On a summery day I decided on a visit to Lanark Archives...deeds were in mind. With the kind help of the ladies they brought me the deed book of Drummond Township. As I flipped through various concessions and lots I saw the name Mahon, Thomas Mahon.
Fingers traced the lineage of buying and selling until I found a name familliar in my past. My breathing slowed as I followed further until I read the present owners names. I admit I shivered recollecting many years ago when I spent tending to the gardens not knowing it was the same land my ancestors had toiled 150 years past.
Thomas was the eldest son of James and Ellen Mahon whose family sailed from Dublin, Ireland in the summer of 1819. He was granted 100 acres in 1827 after fulfilling his duties. He married twice. His first bride was Betsy Towriss who passed in 1842, then married Lucy Gash. Between both wives he was the father to ten children. It is true what they say about long Canadian winters without much to do.
I contacted the present owners and they were more then happy to share the history with me. Walking through a field and keeping the resident bull at bay (thanks Kay!) we arrived at the homestead. The original log home of Thomas Mahon, son of James and Ellen; the well and numerous out buildings still stand. A testament to their building prowess.
We inspected the log buildings, pondering on their history. The stories told of his mother land while sitting around the hearth, and their hopes and dreams for the future. It is through our reunion we strive to honour our ancestors for having the bravery to seek a new home. For this we will always be grateful.
