Saturday, January 8, 2011

1901 & 1911 Census Search

The Irish National Archives has  an Online research tool which enables  free searches of the 1901 & 1911 Census Records for all 32 Counties in Ireland
You can check it out here
http://www.census.nationalarchives.ie/search/
This is an invaluable and completely free tool for those wishing to trace their Irish ancestry. The site even allows you to download and view a pdf copy of the original census return forms. From these forms you can identify your relatives religion, employment, literacy and knowledge of the Irish language.

This is an excellent tool for the amature genealogist and its abosolutely free.

Friday, January 7, 2011

Links

Anyone planning a visit to Ireland should check out http://www.setantatours.com/ my own heritage tour company that specialises in walking, cycling and coach tours visiting archaeological and heritage sites in Ireland.

Also my new blog http://setanta-irish-mythology.blogspot.com/ which will provide lots of information on ancient irish mythology and Celtic legends.
Apologies for the self promotion but hey it is my blog :).

Thursday, January 6, 2011

Getting Started in Genealogy

For many people the idea of researching their family history is exciting but they never get started as they are unsure how to begin. Below is a short guide on how to begin your search for your ancestry no matter where in the world you are.

1. Begin with what you know. When starting to trace your family tree always start with yourself and work backwards.

2. Talk to your living relatives and find out as much information as you can. Important information can often be overlooked.

3.Record everything- even the smallest detail can be important in the progress of your ancestral search.

4. If you can start with your own parents or grandparents-, get dates of birth, birth place, maiden names, religion ect. All this information can help your genealogical search.

5. Always try and confirm any stories and information about your family through official records- often one can find themselves chasing a family fable that has little basis in fact- family history can often be distorted over time.

Check out the Irish Governments website on Genealogy here http://www.irishgenealogy.ie/

Welcome to Setanta Irish Genealogy

Hi everyone and welcome to this new genealogical blog for Ireland. The aim of this blog is to bring you news and information on genealogy and family history searches for those with Irish Ancestry. We will publish links to various genealogy sites and any relevant information we feel will be of use to those engaged, or thinking of undertaking, a search for their Irish family history.