Summer is over: long live Autumn

I’m a little late with my newsletter this month as I took some much needed time off at end of August and into the beginning of September.

I’ve had a number of projects come to fruition with the successful identification of previously unidentified fathers for several clients. Very rewarding work, much of which will remain private and confidential, as you would expect.

Many people start to get back into their hobbies this month and I’ve noticed a dramatic increase in enquiries. If I haven’t got back to you yet, rest assured, I will.

Upcoming Classes

This weekend, I have 2 talks for my International Institute of Genealogical Studies students. If you’re taking classes in the Irish or DNA courses, check the student calendar for times and links. I’ll be talking about the Irish military archives and the identification of the Romanovs this month. The latter in particular is a real crossing of the streams¹ for me. I have a primary degree in Russian language and history. The Romanovs have always held a particular fascination for me. I recently re-read Robert K. Massie’s book on the identification of their remains, which now has much more significance than when I first read it 24 years ago because I understand the science now too. You can also find some of my previous sessions on the school’s YouTube channel.

My Malahide Community School evening class starts back on Monday 15th September. There’s still a couple of places available. Full details on how to book here.

Lectures

I’m delighted to be back with the Society of Genealogists in London for a second time this year. This is an online talk and you can book for it here. The topic is using your DNA to find your Irish ancestors – it’ll be geared towards a UK audience but is applicable for anyone with Irish ancestry in another country.

On Saturday 20th September, I’ll be giving a talk on tracing your Irish ancestors from a US perspective for the Clark County Nevada Genealogical Society. They’ll be in person but I’ll be online for this one. This will focus on records resources.

Finally, on Saturday 4th October, I’m in the Carnegie Library in Swords for a day of talks in the Fingal Festival of History. I’ll be discussing my pet topic of using DNA for family history. The full brochure of events is available. You do need to reserve a space for my talk – do so on Eventbrite.

Culture Night

On Friday, 19th September, it’s Culture Night in Ireland. It’s a nationwide evening of cultural events. Many museums, archives and galleries open late. I’ll be answering genealogy questions at Fingal Local Studies & Archives in Swords, Co. Dublin. It’s a great chance to have an in-person discussion and also see what the lovely team there have! No need to book for this, just drop by from 18:00 onwards on the night. If you can’t make it to Swords, then do check out what’s available in your own area.

If you’re interested in engaging me to speak for your organisation, I am taking bookings for next year. There’s lots of interest in the 1926 Irish Free State census release² in April 2026 so I will be presenting on it for a couple of different organisations (more details closer to the time). Pop me a message through my contact form to discuss options, availability & rates.

1  Yes, I am referencing Ghostbusters.

2  This covers the modern-day Republic of Ireland counties but not Northern Ireland.