The National Archives of Ireland has announced 48 'Centenarian Ambassadors' for the public release of the 1926 Census records.
The long-awaited archive, documenting life in the early years of the Irish Free State, is available to view online today.
The ambassadors were selected from almost 100 people who were alive at the time of the census.
All 48 were born between 1920 and 1926 and now live across the island of Ireland - from Donegal to Waterford, and from Dublin to Galway - as well as among the Irish diaspora in the United States, Canada, Britain and Australia.
The initiative has gathered first-hand testimonies from each of the ambassadors.
These personal accounts in video and photo form will be preserved permanently by the National Archives.
Each ambassador has been presented with a commemorative mug and certificate to mark their role.
Director of the National Archives, Orlaith McBride, said the project highlights the human stories behind the historical data.
Among those selected is Jeremiah Murphy, who was born in Cork in September 1925. He is the father of David Murphy, Economics and Public Affairs Editor with RTÉ News.
Reflecting on his life, Jeremiah recalled serving in Ireland's Local Defence Force during World War II. In his early 20s, shortly after the war ended, he hitchhiked across Europe with a friend.
Watch the video above to see our interview with Jeremiah and David Murphy.
