and USA – brief history – This is a portrait of Catherine Summers Walsh (1833-1909), and her husband Michael J. Walsh Sr. (1812-1901), great great-grandparents of Jannet L. Walsh of Murdock, Minnesota. Undated photo, late 1890s to early 1900s. The couple married at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kingston, Ontario, Canada, 1857. They had eight children born in Ontario, and baptized on Wolfe Island, Ontario. Michael married first wife Mary Moran, 1829, and she dies in Ireland, 1831. Second wife Bridget Moran died and is buried on Wolfe Island, 1857. First born son of Michael Sr. was Patrick Walsh, born in Ireland about 1842 to 1846. Patrick’s mother was likely Bridget Moran, sister or relative of Mary Moran, married likely in County Kilkenny, Ireland. The family lines were separated in 1877 when Michael J. Walsh Sr. and family migrated to Minnesota, and Patrick Walsh and his family remained on Wolfe Island farming until the 1890s, and finally migrated to Philadelphia with his family over a period of several years. Patrick and his family appear in the 1900s US Census records as living at 735 Oxford St., Philadelphia. Learn more about the Irish Canadian family at Walsh ‘s blog.
Canadian Reinforcements — Culture bearers are artists and individuals who practice and carry forward cultural art forms, beliefs and traditions, according to The Kennedy Center, in Washington, D.C., the national cultural center of the United States.
CaptainBrian P. Johnson (1953 – 2025) retired captain of the Wolfe Islander III Ferry from Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
I’ve come to learn during my quest to put together my family’s mainly Irish roots in Minnesota, I am a culture bearer.
It took a trip to Canada, prior to my Minnesota State Arts Board 2024 grant, working on a writing project about my family’s Irish Canadian roots on Wolfe Island, Ontario, in the middle of the St. Lawrence, winter 2022.
While writing in Canada, noted Canadian storyteller, the late Captain Brian P. Johnson (1953 – 2025) called me Murdock’s own ‘Irish Bard’. He was a retired Wolfe Island III ferry boat captain when I met him, and known for his marine history, prolific writing and storytelling. Please read Captain Brain Johnson’s story about my Canadian adventures, ‘Irish Bard’ finds family roots on Wolfe Island by Brian P. Johnson, Thousand Islands Life.
Captain Johnson helped me understand the tradition of being a culture bearer, and my responsibility to pass along family stories, or even regional stories, of my mainly Irish ancestors in rural Minnesota, and be a cheerleader, inspiring others to be storytellers.
Johnny O’Shea, 1932-2023, Bard of Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada, 2022. Photo by Jannet L. Walsh.
Bard is a word associated with storytellers, and used to highlight a storyteller, or that’s what I’ve come to learn. There is the use of the word bard on Wolfe Island, the very same island my family lived from 1842-1877, before coming to Minnesota.
I met on the same trip to Canada in 2022, the late Johnny O’Shea, 1932-2023, known by residents respectfully as the Bard of Wolfe Island. I wrote about O’Shea in 2024, view story at my website, August 16, 2024.
I’d say Captain Brian Johnson is the bard of Wolfe Island, telling stories with the other bard, Johnny O’Shea, both busy spinning tales from the beyond.
From my Grandpa Mart and my father Martin, also known as Marty, I carrying on the tradition as cultural bearer, storyteller, a very Irish tradition, all from Dublin Township, in Swift County, Minnesota. Some families have a tradition of music, but it storytelling for my family.
Family background in rural Swift County, Minnesota
First, my Irish Foley family arrived in Minnesota to Washington County, 1853, stopping first in New Brunswick, Maine, then finally to Minnesota.
Next, my Walsh family arrived in 1877, to De Graff, Swift County, Minnesota. They were all Irish, with at least eight members of the my Walsh family born in Canada. They had been living in Kingston and Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada for 35 years as farmers, before migrating south to Minnesota. My peopled joined the first Irish Catholic Colony started by the late Bishop John Ireland, later named Archbishop of the Catholic Diocese of Saint Paul.
My family is one of the four thousand Catholic families Archbishop Ireland helped resettle in west central and southwest Minnesota during the years of 1875-1885. Archbishop Ireland’s goals were to alleviate the perceived problems of nativist prejudice (anti immigrant), poverty, and loss of religion faced by urban Catholics (particularly Irish) on the east coast and poor Catholics still in Ireland by relocating them to low cost farmland in western Minnesota. Today I live just three miles from De Graff, in Murdock, Minnesota, in the same house my father was born in 1924.
Link to pamphlet about Archbishop John Ireland’s colonies — Catholic Colonization in Minnesota Revised Edition, 1879, author Catholic Colonization Bureau of Minnesota, Archbishop John Ireland, view at The Project Gutenberg EBook.
Below is a quote from the pamphlet written by Archbishop Ireland to encourage people to become farmers in Minnesota, privileged and independent, published 1879.
THEIR BRAVE BATTLE FOR INDEPENDENCE—THEIR BOUNTIFUL REWARD.
“It’s na’ to hide it in a hedge; It’s na’ for train attendant; But for the glorious privilege Of being independent.”
Photo Martin J. Walsh Jr, of Murdock Minnesota, Kodachrome, removed from mount for scanning: Information written on slide: Marty Walsh, Seaside, south of Belfast, May 1953. See more photos at online gallery.
My father, the late Martin J. Walsh Jr., of Murdock, Minnesota, would say when I was a child, and was telling stories of our family’s history and connection to the island of Ireland, “We are Archbishop John Ireland’s people.”
I anticipate finishing the manuscript in fall 2025, and then present to potential publishers, what’s called querying publishers.
The findings, and details to my manuscript will remain private until published as a book.
By Jannet L. Walsh Written at home, Murdock, Minnesota
Thank You!
I wish to express my sincere gratitude as a Fiscal Year 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board.
My nonfiction writing project is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
The grant helped bring an idea of a writing project to reality, allowing me to focus on forgotten family history in rural Minnesota, far away from the Minnesota State Capitol in Saint Paul.
My voice as an artist is heard from the farmlands of Minnesota because of my Minnesota State Arts Board Creative Individual 2024 Grant.
Subscribe – Get updates on latest blogs and news from Jannet L. Walsh and her book Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota, Shanti Arts Publishing.
Top To pointers to launch Irish genealogy search If you are searching for family Irish roots, it’s likely you’ll become part historian, storyteller, and mostly a detective of family antiquities.
Jannet L. Walsh Tuesday, July 1, 2025 77F, sunny Murdock, Minnesota USA Today is Canada Day, July 1, 2025. Canada’s national holiday is celebrated on July 1. Canadians around the world show their pride in history, culture and achievements. Canada has been celebrating since 1868, with festivities are held across the nation. Learn more about…
Jannet L. Walsh Monday, June 30, 2025 Murdock, Minnesota Dear Readers, If you want to receive a letter, you need to write a letter first! I’m writing you today to express my deepest concerns about the lost art of letter writing, including sending postcards, or greeting cards through the mail. To be clear, letters and…
Jannet Walsh is a fiscal year 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National…
The late John “Johnny” Francis O’Shea, May 15, 1932 -September 11, 2023 at home on Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada, photo above — Mr. O’Shea was a storyteller of Wolfe Island, referred to as a bard, a distinguished honor. His family ran a dairy and cheese factory on the island, and is deeply rooted in Wolfe Island history. Photo taken December 21, 2022, by Jannet L. Walsh, Wolfe Island.
Tis the eve of the new electric ferry Wolfe Islander IV to start official full-time service on August 17, 2024, between Kingston and Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada, according to Ontario Transportation.
This post is to honor the late John “Johnny” Francis O’Shea, May 15, 1932 -September 11, 2023, of Wolfe Island, Ontario Canada. While working on my writing project on Wolfe Island, I had the chance to meet with Johnny twice. He was the island’s esteemed storyteller, and was referred to as the Bard of Wolfe Island. My Irish Walsh family has ties to Wolfe Island and Kingston, 1842-1877, before migrating south to Minnesota.
Johnny, the Bard of Wolfe Island, returned home on board the Wolfe Islander IV Ferry from Kingston to Wolfe Island, Saturday, September 16, 2023, and is among the few individuals, living or dead, that have been aboard all of the four Wolfe Island ferries. View obituary of Johnny O’Shea at obituary at The Whig Standard, Kingston, Ontario, Canada, published September 14, 2023.
I’ve written a prose poem to honor his contributions as a storyteller. A prose poem is a composition having traits of symbols, metaphors and figures of speech common to poetry. Learn more about prose poems at the Poetry Foundation website.
At the end the poem, you will see my notes, the author’s notes, about the poem, and a few more details about Johnny, and my connections to Wolfe Island. Special thanks to Johnny’s daughter Liz O’Shea in preparation for this blog post, and to Captain Brian P. Johnson, retired captain of the Wolfe Islander III Ferry, for his help with maritime terms for my poem. Poet Tracy Ross, one of my writing project mentors, helped edit my poem about Johnny for clarity.
Please feel free to share this post, read it while waiting for the Wolfe Islander IV to arrive, or as you pass on the Road of Water between Wolfe Island and Kingston.
I think if Johnny was still living, he’d be on the first ferry ride from Wolfe Island to Kingston. Certainly, he’d have a story to tell you!
YouTube video by Aerosnapper
The Islander Johnny O’Shea, Bard of Wolfe Island May 15, 1932 -September 11, 2023
By Jannet L. Walsh Written at home, Murdock, Minnesota July 18, 2024
O holy milk cows! In the middle of the St. Lawrence River, out towards Button Bay on Wolfe Island, Johnny O’Shea is on top of the pile – pitchin’ down! The cow’s milk does not stop flowing, and the pitchforks are never idle in the O’Shea cow barn. There’s cheese to be made!
In the village of Marysville, it’s coffee all around at the diner. If by chance you are sitting next to Johnny, then you are in his audience. There are unlimited stories ready to be poured, and yarns to spin, as Johnny is here. Listen, and listen well, unless you need to catch the next ferry to Kingston!
The bishop’s seat is in Kingston on Johnson Street at the Cathedral. Yet, Johnny’s chair at home on the island is certainly plusher, and more comfortable. Private audiences, and hospitality, yield unstoppable andlyrical stories on offer, and certainly, the stories are repeated for your listening pleasure without question.
On Johnny’s final voyage home on the road of water from Kingston to the Wolfe Island, Captain’s horns sound between the Wolfe Islander III and Wolfe Islander IV. Maritime crews on the docks and ferries stand at attention, with hats off. Ahoy! The ‘Bard’ of Wolfe Island is now home on the island, and he has aged cheddar cheese for his journey!
Listen up, islanders at the foot, head, village, and out towards Horne Point! Within Canadian waters of the St. Lawrence River, not far from American waters, horns from the Wolfe Islander III and Wolfe Islander IV can be heard. Ferry captains give their salute, blow their horns: One long blast, followed by two short blasts.
It’s now time to head up the hemlock hill. All the residents there are deep in their eternal sleep: Receive an alert of all hands-on deck!
There’s a new storyteller, bard, ready to take on audiences in heaven. Put the water on to boil, and fill up your cup of tea, Saint Peter! Johnny O’Shea’s stories are starting now! Cheese will be served.
John “Johnny” O’Shea – Photo taken 1990s, provided by Wolfe Island Historical Society.
Author’s notes — This prose poem is written to celebrate the life of the late John “Johnny” Francis O’Shea, May 15, 1932 -September 11, 2023, respected resident, and esteemed storyteller of Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Wolfe Island is located in the archipelago of the Thousand Islands, between Canada and the United States in the St. Lawrence River. The island can only be reached by ferry from Kingston, with limited summer access from Horne Point on the island, to Cape Vincent, New York.
I was fortunate to meet with Johnny twice in December 2022, on Wolfe Island, and anticipated interviewing him again in summer 2023, but he passed away while I was on Wolfe Island. My words in this poem are meant to highlight his contributions to the cultural heritage of Wolfe Island, considered to be the “Bard of Wolfe Island” by residents. There is no badge or award for the honor of bard or storyteller, simply respect gained by the local historians, storytellers, and the community to keep oral history and traditions alive. Storytelling is deeply rooted on Wolfe Island, and the Irish culture. It’s estimated Johnny O’Shea’s family arrived about 1846, if not earlier, from Ireland. Johnny’s ancestors Thomas Shea and Ann Murphy were married February 5, 1847, Canada, so 1846 is a very reasonable guess. Genealogy and family history is not always exacting, often not at all, but more like piecing a crazy quilt.
Johnny O’Shea, left, and Jannet L. Walsh at Fargo’s General Store, New Year’s Eve Day, December 31, 2022.
My brief visits with Johnny O’Shea allowed me to take a glimpse of my storytelling roots on the Wolfe Island, and a look back to my own Walsh family origins on the island, Seventh Line Road north of Baseline Road, about 1850 to 1877. See YouTube video by Mike Hill, Aerosnapper, about my September 10, 2023, talk with the Wolfe Island Historical Society.
Irish Canadian American – First born generation in United States Photo above: Living room, November 1948 Murdock, Minnesota: The late Martin J. Walsh Sr.,(1887-1988) about age 61, at home in Murdock, reading newspapers. He was photographed by his son Martin J. Walsh Jr.,(1924-2008). Martin Sr. is first generation born in the United States. His father, Michael J. Walsh Jr.,( 1858-1929) was born on Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada, 1858, son of Michael J. Walsh Sr. and Catherine Summers, both of Ireland. The Walsh family originates from County Kilkenny, Ireland, arriving in Canada, 1842, before migrating to De Graff, Minn., 1877. The is a copy of original black and white photograph, originally created on black and white negative film. View image at Flickr.
My oral storytelling tradition and skills were passed down from my late grandpa Martin J. Walsh Sr., Murdock, Minnesota, and likely from his Wolfe Island born father, Michael J. Walsh Jr., 1858. And since an understanding of history and heritage runs deep for my family, I found a tradition with nearly all families I encountered on Wolfe Island.
Jannet L. Walsh, of Murdock, Minnesota, walks at the entrance to a farm her family once called home about 1850 to 1877, on Wolfe Island, Ontario Canada. Walsh explored her Irish Canadian roots during the Christmas season 2022, and early January 2023, on Wolfe Island, the largest island of the archipelago of the Thousands Island located in the St. Lawerence River and Lake Ontario. Self portrait taken December 28, 2022.
Although the O’Shea family, and my Walsh family are not known to be related, we are forever connected through the Irish Diaspora, Wolfe Island, and the gift of the gab, or simply put, storytelling.
This prose poem uses two phrases, or parts of phrases, known to be used by Johnny. The first phrase is: “I’m top of the pile – pitchin’ down!” I heard Johnny tell me this saying in 2022, at his home on Wolfe Island, and was highlighted in his obituary in The Kingston Whig Standard, September 14, 2023. The other phrase is, “It’s now time to head up the hemlock hill.” His daughter Liz O’Shea, of Calgary, Alberta, noted the translation means it’s time to go to sleep. There is no hemlock hill on Wolfe Island, but there is an area called the Ridge near the head of the island. Johnny is buried at Sacred Heart Cemetery on Wolfe Island, across from the Roman Catholic parish church, Sacred Heart of Mary Church.
Although Johnny O’Shea, the late ‘Bard’ of Wolfe Island is gone, it seems only fitting he has stories to tell in heaven, if Saint Peter allows. It would be hard to think he could be stopped!
I think Johnny might say in heaven: “I’ve got a story to tell you. Let’s eat some cheddar cheese first. It’s from my dad’s cheese factory, Wolfe Island Cheese Factory. This 70-year-old cheese might taste pretty good up here in heaven, maybe better than down on earth.”
I will leave a bit of suspense about the details of the cheese. A storyteller needs to keep the attention of an audience!
Wolfe Island Historical Society, 2008 Listen to Brian Johnson, Arthur Keys and Johnny O’Shea
Wolfe Island Historical Society speaker series – Jun 25 2008 – Brian Johnson hosts Arthur Keyes and Johnny O’Shea.
AboutWolfe Island, Ontario, Canada – Wolfe Island is in St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario, almost four miles from the port of Kingston, accessible by ferry, and the largest island in the archipelago of the Thousand Islands.
Sunset Wolfe Island — View of Wolfe Islander IV at the village ferry docks in Marysville, Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada, September 9, 2023.
This 48-square-mile island has been home to several European ethnic groups, cheese factories, and dairy farms, along with a history of fur trading. Wolfe Island is the native homeland of the Tyendinaga Mohawk, kawehnóhkwes tsi kawè:note, meaning Long Island Standing. Wolfe Islanders are completely dependent on access to mainland Canada by the Wolfe Island Ferry III to Kingston, soon to be replaced by a zero-emission ferry, Wolfe Island Ferry IV. Locals reference the journey the ferry takes in the St. Lawrence River as a water road, or Highway H20.
Wolfe Island Historical Society Talk, September 10, 2023
Titleof talk — Walsh expedition to Wolfe Island 2022-2023 – ‘Irish Bard’ Jannet L. Walsh finds roots in Ontario, Canada, Wolfe Island Historical Society Location — Wolfe Island United Church, 52 Victoria St, Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Video online from talk — View link to video at YouTube by Mike Hill, Wolfe Island Historical Society talk – a Journey from Ireland to Minnesota. Attendance — About 35-40 people attended talk Date and time — September 10, 2023, 1:30 pm
Link to the pamphlet mentioned in talk — Catholic Colonization in Minnesota Revised Edition, 1879, author Catholic Colonization Bureau of Minnesota, Archbishop John Ireland, view at The Project Gutenberg EBook.
There were numerous people, and organizations, in Kingston and Wolfe Island, I received help along the way during my time in Canada. Listed below is a short listing of organizations or businesses I received help from, transportation by ferry, resources, or assistance around Wolfe Island. Special thanks to the Wolfe Island Historical Society staff for all their help locating resources, farms, and finding my forgotten Canadian family history.
I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the Southwest Minnesota Arts Council and the McKnight Foundation for founding my grant, and all current and future professional and artistic opportunities as the result of the writing project to Kingston and Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada.
Jannet L. Walsh at Port Metcalf, the foot of Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Canada to the left, and right is the United States, Dec. 30, 2022, self portrait.
The Southwest Minnesota Arts Council (SMAC) is a non-profit organization committed to promoting and encouraging the development of the arts in the eighteen counties of southwestern Minnesota by serving as a source of funds and technical services which enable local organizations, educational institutions, and individuals to sponsor and/or create and promote the arts in their communities.
The McKnight Foundation, a Minnesota-based family foundation, seeks to improve the quality of life for present and future generations. Program interests include regional economic and community development, Minnesota’s arts and artists, education equity, youth engagement, Midwest climate and energy, Mississippi River water quality, neuroscience research, international crop research, and rural livelihoods. Founded in 1953 and independently endowed by William and Maude McKnight, the Foundation has assets of approximately $2.2 billion and grants about $90 million a year.
Minnesota Residents – Search for similar arts grants at regional arts councils at the Minnesota State Arts Board website.
Book — Please find full details, summary, reviewer’s comments on my book page, Higgledy-Piggledy Stones.
Irish Diaspora Writing Project — Please see details and previous blogs and stories posted about my Irish Diaspora writing project at my project page, and learn about my grant from Southwest Minnesota Arts Council Artist Growth Grant, McKnight Foundation, 2022-2024.
Jannet L. Walsh at historic location of Walsh farm, Lot A, 100 Acres where her family leased a farm, 1850-1877, Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Self portrait, September 12, 2023.
Subscribe – Get updates on latest blogs and news from Jannet L. Walsh and her book Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota, publication 2023, Shanti Arts Publishing.
Top To pointers to launch Irish genealogy search If you are searching for family Irish roots, it’s likely you’ll become part historian, storyteller, and mostly a detective of family antiquities.
Jannet L. Walsh Tuesday, July 1, 2025 77F, sunny Murdock, Minnesota USA Today is Canada Day, July 1, 2025. Canada’s national holiday is celebrated on July 1. Canadians around the world show their pride in history, culture and achievements. Canada has been celebrating since 1868, with festivities are held across the nation. Learn more about…
Jannet L. Walsh Monday, June 30, 2025 Murdock, Minnesota Dear Readers, If you want to receive a letter, you need to write a letter first! I’m writing you today to express my deepest concerns about the lost art of letter writing, including sending postcards, or greeting cards through the mail. To be clear, letters and…
Jannet Walsh is a fiscal year 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National…
Spoor Cottage, Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada, photo above — Author Jannet L. Walsh in front of Spoor Cottage, located in the village of Marysville on Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Self portrait, September 10, 2023.
Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada — Jannet L. Walsh early morning after sunrise near historic location of Walsh farm, Lot A, 100 Acres where her family leased a farm, 1850-1877. Self portrait, September 12, 2023.
Wolfe Island holds my family’s precious Irish and Canadian history, along my heart, in the middle of the St. Lawrence River.
I’ve been chasing Canadian family history in Ontario for the past two years of my Irish Walsh family as a grant recipient from the Southwest Minnesota Arts Council, SMCA, Artist Growth Grant, 2022 – 2024. Funding for this program was provided by the McKnight Foundation. Minnesota thrives when its artists thrive. The McKnight Foundation supports working artists to create and contribute to vibrant communities.
The grant started October 1, 2022, and ends Aug. 29, 2024. The project is a nonfiction quest narrative genre writing project, with the title of Nonfiction Quest Narrative Genre Writing Project – Family Stories: Minnesota and Irish Diaspora. The goal of the project is to create a manuscript, with hopes of becoming my second book.
Simply put, this grant helped bring to reality my dream of seeing and writing about where my family lived as Irish immigrants, 1842-1877, as people of the land and sea on Wolfe island near the city of Kingston, Ontario, reached only by ferry today, as well as in the past.
I’m likely the first known person in my family to return to Wolfe Island since 1877, before migrating south to De Graff, in rural Swift County, Minnesota. They were part of a mainly Irish and Catholic colony started by the late Bishop John Ireland, later named Archbishop of the Catholic Diocese of Saint Paul.
My family is one of the four thousand Catholic families Archbishop Ireland helped resettle in west central and southwest Minnesota during the years of 1875-1885. Archbishop Ireland’s goals were to alleviate the perceived problems of nativist prejudice (anti immigrant), poverty, and loss of religion faced by urban Catholics (particularly Irish) on the east coast and poor Catholics still in Ireland by relocating them to low cost farmland in western Minnesota. Today I live just three miles from De Graff, in Murdock, Minnesota, in the same house my father was born in 1924.
Artist Statement for writing project “I continue in my established nonfiction writing practice to tell stories of my rural Minnesota Irish family, expanding to family’s forgotten Canada. When possible, I will write in first person and present tense, engage readers in Irish family history detective work as it happens, writing in notebooks to capture thoughts and events. Readers imagine they are walking with me in rural Minnesota and Canada.”
Jannet L. Walsh 2022 grant application, Southwest Minnesota Arts Council Artist Growth Grant, McKnight Foundation, 2022-2024
Photo Martin J. Walsh Jr, of Murdock Minnesota, Kodachrome, removed from mount for scanning: Information written on slide: Marty Walsh, Seaside, south of Belfast, May 1953. See more photos at online gallery.
My father, the late Martin J. Walsh Jr., of Murdock, Minnesota, would say when I was a child, and was telling stories of our family’s history and connection to the island of Ireland, “We are Archbishop John Ireland’s people.”
This writing project included two official mentors I contacted before the grant specific to the areas of history and writing. Mentoring was by phone, online video, in person during the writing process, and while I was in Canada and at home in Minnesota.
— Ms. Tracy Ross, has a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. She is a published poet and nonfiction author, educator, college professor, and served as the writing expert for this project. View her website.
Mentoring included topics of research, history, writing, travel planning, sorting out topics to write about, or save for future writing projects. There is likely a future writing project I would like to pursue based on family research I stumbled on during this grant related to Irish living is Edinburgh, Scotland’s Little Ireland neighborhood.
It’s all too easy to get lost researching, and become overwhelmed. Time is often the best part of the equation for sorting out what’s important or not. It’s best to get lost momentarily in a black hole of facts and original artifacts, and come out the other side with new ideas.
Irish migration — I have come to understand more and more about the migration of my Irish ancestors from the island of Ireland in Europe to North American, Canada and the United States. I’m the result of my family’s emigration from Ireland, about 1842 for my Walsh family to Kingston and Wolfe Island, Ontario. I’m now living in rural Dublin Township in Swift County, Minnesota where my ancestors might have envisioned their lives, and a location for future generations to thrive.
August 14, 2024, yesterday at the Swift County Fair in Appleton, Minnesota, I estimated at least three generations of my Walsh family was at the opening day of the 126th Annual Swift County Fair, not far from the fair barns. At one point in the fair show ring, four young Walsh descendants were exhibiting their calves during the 4-H beef show, all with roots back to Wolfe Island, and County Kilkenny, Ireland. My Walsh family came as farmers to Minnesota from Canada, and most likely were farmers in Ireland. Today, many of the family are still living and connected to Swift County’s agricultural community.
Although the grant period is ending, my writing project continues. My first trip was in winter 2022-23. Brian P. Johnson, retired Captain of the Wolfe Islander III, of Kingston, Ontario, Canada, wrote about my winter adventure during one of the worst blizzards in about four decades. His story published March 18, 2023, West Central Tribune, Willmar, Minnesota. Read about the Irish Diaspora writing project at the project page.
“When Jannet told me, ‘the whole house was shaking, even my bed,’ it planted a seed. Then trudging through deep snowdrifts to attend Christmas Eve Mass by candlelight, that was the beginning. She also told me about a lady calling out from a porch, ‘Don’t get lost in the forest!’ Here’s a story all right!”
Brian P. Johnson is a retired captain of the Wolfe Islander III Ferry from Kingston, Ontario, Canada. His forthcoming book Ferry Tales from Wolfe Island is due out in 2023. Connect with Brian at his Facebook page to follow his writing, and book updates.
March 18, 2023, West Central Tribune, read story on first visit of Jannet L. Walsh to Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada by Brian P. Johnson.
Summer 2023, I returned to Kingston and Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada, August 28 to September 12. I personally funded this portion of travels to Wolfe Island. My second trip to Wolfe Island was to explore my family roots on the largest island of the Thousands Island located in the middle of the St. Lawrence River, situated next to the international borders of Canada and the United States. It’s about 1,200 miles round trip from my home in rural Murdock, Minnesota to Wolfe Island, Ontario. The final miles of the trip from mainland North American, Kingston to Wolfe Island, are completed by a 20 minute ferry ride, carrying about 55 vehicles, currently serviced by the Wolfe Islander III. As of August 17, 2024, a new electric ferry, the Wolfe Islander IV is scheduled to be in full service after a three year wait by residents.
Family from Ireland, Canada and USA – brief history – This is a portrait of Catherine Summers Walsh (1833-1909), and her husband Michael J. Walsh Sr. (1812-1901), great great-grandparents of Jannet L. Walsh of Murdock, Minnesota. Undated photo, late 1890s to early 1900s. The couple married at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kingston, Ontario, Canada, 1857. They had eight children born in Ontario, and baptized on Wolfe Island, Ontario. Michael married first wife Mary Moran, 1829, and she dies in Ireland, 1831. Second wife Bridget Moran died and is buried on Wolfe Island, 1857. First born son of Michael Sr. was Patrick Walsh, born in Ireland about 1842 to 1846. Patrick’s mother was likely Bridget Moran, sister or relative of Mary Moran, married likely in County Kilkenny, Ireland. The family lines were separated in 1877 when Michael J. Walsh Sr. and family migrated to Minnesota, and Patrick Walsh and his family remained on Wolfe Island farming until the 1890s, and finally migrated to Philadelphia with his family over a period of several years. Patrick and his family appear in the 1900s US Census records as living at 735 Oxford St., Philadelphia. Learn more about the Irish Canadian family at Walsh ‘s blog.
What happens next?
Writing for my project is based on facts, research, my personal encounters, and finding during the two visited to Canada and at home in Minnesota, 2022-2024. The writing is approximately 75 percent complete. I anticipate finishing the manuscript in 2025, and then present to potential publishers.
The findings, and details to my manuscript will remain private until published as a book.
Wolfe Islander III Wheelhouse — Jannet L. Walsh and Brian P. Johnson, retired Captain of the Wolfe Islander III, of Kingston, Ontario, on board the ferry between Kingston and Wolfe Island, September 11, 2023.
Why I returned to Wolfe Island, summer 2023 One of the major reasons I returned to Wolfe Island in summer 2023 was to visit the farm my Walsh ancestors leased and lived on Wolfe Island, about 1850-1877, along with other related family farms. I wanted to see where the family cabin was located according to historical maps on Seventh Line Road north of Baseline Road on Wolfe Island, Wolfe Island. I also wanted to explore the island not covered in snow and ice, and see the land and water around Wolfe Island.
Canadian Immigration — This is a view of the border crossing at Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada, August 28, 2023.
Returning for a second time to Wolfe Island, I had an incredible opportunity to meet with islanders and learn more about the history of the land, water, people, and especially the time period my family lived most of the year removed from mainland due to winter freezing of the St. Lawerence River.
AboutWolfe Island – Wolfe Island is in St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario, almost four miles from the port of Kingston, accessible by ferry, and the largest island in the archipelago of the Thousand Islands.
Sunset Wolfe Island — View of Wolfe Islander IV at the village ferry docks in Marysville, Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada, September 9, 2023.
This 48-square-mile island has been home to several European ethnic groups, cheese factories, and dairy farms, along with a history of fur trading. Wolfe Island is the native homeland of the Tyendinaga Mohawk, kawehnóhkwes tsi kawè:note, meaning Long Island Standing. Wolfe Islanders are completely dependent on access to mainland Canada by the Wolfe Island Ferry III to Kingston, soon to be replaced by a zero-emission ferry, Wolfe Island Ferry IV. Locals reference the journey the ferry takes in the St. Lawrence River as a water road, or Highway H20.
Wolfe Island Historical Society Talk, September 10, 2023
Titleof talk — Walsh expedition to Wolfe Island 2022-2023 – ‘Irish Bard’ Jannet L. Walsh finds roots in Ontario, Canada, Wolfe Island Historical Society Location — Wolfe Island United Church, 52 Victoria St, Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Video online from talk — View link to video at YouTube by Mike Hill, Wolfe Island Historical Society talk – a Journey from Ireland to Minnesota. Attendance — About 35-40 people attended talk Date and time — September 10, 2023, 1:30 pm
Link to the pamphlet mentioned in talk — Catholic Colonization in Minnesota Revised Edition, 1879, author Catholic Colonization Bureau of Minnesota, Archbishop John Ireland, view at The Project Gutenberg EBook.
I was thrilled when I was invited to talk to Wolfe Island Historical Society. During my visit to Wolfe Island, I had the pleasure to talk about my Irish family ties to Wolfe Island, about 1842-77, along with my quest to find stories and places of origin of my family in Ireland Canada, Scotland and at home in Minnesota.
My great grandfather Michael J. Walsh Jr. was born in Kingston or Wolfe Island, 1858, baptized at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Wolfe Island. Four generations of my family lived on Wolfe Island, 13 births, and one burial are directly associated with my Walsh family. A portion of the family, Patrick Walsh, oldest son of my great-great grandfather Michael J. Walsh Sr., remained until Wolfe Island until the 1880-90s before migrating to Philadelphia. Patrick “Pat” Walsh has farm on Wolfe Island near Irvine Bay.
Photos from Wolfe Island Historical Society Talk, September 10, 2023
Wolfe Island Historical Society — Wolfe Island United Church, Sunday, September 10, 2023.Wolfe Island Historical Society
Thank You!
There were numerous people, and organizations, in Kingston and Wolfe Island, I received help along the way during my time in Canada. Listed below is a short listing of organizations or businesses I received help from, transportation by ferry, resources, or assistance around Wolfe Island. Special thanks to the Wolfe Island Historical Society staff for all their help locating resources, farms, and finding my forgotten Canadian family history.
I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the Southwest Minnesota Arts Council and the McKnight Foundation for founding my grant, and all current and future professional and artist opportunities as the result of the writing project to Kingston and Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada.
If I am lucky, I will ride on the new Wolfe Islander IV ferry, and step foot on Wolfe Island in the very near future.
Jannet L. Walsh at Port Metcalf, the foot of Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Canada to the left, and right is the United States, Dec. 30, 2022, self portrait.
The Southwest Minnesota Arts Council (SMAC) is a non-profit organization committed to promoting and encouraging the development of the arts in the eighteen counties of southwestern Minnesota by serving as a source of funds and technical services which enable local organizations, educational institutions, and individuals to sponsor and/or create and promote the arts in their communities.
The McKnight Foundation, a Minnesota-based family foundation, seeks to improve the quality of life for present and future generations. Program interests include regional economic and community development, Minnesota’s arts and artists, education equity, youth engagement, Midwest climate and energy, Mississippi River water quality, neuroscience research, international crop research, and rural livelihoods. Founded in 1953 and independently endowed by William and Maude McKnight, the Foundation has assets of approximately $2.2 billion and grants about $90 million a year.
Minnesota Residents – Search for similar arts grants at regional arts councils at the Minnesota State Arts Board website.
Book — Please find full details, summary, reviewer’s comments on my book page, Higgledy-Piggledy Stones.
Irish Diaspora Writing Project — Please see details and previous blogs and stories posted about my Irish Diaspora writing project at my project page, and learn about my grant from Southwest Minnesota Arts Council Artist Growth Grant, McKnight Foundation, 2022-2024.
Jannet L. Walsh at historic location of Walsh farm, Lot A, 100 Acres where her family leased a farm, 1850-1877, Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Self portrait, September 12, 2023.
Subscribe – Get updates on latest blogs and news from Jannet L. Walsh and her book Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota, publication 2023, Shanti Arts Publishing.
Top To pointers to launch Irish genealogy search If you are searching for family Irish roots, it’s likely you’ll become part historian, storyteller, and mostly a detective of family antiquities.
Jannet L. Walsh Tuesday, July 1, 2025 77F, sunny Murdock, Minnesota USA Today is Canada Day, July 1, 2025. Canada’s national holiday is celebrated on July 1. Canadians around the world show their pride in history, culture and achievements. Canada has been celebrating since 1868, with festivities are held across the nation. Learn more about…
Jannet L. Walsh Monday, June 30, 2025 Murdock, Minnesota Dear Readers, If you want to receive a letter, you need to write a letter first! I’m writing you today to express my deepest concerns about the lost art of letter writing, including sending postcards, or greeting cards through the mail. To be clear, letters and…
Jannet Walsh is a fiscal year 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National…
Dublin Township, Swift County, Minnesota, photo above — Jannet L. Walsh, a rural Minnesota-based photographer, writer and educator, first-time published author of a creative nonfiction quest narrative Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota about her Minnesota and Irish heritage. Publication October 24, 2023 by Shanti Arts Publishing.
Irish American heritage book, creative nonfiction quest narrative available at Shanti Arts Publishing
I’m excited to announce my book Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota published October 24, 2023, by Shanti Arts Publishing.
You can order it online directly at the publisher, and can also be requested at your favorite bookseller. View details at Shanti Arts Publishing.
Book Summary A creative nonfiction quest narrative, author Jannet L. Walsh carefully tells the stories that came from her extensive research into her Irish American heritage set in Minnesota and Ireland. Walsh’s family was among the first to settle in a series of Catholic colonies established in 1876 by Archbishop John Ireland in De Graff, Minnesota. Her ancestors—farmers, stewards of the soil, and faithful Christians—were chosen to be part of the rural community in Swift County. Descendants of these settlers continue to live and work in the rural farming community in Swift County. View summary at publisher’s website.
FAMILY & RELATIONSHIPS / General TRAVEL / Europe / Ireland
ISBN: 978-1-956056-71-6 (print; softcover; perfect bound; 21 black-and-white family photographs)
LCCN: 2023934010 Released October 24, 2023 | Copyright 2023
206 pages
Jannet L. Walsh, near Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland
Author Biography Jannet L. Walsh, Murdock, Minnesota-based photographer, author, educator, is a first-time published author of a creative nonfiction quest about her Minnesota and Irish heritage. Walsh received a 2022–2024 McKnight Foundation Grant for writing about her family’s Irish Canadian roots on Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada, in the middle of the St. Lawrence River. In this endeavor, Walsh combines Irish family detective skills with creative nonfiction narration. Readers imagine they are walking with her in rural Minnesota, in Ireland, and in Canada, in her “you are there” writing genre, inherited from her family’s oral tradition. Walsh has written on technology, travel, religion, and was a newspaper columnist on career, workforce, and business. Her writing appears in IrishCentral.com as a correspondent on topics related to the Irish Diaspora. Her photos and videos have been featured by CNN, CNN iReport, HLN, The New York Times Company, and the California Academy of Sciences. Walsh served as assistant professor of strategic communications and multimedia at St. Cloud State University. She holds a Master of Arts from Ohio University in photography, and Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from Augsburg University. Higgledy Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota is her first published book.
First book — Please find full details, summary, reviewer’s comments on my book page, Higgledy-Piggledy Stones.
Irish Diaspora Writing Project — Please see details and previous blogs and stories posted about my Irish Diaspora writing project at my project page, and learn about my grant from Southwest Minnesota Arts Council Artist Growth Grant, McKnight Foundation, 2022-2024.
Subscribe – Get updates on latest blogs and news from Jannet L. Walsh and her book Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota, published October 24, 2023, Shanti Arts Publishing.
Top To pointers to launch Irish genealogy search If you are searching for family Irish roots, it’s likely you’ll become part historian, storyteller, and mostly a detective of family antiquities.
Jannet L. Walsh Tuesday, July 1, 2025 77F, sunny Murdock, Minnesota USA Today is Canada Day, July 1, 2025. Canada’s national holiday is celebrated on July 1. Canadians around the world show their pride in history, culture and achievements. Canada has been celebrating since 1868, with festivities are held across the nation. Learn more about…
Jannet L. Walsh Monday, June 30, 2025 Murdock, Minnesota Dear Readers, If you want to receive a letter, you need to write a letter first! I’m writing you today to express my deepest concerns about the lost art of letter writing, including sending postcards, or greeting cards through the mail. To be clear, letters and…
Jannet Walsh is a fiscal year 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National…
Spoor Cottage, Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada, photo above — Author Jannet L. Walsh in front of Spoor Cottage, located in the village of Marysville on Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Self portrait, September 10, 2023.
‘Irish Bard’ Jannet L. Walsh finds roots in Ontario, Canada, Wolfe Island Historical Society
Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada — Jannet L. Walsh early morning after sunrise near historic location of Walsh farm, Lot A, 100 Acres where her family leased a farm, 1850-1877. Self portrait, September 12, 2023.
Wolfe Island holds my family’s Irish and Canadian history, and my heart, in the middle of the St. Lawrence River.
March 18, 2023, West Central Tribune, read story on first visit of Jannet L. Walsh to Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada by Brian P. Johnson.
Last month I returned to Kingston and Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada, August 28 to September 12. This is my second trip to Wolfe Island to explore my family roots on the largest island of the Thousands Island located in the middle of the St. Lawrence River, situated next to the international borders of Canada and the United States. It’s about 1,200 miles round trip from my home in rural Murdock, Minnesota to Wolfe Island, Ontario. The final miles of the trip from mainland North American, Kingston to Wolfe Island, are completed by a 20 minute ferry ride, carrying about 55 vehicles, currently serviced by the Wolfe Islander III.
My first trip was this past winter 2022-23. Brian P. Johnson, retired Captain of the Wolfe Islander III, of Kingston, Ontario, Canada, wrote about my winter adventure during one of the worst blizzards in about four decades. His story published March 18, 2023, West Central Tribune, Willmar, Minnesota. Read about my Irish Diaspora writing project at my project page.
Wolfe Islander III Wheelhouse — Jannet L. Walsh and Brian P. Johnson, retired Captain of the Wolfe Islander III, of Kingston, Ontario, on board the ferry between Kingston and Wolfe Island, September 11, 2023.
Why I returned to Wolfe Island One of the major reasons I returned to Wolfe Island this summer was to visit the farm my Walsh ancestors leased and lived on Wolfe Island, about 1850-1877, along with other related family farms. I wanted to see where the family cabin was located according to historical maps on Seventh Line Road north of Baseline Road on Wolfe Island, Wolfe Island. I also wanted to explore the island not covered in snow and ice, and see the land and water around Wolfe Island.
Canadian Immigration — This is a view of the border crossing at Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada, August 28, 2023.
Returning for a second time to Wolfe Island, I had an incredible opportunity to meet with islanders and learn more about the history of the land, water, people, and especially the time period my family lived most of the year removed from mainland due to winter freezing of the St. Lawerence River.
AboutWolfe Island – Wolfe Island is in St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario, almost four miles from the port of Kingston, accessible by ferry, and the largest island in the archipelago of the Thousand Islands.
Sunset Wolfe Island — View of Wolfe Islander IV at the village ferry docks in Marysville, Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada, September 9, 2023.
This 48-square-mile island has been home to several European ethnic groups, cheese factories, and dairy farms, along with a history of fur trading. Wolfe Island is the native homeland of the Tyendinaga Mohawk, kawehnóhkwes tsi kawè:note, meaning Long Island Standing. Wolfe Islanders are completely dependent on access to mainland Canada by the Wolfe Island Ferry III to Kingston, soon to be replaced by a zero-emission ferry, Wolfe Island Ferry IV. Locals reference the journey the ferry takes in the St. Lawrence River as a water road, or Highway H20.
Wolfe Island Historical Society Talk, September 10, 2023
Titleof talk — Walsh expedition to Wolfe Island 2022-2023 – ‘Irish Bard’ Jannet L. Walsh finds roots in Ontario, Canada, Wolfe Island Historical Society Location — Wolfe Island United Church, 52 Victoria St, Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Video online from talk — View link to video at YouTube by Mike Hill, Wolfe Island Historical Society talk – a Journey from Ireland to Minnesota. Attendance — About 35-40 people attended talk Date and time — September 10, 2023, 1:30 pm
Link to the pamphlet mentioned in talk — Catholic Colonization in Minnesota Revised Edition, 1879, author Catholic Colonization Bureau of Minnesota, Archbishop John Ireland, view at The Project Gutenberg EBook.
I was thrilled when I was invited to talk to Wolfe Island Historical Society. During my visit recent to Wolfe Island, I had the pleasure to talk about my Irish family ties to Wolfe Island, about 1842-77, along with my quest to find stories and places of origin of my family in Ireland Canada, Scotland and at home in Minnesota.
I was delighted Wolfe Islanders were interested to hear stories about my family, and also for me to learn of stories from islanders. I can only think my late father Martin J. Walsh Jr. and my grandfather Martin J. Walsh Sr., first generation born in the United States, would be pleased. They only knew of Wolfe Island and Kingston as locations associated with births and obituaries in our family history. They also never had the chance to visit where our family lived for at least 35 years, 1842-1877, before migrating to DeGraff, Minnesota as part of the first colony started by then Bishop John Ireland, later Archbishop of Diocese of St. Paul, Minnesota.
My great grandfather Michael J. Walsh Jr. was born in Kingston or Wolfe Island, 1858, baptized at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Wolfe Island. Four generations of my family lived on Wolfe Island, 13 births, and one burial are directly associated with my Walsh family. A portion of the family, Patrick Walsh, oldest son of my great-great grandfather Michael J. Walsh Sr., remained until Wolfe Island until the 1880-90s before migrating to Philadelphia. Patrick “Pat” Walsh has farm on Wolfe Island near Irvine Bay.
Photos from Wolfe Island Historical Society Talk, September 10, 2023
Wolfe Island Historical Society — Wolfe Island United Church, Sunday, September 10, 2023.Wolfe Island Historical Society
Thank You! There were numerous people, and organizations, in Kingston and Wolfe Island, I received help along the way during my time in Canada. Listed below is a short listing of organizations or businesses I received help from, transportation by ferry, resources, or assistance around Wolfe Island. Special thanks to the Wolfe Island Historical Society staff for all their help locating resources, farms, and finding my forgotten Canadian family history.
Forthcoming book — Please find full details, summary, reviewer’s comments on my book page, Higgledy-Piggledy Stones.
Irish Diaspora Writing Project — Please see details and previous blogs and stories posted about my Irish Diaspora writing project at my project page, and learn about my grant from Southwest Minnesota Arts Council Artist Growth Grant, McKnight Foundation, 2022-2024.
I personally funded this portion of travels to Wolfe Island, and will be submitting my final grant project in late 2023 or early 2024.
Jannet L. Walsh at historic location of Walsh farm, Lot A, 100 Acres where her family leased a farm, 1850-1877, Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Self portrait, September 12, 2023.
Subscribe – Get updates on latest blogs and news from Jannet L. Walsh and her forthcoming book Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota, scheduled publication 2023, Shanti Arts Publishing.
Top To pointers to launch Irish genealogy search If you are searching for family Irish roots, it’s likely you’ll become part historian, storyteller, and mostly a detective of family antiquities.
Jannet L. Walsh Tuesday, July 1, 2025 77F, sunny Murdock, Minnesota USA Today is Canada Day, July 1, 2025. Canada’s national holiday is celebrated on July 1. Canadians around the world show their pride in history, culture and achievements. Canada has been celebrating since 1868, with festivities are held across the nation. Learn more about…
Jannet L. Walsh Monday, June 30, 2025 Murdock, Minnesota Dear Readers, If you want to receive a letter, you need to write a letter first! I’m writing you today to express my deepest concerns about the lost art of letter writing, including sending postcards, or greeting cards through the mail. To be clear, letters and…
Jannet Walsh is a fiscal year 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National…
Jannet L. Walsh photo above — Author Jannet L. Walsh stands outside at the Dublin Airport, January 2, 2019, after spending several days in rural Killarney, County Kerry searching for origins of her family in Ireland.
Book cover of Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota by Jannet L. Walsh. Book design by Christine Cote, publisher, Shanti ArtsPublishing.
I am very happy to to reveal the cover to my forthcoming book “Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota” about my Minnesota and Irish heritage. Scheduled publication is Fall 2023 by Shanti Arts Publishing, of Brunswick, Maine, a small press publisher of poetry, fiction and creative nonfiction. The book design is by publisher Christine Cote, Shanti Arts Publishing.
My book was originally my thesis manuscript for my Master of Fine Arts degree from Augsburg University, 2019.
Please find full details, summary, reviewer’s comments on my book page, Higgledy-Piggledy Stones.
Stay tuned for updated by subscribing to my website.
Best wishes! Jannet
“Jannet Walsh’s Higgledy-Piggledy Stones knits continents and centuries together. From her home base in rural Minnesota, Walsh uses research to take readers from the Easter Rising of 1916 in Dublin, to an 1862 Civil War battle in Arkansas, to Bishop John Ireland’s nineteenth-century efforts to resettle Irish Catholics in North America—safe from persecution and famine. Full of wide and wheeling revelations, this memoir pins moments across decades, and sews personal genealogy to world history. Punctuated with original poems, archival letters, and official documents, this engaging narrative is also a treatise on the value of remembering, recovering, and preserving. Walsh finds the extraordinary hiding in plain sight, affirming that history lives beside us in our own homes.” —James Cihlar, author of The Shadowgraph
“Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota” by Jannet L. Walsh
AUTHOR’S BIOGRAPHY Jannet L. Walsh, Murdock, Minnesota-based photographer, author, educator, is a first-time published author of a creative nonfiction quest about her Minnesota and Irish heritage. Walsh received a 2022-2024 McKnight Foundation Grant for writing about her family’s Irish Canadian roots on Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada, in the middle of the St. Lawrence River. In this endeavor, Walsh combines Irish family detective skills with creative nonfiction narration. Readers imagine they are walking with her in rural Minnesota, in Ireland, and in Canada, in her ‘you are there’ writing genre, inherited from her family’s oral tradition.Walsh has written on technology, travel, religion, and was a newspaper columnist on career, workforce, and business. Her writing appears in IrishCentral.com as a correspondent on topics related to the Irish Diaspora. Her photos and videos have been featured by CNN, CNN iReport, HLN, The New York Times Company and the California Academy of Sciences. Walsh served as assistant professor of strategic communications and multimedia at St. Cloud State University. She holds a Master of Arts from Ohio University in photography, and Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Augsburg University. “Higgledy Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota” is her first book.
Jannet L. Walsh at Port Metcalf, the foot of Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Canada to the left, and right is the United States, Dec. 30, 2022, self portrait.
Subscribe – Get updates on latest blogs and news from Jannet L. Walsh and her forthcoming book Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota, scheduled publication 2023, Shanti Arts Publishing.
Top To pointers to launch Irish genealogy search If you are searching for family Irish roots, it’s likely you’ll become part historian, storyteller, and mostly a detective of family antiquities.
Jannet L. Walsh Tuesday, July 1, 2025 77F, sunny Murdock, Minnesota USA Today is Canada Day, July 1, 2025. Canada’s national holiday is celebrated on July 1. Canadians around the world show their pride in history, culture and achievements. Canada has been celebrating since 1868, with festivities are held across the nation. Learn more about…
Jannet L. Walsh Monday, June 30, 2025 Murdock, Minnesota Dear Readers, If you want to receive a letter, you need to write a letter first! I’m writing you today to express my deepest concerns about the lost art of letter writing, including sending postcards, or greeting cards through the mail. To be clear, letters and…
Jannet Walsh is a fiscal year 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National…
I’m excited to announce my story just published at IrishCentral, Directions for Ireland, travel and Irish genealogy, May 22, 2023. Learn about Irish travel and genealogy to jump start next trip to Ireland. I also answer a few frequently asked questions about travel to Ireland.
This is a video I created in April 2011, searching for family roots in Knockanarroor Townland, located just east of Killarney in County Kerry. Knockanarroor, pronounced “knock-on-a-roar”, is an unmarked dirt road where my Foley family lived and worked before the Great Famine in Ireland. The opening views in the video are on a horse and cart ride through the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney.
Jannet L. Walsh at Port Metcalf, the foot of Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada. Canada to the left, and right is the United States, Dec. 30, 2022, self portrait.
Subscribe – Get updates on latest blogs and news from Jannet L. Walsh and her book Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota, 2023, Shanti Arts Publishing.
Top To pointers to launch Irish genealogy search If you are searching for family Irish roots, it’s likely you’ll become part historian, storyteller, and mostly a detective of family antiquities.
Jannet L. Walsh Tuesday, July 1, 2025 77F, sunny Murdock, Minnesota USA Today is Canada Day, July 1, 2025. Canada’s national holiday is celebrated on July 1. Canadians around the world show their pride in history, culture and achievements. Canada has been celebrating since 1868, with festivities are held across the nation. Learn more about…
Jannet L. Walsh Monday, June 30, 2025 Murdock, Minnesota Dear Readers, If you want to receive a letter, you need to write a letter first! I’m writing you today to express my deepest concerns about the lost art of letter writing, including sending postcards, or greeting cards through the mail. To be clear, letters and…
Jannet Walsh is a fiscal year 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National…
Four seasons in one day in Ireland, photo above – Wind and rain on the Dingle Peninsula – Jannet L. Walsh takes a selfportrait at Fahan Beehive Huts, 2018, Ventry, County Kerry, Ireland.
What’s the weather in Ireland? Irish weather talk, forecasting
Subscribe – Get updates on latest blogs and news from Jannet L. Walsh and her book Higgledy-Piggledy Stones: Family Stories from Ireland and Minnesota, 2023, Shanti Arts Publishing.
Top To pointers to launch Irish genealogy search If you are searching for family Irish roots, it’s likely you’ll become part historian, storyteller, and mostly a detective of family antiquities.
Jannet L. Walsh Tuesday, July 1, 2025 77F, sunny Murdock, Minnesota USA Today is Canada Day, July 1, 2025. Canada’s national holiday is celebrated on July 1. Canadians around the world show their pride in history, culture and achievements. Canada has been celebrating since 1868, with festivities are held across the nation. Learn more about…
Jannet L. Walsh Monday, June 30, 2025 Murdock, Minnesota Dear Readers, If you want to receive a letter, you need to write a letter first! I’m writing you today to express my deepest concerns about the lost art of letter writing, including sending postcards, or greeting cards through the mail. To be clear, letters and…
Jannet Walsh is a fiscal year 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National…
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