GREHAN, Ida. Irish Family Histories. Foreword by Desmond Fitzgerald, 29th Knight of Glin. Heraldry by Donal Begley, Chief Herald.

Dublin: Town House, 1993. Quarto. First edition. pp. xxiv, 264. Pictorial stiff wrappers. A fine copy.

Irish Family Histories will be of interest to all people of Irish descent as well as those interested in Irish history. By organizing over 200 names into 80 groups under one main modern spelling, Ida Grehan both consolidates and expands on the volumes of materials produced by the late Chief Herald of the Genealogical Office in Ireland, Edward MacLysaght. All the known spellings, past and current, are presented for each group, followed by in-depth material concerning each name’s origin, geographical distribution, and information on emigration to America and elsewhere. A kaleidoscope of notable figures having each surname is then documented, from the earliest records to the present. With over two hundred illustrations from sources such as the Trinity College and national libraries, Irish Family Histories is a picturesque and exciting voyage through Ireland’s long history. Also included is information on how to trace ancestors in Ireland, a short history and chronology of Ireland, an explanation of heraldry by the Chief Herald of the Irish Genealogical Office, and a comprehensive bibliography and surname variations index.

“... indispensable to anyone who is of Irish descent or simply is interested in Irish history. This useful, fascinating book takes readers on an exciting journey through Irish history, through the unique stories of its families”. - The Irish Echo.

Ida Grehan was born in Dublin. She worked in Nigeria and Malaysia as a radio broadcaster before returning to Dublin, where she was feature writer for the Irish Times for many years.

Front cover illustration: A thirteenth century de Burgo knight, a descendent of William the Conqueror, reproduced from a genealogical manuscript in the library of Trinity College, Dublin.

[L3 10C]