Ulster Surname Reports

We begin by researching the etymology of each surname by consulting the works of major Irish and Scottish surname authorities. We then proceed by mapping: • the 1901 census records to create detailed distributions using small areal units. (the Parish or Electoral Divisions) • Intensity indexes are calculated and mapped to isolate the areas with a surnames greatest intensity and possible origins. • Key surname attributes, religious adherence, occupational structure(farming for example), are identified and mapped to assist in identifying the surnames geographic homelands. • Once the 1901 census distribution has been been mapped, data is gathered to extend the distribution back in time. Census substitutes are used to establish the historical antecedents of each surname. Examples might include: ▪ The Griffith Valuation ▪ The late 18th Century Flax Growers list ▪ The Hearth Money Roll ▪ Religious Census’s ▪ The 1630 Muster Roll ▪ Miscellaneous data provided by the Client ▪ Miscellaneous data sourced by the Author • Appropriate historical base maps are used in combination with the data to assist in the analysis. Finally an analysis is undertaken to reconcile the etymology, the 19th century distribution, and the historical records.

The Web Module

The maps and analysis are compiled in a web module. The module can be uploaded to a server if the client has one, or saved to a drive and accessed from the client’s desktop. All databases used in the project are provided to the client in excel format. In the case of the 1901 census all records include the CPLU locations. The process for a project once commissioned can normally take several weeks for completion. Each study is unique and the structure, analysis and content, are dependent on the individual surname and or Variants.

Example Studies

The Wilie Surname Study The Hanna Surname Study The Kilpatrick Surname Study The McClure Surname Study The Miller Surname Study