The Clan/Sept History

Helias Keating, one of the witnesses to the signing of the Foundation Charter of Dunbrody Abbey, Co. Wexford, in 1175, accompanied Strongbow on expedition to Ireland and was the first of his name to settle in that country. He acquired lands at Kilcowan which remained in the hands of the family for 500 years as frequent references in the records show, although the genealogical evidence is insufficient to construct a satisfactory pedigree for the earlier years.