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CENSUS OF IRELAND 1926 IS NOW AVAILABLE The long-awaited release of the 1926 Census of Ireland marks a landmark moment for historians, genealogists, and families across the globe. Officially published by the National Archives of Ireland on 18 April 2026, the records became available at midnight following the expiration of the 100-year restriction under the Statistics Act 1993. The milestone was celebrated at a state event in Dublin Castle, hosted by Micheál Martin and Patrick O’Donovan, marking the centenary of the first census conducted by the Irish Free State. This historic census captured a nation in transition, just years after independence, documenting the lives of nearly 2.9 million people. Now fully digitised and freely accessible online, the 1926 Census offers an unprecedented window into Irish life a century ago. The project—supported by a €5 million government investment—has resulted in the preservation and transcription of over 750,000 household returns. These records provide rich detail, including family structures, occupations, language use, religion, and housing conditions, allowing individuals to trace their ancestry with remarkable clarity. Speaking at the launch, Taoiseach Micheál Martin described the census as both a national and deeply personal resource, enabling people to “encounter our own families, neighbours and communities as they were almost a century ago.” Similarly, National Archives Director Orlaith McBride highlighted that each entry represents “an individual life… a shared human story that together forms the fabric of our nation.” For those beginning or continuing their family history journey, the release of the 1926 Census is transformative—but navigating historical records can still be complex. This is where Wexford Ancestry plays a vital role. Based in County Wexford, Wexford Ancestry offers expert genealogical research services, helping individuals uncover and understand their Irish roots. With decades of experience and access to a wide range of local and national records—including parish registers, civil records, and land documents—its team can guide clients far beyond what a single census can reveal. While the 1926 Census provides a valuable snapshot, Wexford Ancestry helps place that snapshot into a broader family narrative. Their researchers can trace lineages back generations, interpret historical context, and connect individuals to specific townlands, communities, and stories that might otherwise remain hidden. For members of the Irish diaspora especially, this personalised support is invaluable in bridging gaps in knowledge and geography. In addition, Wexford Ancestry assists clients in navigating newly released records efficiently, saving time and ensuring accuracy. Whether you are discovering your great-grandparents for the first time or deepening an already detailed family tree, their expertise transforms raw data into meaningful heritage. The release of the 1926 Census is more than a historical event—it is an invitation to reconnect with the past. With resources like the National Archives and the expert guidance of Wexford Ancestry, individuals everywhere now have an unparalleled opportunity to rediscover the story of their families and, ultimately, the story of Ireland itself. Contact us at: wexfordancestry@gmail.comAbout
In 1926, County Wexford welcomed one of the earliest screenings of the landmark film The Dawn, a silent movie depicting the events of the Irish Rebellion of 1798. Filmed partly on location in Wexford, the production involved many local people as extras, bringing communities together to recreate their own history. Its screening in the county was a powerful cultural moment, blending memory and storytelling, and reflecting a growing interest in Irish identity and heritage during the early years of the Free State.