My family (especially Grandma) is convinced that McNally is an Irish name. Ever since I can remember they have been saying that we have some Irish ancestors. The only problem with this is that the records I have found sow McNally as the most recent spelling. Spelling prior to this is shown as McNelly on many records. So far, my research has shown that the McNally’s are of Scottish descent. Well, needless to say, this has made a few family members unhappy and they don’t want to believe me. So, I’ll continue searching...trying to find some tiny Irish root to satisfy my family. It may take years and years but I’ll keep looking so that my brother can wear hi “Kiss me, I’m Irish” tee shirt on St. Patrick’s Day.
My Advice to You:
Be sure that your family is ready for whatever you may uncover in your genealogical pursuits. Often, it is more comforting to live in the belief that you are a descendent of royalty rather than poor potato farmers in search of a better life. One isn’t any better than the other, of course, but the family that you’ve come to identify with sort of shapes the way you view the world. To have that view distorted with facts may cause some tense family relations. Don’t push your family to accept this “new” family history. Give them time, they may come around to see it as something exciting or they may dismiss it completely. Either way, it is something to think about before sharing your revelations. But of course, this has only been my experience!