surname distribution 1890

This table shows the distribution of the main family surnames, registered on this database, in Ireland in 1890. The data was derived from Robert R. Matheson's Special Report on Surnames in Ireland. This statistical report is based on the births registered in Ireland during that year. As the former Chief Herald of Ireland, Donal Begley, pointed out "Its value lies in the fact that it provides authorative information as to the numerical strength and distribution of family names throughout the country" (Irish Genealogy: A Record Finder, Heraldic Artists Ltd).

It should be noted that the data provides a snapshot of Irish surname distribution in the late 19th century after Ireland had experienced significant population change caused by factors such as the Great Famine, emigration, rural to urban migration etc. As such, one might expect differences between this data and the distribution of surnames in Ireland in the first half of the 19th century. A further limitation is the fact that it includes only surnames having five or more birth entries thus excluding some of the rarer Irish family names.

Source: Ulster Historical Foundation