Have you ever wondered how the Irish surnames in your family tree came about? Understanding just HOW your Irish surnames developed is KEY to understanding more about your Irish origins and likely locations in Ireland. In this episode we take two very different Irish surnames and use them to illustrate the sometimes simple – and…

An Irish Rebel Easter (#715)

As we approach Easter here in Ireland, the thoughts of many Irish people turn to the historic events around the Easter Rising of 1916. In this episode we talk about that time as well as another Irish leader who was killed 100 years ago this year. We also feature Irish rebel songs commemorating many of…

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 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.