Claire Bradley is a Dublin-based genealogist specialising in Irish ancestry
A new initiative born from Twitter sees family historians talking about their genealogy origin story using the hashtag #MyGenealogyStory. Here’s mine. I was a child who was interested in the past. I loved history at school. I researched some of my recent ancestors named when choosing my confirmation name. At 12, we were given a…
I was delighted to be able to graduate in person from the University of Limerick yesterday with an MA in History of the Family. It’s been a fascinating year of study – hard work but worthwhile. It’s really added to my knowledge of Irish history and genealogy. Covid meant that this was our only time…
It may be Nollaig na mBán in Ireland today but it’s genealogy Christmas in England and Wales. The 1921 census has been exclusively released on Findmypast. It was taken in June of that year. This census was the first after World War I and saw some slight changes to format notably: Employer’s name and place…
We’ve only just finished the last term on Monday but Malahide Community School Adult Education is quick off the mark to advertise the next term. My 10-week in-person beginners Irish Genealogy class would make a lovely Christmas gift. It’s a steal at just €110. We start back on 31st January 2022. Details & booking here.…
It is the time of year when you can get some great genealogy deals. I’ve collected a few of the best offers going. They range from DNA tests to newspaper archives & general subscriptions to commercial sites. Some of these offers run out soon so don’t wait if you’re interested. Ancestry DNA tests are on…
Following two separate conversations this week, I present a bit of fun.
Despite climate change’s best efforts, the evenings are beginning to draw in.Many people will not be aware that Hallowe’en has its origins in Ireland. It’s changed quite a bit since I was a child in the 1980s but some facets still remain the same. Back then, we dressed up and went to our neighbours’ doors…
UNESCO designates 8th September every year as International Literacy Day. It promotes the importance of literacy as a human right. Who among us doesn’t love getting caught up in a great novel? In this modern world, very few activities still require your full attention, we’re always on our phones or something, but reading is still…
It is that time of year. The weather is a teeny bit colder. Conkers are forming on the trees. Kids are going back to school. Adults think about taking an evening course. Well, I just happen to have one. This is my traditional in-person beginner Irish genealogy course in Malahide Community School in beautiful north…