are most of the Walsh surnames Irish? and how did they get changed when immigrating to USA?

Ronald, yes most Walsh surnames originate in Ireland, I have read, but can not qualify that Walsh is 2nd or 3rd most popular surname in Ireland. As for the issue of changed spelling, this may have something to do with the fact that most immigrants were from the working class and often could not read or write, let alone spell their own name. In New Zealand this often meant that names were recorded as they were pronounced/heard or interpreted by officials. Research is difficult as Irish records held in government offices prior to the 20th century were almost all destroyed. This includes census, death and marriage records. I am presently researching my Irish roots and will be traveling to Ireland to locate what if any church records I can find. All be it that I have only narrowed my search to Co. Wexford and the Parish of St Johns! there are many many churchs to visit.

I hope this is of some help.

Jason Walsh

Hi
Most of the church records can be found on www.rootsireland.ie...It might help narrow down your search area before you make the trip here.

The different spelling of the name has a lot to do with officials recording what they thought people said .Even here we have Walsh, Welsh Welch and then stick e on the end for some more variations .
The name in Irish is Breathnach which means Welsh man .So we would be of Norman stock.

Cheers
John Walsh