Some good Irish stories for ya'...

The call for entries for the inaugural edition of the Carnival of Irish Heritage & Culture was announced over at Small-leaved Shamrock. Everyone loves a good Irish story is the result of that call for entries.

If you enjoy reading about the amazing history of the rugged Irish people, or if you just love a good story, happy reading!

Included in the 1st edition of the Carnival of Irish Heritage & Culture is the story about the amazing life of John Boyle O'Reilly: Irish boy, exiled prisoner in Australia, escapee to America and finally, editor and part-owner of Boston's The Pilot newspaper. (Did I forget to mention that he was a poet?) Read The Dreamer here at A Light That Shines Again for my story about O'Reilly's fascinating life.

Want to read the story of some other brave Irishmen and the part they played in the war which faced them in their new country? Take a look at The Fighting Irish in America's Civil War over at Small-leaved Shamrock for the story of the 69th Pennsylvania Infantry: a group of volunteers who ended up fighting in every major battle of the Civil War, most notably the battle of Gettysburg.

For more good Irish reading, take time to read the other entries at the 1st edition of the Carnival of Irish Heritage & Culture.

The 2nd edition of the carnival will feature Irish research & resources.

Here's the specific topic:

As genealogists and historians, we're always trying to get the facts. What was the world like during a certain time and place in history? Who was there - what were their names and where did they live? What role did they play in the world around them?

Please share with us your recommendations for books and resources on Irish genealogy and history. What is your favorite (or most frustrating) database of Irish records? Can you recommend a favorite book or resource for Irish research? How about sharing your favorite Irish history books? Any online resources that have helped you in your search for Irish ancestors or your attempt to gain an understanding of Irish history in general?

I'm looking forward to receiving your recommendations via carnival entry by December 28 and publishing them on January 1, 2008 at Small-leaved Shamrock just in time for a fresh start on our projects for the new year! Even if you've never participated in a blog carnival before, please consider joining us. And if you have any ideas for topics that you would like to see on future editions of the Carnival of Irish Heritage & Culture, please send them via email. Your ideas and suggestions are welcomed!