Woodford Heritage Centre
Uncovering the Roots of East Galway 🌳📜
The Woodford Heritage Centre, home to the East Galway Family History Society, is a vital resource for anyone looking to trace their Irish ancestry or explore the unique history of the Lough Derg region. Housed in a beautifully restored schoolhouse dating back to 1834, the centre serves as a primary repository for historical records in East Galway. Beyond its world-class genealogy services, the centre acts as a cultural hub for the village of Woodford, showcasing local artifacts—including a rare 17th-century iron bar—and publishing extensive literature on local heritage. Situated near the ancient oak forests of Derrycrag and Rosturra, it provides a perfect blend of historical discovery and natural beauty for visitors exploring the Hidden Heartlands.
Genealogy Services & Research
As a designated centre of the Irish Family History Foundation, Woodford offers professional research services to help you build your family tree using church, state, and land records.
| Service Type | Details | Price Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Single Record Search | Check for a specific birth, marriage, or death record. | €20.00 |
| Face-to-Face Consultation | One-hour session with a professional researcher. | €40.00 |
| Initial Search Fee | Preliminary research to determine record availability. | €60.00 |
| Family History Report | An in-depth, bound report on your ancestors. | From €250.00 |
Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm | Friday: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm.
Research Tip: Before your visit, gather as much information as possible—names, approximate dates, and specific parishes. You can also search their database online via https://www.rootsireland.ie/ on a subscription basis.
Contact Information
Phone: +353 (0)90 974 9309
Email: [email protected]
Location: Barkhill, Woodford, Loughrea, Co. Galway, H62 HP57
FAQs about Woodford Heritage Centre
What area does the centre cover?
The centre specializes in the East Galway area, transcribing and computerizing records for dozens of Roman Catholic and Church of Ireland parishes in the region, along with civil records and census substitutes.
Are there local history books for sale?
Yes, the centre has an extensive shop (online and on-site) featuring unique publications like “A Guide to Woodford” and various journals covering East Clare and Galway heritage, folklore, and local parish histories.
Can I visit the nearby nature reserves?
Absolutely. Woodford is famous for its ancient oak woodlands. Derrycrag Wood and Pollnaknockaun Wood are just a short drive from the centre and offer magical, moss-covered trails that are perfect for a post-research walk.
East Galway Family History Society CLG
The East Galway Family History Society is based in Woodford Village, County Galway and have been involved in family history research and heritage activities for over 30 years. They have mapped and documented historical ruins, published books and other material, facilitated family gatherings, seminars and lectures. Local history publications are for sale at the Centre. The Society offers an online search facility at https://www.rootsireland.ie/ (subscription site) or inhouse research services, please contact the office via telephone or email for advice and more details.
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