The History of the Ned Kelly Gang Written by Ronald Land Once we know the stories of our ancestry, they emerge in the most interesting places. It happened to me when I heard about the Australian Seminar evening at Trinity College in Dublin. That’s because I’m the great-grandnephew of...
Actor John Cusack is well-known for his roles from early films like Sixteen Candles (1984) up to present-day productions like Pursuit (2022). He’s made a name for himself in Hollywood, but many don’t know about the actor’s family history. You can trace Cusack’s ancestry back to Ireland’s centuries. Continue reading...
As you research your family’s Irish origins, you may grow curious about the country’s centuries-long history. Learning how society functioned when your ancestors were alive offers a fascinating glimpse into their everyday lives. One aspect of Irish society worth exploring is the Irish peerage and related titles of nobility. Below,...
The Irish culture touches everything from our way of life right down to the jewellery we wear. But no piece encapsulates Irish tradition more than the Claddagh ring. This distinctive Irish ring has centuries of history, and men and women all over the world wear it today as a symbol...
Origins of the Most Common Irish Surnames and First Names Irish names and surnames are steeped in our country’s rich tradition and centuries of history. In fact, many of today’s common Irish names have origins in Gaelic, Celtic, or Norse languages. More than a sense of pride, our names give...
Even if you’ve never stepped foot on the Emerald Isle, you probably know the shamrock as a famous symbol of Ireland. For centuries, this herbaceous plant has been woven through stories about Saint Patrick, leprechauns, and other Irish tales. However, you may not know the differences between shamrocks and four-leaf...