Most of my research has been completed using www.rootsweb.com. They seem to have the largest free collection of genealogy files on the net. If the information is available and posted the lines will go back across the pond. The site is very user friendly and allows you to display the information in many different formats.

H'mmm a 1773 migration from Ireland to South Carolina, sounds like you may have an Ulster Scot in your family tree. You can join the message board for your surname on rootsweb, many questions get answered on these message boards, you might meet a very helpful cousin who is researching the same family line.

Yes genealogy is addictive, however, it is usually cheaper than the kilt addiction. But like Ron said you can enjoy both addictions at the same time, they work very well together.

Jim