All three former members were delighted to be recognised for their contribution over many years to the world of Irish genealogy, particularly in relation to Ulster.
They played no small part in the early development of what is now known as Accredited Genealogists Ireland (AGI). Hazel Ervine, Joan Petticrew and Marie Wilson were founder members of the Association of Professional Genealogists in Ireland, which was established in Belfast in 1986. The group changed its name to Accredited Genealogists Ireland in 2015.
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| L-R: Hazel Ervine, Joan Petticrew and Marie Wilson receiving their certificates recording their election as Emeritus Members of Accredited Genealogists Ireland. (Photo © North of Ireland Family History Society) |
Until their retirement, each of the three women provided family history research services predominantly for those with Ulster ancestors. Much of their careers were spent in the pre-Internet era, when research was a hands-on experience requiring visits to archives and libraries and long hours browsing manuscript sources or trawling through microfilm.
Announcing their election as Emeritus Members, AGI President Joan Sharkey said: “Hazel, Joan and Marie are most deserving of this small act of recognition by AGI. They spent many years at the coal face of Irish genealogy and over their careers brought joy to thousands through their dedication and expertise.
“As working members of AGI, each made a serious and committed contribution to the promotion of Irish genealogy and to the setting of high standards among professional genealogists across the island of Ireland.”