03/03/2026
We’re on the count down ….
A new chapter in Irish history is about to open.
The Census 1926 – the first census of the Irish Free State – will be publicly available on 18 April 2026, inviting you to explore how people lived, worked, and connected one hundred years ago.
More than numbers, these records tell the stories of Irish households, families, and communities during the early years of the Free State.
To mark this centenary, the National Archives of Ireland is launching a public programme, including nationwide exhibitions, a special theatrical production by Anu Productions and an RTÉ documentary exploring the human stories behind the records.
As part of the lead-up to the Census 1926 release, RTÉ published an article this week on why these records are such an important part of the Irish history 🔗 https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2026/0226/1560189-census-population-ireland-culture-trends/
Whether you’re a genealogist, academic, or curious about your family tree, this centenary celebration reveals not only data but the lives behind the data.
Find out more about the plans for the Census release 🔗 https://nationalarchives.ie/engage-and-learn/census-1926-public-programme/