I'm not even sure where to start looking in Ireland for ancestors or living relatives. We have Irish on both sides of my family, and have confirmed this with research and DNA testing. But I have no idea where in Ireland our family hails from. My family name is Beard. If anyone has any ideas suggestions or info, I'd be eternal greatful. Thank you in advance. If you need info from me I'll give you what I have.
Hi Chris
a quick search of Grifiths gives 58 hits for Ireland, this is circa 1848 to 1864 and can be viewed here
http://www.askaboutireland.ie/griffith-valuation/ There is a Robert Beard in Drumcar close to Dunany at this time and this comes with a little map which can be super imposed on modern maps to see exactly.
You do not mention a period so you can view the census of Ireland for 1901 and 1911 here http://www.census.nationalarchives.ie/search/ and part census for other years but not a lot.
There is a good site for Louth here http://www.jbhall.freeservers.com/ but no Beard family hits.
You also do not mention religion but RC registers are now online and some Church of Ireland, if you want these links let me know. Tehre are also Tithe Applottment registers for circ 1824 to 1834 online but only head of house as Griffiths above.
I live about 12 miles from Dunany.
Regards
Pat
Thanks to everyone who has offered info and help. I'm looking to find the Irish Beard Family Coat of Arms. If any one has this info and could send me a link or picture I would be very thankful. Thank you in advance.
Hi Chris
was reviewing my queries tonight and thought about your query again, searched for Irish Heraldry and have a book somewhere on it, where though, anyway a search brought me to our National Library and this book in their catalogue, it is American, http://catalogue.nli.ie/Record/vtls000259002 If you want ot see the page or contact them see http://www.nli.ie/en/heraldry-introduction.aspx If you click on collections you can down load some info, it appears on a quick read you can apply for a coat of arms.
Good Luck
Pat