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Blarney Castle, situated in County Cork, Ireland, is a historical fortress that attracts visitors from all over the world. Known for the Blarney Stone, the castle offers much more than just the gift of eloquence. This article delves into the intricate history of Blarney Castle, detailing its architectural evolution, the famous legends surrounding it, and its...
Genealogy research often feels like a treasure hunt, where each new piece of information unlocks a deeper understanding of your heritage. For those tracing their Irish roots, Irish Estate Records provide an invaluable resource. These documents offer unique insights into the lives of ancestors who lived in Ireland, sometimes as far back as the 17th century. This...
The surname Andrews, much like its close counterpart Anderson, signifies “son of Andrew.” The name, owing to the widespread veneration of Saint Andrew, a key apostle in Christian tradition, has its roots deeply embedded in early Christian Europe. Etymology and Meaning The name Andrew is derived from the Greek word “Andreas”, meaning...
Cloughoughter Castle, a picturesque ruin situated on a small island in Lough Oughter, Co. Cavan, Ireland, is a historical treasure that has captivated visitors and locals alike for centuries. The castle’s enchanting presence, combined with its rich history, makes it an essential destination for anyone interested in exploring Ireland’s past. This article...
The Bingham surname has its roots in English history, particularly associated with the toponym of Melcombe Bingham in Dorset. However, its significance in Irish history began with the arrival of Richard Bingham in the 16th century. Richard, hailing from Dorset, was appointed the governor of Connaught in 1584, marking the beginning of the Bingham family’s...
The Beary surname, primarily found in Ireland, particularly in Limerick and Tipperary, has a rich history. It is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic Ó Béara, closely related to O’Berry. This origin is intertwined with Irish culture and reflects the complex history of surnames in Ireland. Etymology and Meaning The surname Beary derives from the Norman surname de...
The Berry surname, with its origins in Ireland and the Isle of Man, is primarily an Anglicized form of the Gaelic Ó Béara or Ó Beargha, denoting a descendant of Béara, a personal name of unknown meaning. While predominantly of Norman origin, derived from the Old French “barri” (meaning “rampart”), it’s also associated with the Gaelic...
The Bermingham family name, with its rich historical connotations, finds its earliest origins in Warwickshire, England. This surname’s initial emergence is closely tied to Peter de Bremingeham, who was recorded in the Pipe Rolls of Staffordshire in 1170. Over time, this family name evolved and became prominent in various regions, notably in Lincolnshire and...
The Bergin family name, deeply rooted in Irish history, originates from Gaelic origins. It is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic Ó Beirgin or Ó Meirgin, which itself is an altered form of Ó hAimheirgin. This surname translates to ‘descendant of Aimheirgin,’ a name steeped in early Irish mythology and historical tales. Etymology and Meaning The name...
The Bennett surname, with its deep roots in Irish history, originated from the medieval name Benedict. This name stems from the Latin “Benedictus,” meaning “well-spoken of” or “blessed.” The English spelling of the Anglo-Norman name Ben[n]et, and its modern French counterparts Benoît (first name) and Bénet (surname), showcases the...