Ferriter Family Manifesto

I. We are all of a single family. By this is meant that we have common relation, or a common heritage associated with the Feiritear name, as known in County Kerry Ireland since Norman times.

II. While several lines of descent from earlier times exist, there exists no principal line, or line of primogeniture that requires recognition as the principal line.

III. Family members recognize a common heritage. While individual experiences may vary widely, and while separate family groups may have developed their own histories based upon unique experience, we acknowledge that for over 400 years, we had a common homeland in Ireland.

IV. The Feiritear name, in all of its variant spellings is an honorable name, and this honor should be sustained. Going forward in time, the honor of our name is to be maintained by all who cherish it.

V. Individual allegiance to and awareness of the greater family, (the extended family) is key to sustaining family identity, and should be encouraged and facilitated.

Know Your Ancestors

James T. Ferriter

photo b. December 1843
d. February 22, 1902

James Thomas Ferriter was born in December, 1843, either in New York or Massachusetts to Irish immigrant parents. Most census data lists his birthplace as Massachusetts. It is quite likely that he was born in West Springfield, MA, as he had a brother, Patrick, who was born there in 1849. His parents, Patrick Ferriter and Catherine Sullivan Ferriter, had married in Ireland on February 14, 1840. They moved to America and travelled where there were railroads to be built. Patrick's family landed in Dummerston, Vermont, in 1850, where many people with Irish surnames and the job title of 'railroad laborer' are listed in the census.... Read More