 
Note:
Census enumerator Michael Fallon appears to have mistakenly marked
the columns "cannot read" and "cannot write" in the negative when
filling out the above census document. Tellingly, he recorded Bridget
Moore as being able to write, but not read-a situation that is highly
unlikely.
During an era in which many Irish immigrants could
neither read nor write, the 1870 U.S. census (pictured) provides important
clues about the Moore's ability to maintain contact with family and
friends in Ireland. According to the census, Joseph Moore could read
and write, but his wife Bridget was only able to read. When sending
news to relatives back home, Bridget may have dictated her thoughts
to Joseph who composed her letters in his own hand. Next |
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