A National Archives exhibition about the 1926 census is on view in Limerick until Friday, 16 October 2026. The council’s announcement, published on 6 October, places The Story of Us at Istabraq Hall in its Merchants Quay headquarters, V94 EH90. The opening took place on 2 October; the exhibition is already under way. [1]

The display brings together census material, photographs, documents and audiovisual content about everyday life a century ago. The council says it also includes items from its own archival collections and a computer for accessing the census search. Before travelling, ask about visiting hours and access arrangements: the announcement gives a closing date but does not establish uninterrupted daily access. [1]

Bring a question rather than an assumed answer

For someone beginning family research, a useful preparation note contains a name, a possible address and the source of that information. Label an uncertain recollection as uncertain. A display about a community can suggest a new avenue of enquiry without proving that a person in a record is your relative.

The National Archives’ official search offers fields for names, county, townland or street, and District Electoral Division. It also provides a map for the 26 counties covered by the 1926 census. The search page directs users separately to 1901 and 1911 records. Choose the intended census before comparing entries. [2]

Keep the record separate from the interpretation

Save the record reference or link alongside your notes, and distinguish what the return actually records from what you infer. A familiar name can have several possible matches. An address, household members and the census year are useful context to retain for a later check.

The exhibition can be a manageable first step if a large online collection feels difficult to approach. It is also possible to begin with the official search from home. This guide does not reproduce census returns, identify a reader’s family or claim a visit to the exhibition. The council’s 7 October evening talk has already passed and should not be treated as an upcoming booking opportunity.