katie_whelan1986 on Family Tree Circles

I am researching my husband's Whelan family and can't get further than 1860. I have his great great g/f David Whelan born 1860 in Spaniards Bay, Newfoundland and married to Margaret Goss. Their children are: Elizabeth b. 1872, John Thomas b. 1880, Agnes b. 1890, James Patrick b. 1885, Lucy b. 1886, Alice b. 1890 and Susan and Mary with no birthdates. My husband says his family came from Ireland and may have changed their name from Phelan or O'Phelan. Having a hard time finding connections as there are so many Whelans and Whalens. Any help appreciated.
Katie Whelan