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The Story of Us
The Story of Us – Ár Scéal Féin
On the night of April 18, 1926, every person in Ireland was counted. These weren’t just numbers, they were the stories of nearly three million people building a new nation.
Ireland in 1926
Just four years after independence, Ireland was overwhelmingly agricultural. Over half the population worked the land, while others fished (4%), worked in manufacturing (14%), or served as domestic help (7%). Despite a 5% population decline since 1911, those who remained were laying the foundations of modern Ireland. Even then, Ireland faced a housing shortage, proof that some challenges span generations.
We’re partnering with the National Archives on this landmark programme, creating a bold visual identity for exhibitions in Dublin, London and Boston, plus the book “The Story of Us: Independent Ireland and the 1926 Census,” documentaries, and theatrical productions.
Launched today by Minister Patrick O’Donovan, the complete 1926 Census will be freely searchable online from April 2026.
The release of the 1926 Census records is a historic moment, offering an invaluable account of life as the Irish Free State took its first steps as an independent nation.
Minister Patrick O’Donovan
Check back with us and the National Archives as elements of this exciting project are delivered.
