In a message dated 05/10/1999 8:29:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time, [email protected] writes: << Basically, my Great Grandfather came from Co. Galway, near to a place called Ballinasloe. He was born abt. 1843. I really need to find his birth date and names of his parents and any sibs. Where can I find birth records for this period? Can I find them? Would it be better to use a professional researcher than to come over and do it myself? All suggestions greatfully received. Many thanks. Rosemary Holloway (formerly Martin) Mother of 3 and grandmother of 3!! ---------------------- Rosemary Holloway [email protected] >> Rosemary, you sound like you are talking about my family....mine came from a town around Ballinasloe = DERREEN located near the River Suck. Mine are MCCORMACK and collateral names [marriages], are KEANE, CONNOLLY, MITCHELL, GACQUIN. Births of GF's siblings are c1843-1864, making the Gr. Grandparents births about 1820's. Can you share more of what you have? And where you found it? There is the EAST GALWAY HISTORY SOCIETY, Woodford Heritage Centre, Woodford, Co. Galway for family research. The initial fee was $25 but, alas, it is now $45. I have not yet used them but others on this list may be able to share their experience with this resource. Janice Boston Irish