A large range of Irish names begin with the prefix "Mul." Examples include Mulcahy, Mulvihill, Mullally, and Mullan. These names have no familiar connections, but like the names beginning with "Gil," all have their origin in a common name form. They almost all derive from the Gaelic word "Maol" meaning follower, servant, or devotee. The name was invariably preceded by O as … [Read more...] about Roots: The “Mul” Names
1993
The Passion of the San Patricios
Irish America looks back at the legacy of St. Patrick’s Battalion, an honor-bound group of Irishmen that championed the cause of the smaller Mexican force against the might of the American army during the Mexican-American War. “You have to understand that we Mexicans and Irish are very sentimental,” said the slight, grandmotherly figure, leaning forward in a high-backed living … [Read more...] about The Passion of the San Patricios
Roots: The Hogans, Logans and Cogans
Although these surnames sound alike, the similarities end there. The Hogans are a Dalcassian family. Hogan comes from the Irish word óg meaning young. In Irish mythology, the land of eternal youth is called Tir Na nÓg. The Irish name of Hogan, Ó'hÓgáin, denotes that they are ancestors of Ogan, who was a direct descendant of Brian Boru, the last great High King of Ireland who … [Read more...] about Roots: The Hogans, Logans and Cogans
Sláinte! The Feast of Lughnasa
The most joyous event of the Celtic year is Lughnasa (August 1), the beginning of the annual harvest. The Celtic calendar was structured on nature's agricultural cycle and great festivals were celebrated at the start of each season: Imbolc (spring), Beltaine (summer), Lughnasa (autumn), and Samhain (winter). All honor the life-giving sun, but only Lughnasa derives its name from … [Read more...] about Sláinte! The Feast of Lughnasa
Blazes Boylan
By Emer Mullins
November December 1993
Three Irishmen have been remanded in custody in Antwerp, Belgium, in connection with the theft of four of the most important paintings from the Beit Collection, stolen from Russborough House in Wicklow in 1986. Works by Goya, Vermeer, Metsu and Vestier, which police said were valued between £30 and €40 million in total, were recovered from what was the biggest heist in the … [Read more...] about Blazes Boylan