Hello listers, I am still struggling with researching our Daly/Gilespie family who I believe came from Derry. I have been told that I need to know which townland the family came from. Could someone explain to me please the difference between a townland, a parish and a county? Basic questions I know, but I am utterly confused. Also, I have the name of a part of Derry which may be a starting point in my research. Does anyone know of 'Fountain Hill' in Derry and if it still exists today? Is it a townland or a parish, perhaps? Any help very much appreciated. Jenni Gibson Melbourne, Australia Send instant messages to your online friends http://au.messenger.yahoo.com

Further to Jenni questions When were the Townland system established? And could the names be changed or renamed over time? For example I have seen townland called "Boydstown" when we know that hte first Boyd did not go to Ireland until 1573. Mike Boyd Brisbane