Robert MCMAHAN, b. 1706 in Ireland, emigrated in 1746 with his wife Catherine and either 10 or 12 children. He died at sea. Catherine settled in that part of Augusta County, Virginia, which became Montgomery County - in western Virginia. She went to work as a housekeeper for David Stuart. Some researchers show her last name as Cole, but there is also speculation this may be her second married name. Robert and Catherine left for the colonies from Dublin. I know the MCMAHAN name is prevalent in the Leinster-Munster-Connaught region of Ireland; before the 1600's it was mostly in Counties Clare and Wexford, but after that time it is found in Meath and Kildare, near Dublin. The only offspring of Robert and Catherine positively identified thus far are: (all born in Ireland)
Archibald, b. abt. 1730
John, b. abt. 1731
Redmon(d), b. abt. 1733
James, b. abt. 1737
The boys were apprenticed and went on to be successful in various trades. James and Redmon(d) served under General George Washington during the Revolutionary War, in the Virginia Militia. Archibald became a very successful livestock breeder, emigrating to Tennessee. His descendants intermarried a great deal with the families of Yancey Co. (formerly Buncombe Co.) North Carolina. This is how I am related to the McMahans, through various marriages they made with North Carolina and Virginia settlers.
Thus far researchers have not been able to identify the ship in which Robert and Catherine left Dublin in 1746. This is my first foray into looking at the Irish end of things, and I am not sure what or where the resources may be. Any help or direction would be MOST appreciated! ~Thank you.