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Testimonial 5 – Ann Carroll

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Still new to family history research, I discovered the Forum in 2019. It has been key to exploring the paths of my Irish ancestors who emigrated to New York in the mid-19th century. At the Forum’s monthly meetings, I have discovered new tools and record sources for my family history research in Ireland and in the US. I have loved attending Forum-sponsored tours and programs, including a visit to the New York City Municipal Archives and walking tours focused on the role of the Irish in the Brooklyn Navy Yard and lower Manhattan.

The Forum’s award-winning Newsletter has provided an invaluable information source, and sharing my own family history stories there has been a great way to organize and pass on my research to family members.

In this anniversary year, I am grateful to the Forum’s founding community and all the members who have fostered the organization for 35 years, supporting me and many others in exploring our Irish heritage.

Ann Carroll
Member since 2019
Board member since 2024

Testimonial 4 – Kerri Tannenbaum

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I have been a member of the Irish Family History Forum since 2018. Since then, I have learned so much about researching Irish ancestry through the monthly presentations, quarterly newsletters, and field trips. The content is always relevant – full of ideas on strategies and techniques to find place of origin in Ireland and dig deeper into Irish records. I enjoy connecting with other members who also appreciate their Irish ancestry. I am grateful for the Forum and all of its contributions since its inception 35 years ago. –

Kerri Tannenbaum

Testimonial 3 – Ellen Fitzpatrick Hartigan

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I was recently encouraged to join the IFHF and am so pleased to be a part of this group.  From the knowledgeable guest speakers to the interesting newsletter, along with the annual Christmas gathering, the organization has encouraged me to reconnect with my Irish roots!

Thanks to IFHF, I recently obtained my foreign-born Irish citizenship.  I’m so proud I was able to do so.

My congratulations to the foundation’s leadership.  Knowing all the planning that goes into activities, job very well done!

Slainte,
Ellen Fitzpatrick Hartigan

Testimonial 2 – John Leddy

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Following the passing of my parents, aunts, uncles, and too many cousins, I realized that I knew far too little about my Irish ancestors, and I had lost any opportunity to ask questions of family members. So began a quest to discover my roots. That journey is now 20 years on and I have discovered so much; in fact, I know more than either of my parents ever knew about our family origins. I wish they were here so I could share what I’ve learned with them, but, more importantly, I long to hear their family stories once again. I know I’ve forgotten more stories than I’ve retained.

Family research is a many legged stool and the Irish Family History Forum has been a critical leg to my learning. Most importantly, it provides the opportunity to mix and chat with members who have many of the same questions that I have as we all continue to research our stories. Their family stories spark memories for me and help me to re-hear the family stories I knew growing up. Our shared history provides shared stories. The monthly meeting topics provide me with insight and motivation, even if the topic seems to not involve my research goals. And the speakers are great sources of information even beyond their presentation. Each meeting provides me with access to professional genealogists and, needless, to say, their tips are of such value to us as we continue to search our ancestral trees.

When I want to do some genealogy searching, I enjoy visiting the IFHF on-line home page to remind myself of the many links provided to us. What a great resource that is!

Thanks for keeping us all informed and motivated.

John Leddy

Testimonial 1 – Ann Marie Bridget Lynch

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It was an IFHF member, a Hibernian friend of my mother, who suggested I attend a Saturday morning meeting of the IFHF.  She thought it might be of help in my ancestry hobby.  And she was correct!  This organization has provided years of excellent advice and direction for my work.  The professional help is invaluable.  The newsletter is full of fantastic ideas to help my work efforts.  The trips are well designed to offer insight into the experiences of ancestors with historic information, as well as the camaraderie of like-minded seekers.  The variety of speakers spark even more ideas for my research.  And the hybrid meeting choice has been a huge help while I travel abroad. I cannot praise enough the resources of this organization.  I hope it continues to prosper for many more years!  Thank you for everything!

Ann Marie Bridget Lynch