Irish Tree, LLC has launched a family history research portal offering free consultations and cost-effective packages starting at $299. Led by experienced genealogist Maureen Fitzpatrick, the service began operations in January and is accessible at http://irishtree.org. The company aims to help individuals trace their Irish ancestry, a process complicated by millions of missing or damaged birth, death, and marriage records in Ireland.
Fitzpatrick, whose research experience dates to the early 1990s, emphasizes formal validation of client assumptions and original, documented research. She stated that building a family tree can be challenging for anyone, but those with Irish ancestors face particular obstacles due to record gaps. Irish Tree offers three service tiers: Basic, for those with existing trees seeking record validation and context; Starter, for building initial frameworks from parents and grandparents; and Custom, for addressing specific research challenges. Both Basic and Starter packages include up to five hours of research for $299, while Custom packages begin with a free consultation to determine scope.
The launch addresses a growing interest in genealogy, particularly among diaspora communities seeking connections to their heritage. For individuals of Irish descent, this service could provide access to expertise that navigates complex archival landscapes, potentially uncovering familial stories and historical contexts that personal research might miss. The industry impact includes setting a competitive price point that may make professional genealogy services more accessible to a broader audience, moving beyond premium pricing models.
Client testimonials highlight emotional and practical benefits. One Milwaukee public relations executive used Irish Tree to complete a family tree before her mother's dementia progressed, resulting in documented stories and photos that brought joy and pride. Another client solved a longstanding mystery about her family's Irish birthplace through an obituary found by Irish Tree, leading to a meaningful visit to her ancestors' homeland. These examples underscore how verified genealogical work can foster personal connections and cultural identity.
Fitzpatrick's background includes decades of hands-on research, from using microfilm at libraries to early online forums like CompuServe's "Roots Forum" in the 1990s, which connected her with a genealogist in Northern Ireland and facilitated numerous research trips. Her approach prioritizes ethics, confidentiality, and verifiable documentation, aiming to deliver both accuracy and client satisfaction. As genealogy continues to gain popularity through DNA testing and digital archives, services like Irish Tree that combine affordability with rigorous methodology could help bridge gaps between amateur interest and professional-grade results, preserving family histories for future generations.
