This episode of the Letter from Ireland podcast has a Hollywood theme! Not just Hollywood however, we tell two stories behind recently released movies with a strong connection to Ireland. So, what do Laurel & Hardy, Steven Spielburg, Tom Hanks, Mary Black and Carina Collins all have in common? They all feature in this week’s…

Would You Live on an Irish Island? (#710)

Today we visit the beautiful islands off the west coast of Ireland. For many centuries, these islands grew in population as the natives of Ireland were forced off good land on the mainland wandering even further westwards until they arrived at the sea. The islands offshore were the only option left. The islanders had an…

Elvis and The Fighting Irish – (#707)

In this episode of the Letter from Ireland podcast we look at the place the humble Irish club called the “shillelagh” has in Irish history and tradition. Also, did you know that Shillelagh is also a place?The ancestors of a very special singer came from those parts – or did they? Lots of LOVELY Irish…

A Celtic Spring – (#704)

In this episode of the Letter from Ireland Podcast we celebrate the upcoming season of Celtic spring here in Ireland – known as Imbolc. We choose music and stories to understand more of this significant time in the Celtic calendar – a time that became supplanted by the festival of Saint Brigid over time. Enjoy! You…

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.