Findmypast plans to release four Irish record collections in September, 2016 that should help many family historians further their research. According to Brian Donovan, global head of Irish Collections at Findmypast.com, the British-based online genealogy company will release the Valuation Office Field and House Books on September 15th, 2016. These records, which contain about two million names, will allow us to go back a generation earlier than Griffith’s Valuation.
Another large collection that will interest many family historians will be the Merchant Marine Records that contain almost one million names. What is especially interesting about these records is that they provide the individual’s age, place of birth, next of kin, and their entire career. Half of the merchant marines were from Ireland and the other half were from Britain, continental Europe, and America.
Two other Irish collections planned for release are Irish Wills 1858-1922 and Catholic Qualifications and Convert Rolls. (During the 18th century, the only way for Catholics to own land, have a profession, run for office, or go to school was to go to court to convert to the established Episcopalian church.)
For anyone who is not a subscriber, Findmypast offers some Irish collections for free, such as the 1901 and 1911 censuses and Irish Catholic parish registers. They are able to do so because of their partnership with The National Archives of Ireland.
Note: One of the perks of being a member of the Qualicum Beach Family History Society is that members are entitled to a 50% discount subscription to Findmypast. Members must log in and then open the “Find My Past Membership” page for more information on receiving the discount code. Trouble logging in? Contact the webmaster for your login information.