Irish Genealogy & Family History Resources

Are you interested in discovering more on your Irish family history? In this section, I have included letters (and podcasts) that include stories, explanations and approaches to help you investigate your own Irish family history. You may even receive a little inspiration to break down one or two family history brick walls!

 

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 Genealogy & Family History Letters

Coffin Ships to Steam Ships. The Jeanie Johnston sailship doscked on the river Liffey in Dublin.

Coffin Ships to Steam Ships: An Irish Immigrant’s Epic Journey

What was your ancestors’ Atlantic crossing like? From “coffin ships” to steamers, uncover the realities of Irish immigrant voyages to America.

Irish family history

When Did You First become interested in Irish Family History?

In this letter we turn the tables on Green Room resident genealogist Jayne and ask her just how SHE became first interested in Irish family History.

Irish Townland

Clearing the Confusion – The Origins of the Irish term “Townland”!

Explore the concept of the Irish townland, a key to unlocking personal ancestry. Each townland is not just a part of the landscape but a vital link to familial histories.

Pint of Guinness

The First Pint of Guinness is Poured

In this letter, we explore the rich history of a renowned Irish beverage—Guinness Extra Stout Porter, commonly known as ‘Guinness’. Learn how this pint of Guinness evolved into a symbol of Ireland celebrated worldwide

The origins of an Irish royal family

The Journey of an Irish Royal Family.

In this letter – we look at the journey of an ancient Irish Royal family around the north half of Ireland over many centuries. This “journey” was typical of many Irish families following the arrival of the Normans and the later plantations.

Irish Genealogy & Family History Podcasts

Irish Baby 1 - Irish Baby Names - Do You Follow this Approved List? (#117)

Irish Baby Names – Do You Follow this Approved List? (#117)

Welcome to Season 1, Episode 17 of the Letter from Ireland Show. In this episode we look at “Approved” Irish baby names that are found in families – maybe you’ll hear one from your own family?

Temple Bar Patricks Day - DNA and Culture - Is Irishness your Nature or Nurture? (#114)

DNA and Culture – Is Irishness your Nature or Nurture? (#114)

Welcome to Season 1, Episode 14 of the Letter from Ireland Show. In this episode we get philosophical! First, we ask if Irishness is your nature or is it nurtured. But Carina starts by asking “Where did the Irish come from?”.

Copy of Copy of The Letter From Ireland Show 2 - Pride, Prejudice and Jane Eyre - An Irish Connection? (#113)

Pride, Prejudice and Jane Eyre – An Irish Connection? (#113)

Welcome to Season 1, Episode 13 of the Letter from Ireland Show. In this episode we have a literary theme. Carina looks at a famous English writer – and some of her Irish connections, as well as a family of English writers who held their ancestry from County Down. 

Copy of Copy of Copy of The Letter From Ireland Show - Maud Gonne and Mrs. Brown - 2 Tales of Strong Irish Women (#111)

Maud Gonne and Mrs. Brown – 2 Tales of Strong Irish Women (#111)

Welcome to Season 1, Episode 11 of the Letter from Ireland Show. In this episode, Carina looks at the story of two very different strong Irish women – but notices common traits that run deep in both of them.

Copy of The Letter From Ireland Show 1 - Irish Placenames - A Journey along an old Irish Road (#110)

Irish Placenames – A Journey along an old Irish Road (#110)

Welcome to Season 1, Episode 10 of the Letter from Ireland Show. In this episode, Carina looks at how Irish placenames are created – and takes us on a journey along an old Irish road.