Upcoming Society Events
PAST EVENTS: 2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020
March 14, 2026
11:00 am - 1:00 pm ET - Location: Zoom Webinar
Ireland’s Hidden Boundaries: Using Administrative Divisions to Unlock Family History Sources
Jillian Van Turnhout
Ever wondered why finding Irish ancestors can feel like solving a puzzle? The secret lies in understanding Ireland's unique administrative divisions—especially townlands.
Together, we'll journey through Ireland's hierarchical landscape, from the sweeping counties established under English rule, through the ancient baronies with their medieval origins, to the Poor Law Unions that provided relief during Ireland's darkest hours. We'll demystify the often puzzling relationship between civil and ecclesiastical parishes, before highlighting the townland—Ireland's smallest and arguably most genealogically valuable land division.
You'll discover why knowing your ancestor's townland is like having a GPS for Irish genealogy, helping you pinpoint them in census records, church registers, and valuation books, and breaking through research brick walls you might otherwise never overcome.
Whether you're just starting your Irish research or looking to dig deeper, you'll gain practical tools and strategies to make your ancestor hunt more successful.
ABOUT THE PRESENTER
Jillian Van Turnhout is the founder of Genealogy.ie with over 18 years of experience in tracing Irish family histories. She is passionate about genealogy and understands the richness and fulfilment that goes with finding out about your ancestors and their lives. She is also a respected children’s and human rights expert and a former Senator in the upper house of the Irish Parliament. Jillian has also been a member of The Hudson County Genealogical & Historical Society since 2018. Learn more about Genealogy.ie at https://genealogy.ie/
*Registration Required. Society members only. Not a member? Learn more about joining today!
April 11, 2026
11:00 am - 1:00 pm ET - Location: Zoom Webinar
Make Your Photos Come Alive with Artificial Intelligence Tools
Joe Mann
One way or another, artificial intelligence technology is finding its way into nearly everything we do or experience. In this presentation, you'll learn about tools and methods you can use to make your family photos "pop" to bring the past to life.
ABOUT THE PRESENTER
Joe Mann is a lifelong genealogist, marketer, and graphic designer with an interest in applying artificial intelligence (AI) thoughtfully to solve problems. Joe is also one of the founding members of the Hudson County Genealogical & Historical Society and its website developer. He can be reached at his consultancy, MannPower Marketing & Design, www.mannpowerdesign.com.
*Registration Required. Society members only. Not a member? Learn more about joining today!