WIN... A FAMILY PASS TO THE -Scots Agency (Boord o Ulstér-Scotch) official publication SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 ULSTER-AMERICAN FOLK PARK (SEE P16) Celebrating the bedrock of a nation

1718The Migration

FROM ULSTER TO NEW ENGLAND

The Scotch-Irish journey began 300 years ago with the migration to America - and they have been shaping the foundations of the country ever since. This month’s edition of the Ulster-Scot marks the significant tercentenary with a commemorative eight-page pullout, examining the origins of a unique relationship between Ulster and America...

NASHVILLE DELEGATION HONOURED AT SCHOOL IN FOCUS: MONAGHAN FLAGSHIP AWARD FOR THE ULSTER-SCOT CENTRE COLLEGIATE HITS THE RIGHT NOTE PRIMARY SCHOOL PAGES 4 & 13 PAGE 14 PAGE 15 2 www.ulsterscotsagency.com SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 Fair faa ye Focus on languages

Welcome to the May edition of the Ulster-Scot. It has been a busy time for the Ulster-Scots Agency. at BIC conference On 1st May a reception in honour of the Nashville Sister Cities Delegation was held recently hosted speakers on promoting in the Discover Ulster-Scots a conference on behalf and profiling language Centre. The visitors from of the British Irish Coun- within the community and Nashville, one of Belfast’s cil for policy makers and business. Sister Cities, were warmly practitioners of Ian Crozier, CEO welcomed by the guest speakers. indigenous, minority and Ulster-Scots Agency, The keynote speaker was former First Minister, the Rt. Hon lesser used languages. (pictured) delivered a presentation focused on Arlene Foster MLA who brought good wishes from Northern About 80 delegates at- Robert Burns. . The event saw the launch of the Ulster-Scot’s latest tended the event, which Workshops by Manx, publication Andrew Jackson, the first Scotch-Irish President. was held at Crumlin Welsh, Cornish, Ul- The author, Billy Kennedy, gave an overview of the book and Road Gaol, on both days ster-Scots and Irish then signed copies for the guests. The delegation also sampled with talks from Welsh, practitioners were well some true Ulster-Scots fare, which was pronounced delicious, Scottish, Manx and Irish attended each day. especially Tatie Apple fadge! More Nashville in Belfast news on Pages 4&13. Perhaps the most important single year in the story of the relationship between Ulster and America is 1718. It was not by any means the first migration of people from Ulster to Rebekah amazes sell-out crowd the American continent but it was probably the first that was organised successfully to bring settlers from one catchment area. Read more in our special feature inside. As always we welcome your feedback and hope that everyone finds something of interest in this edition. Ian Crozier is Chief Executive of the Ulster-Scots Agency

The Ulster-Scot The official newspaper for the Ulster-Scots Agency / Tha Boord o Ulster-Scotch

Main office: The Ulster-Scots Agency, The Corn Exchange 31 Gordon Street Belfast BT1 2LG Telephone: (028) 9023 1113 Email: [email protected]

International callers dialling the Ulster-Scots Agency: Newtownards Highland Dancer, along with the Cross Border event and have also been touring Europe - 00 44 28 9023 1113 Rebekah Murdoch, wowed a sold Orchestra of Ireland in the Peace with the show. Australia - 00 11 44 28 9023 1113 out audience at Belfast’s SSE Proms. To date, they have danced along- USA - 011 44 28 9023 1113 ARENA. The Johnston School of Highland side the Orchestra in Liverpool, The 11-year-old was especially Dancing from Moneyrea are Dublin, Galway, with the next stop Regional office in Raphoe: selected to perform a solo section regular performers at the huge being . The Ulster-Scots Agency William Street, Raphoe Co Donegal Telephone: +353 7 4917 3876 Email: [email protected] CLICK ON THIS...

Editor: Gary McDonald WORD Associate Editor: Janis Smyth For details of what’s on check out our events calendar - Production: The Irish News www.ulsterscotsagency.com/events OF THE ISSUE Printing: Interpress NI Limited For Ulster-Scots news - www.ulsterscotsagency.com/news The Ulster-Scot next edition: Saturday 14th July, 2018 Thole Deadline for copy: Wednesday 27th June 2018 To sign up for the Ulster-Scots E-Newsletter - Contributors should note that publication of any visit www.ulsterscotsagency.com/newsletter/ submitted article is at the Editor’s discretion subscribe/register your details and receive updates on the areas that you are most interested. Meaning:

Join us on Facebook - visit www.facebook.com/ Endure UlsterScotsAgency now and like our page to keep up to date on what’s happening, upload your photos from Ulster-Scots events and share your comments. www.ulsterscotsagency.com www.ulsterscotsagency.com 3 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 Lorraine Ronaldson ‘honoured’ to be named RSPBA Director

orraine Ronaldson was ap- Lorraine Ronaldson (main), pictured in her pointed a Director of the Royal chain of office as President of the County Down Section of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band LScottish Pipe Band Association Association, Branch (RSPBA) representing the Northern (RSPBANI), has been appointed a Director of Ireland Branch (RSPBANI) at the the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association. Also pictured are current RSPBA Directors branch meeting in March. Arlene Faulkner and Kenny Crothers This appointment of a third Northern Ireland Branch Director is a new position - the other the compiling team under the watchful eye two directors are Kenny Crothers and Arlene of the late Ernie Clarke, compiling officer. Faulkner. There were four of them in the team: In March 2014 Lorraine was installed as Ernie, Quintin, Lorraine’s late cousin Edith President of the County Down Section of McVeigh and of course Lorraine. After the the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association compiling team, Lorraine was elected as Northern Ireland in succession to the late Secretary of the NI Branch to follow on Wilfred McFadden MBE who served the from Fred Walker. section and the community for many years. This was after Fred had retired from the Speaking of her new appointment, Lorraine post of Executive Officer after completing said: “My grateful thanks go to the NI 38 years. Branch Executive and the NI bands for their Lorraine loved this office but due to time support. constraints with her daily workload, she “I consider it an honour to represent the was forced to relinquish this position. Northern Ireland Branch. She was then elected as Promotions “This is a new challenge for me in the pipe Officer for the Branch, a post she held for band world; I am looking forward to it and two years. shall carry out my duties to the best of my Through the RSPBA Lorraine met her hus- ability.” band Alan Ronaldson from Edinburgh, an Ensemble and Piping Adjudicator. Brief profile on Lorraine: Alan in his younger years was very much Her grandfather, the late Edward McVeigh JP involved competitively in solo piping and MBE, was President of the Co Down Section He with many others was instrumental with An enjoyable time with many happy was a member of the Woolmet Pipe Band. many years ago in addition to being the process of being adopted in NI as a memories and a very good basis with solid He then joined the Lothian and Borders Honorary President of the NI Branch. branch in their own right. grounding within the grass roots of the Police and was for many years playing at He was the first and one of only two in NI Lorraine began her time in the pipe band organisation for what lay ahead for her in top level with their band until retiring from to hold the Chairmanship in Scotland (that world as a piper with the Leapoughs Pipe the future. competitive playing and becoming a full was before Lorraine was born). Band. During this time she was also asked to join member of the RSPBA Adjudicators Panel. Border Reivers Festival Linen Hall Library in Henry makes a global impression Joy McCracken presentation

The Hawick Border Reivers Festival 2018 attracted visitors from all over the world, including the US, Canada, Finland, Germany and the UK. They visited the Living History Ireland tent to learn more about the Ulster-Scots connection, listening to and watching Pictured (from left to right) Linen Hall Librarian Samantha McCombe, Director Julie displays and demonstrations put on during Andrews, Deputy Librarian Monica Cash and Customer Services Manager Marie Ryan the day by the team over a packed with the Henry Joy McCracken bust weekend of events. 4 www.ulsterscotsagency.com SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 New book charts New book recalls Andrew Jackson, Nashville’s favourite son the distinguished The DUP leader and former First Minister, Philip Brett and Jordan Greer. Also present Arlene Foster, visited the Discover were North Belfast MLA William Humphrey Ulster-Scots Centre on May 1 to welcome and former DUP Culture Minister Nelson Mc- a delegation of civic leaders from Nashville, Causland, as well as a host of people from Tennessee, who were here for Nashville in the Ulster-Scots community on both sides of and iconic career of Belfast, a programme of events the border. organised to mark the Sister Cities The event also saw the launch of a new relationship between the two places. publication from the Ulster-Scots Agency, en- Mrs Foster spoke about the shared kinship titled Andrew Jackson, The First Scotch-Irish that existed between Northern Ireland and President. Written by News Letter journalist Andrew Jackson America, as a result of the thousands of and author, Billy Kennedy, it charts the life people who migrated from these shores and and legacy of the seventh US President, played a huge role in the development of whose Ulster-Scots family moved from Coun- the United States; and she also expressed ty Antrim to the Carolinas shortly before he her desire to see our shared Ulster-Scots/ was born. Scotch-Irish heritage occupy a much more Belfast has been a sister city of Nashville prominent role in the economic and cultural for over 20 years and the Belfast-Nashville life of Northern Ireland in the future. relationship has grown to include music, The Nashville delegation, which included a cultural exchanges and business opportu- mix of City Councillors, lawyers, academics nities in both cities. This year’s Nashville and business people, were also joined at in Belfast programme, the first event of its the event by Belfast Councillors Lee Reyn- kind, ran from April 28 to May 6. olds, Brian Kingston, Guy Spence and Jeff Dudgeon; and Newtownabbey Councillors Pictures: John Kelly

LEFT: Patsy Cottrell, Alderman Brian Kingston (Former Lord Mayor of Belfast), Russ Deaton and Nan- Author and journalist Billy cy Gregg pictured at Kennedy pictured presenting a reception in honour a copy of his book to the of the Nashville Sister former First Minister, the Rt Cities Delegation Hon Arlene Foster MLA in the Discover Ulster-Scots Centre, Belfast he turbulent life and iconic ca- reer of Andrew Jackson, the first Ulster-Scots President of the United “Andrew Jackson TStates, was recognised in Belfast on May 1 by public figures from both sides of had many faults, but, the Atlantic. Jackson, son of Carrickfergus parents with the exception of Andrew and Elizabeth Jackson who emi- George Washington grated to America in 1765, was, in a highly distinguished career, commander as ‘Old and Abraham Hickory’ of the US Army, and President over two terms (1828-36). Lincoln, “no man has A detailed and illustrated 50-page brochure, charting the heroic exploits of President left a deeper mark on Jackson, was launched by the Ulster-Scots Agency at a reception for a delegation of American history” public representatives, academics and ed- ucationalists from Nashville as part of the - US President Theodore Roosevelt Sister-Cities’ twinning linking Belfast and the Tennessee capital. “no man has left a deeper mark on Ameri- DUP leader and former First Minister can history”. Dr Terry Kennedy, Billy Kennedy (author and journalist), Roy McGivern (Chairman of Linfield Arlene Foster, Nashville Metropolitan Kennedy recounts that Jackson, born in Football Club) and Gary Kennedy MBE pictured at the launch of Billy’s latest publication councillor-at-large Jim Shulman and other the Waxhaws, Carolinas region 20 months Andrew Jackson, the first Scotch-Irish President guests were welcomed by Ian Crozier, chief after his parents moved from Ulster, had an executive of the Ulster-Scots Agency. Mr American patriot militia role as a teenager Crozier said Andrew Jackson was a 19th in the 1770s Revolutionary War and, later, century American luminary whose profile as commander of the US Army, defeated as a statesman, politician and soldier was British forces in the epic Battle of New tangibly recognised in the Ulster homeland Orleans on January 18, 1815. of his Co Antrim-born parents and, particu- He became a politician in Nashville and larly, in Tennessee where he lived for most founded the Democratic Party, espousing of his life. Jacksonian democracy - “government for The Jackson brochure was written and the people, by the people”. He was the compiled, on behalf of the Ulster-Scots seventh, and the first “common man” to Agency, by senior News Letter journalist be elected President. His connection to Billy Kennedy, author of 11 books on 18th Nashville, living with his wife Rachel at ‘The century Ulster migration to America. Hermitage’ estate remained until his death In the brochure, Billy, who lives in Tandra- in 1845, aged 78. gee, quotes another US President Theodore • Copies of Andrew Jackson The First Roosevelt, who said Andrew Jackson had Scotch-Irish President by Billy Kennedy many faults, but, with the exception of are freely available from the Ulster-Scots Dr Marieta Velikova, Nancy Gregg, Janis Smyth, Jacqui George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, Agency in Belfast. Leeman, Patsy Cottrell, Dan Walsh and Ian Crozier 1718The Migration

FROM ULSTER TO NEW ENGLAND 1718 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 1718

MAP SHOWING THE MAIN AREAS IN ULSTER AFFECTED BY THE 1718 MIGRATION TO NEW ENGLAND

Perhaps the most important single year in the story of the relationship between Ulster and America is 1718

Newburyport, Massachusetts. Where the Merrimack River meets the Atlantic Ocean. © Carol Neuschul (Flickr Creative Commons).

CURRENT EXHIBITION CAUSEWAY 1718: Wars of the seventeenth century, Penal laws imposing SOCIETY IN TRANSITION civil and religious penalties, Wars of the seventeenth century, and places of the Causeway area, Dates: May 11 - June 20 2018 Scottish immigration, Penal laws imposing civil and reli- connecting local people and places Tuesday – Saturday 11am - 4pm gious penalties, Scottish immigra- with bigger national stories. Dis- Museum economic challenges and the tion, economic challenges and the cover what was happening, why it Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre introduction of new industries all happened, and what the 1718 Bann 24 Main Street introduction of new industries impacted on the Causeway area in Valley Migration was all about. Limavady the early eighteenth century. Museum all impacted on the Causeway This was the background of the first Coleraine Town Hall BT4 9FJ organised migration from Ulster to Coleraine (028) 7776 0650 area in the early eighteenth North America – the 1718 Bann County Londonderry Dates: June 29 - August 25 2018 Valley Migration. BT52 1DE Monday – Saturday 9.30am - 5pm century. This exhibition explores the people (028) 7034 4723 Admission Free

1689 1700 17011704 1714 1718

Siege of Rev. James Rev. James The Rev. A succession Petition to Arrival in Arrival in Woodside McGregor provisions William of bad Governor Boston of Boston of ordained ordained of the Test Holmes harvests Samuel William McGregor minister of minister of Act were emigrated began in Shute and Mary and the Dunboe extended from Ulster (26 March) carrying Aghadowey to Ireland Strabane Rev. contingent to Boston William (early Boyd and August) the petition to Shute (21/25 July) SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 1718 BACKGROUND TO THE STORY

n 28 July 1689, a boy named JAMES Penal Laws that were passed by the Angli- OMcGREGOR is reputed to have climbed can-dominated Irish Parliament. to the top of the tower of St Columb’s Presbyterians were particularly aggrieved Cathedral and fired the cannon that signalled when the provisions of the Test Act were the breaking of the boom – the barrier that extended to Ireland in 1704. had been placed across the River Foyle by Henceforth those wishing to hold public office Jacobite troops – which led to the lifting of would have to produce evidence that they had the siege of Londonderry. taken communion in the ; As many as 30,000 people as well as a garri- this effectively disbarred son of 7,000 men had been packed into the Presbyterians from public appointments. city for over three months and it is reckoned Furthermore, marriages conducted by that 15,000 of them died of fever or starva- Presbyterian ministers were not considered tion, or were killed in battle. valid and children born of such marriages The siege was an event of immense were regarded as illegitimate. St Columb’s Cathedral importance in the lives of many of the For many members of the establishment, subsequent 1718 emigrants, McGregor Presbyterians were regarded as more of a among them. Memories of this time were threat than Catholics, especially because of carried with them to the New World and their numerical superiority over Anglicans in passed down through the generations. Ulster. No less a figure than JONATHAN SWIFT The period following the end of the Williamite is believed to have been the author of a war in Ireland was to prove hugely publication which declared that Ulster disappointing for Presbyterians. Presbyterians were a ‘more knavish, wicked, Having fought for King William, Ulster’s thievish race than even the natural Irish of Presbyterians expected their loyalty to be the other three provinces’. rewarded by the government. In the circumstances, it is hardly surprising However, to their considerable frustration they that Presbyterians were restive and ready to found themselves excluded from full access look beyond Ireland for alternative places to Plaque in First Derry Presbyterian Church to Londonderry’s historic walls to political and civil power as a result of the live and worship. those who resigned from the Londonderry Corporation as a result of the Test Act FAMILIES IN LONDONDERRY NEW HAMPSHIRE EARLIER LINKS BETWEEN ULSTER AND AMERICA Warner House, Makemie statue in t the beginning of the eighteenth cen- Another Donegal native to emigrate to America Portsmouth Philadelphia Atury Ulster people may only have had a at this time was WILLIAM HOLMES who, Inset: Makemie limited knowledge of America, but it was as a young man, moved to New England; blue plaque certainly not unknown to them. subsequently he returned to Ireland and was The first attempt to transplant families from ordained minister of Strabane in December Ulster to America took place in the mid 1630s. 1692. This venture was led by four Ulster-Scots In 1714 Holmes resigned as minister of Stra- ministers who had fallen foul of the civil and bane and again sailed for New religious authorities on account of their England. In the following year he became Presbyterian beliefs. pastor of a congregation in Chilmark, Martha’s The inclination of the Ulster Scots to look They commissioned the building of a ship, Vineyard. for emancipation across the Atlantic was Eagle Wing, and set sail in September 1636. His son Robert was a ship’s captain with manifested as early in 1636, when the Due to severe storms, however, the ship was trading connections to Ireland. Father and son Eagle Wing set out from Belfast Lough for forced to turn back. are believed to have played a pivotal role in New England with a company of would-be By the 1680s the city of Londonderry and town promoting New England as a land of opportuni- emigrants. By the end of the seventeenth of Coleraine were part of a transatlantic trad- ty to audiences in Ulster. century there were small settlements of ing network that connected America, Ireland Another figure who seems to have been impor- and Britain, and individuals and families began tant in this regard was ARCHIBALD Ulster Scots in America, especially on Old Meeting House, Ramelton to take advantage of these links to emigrate MACPHEADRIS who actively sought out fami- Chesapeake Bay, but there was nothing from Ulster to the New World. Among these lies from Ulster for New England. like a general movement prior to 1718. early emigrants was Donegal-born REV. FRAN- Probably from Ballymoney, MacPheadris estab- CIS MAKEMIE who left for Maryland in 1683. lished a successful business in Portsmouth, T. W. Moody, ‘The Ulster Scots in His pioneering ministry earned him the title, New Hampshire, where his home – now called Colonial and Revolutionary America’, ‘Father of American Presbyterianism’. the Warner House – still stands. Studies, vol. 34 (1945) 1718-191719 17201722 1729

Rev. Edward Arrival in McGregor Woodside Part of the McGregor Woodside Nutfield was Death of Fitzgerald Boston of moved to became Aghadowey joined sailed to incorporated McGregor leads a party Woodside Dracut, minister of contingent his fellow London as a town (5 March) of migrants, and further Massachusetts Brunswick, spent the emigrants in (January), (21 June) and mainly from families (October), Maine winter at Nutfield, New having been the name was the Foyle from the spending (November) Casco Bay Hampshire dismissed as changed to Valley, to Bann Valley the winter (April) minister of Londonderry Worcester, (September); ministering Brunswick Massachusetts they soon there (September (possibly move on to 1719) August) Merrymeeting Bay, Maine 1718 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 1718 REV. JAMES MCGREGOR OF The petition that proved to be a defining moment n the early 1700s, Presbyteri- Ians in Ireland felt under pres- AGHADOWEY sure on a number of fronts. n the spring and early summer of 1718 James Teatte V.D.M Ninian Pattison In addition to the religious and families in Ulster were getting ready to Thomas Cobham James Thompson legal hindrances noted already, I V.D.M. John Thompson there were economic difficulties depart for New England. To some observers, the desire to emigrate Robert Houston Robert Thompson as well, with a large number of was comparable to a raging fever. V.D.M. Adam Thompson 21-year leases falling in and The Anglican bishop of Dublin wrote of an William Leech V.D.M. Alexander Pattison higher rents being demanded. ‘unaccountable humor that has possessed Robert Higinbotham Thomas Dunlop Added to that, there was a the generality of the people’. V.D.M. John Willson succession of bad harvests in The advocates of the planned emigration John Porter V.D.M. Thomas Walas the 1710s, and the manufac- tended to be Presbyterian ministers, the Thos Elder V.D.M. Thomas Cewch ture of linen had become less natural leaders of their communities. James Thomson William Boyd profitable. As highlighted already, it was the pastor V.D.M. William Christy In early 1718, men who were of Macosquin who carried the petition to William Ker John Boyd dissatisfied with the situation Boston. Will McAlben William Boyd in Ireland signed an elaborate It was one of his ministerial colleagues Jahon Andrson Hugh Orr petition, still in existence, and from the Bann Valley who would come to be George Grege Robert Johnston sent it to Boston. regarded as a Moses-type figure in the story Andrew Dean Thomas Black The petition, dated 26 March of the 1718 migration. Alexander Dunlop Peter Murray 1718, was addressed to In 1701 James McGregor was ordained M.A. John Jameson SAMUEL SHUTE, the Governor of minister of Aghadowey. He had been born Arch M Cook M.A. John Cochran Massachusetts, and those who c. 1677, probably in , County Alexr Blair Samuel Gouston subscribed to it were anxious Londonderry, the son of David McGregor. B. Cochran Thomas Shadey to assure his Excellency of our As noted previously, he was in Londonderry in William Galt William Ker sincere and hearty inclination 1689 during the siege. Peter Thompson Thomas Moore to transport ourselves to that He followed the customary path to the Richard McLaughlin Andrew Watson very excellent and renowned Presbyterian ministry, receiving his higher John Muar John Thonson plantation upon our obtaining education in Scotland, probably at Glasgow Willeam Jeameson James McKerrall from his excellency suitable University. Wm Agnew Hugh Stockman encouragement. He was able to preach in Gaelic and was Jeremiah Thompson Andrew Cochran The signatories, including nine appointed by the Synod of Ulster to address John Mitchell James Carkley ministers of the gospel, can Irish-speaking congregations in a number of James Paterson Lawrence Dod be identified as coming from places. Joseph Curry Sandrs Mear an area centring on the Bann By the mid 1710s the Aghadowey David Wilson John Jackson Valley, in counties Antrim and congregation was in serious financial Patrick Anderson James Curry Londonderry – a region that had difficulties and McGregor himself was owed John Gray James Elder strongly affected by migration some £80 in stipend, a colossal sum of James Greg James Acton from Britain, especially from money for the time. Alexr Mc Bride, Bart X – name Illegible Scotland, and where there was McGregor could see no future in Ireland and Sam McGivorn Samuel Smith strong support for the decided to take both his family and others John Hurdock Andrew Dodg from his congregation to America. Geo. Campbell James Forsaith James Shorswood Andrew Fleeming In his farewell sermon delivered on the eve John McLaughlen George Thomson of departure, he stated that he and his George McLaughlen James Browster flock were leaving Ireland: James Henre Thomas (illegible) to avoid oppression and cruel bondage, Thomas Ramsay Jeatter Fultone to shun persecution and designed ruin, Francis Richie Robert Wear to withdraw from the communion of James Gregg Alexander idolators and to have an opportunity Robert Boyd Donaldson of worshipping God according to the Hugh Tarbel Archd. Duglass dictates of conscience and the rules of David Tarbel Robert Stiven His inspired Word. John X Robb Robert Henry One of the most important documents relating John Heslet James Pettey to the period of the 1718 migration is the George McAlester David Bigger Aghadowey session book, which begins in Thomas Ramadge David Patteson 1702 and runs up to 1761 and which provides James Campbell David (illegible) a fascinating insight into the congregation. David Lindsay John Wight The volume is preserved in the library of the Robt Giveen Joseph Wight Presbyterian Historical Society of Ireland James Laidlay Robert Willson in Belfast. Image courtesy of PHSI and Benjamin Galt James Ball Aghadowey Presbyterian Church Daniel Todd Andrew Cord Robert Barr James Nesmith Hugh Hollmes John Black Robert King John Thompson John Black Samuel Boyd Peter Christy Lawrence McLaughlen James Smith John Moor James Smith James McKeen Patrick Smith John Lamont Sameuel Ceverelle John Smith James Craig Patrick Orr Samuel Wilson M.A. Bonill Orr Gawen Jirwen William Orr Robert X Crage Thomas Hanson Samuel Hanson Robert Miller John Orr John Thompson John Hanson James Cochran Thomas Wilson Jeams Lenox Hugh Tomson Richard Etone William Cochran William Wilson John Leslie James Still Samuel X Hunter James Bryce John Lason James X Hogg John Hunter 1718 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 1718 REV. JAMES REV. WILLIAM BOYD AND THE MCGREGOR OF The petition that proved to be a defining moment PETITION TO GOVERNOR SHUTE n the early 1700s, Presbyteri- Presbyterian Church – ans in Ireland felt under pres- with others from further south I and west. AGHADOWEY sure on a number of fronts. James Teatte V.D.M John Calvil James McFee In addition to the religious and There were 319 signatories to Thomas Cobham Samuel Wat James Tonson legal hindrances noted already, this petition, of whom only a V.D.M. James Craford George Anton there were economic difficulties handful did not write their own Robert Houston David Henderson James Anton as well, with a large number of names. V.D.M. Mathew Storah George Kairy 21-year leases falling in and The man delegated to carry the William Leech V.D.M. David Widborn Thomas Freeland higher rents being demanded. petition to New England was Robert Higinbotham Luk Wat Thomas Hunter Added to that, there was a REV. WILLIAM BOYD. V.D.M. Robert Hendre David X McKerrell succession of bad harvests in Born in 1685, he was possibly John Porter V.D.M. William Walas Hargos Kennedy the 1710s, and the manufac- the son of Rev. Thomas Boyd, Thos Elder V.D.M. James Baverlan John X Suene ture of linen had become less the minister of Aghadowey who James Thomson Peter Simpson Adam X Ditkoy profitable. had been in Londonderry during V.D.M. Thomas McLaughlin Alexander kid In early 1718, men who were the siege of 1689. William Ker Robert Boyd Thomas Lorie dissatisfied with the situation William Boyd studied at the Will McAlben Andrew Agnew Thomas Hines in Ireland signed an elaborate universities of Edinburgh and Jahon Andrson James King Will X Halkings petition, still in existence, and Glasgow and in 1707 was George Grege Thomas Elder George Anton sent it to Boston. licensed by the Route Andrew Dean Daniel Johnston John Collreath The petition, dated 26 March Presbytery. On 31 January 1710 Alexander Dunlop Robert Walker William Caird 1718, was addressed to he was ordained minister of M.A. David Jonston John Gray SAMUEL SHUTE, the Governor of Macosquin. Arch M Cook M.A. James Steuart John Woodman Massachusetts, and those who On his arrival in Boston in July Alexr Blair John Murray Andrew Watson subscribed to it were anxious 1718 Boyd negotiated with the B. Cochran Thomas Blackwel William Bleair to assure his Excellency of our authorities there. William Galt Thomas Wilson Hugh X Blare sincere and hearty inclination They were quite keen to have Peter Thompson John Ross Willaim Blare to transport ourselves to that new settlers, especially people Richard McLaughlin William Johnston Samuel Anton very excellent and renowned used to farming and frontier life; John Muar John King James Knox plantation upon our obtaining the colonial government thought Willeam Jeameson Andrew Curry Robert Hendry from his excellency suitable that Ulster settlers could be Wm Agnew John (illegible) John Knox encouragement. placed on the outer reaches Jeremiah Thompson James (illegible) William Hendry The signatories, including nine of their colony. Boyd made a John Mitchell Samuel Code William Dunkan ministers of the gospel, can favourable impression on those James Paterson James Blak David Duncan be identified as coming from whom he met. Joseph Curry Thomas Gro John Muree an area centring on the Bann The Puritan divine, REV. David Wilson Thomys Ouston James Gillmor Valley, in counties Antrim and INCREASE MATHER, wrote that Patrick Anderson Jame Gro Alexander Chocran Londonderry – a region that had Boyd was a man distinguished John Gray John Clark Edward McKene strongly affected by migration ‘by the Exemplary holiness of James Greg Thomas McFader John Morduck from Britain, especially from his Conversation, and the Alexr Mc Bride, Bart David hanson Samuel X McMun Scotland, and where there was Eminency of his Ministerial Sam McGivorn Richard Acton Henry Calual strong support for the Gifts’. John Hurdock James Claire Thomas McLaughlen Geo. Campbell Thomas Elder Robert Hogg James Shorswood Jeremiah Claire John Millar John McLaughlen Jacob Clark Hugh Calwell George McLaughlen Abram Baberley William Boyd James Henre Stephen Murdock John Stirling Thomas Ramsay Robert Murdock Samuel Smith Francis Richie John Murdock John Lamond James Gregg Willaim Jennson Robert Lamond Robert Boyd James Rodger Robert Knox Hugh Tarbel John Buyers William Wilson David Tarbel Robert Smith Wm. Paterson John X Robb Adam Dean James Alexander John Heslet Randall Alexander James Nesmtih George McAlester Thomas Boyd David Craig Thomas Ramadge Hugh Rogers Weall McNeall James Campbell John Craig Thomas Orr David Lindsay Wm Boyle Wm. Caldwall Rev. William Boyd returned to Ireland in 1719 and in 1725 was ordained minister of Monreagh, . He remained minister of this Robt Giveen Benj Boyle James Moore Jr. congregation until his death in 1772. He was buried in nearby Taughboyne James Laidlay Ja. Kennedy Sam Gunion churchyard where his gravestone can still be seen Benjamin Galt M. Stirling Matthew Lord Daniel Todd Samuel Ross Robert Knox Robert Barr John Ramsay Alex McGregore Hugh Hollmes John McKeen James Trotter Robert King James Willsone Alexander McNeall John Black Robert McKeen Robert Roo Peter Christy John Boyd Joseph Watson James Smith Andrew Dunlap Robert Miller James Smith James Ramsey John Smeally Patrick Smith William Park James Morieson Sameuel Ceverelle John Blair James Walker James Craig James Thompson Robert Walker Samuel Wilson M.A. Lawrence McLaughlin Robert Walker Gawen Jirwen Petition to Governor Samuel Shute from ‘Inhabitants of Will Campbell Samuel X Young Robert Miller James Bankhead Alexander Richey Thomas Wilson the North of Ireland’ (26 March 1718). Courtesy of the Andrew Bankhead James Morieson William Wilson New Hampshire Historical Society Andrew Patrick Joseph X Beverlan James Bryce Monreagh Presbyterian Church 1718 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 THE ARRIVAL IN NEW ENGLAND

e can safely say that upwards unfortunately they were shortly frozen in, of 100 families, perhaps more A view of Boston, 1720 and spent a very miserable winter in W desperate conditions. In the spring, they than 500 people (some es- timates have put the figure at 1,000 sailed to the mouth of the Merrimack individuals), departing from Coleraine River and moved inland to an area 30 miles and from Londonderry, arrived in Boston north of Boston, then called Nutfield. from mid-summer to early autumn, 1718. McGregor had spent the winter preaching (According to tradition they are said to have in Dracut, Massachusetts, and he and his arrived in five ships, though the actual num- party joined the Nutfield group in April 1719. ber of vessels is not known for certain.) It is recorded that he preached a sermon It is also safe to say that once the Boston while standing under an oak tree beside authorities realised the full implications of Beaver Pond; it is certain that on that day he what was happening they grew increasingly was preaching to people who had been his concerned. hearers in Aghadowey. Though Shute had been encouraging enough The population of Nutfield grew rapidly in the to Boyd’s overtures, and promises had been years that followed as families who had made, no area of land had actually been set settled elsewhere as well as newcomers aside. The migrants took with them their Lowland Scots tongue, and Matthew Clerk was no exception, from Ulster moved there. The Puritans in Massachusetts, in the final as the following excerpt from one of his sermons shows: In 1722 the community renamed their analysis, were never going to be too keen settlement Londonderry, symbolically linking on Ulster Presbyterians, for doctrinal and their new home to the siege city. historical reasons. Moreover, they had little McGregor continued as minister of enough in the way of spare supplies of food, Just like Peter, aye mair forrit than wise, Londonderry until his death from fever on even for emergency support for existing ganging swaggering about wi’ 5 March 1729. A few months later McGregor residents, and were not delighted at having a sword at his side; an’ a puir han’ he was succeeded by 70-year-old MATTHEW ‘hordes of Irish’ arriving. mad’ o’ it when he cam’ to the trial, CLERK, a battle-scarred veteran of the In spite of what the 1718 migrants hoped, siege of Londonderry who had resigned as for he only cut off a chiel’s lug, an’ they were not able to stay together in a com- minister of , County Londonderry, and munity; they were obliged to split up and he ought to ha’ split down his head! travelled to Londonderry, New Hampshire. move separately to various locations. He went on to marry McGregor’s widow. One group of about 20 families stayed in Rev. Matthew Clerk from E. L. Parker’s Clerk died in 1735 and, as he had request- their ship, the Robert, and went on up the History of Londonderry (1851) ed, was carried to his grave by old comrades coast to Casco Bay, Maine, where from the siege of Londonderry. FAMILIES IN LONDONDERRY NEW HAMPSHIRE EARLIER LINKS BETWEEN ULSTER AND AMERICA

s well as these inspiring when they arrived in Boston on the Far left: Headstone to David and leaders, we know a surpris- Sabbath. Jennet Cargill from Aghadowey Aing amount about some JAMES GREGG, married to Janet in Forest Hill Cemetery, East of the people who travelled with Cargill (a sister of McGregor’s wife Derry, New Hampshire. Courtesy them. Marion), was born in Scotland c. Heather Wilkinson Rojo The heads of the founding first 1670, and moved with his parents Left: Detail from the headstone families in Londonderry were to Macosquin, County Londonderry, of Rev. James McGregor in Forest JAMES MCKEEN (brother-in-law of c. 1690. Hill Cemetery. Courtesy Heather Wilkinson Rojo. James McGregor), JOHN BARNETT, He was a linen draper and tailor, ARCHIBALD CLENDINNEN, JOHN and it is said that he met his wife MITCHELL, JAMES STERRETT, to be when she came into his My impression is that these leading families were men of some JAMES ANDERSON, RANDALL shop to be measured for wedding education and substance,and might have made their mark anywhere. ALEXANDER, JAMES GREGG clothes. She told the young man Rev. T. H. Mullin, Aghadowey: A Parish and its Linen Industry (1972) (another brother-in-law of that she was unwillingly being McGregor), JAMES CLARK, JAMES married to an older man called NESMITH, ALLEN ANDERSON, Lindsay, to whom her parents owed OTHER ULSTER SETTLEMENTS IN NEW ENGLAND ROBERT WEIR, JOHN MORRISON, money; the couple eloped that SAMUEL ALLISON, THOMAS evening and were Among the other places in New Worcester was hostile with some McKinstry seems to have been a STEELE and JOHN STUART. married by the curate of a neigh- England settled by immigrants of the locals even going so far as son of Roger McKinstry who lived JAMES MCKEEN and his brother bouring parish. from Ulster was Worcester, to burn down the new arrivals’ near Edinburgh, but fled Scotland JOHN were well-to-do merchants in Their son William Gregg, born in Massachusetts, which at that Presbyterian meeting house, as a Covenanter in the 1660s. Ballymoney, County Antrim. Ireland c. 1695, became the princi- time would have been considered which was in the process of being John was born apparently in They apparently sought refuge in pal surveyor who laid out property a frontier settlement. built. As a result, many of these Broadisland, County Antrim, and Londonderry during the Williamite lots in the new settlement of REV. EDWARD FITZGERALD, families moved on elsewhere. graduated from the University of War and survived the siege there. Londonderry. described as ‘of Londonderry’, A headstone in Worcester Edinburgh with an MA degree. John died shortly before the OCEAN-BORN MARY was born in but about whose background commemorates surely the oldest Voluntown, Connecticut, had planned departure in 1718, but his 1720 on board the ship on which nothing else is known, led a of the 1718 migrants. so many Ulster settlers that widow, three sons and daughter her parents, James and Elizabeth group of families here in the late The inscription to JOHN YOUNG the English protested against travelled with James and other Wilson, were travelling to America. summer of 1718. notes that he died in 1730 at allowing them to have their own family members and neighbours to The story goes that a pirate It seems that many of the early the age of 107, meaning that he minister. New England. attacked their vessel, and Ulster settlers in Worcester were must have been in his mid-90s However, in 1723 REV. SAMUEL JANET MCKEEN, daughter of John threatened all on board with death, from the Foyle Valley, comprising at the time of his departure from DORRANCE, who had been McKeen was a young girl when she but the newborn baby’s cries excit- adjoining portions of counties Ireland. associated with the presbytery left Ballymoney; her memories of ed his pity; he said if they named Donegal, Londonderry and Tyrone. The inscription also records that of Coleraine in Ireland, became arriving in America were recorded the child Mary, after his mother, he A number of families can be he was from the ‘Isle of Bert’ – minister of this community. around 1785 by her granddaughter would spare the whole ship. traced to Ardstraw in Tyrone as Burt in County Donegal. Another Ulster minister in Elizabeth (Dinsmore) Thom. Not only that but he gave the child well as other parishes in this Some of those who left Connecticut was REV. JAMES Janet remembered 16 people a bolt of green brocade material region. Worcester settled a few miles HILLHOUSE, from a family settled without enough money to emigrate for her wedding dress. Similar to the experiences of away at Sutton where REV. JOHN at Freehall near Limavady, who who had indentured themselves Mary Wilson spent the rest of her Ulster settlers elsewhere, the MCKINSTRY began his ministry became pastor of New London in to her father, and she recalled life in Londonderry, New reaction of the English Puritans in c. 1720. 1722. that the travellers sang Psalms Hampshire. 1718 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 1718

MAP SHOWING THE MAIN AREAS IN ULSTER AFFECTED BY THE 1718 MIGRATION TO NEW ENGLAND

Perhaps the most important single year in the story of the relationship between Ulster and America is 1718 ATLANTIC OCEAN

Portrush Lough

Swill Dunboe y COLERAINE Somerset Macosquin Ballymoney

Ri

ve

Ramelton Aghadowey r Burt Ba LONDONDERRY nn

Taughboyne e yl Boveedy Fo er Kilrea Monreagh Riv CURRENT EXHIBITION ANTRIM Wars of the seventeenth LONDONDERRY century, Penal laws imposing DONEGAL civil and religious penalties, Strabane Scottish immigration, economic challenges and the introduction of new industries all impacted on the Causeway Ardstraw area in the early eighteenth century.

TYRONE

Clogher 1718 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 PROOTA FARLS - 1st Dunboe Presbyterian Church, ‘In Search of a New World’ A DELICIOUS 1718 - the first mass migration from Ireland to America TASTE OF HISTORY 20th – 24th June, 2018

Discover the phenomenal story of 1718 when the people of Dunboe and the Bann Valley braved the Atlantic in search of a new world. The idea of combining potato and wheat flour is The exhibition will be launched on Wednesday, June 20th at 7.00pm. recorded as early as the mid 1700s. The exhibition will be open: The word farl comes from Thursday 21st from 10.00am to 10.00pm the old Scots word ‘fardel’ Friday 22nd from 10.00am to 10.00pm meaning quarter because of Saturday 23rd from 10.00am to 10.00pm how it is formed. and Sunday 24th from 2.00pm to 6.00pm In some recipes the ingre- dients are rolled out quite A Pilgrim People: A Sending Church thinly called fadge then Sunday 24th June 7.30pm A Pilgrim People : A Sending Church cooked on a griddle or hot The Rt Rev Dr Charles McMullen frying pan. • Stewed Apples water, fold in half and seal. [Moderator of the Pres. Church in Ireland] They are so easy to make, Cut a little slit in the top to Admission to the exhibition is free a great way to use up METHOD : allow steam to escape. Donations will be divided equally between: potatoes and they taste Roll out circles 1cm (½”) Cook for about 10 minutes • Home-Start Causeway – supporting 70 local families with 175 children fantastic! thick about the size of a or until golden brown, turn • First Dunboe Building and Repair Fund – building for the future APPLE PROOTA FARLS saucer. over and repeat on the INGREDIENTS Place 2 tablespoons of ap- other side. • 1 x quantity of Potato ple on one side of the circle, Refreshments available in the Mark Memorial Hall, Articlave Bread mix damp round the edge with Enjoy! www.ulsterscotsagency.com www.ulsterscotsagency.com 13 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 New book recalls Andrew Jackson, Nashville’s favourite son

ABOVE: Alderman Brian Kingston (former Lord Mayor of Belfast), Alderman Guy Spence, Rt Hon Arlene Foster MLA, Ian Crozier (Chief Executive Officer, Ulster-Scots Agency), William Humphrey MLA and former MLA Nelson McCausland

RIGHT: Jim Shulman, Dan Walsh, Heather Cunningham, Dr Marieta Velikova, William Humphrey MLA and Dr Katy Radford MBE (Vice- Chair, Arts Council of Northern Ireland) pictured at a reception in honour of the Nashville Sister Cities Delegation in the Discover Ulster-Scots Centre

Jim Shulman, Ian Crozier and former First Minister, the Alderman Guy Spence and Christopher Marsica- Billy Kennedy pictured signing copies of his latest publication for the Rt Rt Hon Arlene Foster MLA no (Chairman of the Nashville Sister Cities Hon Arlene Foster MLA (keynote speaker) and Jim Shulman (Nashville (Keynote Speaker) Committee) Sister Cities Delegation) 14 www.ulsterscotsagency.com SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 Education update

By Richard Hanna Director of Education and Language The Agency continues to support core education “The number of schools activities such as the achieving Flagship status Flagship Programme, After grows and presentations Schools Clubs and music and dance tuition. of the popular trophy take

The number of schools achieving place on a regular basis.” Flagship status grows and pres- - Richard Hanna entations of the popular trophy take place on a regular basis. history is important and recently I’m very pleased to have Monaghan The trophy was commissioned by developed resources help teachers Collegiate as our first post-primary the Ulster-Scots Agency and is a to plan lessons on the topic. ‘School in Focus’ in this edition of hand crafted ceramic piece made by The Monreagh Ulster-Scots Heritage the Ulster-Scot. local artist Gail Gilmore. and Education Centre has devel- The application process for the Ul- Previously I highlighted the launch oped a linen teaching resource ster-Scots music and dance tuition of ‘Woven in Ulster’, a teaching and including a DVD demonstrating the programme has now closed. learning resource commissioned by process of sowing, harvesting and This is a popular annual programme the Ulster-Scots Agency based on processing flax; classroom displays; that provides opportunities for the theme of linen. and flax seed to sow at the school. young people to learn new skills and On a recent visit to Monreagh The centre recently hosted a train- have their achievements accredited. Ulster-Scots Heritage and Education ing day for local teachers to explain The Ulster-Scots Agency is planning Centre in east Donegal I learned and demonstrate the history and to celebrate the achievements of about how a group of schools are processes of the flax/linen industry. these learners and there will be involved in curriculum based work Photographs show the teachers more about this in the next edition. on the linen theme. getting ‘hands on’ with flax, sowing Future plans include the develop- Generations of men, women and flax seed at the centre. ment of more teaching and learning children earned their living from They also had a demonstration of resources. occupations associated with linen scutching and combing flax to pro- These, together with existing production. duce raw linen. programmes will help develop As with the rest of Ulster, legacies I’m grateful to Kieran Fegan of the knowledge and understanding of of the industry remain. Centre for sharing details of the Ulster-Scots history, heritage and Learning about this aspect of work. tradition. School in focus: Monaghan Collegiate

By School Principal Mr Johnston Reid

onaghan Collegiate Ulster-Scots Agency projects for is a small Protestant the fiddle and the tin whistle has Methos school on the spawned a great interest in both the music and the culture. outskirts of Monaghan town. This has fed through to the secondary school with the backing Its predecessor, Monaghan Dioce- of the Ulster-Scots Agency allowing san School was originally founded the school to purchase twenty four by an Act of the Dublin Parliament, ukuleles and five fiddles last year. in 1570, and underwent a number Further assistance this year in the of transitions until 1902 when it fell form of a loan of twenty fiddles has into abeyance. truly transformed the music scene The school was re-established in at school giving new life and mean- 1950 under the joint patronage of ing to the carol service and prize the Church of Ireland and the Pres- day. This change has also greatly byterian Church in Ireland. helped enhance the confidence of Keith Lyttle with the fiddle orchestra playing at the Carol service, First Monaghan Presbyterian Church Based on its Protestant tradition our students. and history, the school is committed We look forward to engaging further to providing for the welfare of all its with the Ulster-Scots Agency and pupils in an inclusive and caring en- in particular Richard Hanna so vironment, and to the development that young people can truly enjoy of mutual respect and tolerance a vibrant and confident culture grounded in Christian compassion. respectful of all, and we are deeply Both its tradition and geography indebted to Keith Lyttle for his ensure that it is closely linked to the tuition and assistance. Ulster-Scots tradition. This engagement with the Up until recently the school was Ulster-Scots Agency is an embodi- unable to afford musical instru- ment of our moto, “Obair le Chéile, ments and had no access to them, Flourish as individuals”; working resulting in a lack of participation together so that we may flourish as in music, both in school and also in individuals. local churches. Working with the Ulster-Scots However the involvement of our Agency has allowed our students to feeder primary schools in the flourish as musicians. The fiddle orchestra playing at Prize Day in St Patrick’s Church www.ulsterscotsagency.com www.ulsterscotsagency.com 15 SATURDAY MAY 19 2018 Straidbilly Primary and Glenmaquin meet in twinning programme

The senior children from the novel Under the Hawthorn Tree by of the school’s history and they received All of their younger children had a Glenmaquin National School Marita Conlon Mc Kenna. a lovely present as a momento of the wonderful time playing at Alley Cats in The children chatted as they walked meeting. Coleraine. travelled to the Ulster Ameri- along in the snow and had a delicious The schools hope to meet again in the Straidbilly really enjoyed reading can Folk Park in Omagh where lunch together. summer term. Glenmaquin’s scrap book and their 150th Each school swapped a book about The pupils from Straidbilly agreed it was Anniversary book. they met the children from their school and their local area which a great experience. They would love to meet up again to Straidbilly Primary School. was enjoyed by all the children on their Pupils and staff in Straidbilly have thor- further develop their Ulster-Scots journey home on the bus. oughly enjoyed meeting with the boys, partnership. The schools expressed After exploring the museum area and try- Glenmaquin also presented Straidbilly girls and teachers from Glenmaquin thanks to the Ulster-Scots Agency for ing on costumes, they had a tour of the with a book written for their 150th Anni- National School and having fun with them enabling them to meet through their park where they discovered more about versary year which had lots of memories on school trips. schools twinning programme. Moneymore PS earn prestigious flagship award

oneymore Primary School have received a Flagship Award Min recognition of their excel- lent engagement of the Ulster-Scots Agency Flagship programme. Pupils were involved in a wide range of cultural experiences during and after school over a number of years. Ashley Cunningham, principal of Moneymore PS, said: “The pupils have enjoyed participating in various strands of the programme including traditional music, language studies, history and drama. “The school has also benefited greatly from support given with plays performed at the Leav- ers’ Assembly, which parents have appreciated. Gary Blair, Education Officer said: “Money- more Primary School has been a joy to work with as they progressed steadily through the Ulster-Scots Flagship School Programme. “Ms Cunningham and Mr Donaghy have proved to be an excellent team and they never failed to inspire enthusiasm amongst the pupils. “I was delighted to present the school with their Flagship Award and the Ulster-Scots Agen- cy looks forward to a continuing relationship with the school in the future.” 16 www.ulsterscotsagency.com SATURDAY MAY 19 2018

COMPETITION HOW MANY OF THESE SCOTCH-IRISH WIN PRESIDENTS CAN YOU FIND? A FAMILY PASS JACKSON BKSKSROOSEVELTTGJN TO THE ULSTER AMERICAN POLK FOLK PARK, OMAGH ACHVWC LEVE IANDRCKS BUCHANAN To win a one day family pass to the Ulster RSWILSONBHNKJ CUWMV American Folk Park just send your answer JOHNSON to this question: GRANT AQOCLINTONURTNMLIU Q. What date will the Ulster American Folk Park celebrate ARTHUR CNJ OHNSONHPXR IABHJ American Independence Day? CLEVELAND KBUCHANANPOIKXNU IM Email your answer to HARRISON [email protected] OYRKCARTERZAVOUSQS with ‘Folk Park’ in the subject line. ROOSEVELT Please remember to include your name BSTDJRDESJDNCNHHVE and contact details. WILSON CLOSING DATE: JUNE 30 TRUMAN Alternatively post your answer to: AAP IINHCTDSAARTHUR Ulster Scots Agency, NIXON MOFZLWVVEF ICJY IKMT The Corn Exchange, CARTER 31 Gordon Street, Belfast, BT1 2LG AQEPPQ IBRCZBGGRANT BARACK OBAMA LAST ISSUE’S WINNERS WK RVHJ ACKSONZO INZR (multi-packs of Ulster-Scots CLINTON Agency merchandise) BUSH WA KAMVKHARR ISONCGZ Mrs Norah Campbell, Augher, Co Tyrone Mrs Anne York, , Co Londonderry GGL ZUGUEXKHDYODURN Mr Peter Wilkinson, Portglenone, Co Antrim Mr Thomas McCracken, Ballymoney Co Antrim Katie Burke, Portadown, Co Armagh

ULSTER-SCOTS PLACE TO VISIT HEAR THE STORIES BEHIND EMIGRATION AT THE ULSTER AMERICAN FOLK PARK It could be said that the history of Ulster draws on the folk life collections of National is as much about leaving as living. The Museums, to showcase objects associated voyage in search of new beginnings in the with Irish Dance at home and abroad, many ‘New World’ became a well trodden path of them made and used by local women in the 18th and 19th centuries as politics, such as Pat Bond and Patricia Mulholland. poverty and the potato famine forced the On Wednesday July 4 the Folk Park will cele- population to look hopefully across the At- brate all things American from the 18th and lantic. That story of emigration is brought 19th centuries with its American Independ- to life spectacularly at the Ulster American ence celebrations. It’s a festival for all the Folk Park in Omagh, County Tyrone. family with American Revolutionary soldiers, fur trappers and traders, live Bluegrass and For over 40 years visitors to the open air American Folk music as well as tradition- museum, part of National Museums NI, al Punch and Judy Shows and American have experienced the journey from the games. farmsteads of rural Ulster to the log cabins The award winning annual Bluegrass Music of pioneers to the American Frontier. This Festival, from Friday August 31 to Sunday is the ultimate in living history with original, September 2, is the largest of its kind out- authentic buildings restored, relocated and side North America and brings award-winning populated by a cast of colourful, costumed international and home-grown performers characters going about their day to day attracting thousands of visitors from far and business as they might have done many wide. The Festival explores the strong musi- years ago. cal connections between traditional music Visitors can follow the trail of thousands from these islands and American folk music. of brave emigrants as they journey from wonderfully unique experience for visitors of An Irish dance exhibition, A Step in Time, Visitors can enjoy an authentic experience, the thatched cottages of Ulster, across the all ages. opens on June 15 and is part of National exploring the themes of emigration and Atlantic Ocean. They can board a full-scale This summer there is a host of events and Museums NI’s year long programme, Hear folk-life from this part of the world to North emigrant ship to experience the conditions a new exhibition at the museum. On June 9, Her Voice, which celebrates the women America, through music, song and dance faced by many as they set sail for a new life A Taste Of Culture – Thread of our Lives will in the collections. Women have played a - all within the unique setting of the Ulster in America. celebrate the rich variety of cultures and tra- hugely significant role in the history of Irish American Folk Park. With over 30 buildings and exhibits to ditions that are found within the Fermanagh dance over the last 125 years, as dancers, For further information on the Ulster Amer- explore, and masses of things for the kids and Omagh district through international choreographers, musicians, and designers ican Folk Park and the events taking place, to do, the Ulster American Folk Park is a cuisine, crafts and fun activities. and makers of costume. This exhibition visit www.nmni.com