Una Sinnott tour guide

10/04/2026

The 1926 Census of Ireland will be released to the public on April 18. Here’s what you need to know before searching for your ancestors in this exciting new genealogical source

Here’s what you need to know about the 1926 Census of Ireland before searching for your ancestors in this exciting new genealogical source.

31/03/2026

If you have researched your Irish ancestors from the mid-19th century, chances are you have consulted Griffith’s Valuation. Here’s an explanation of the valuation, and why it was created

If you have researched your Irish ancestors from the mid-19th century, chances are you have consulted Griffith’s Valuation.

29/03/2026

Did you know that Galway once had its own time zone? Visit unasinnott.com to discover the history of Ireland's time zones and the changes that brought us to switching the clocks between GMIT and Summer Time. See my stories or bio for a link to read more.

29/03/2026

The clocks went forward last night, so now seems like a good time to remember that Galway once had its own time zone. and look at the changes that brought us to Summer Time

For most of its history, Galway effectively had its own time zone, and this changed as recently as 1880.

02/03/2026

Lionnar ag luí na gréine.
Lionnar: the sparkle of sunlight on water.
Luí na gréine: sunset.

14/08/2025

If you have spent any time researching your Irish ancestors, you will know that it is only a matter of time before you draw a blank in your research — the dreaded brick wall. Here are some tips to get past it

In Irish genealogy, you will inevitably reach a point where you can research no further due to gaps in the available records — the dreaded brick wall.

06/08/2025

What happened to Ireland’s 19th century Census records?

Little remains of Ireland's census records from the 1800s, for various reasons. Find out what's left of Ireland's 19th-century censuses.

04/08/2025

We have a long history of reusing old masonry in Galway. In my latest post, I look at the city's marriage stones, which provide an interesting glimpse into our past

Galway's marriage stones are a fascinating reminder of the city's history. Here's a quick look at what they are and where to find them.

30/07/2025

Get to know the City of the Tribes with a walking tour all about the 14 Tribes, the powerful merchant families who once ruled Galway, and find out how their legacy is still celebrated in the city today

Uncover the captivating history of Galway and get to know the City of the Tribes in this 90-minute walking tour.

26/07/2025

The TIthe Applotment Books are a valuable resource to identify where in Ireland your ancestors lived, and who the head of the family was, in the decades prior to the Great Famine. Here’s everything you need to know about them

The TIthe Applotment Books are a valuable resource to identify where your Irish ancestors lived in the decades prior to the Great Famine.

23/07/2025

Discover Galway with a private walking tour, taking in the city’s cultural highlights, medieval landmarks, and more!

I am available for private walking tours of Galway for groups, couples or individuals, with an itinerary tailored to meet your specific needs or interests.

20/07/2025

Are you interested in finding your Irish ancestors? Here’s everything you need to know to get started

If you want to learn more about your Irish family history, but don’t know where to begin, this guide will show you the main records you need.