Overview:
In April 1926, Ireland carried out its first census as a Free State. Now, one hundred years later, the National Archives of Ireland is making these historic records available online, in full and free to the public for the first time.
To mark this landmark release, this two-part documentary series follows six well-known faces as they step back in time to explore Ireland’s past in deeply personal ways.
With exclusive access to the 1926 Census archives, they are guided by archivists from the National Archives and expert historians as they uncover remarkable stories about the people and communities that came before them.
From novelist Joseph O’Connor tracing his family’s working-class roots in the Liberties area of Dublin city to actress Eileen Walsh discovering the story of her revolutionary grandfather, their journeys paint vivid portraits of life in independent Ireland.
Episode One – Sunday 3 May 6.30pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player
Billing: Trade Unionist Mick Lynch, Raidió na Gaeltachta presenter Gormfhlaith Ní Thuairisg and architect Dermot Bannon explore their history through the 1926 Census.
In Cork city, trade unionist Mick Lynch traces his father’s family back to the now-derelict lanes of the city’s former slums, uncovering the story of his widowed grandmother who was raising a young family alone.
In Conamara, Raidió na Gaeltachta presenter Gormfhlaith Ní Thuairisg explores the role the Irish language played in shaping her family’s identity and values. And in Waterford, architect Dermot Bannon reveals the stark reality for a small town living in the shadow of an Industrial school for children.
Episode Two – Sunday 10 May 6.30pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player
In Dublin’s Liberties, novelist and UL Professor of Creative Writing Joseph O’Connor traces his family’s working-class roots, uncovering a community that shaped several generations of his family. In Cork, actor Eileen Walsh sets out to discover the story of her grandfather, a young revolutionary. And in Mayo, RTÉ Radio 1 radio presenter Louise Duffy explores the powerful roles played by women in the rural community where she grew up.
Come to Your Census is accompanied by a podcast series of the same name, hosted by historian Liz Gillis. Joined by archivists and fellow historians – all of whom were granted early access to the records before they were issued to the public – Liz unpacks some of the key themes that emerge from the pages of the 1926 census. Over six episodes, the series reveals the stories, communities and social changes that shaped Ireland during the early years of the Free State. Available from 18 April at rte.ie/podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
Find all the information on the 1926 Census at rte.ie/census1926