Census of the Irish Free State 1926
(c) National Archives Ireland 2026

The newly-published 1926 Census of the Irish Free State offers a poignant look at one of Ireland’s most significant female composers, Ina Boyle. With the information gathered at the Boyle family home in Stylebawn, Powerscourt, in County Wicklow, their family Census gives a fascinating snapshot of the past and how seemingly straightforward it was to hide a legacy.

The return, signed by her father William J. Boyle, lists the family members and their roles within the home. While William is identified as a "Clerk in Holy Orders," the entry for Ina Boyle (37 years old at the time) shines a light on the professional struggles she faced 100 years ago in Ireland.

The 1926 Census sees Ina listed simply as a "Daug" (daughter) with her occupation recorded as "Home duties." However, the reality was that by 1926, Ina was already a prolific and accomplished composer, having seen her work The Magic Harp published as part of the Carnegie Collection of British Music.

By way of paradox, recent milestones demonstrate an incredible rediscovery of Ina Boyle’s music. These include a new publishing agreement reached in March 2026 with Faber Music, who now represent her extensive catalogue of over 80 works. Additionally, March 2026 saw the high-profile recital 'Ina Boyle: a Rediscovery' at the legendary Wigmore Hall in London; we have also seen world premiere recordings of Ina’s music appearing on The Piatti Quartet’s celebrated album Phantasy and Esther Abrami’s Women. Boyle is at last being celebrated not just for her 'home duties'—for which we should commend her, as she dedicated her life to caring for her family—but for her true genius as a pioneering Irish composer whose voice is as vital today as it was a century ago.

To discover more of the 1926 Census, visit National Archives Ireland.