The medieval era (The Middle Ages or Dark Ages) began around 476 CE and spanned nearly 1,000 years. We will explore how the medieval Irish established and documented the ancestry and heraldry we pursue today. Many source records remain accessible, including textual documents, maps, and landscape information.

Dr Thomas Finan is a professor of medieval history and archaeology at Saint Louis University, and the author/editor of many books and academic articles relating to medieval Ireland. He has been the director of the Lough Key archaeological project for over 20 years. This "dig" in County Roscommon on Castle Island examines the site of a medieval castle (of the MacDermot lords of Moylurg), unearthing mysteries of 13th century rural Ireland. The University of Minnesota - Morris has also partnered in this project.

A proud descendent of Roscommon Irish, Dr. Finan is also active in several digital projects analyzing collections of medieval genealogical material.

Audience level: all

The webinar will be recorded, so any registrant who is not able to attend the live broadcast will have access to the recording and handout in a subsequent email.