What secrets lie beneath this stone? This is the grave of William Keogh. He was no ordinary man. He was the Right Honorable William Keogh. He served as Second Justice of H.M. Court of Common Pleas in Ireland.
William Keogh died in Bonn on September 30, 1878. His life then took an unexpected turn. His will, with one codicil, was proved at the Principal Registry. Henry Keogh and David Ferguson served as executors. They swore oaths to fulfill their duties.
The legal document reveals some details about William Keogh’s estate. His effects were valued at under £12,000. This provides a glimpse into his wealth and status. He was late of Roebuck Grove. Roebuck Grove is in County Dublin. This detail paints a picture of his life in Ireland.
William Keogh’s story extends beyond his legal affairs. William Wehner took his stepfather’s surname. His stepfather was Michael Keogh. William Wehner was living in the Queens household of his mother. Her name was Catharine. She was married to Michael Keogh. William signed as a witness on a marriage certificate. The marriage was between his maternal cousin and stepbrother.
The marriage took place at Most Holy Trinity Church in Williamsburg. His sister’s obituaries listed him as William Keogh. This indicates when he adopted his stepfather’s name. William is buried with family members. Catharine, Michael Keogh and his sister Regina Hall are buried here. William Hall, George Keogh and Mary Keogh are also here.
Another William Keogh was baptised in St Joseph Roman Catholic Church. He was baptised on March 23, 1862. His parents were James Keogh and Helena Kelley. William was born on February 17, 1862. His father was from County Galway. His mother was from New Brunswick.
Myles Walter Keogh rests in Fort Hill Cemetery. He was a Brevet Lt. Colonel. He fell at the Battle of the Little Bighorn with Custer.
So, as we stand before William Keogh’s grave, remember his story. He was a man of law, family and a life that ended here in Bonn. His legacy lives on in legal records and family histories.