Networks of necessity: the Clunes, Clare, and Connecticut connections

Abstract

This thesis will discuss the network connections that existed between a family from Tyredagh Upper townland in Tulla, County Clare, Ireland and Norwalk, Connecticut. Chapter 1 will discuss the conditions that existed in pre-famine Tulla, County Clare, Ireland, and the extent to which these conditions contributed to the re-settlement of several members of the Clune family from their clachan settlement in Tyredagh Upper to Norwalk Connecticut. Chapter 2 will discuss the creation of the reconstituted family settlement in Norwalk Connecticut by two family members and how this reconstituted and reconfigured settlement supported further family emigration for subsequent generations. This re-creation and re-imagination of this family settlement in Norwalk, CT was of key importance to this family in Norwalk as will be discussed throughout this thesis. Chapters 3 and 4 will discuss two members of this family, namely Dr. Thomas F. Clune and Mary E. Clune, both Irish American native Norwalkers who played important roles within their own families as well as within the local community as community leaders and business owners. Finally, the thesis will conclude with an analysis and summary of the important roles played by family members within the family and the wider community during the time period researched. The thesis will conclude with a short discussion of the unique aspects of Norwalk in relation to the Irish community that existed there and the need to further delve into specific families into specific locations in order to gain further insights into these Irish communities at home and abroad.