What's New
Branch News
Killyleagh Branch - book launched:
"The McIlrath Letters". The McIlrath letters to their family home near Balloo, Killinchy, from Australia and New Zealand over 55 years form the basis of a new book, published by the Killyleagh Branch of the North of Ireland Family History Society. The book was launched on 8th December 2009, 149 years to the day after the McIlrath brothers set sail for a new life on the other side of the world. The 64 letters, which make up the book, have been carefully preserved by the McIlrath family, the descendants of which still live in the house which James and Hamilton left behind. The book has been put together by John Bassett and this launch saw the culmination of 20 years of his dedication to the project. The letters chart the progress and achievements of the McIlrath brothers, as well as personal events, marriages, births, illness and deaths. The relaxed, familiar style gives these letters an immediacy not to be found in history books, bringing their lives and troubles very close to the reader despite the 150 year gap. The writers also make frequent reference to other emigrants from the local area whom they meet in their new home, passing on news and greetings, which makes the book a valuable resource for local historians and genealogists. See our Publications section for details.
Calendar of NIFHS meetings:
An online calendar of NIFHS Branch meetings is now available. See our Meetings Calendar for details.
North Down & Ards Branch anniversary:
At the September meeting, North Down & Ards Branch celebrated the 30th Anniversary of the founding of the Society. See here for photos, e.g. founder members and the cake.
New Branches:
Following the successful formation of new branches in Fermanagh and Warrenpoint, a new branch has been formed in Foyle. Interest has also been expressed in forming a branch in Newry, again details will follow as they become available.
Newtownabbey Branch - book launched:
Newtownabbey Branch launched their new book The Hidden Graveyard on Tuesday, 24th March. The book contains gravestone inscriptions from Carnmoney Parish Church and is a companion volume to Carved in Stone: Grave Inscriptions from Carnmoney Parish Church, County Antrim in that it deals with an older graveyard located on the other side of the road from the existing graveyard.
