Most frequently asked on genealogical research.

1. Where should I begin to trace my ancestors?

Start with yourself and work backwards through the generations. Interview an older relative and ask for information about the family and most important if they have any family documents.

2. How far back can I trace my Irish ancestry?

In regards Ireland you can usually hope to trace the family back to the period 1800-30. In England and other European countries genealogists can trace families back to the eighteenth century or earlier. However, Irish people who are descendants of wealthy or prominent families are usually able to go further back.

3. What are some of the most important records I should search?

The first record a person should study is the 1901 and/or the 1911 census. Having found the family on the census the GRO should be visited for information on births, marriages and death based on the information obtained from the census. Since the GRO records start only in 1864, church records must be researched for marriages and baptisms that took place before this date. Griffith’s valuation which was completed in the 1850’s is another important source for the genealogist.

4. What if my family emigrated, can I still trace the family?

Yes, the family can be traced either by starting the search from foreign records or by starting the trace in Ireland depending on what information you have. Irish Americans can look that a  U.S census for a period after 1900 and it will show the date that member of the family emigrated. If that member emigrated after 1900 there should be enough information on the ship’s passenger list to continue the search.

5. How much does it cost to trace my family?  

The cost depends on how far back you want to go? What information you want to know about them ( date of birth, marriage and death) ? All the brother and sisters in each generation to be discovered ?