Carroll cousins,
I have just visited the 'official web site of the Clan Cian', and I
strongly urge you to keep your feet firmly planted in the American sod
if you do so.
I have lived and studied Irish history in Ireland, and worked in Irish
State archives and libraries. I have also published in these fields. I
will be glad to answer any queries of a historical nature FREE of
charge, and will begin by giving you the FREE knowledge that 'Clan Cian'
simply means 'Clans of Old'. As for the group being recognized by the
Irish government, well I could start a bycicle club and be recognized by
the government. While I was at it, I would probably elect myself as
'Chief'!
In my opinion, this site preys upon the sentimentality of Irish
immigrants for 'the old country', and asks a price for doing so. It's
hard to fathom unless you've spent much time there, but the 'old
country' is forever altered. What remains are the histories and lore,
and the NAMES! And these, dear cousins, are free!
VA