This year, 2026, heralds the 90th anniversary of the founding of the Irish Genealogical Research Society (IGRS) in 1936. This milestone anniversary is being marked over the course of the year through a global programme of events.
A Year of Global Celebration
In delivering a worldwide programme of events across 2026, the Society is reflecting its international membership and deep connections with the Irish diaspora. This aspect of the celebrations will recognise the Irish heritage of people throughout the world, embracing all traditions that contribute to Irish identity. More information about the anniversary events can be found on the dedicated page of our website HERE.
Two more events to be held online and in Dublin are now open for booking.
The first is an online two-lecture event to be held via Zoom on Thursday 27th August at 8 pm (20.00) London and Dublin time (UTC+1).
“Scottish migration to Ireland in the seventeenth century”
speaker: William Roulston, Research Director, Ulster Historical Foundation
“Irish merchants in France from 1630 to the eve of the French Revolution: prospects, challenges and identity”
speaker: Marian Lyons, Professor of History, Maynooth University
This event is free of charge and open to member and non-member. Booking and more information is available on the IGRS website Events page.
The second is an all day in-person four-lecture event to be held on Saturday 12th September in Dublin, at the National Library of Ireland in Dublin, from 10.00.
“The first fifty years: early stalwarts, the journal, the library, and the foundation of the Ireland Branch”
speaker: Julian Walton (Vice President, IGRS)
“Snobs and Scholars: the Genealogical Office manuscript collection”
John Grenham (author & professional genealogist)
“Quality Assured: Ulster’s Office in the eighteenth century”
Colette O’Flaherty (former Chief Herald of Ireland)
“Recovering Ireland’s lost census records – census records in the Virtual Record Treasury of Ireland”
Brian Gurrin (Census Specialist, Virtual Record Treasury of Ireland)
This event is also free of charge and open to all. Booking and more information is available on the IGRS website Events page
Membership
Membership of the IGRS is open to anyone with an interest in Irish genealogy, whether they be new to family history research or are a seasoned veteran. Members enjoy access to our unique online collections, expert guidance, the annual journal, The Irish Genealogist, a regular newsletter, online lectures, a growing collection of online Irish genealogy videos, and a global community of like-minded researchers.
Not an IGRS member? To become part of our thriving community click HERE now to check out the benefits of membership.
For more information about our 90th anniversary events contact Paul Gorry on 00 353 (86) 330 1032 or via email at GorryP@IrishAncestors.ie
