TIP OF THE WEEK WEEK – IRISH NAMING PATTERN  

Looking back through the centuries in Ireland, there has traditionally been a very strong naming pattern for the children born into a family. Perhaps knowing this pattern will assist you in your research.

eldest son usually named after his paternal grandfather

second son usually named after his maternal grandfather

third son usually named for his father

fourth son usually named for his father’s eldest brother

fifth son usually named for his mother’s eldest brother  

eldest daughter usually named after her maternal grandmother

second daughter usually named after her paternal grandmother

third daughter usually named for her mother

fourth daughter usually named for her mother’s eldest sister

fifth daughter usually named for her father’s eldest sister