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…

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…

Letter from Ireland magazine cover, Galway tribes banners

Letter from Ireland Magazine (September/October, 2019)

Welcome to the Letter from Ireland Magazine for March/April, 2019. In this issue you will find features on: Saint Patrick and following in his footsteps, County Mayo – a Homelands feature, using Irish Records for your Irish ancestry research and much more.

Start Your Irish Ancestry Search in the right place.

Allow me to start this letter with a question – have you discovered the place of origin for your ancestors in Ireland? Maybe you have even walked the same farm or village as they once did. If so, you are one of the lucky ones! Unfortunately, many people have ancestral records that refuse to offer a clue…

Where You Need to Start Your Irish Ancestry Search – 2 Reader Case-Studies (#504)

Our readers are very keen to trace their Irish ancestors back to a specific part of Ireland, and that is very understandable. However, it’s often a better idea to dig up more leads and clues in the ancestors place of immigration BEFORE attempting to make the leap back to Ireland.