International Genealogy Festival 2004

In 2004, County Sligo Heritage and Genealogy Society hosted an International Genealogy Festival from the 30th of September to the 3rd of October.

The Festival, which was one of the highest profile events held in the North West Region in 2004 had a truly International dimension with lecturers and delegates – numbering 400 in all, travelling from over eight countries and spanning three continents.

The wide ranging scope of the programme and broad categories of interest of the lectures ensured that the event attracted a diverse delegate profile. The festival brought together University Professors, Professional Genealogists, Scientists, Information Technology Experts, Heritage Centre Staff, Folklore enthusiasts, Geneticists, Authors, Historians, DIY Genealogists and people with Irish ancestry in a unique setting to discuss, network and learn more about Genealogical Research and our proud Heritage. Many delegates had travelled to visit the land of their forefathers and reconnect with their ancestral heritage.

Delegates had a chance to enjoy the delights of the ‘Land of Hearts desire’ with an enchanting boat trip on Lough Gill and a tour of beautiful ‘Yeats country’. They also experienced Irish hospitality at its best, when they visited Strandhill for a Pub quiz and social night.

All in all, the four day Festival was a tremendous success, promoting Sligo’s rich and ancient Heritage on the International stage, achieving a positive economic boost for the North West Tourism area and of course helping Irish descendants to re-connect with the land of their ancestors. As one satisfied delegate concluded…”it has added life back into my family research”.

County Sligo Heritage and Genealogy Society gratefully acknowledge the assistance of the following in organising this prestigious event: Co. Sligo Leader Partnership Co. Ltd, Failte Ireland, FAS, Irish Genealogy Limited, Irish Family History Foundation, Marketing Sligo Forum, North West Tourism Authority, Sligo County Council and the EU Programme for Peace and Reconciliation