Irish Culture & Customs Resources

In this section I share articles on Irish music, dancing, poetry, writing, story-telling and history. Many of the topics that we consider to be quite unique in our shared Irish heritage.

 

Browse the features listed on this page and jump to one that interests you, or enter a placename, surname or other item in the search box below to see related letters and podcasts.

Irish Culture & Customs Letters

A celtic cross and round tower next to each other

The Celtic Cross: A Masterpiece of Irish Heritage

Explore the Celtic Cross: its rich history, symbolism, and global impact. Discover Ireland’s iconic emblem and its role in heritage and genealogy.

Irish Workhouse memorial with sculpture of a child at the gates and an inscription of a quote

Irish Workhouse Reality: What Your Ancestor Truly Faced

Explore the grim reality of Irish workhouses, their evolution from famine-era institutions to medical facilities, and their lasting impact on Irish history.

Statue of high kings of Ireland on a horse in the Irish countryside.

The High Kings of Ireland – Their Enduring Legacy

The High Kings of Ireland: Explore the O’Connor dynasty’s legacy. Discover ancient royal sites, clan surnames, and your link to Ireland’s regal past.

An ancient Irish Ogham Stone on a track in the Irish countryside.

Ogham Stones: Run Your Hand Across a Piece of History

From cave entrances to university halls, Ogham stones whisper Ireland’s past. Uncover the secrets of this mysterious Celtic writing system.

Irish Musical Instrument

Do you have a favourite Irish Musical Instrument?

Let’s take a glimpse into the world of Irish musical instruments. They’re not just for making music, but an essential voice of both our people and land.

Irish Culture & Customs Podcasts

Irish Male Singer

The 8 Most Unique Male Irish Singing Voices (#834)

Discover eight standout Irish male singers in today’s episode. Did we miss any of your favourites? Tune in and be swept away by Ireland’s melodic charm!

Broadway PNG - From County Cork to the Bright Lights of Broadway and Chicago (#833)

From County Cork to the Bright Lights of Broadway and Chicago (#833)

This episode spotlights two Irish families from Bantry, West Cork: Francis O’Neill, who preserved Irish music in Chicago, and the Keohanes, ancestors of Broadway composer George M. Cohan.

Irish Birthday 10 years - An Irish Birthday Celebration (#830)

An Irish Birthday Celebration (#830)

Join us as we toast to the birthday of the Letter from Ireland, celebrating a decade of connecting with 60,000+ global Irish descendants through our letters and podcasts – thank you for being part of our journey!

The Surprising Irish Origin of 2 Racing Legends - The Surprising Irish Origin of 2 Racing Legends (#829)

The Surprising Irish Origin of 2 Racing Legends (#829)

Listen to the origins of the iconic Steeplechase in Irish racing history and unravel the surprising Irish roots of the famed ‘British Racing Green’ in a thrilling 1903 motorcar race

Beer Whiskey and The Irish Temperence Movement - Beer, Whiskey and The Irish Temperance Movement (#828)

Beer, Whiskey and The Irish Temperance Movement (#828)

Listen to the story of Viking-era water sources, the Franciscans’ art of brewing Irish beer, and the captivating tale of alcohol, social chaos, and the rise of the Irish temperance movement!