Jean Kennedy Smith has now been ambassador to Ireland for two years, during which time she has played a leading role in the peace process. Niall O'Dowd interviews and profiles the 1995 "Irish American of the Year." "Next to President of the United States, Ambassador to Ireland is surely one of the best jobs an Irish American can hold," says Jean Kennedy Smith who was … [Read more...] about Irish American of the Year: A Very Special Envoy
1995
The First Word: Times to Remember
This year Irish America celebrates its tenth year. And it seems somehow fitting that the magazine, whose motto Mortas Cine stands for Pride in our Heritage, should be celebrating such a happy occasion in the same year that marks the 150th anniversary of the Famine. For this magazine, especially this special Top 100 issue, pays tribute to the success of the Irish in America. … [Read more...] about The First Word: Times to Remember
January February 1995
Roots: Land Records in Irish Family History
By James G. Ryan
January/February 1995
In a previous article, we discussed the use of church records in researching family history. However, to access church records you will usually need to know where in Ireland an ancestor lived. Making this connection is often the main problem faced by Irish-Americans attempting to trace their roots back to Ireland. Whereas many root-seekers will know that their ancestor was from … [Read more...] about Roots: Land Records in Irish Family History
Sláinte!: The Night of the Big Portion
By Edythe Preet
January/February 1995
In Ireland the last night of the year was called Oiche na Cada Moire, The Night of the Big Portion. It was common practice to have a big supper that night to ensure a full cupboard and plenty to eat in the twelve months to come. Of course, the custom dated back to a time when crop success meant the difference between feast and famine. Spells and incantations were invoked to … [Read more...] about Sláinte!: The Night of the Big Portion