Step into the melodious world of Ireland as we spotlight the eight most beautiful Irish female singing voices. Are your favourites on the list or will you discover a fresh, enchanting talent? Whether you’re seeking nostalgic tunes or hoping to stumble upon a new songstress, this episode promises a delightful serenade from Ireland.

Inside the Hedge Schools of Ireland (#722)

In this episode we take a trip inside the “Hedge Schools” of Ireland – places of learning that were dotted around Ireland right up to the mid-1800s. We also look at the prevalence of so many biblical/latin first names in Ireland – names such as Jeremiah or Cornelius – and explain just why they were…

The Great Evolution of Irish Surnames – Where Your Irish Surname Fits

In this article, we look at Irish Surnames – their origins and evolution. See if you can find the Irish surnames in your family tree in one of the sections below.

Do you have an Irish Viking Surname?

Did you know that Wicklow comes from the Norse “Vykyngelo” – meaning a “Viking meadow”? Let’s stay on that subject of Vikings for the rest of today’s letter. One of the most frequent enquiries I receive goes something like: “I just got my DNA tested and it turned up as 12% Scandinavian. I wonder if…

The Hedge School Teachers of Ireland

Do you have any school teachers in your family tree? Perhaps they have fond memories of the hallowed halls in which they taught, the ordered classrooms, fully stocked with the supplies of a good education. In this letter, we will visit a humbler school setting, that was the only option for many Irish schoolteachers during lean times.