Hallowe’en Ulster-Scots Agency (Boord o Ulstèr-Scotch) official publication SATURDAY OCTOBER 26, 2019 competition Page 16 Funding Boost for Presidential Cottages

Ulster-Scots Agency secures £100K for improvements Read more on Page 15

Bonar Law: The Ulster-Scots Prime Fifth Annual Raphoe Heritage Day great New Centre for Killinchy: Excitement is Minister success building read more on page 6 read more on page 8 read more on page 5 2 ♂ ♂ Saturday, October 26, 2019

2 www.ulsterscotsagency .com Tributes paid to

Welcome to the latest edition of the Ulster-Scot! There is a huge amount of really positive work going on at the minute Ulster-Scots linguist in the world of Ulster-Scots and I hope that it is apparent from the content of this edition.

The new visitor exhibition and reading rooms which opened recently The entire Ulster-Scots at the Presbyterian Assembly Buildings in are a must see for language community was every Ulster-Scot, especially if you are interested in family history saddened to learn of the research. The new Livingston Centre in Killinchy is progressing death of Ulster-Scots linguist rapidly and we have also now secured an extra £100,000 to invest in Professor Michael Bryant the Jackson and Arthur Presidential cottages, kick-starting yet more Montgomery, who sadly passed projects that will leave a lasting legacy for Ulster-Scots. away on Wednesday 24 July 2019 at the age of 69. Our new lifelong learning course on Ulster-Scots migration to As distinguished Professor New England is oversubscribed in both Ulster and America; and Emeritus of English and meanwhile we are busy advancing our plans for the first ever Ulster- Linguistics at the University of Scots Language Week, which will take place from 25th to 30th South Carolina in Columbia, November. Michael taught English linguistics for nearly 20 years before retiring Our young people continue to excel, whether in competitions like the in 1999. All-Ireland Piping Solos or in high profile performances like Culture He recognised the influence of Night in Belfast and they predict a bright future for our culture. Ulster-Scots speech in his native Appalachia and this connection We have included some topical features on famous Ulster-Scots, like led to decades of work on Bonar Law, the Ulster-Scot who became Conservative Prime Minister Ulster-Scots, where he made an at a time of great national crisis; and Dave Gallaher, the Ulster-Scot enormous academic contribution, who led the first All Blacks rugby team. through works like A Blad O Ulster-Scotch and the Gregg We have also included an article on the latest state of play on Volume. discussions about the bridge to Scotland, which will be of interest to He was an early academic all Ulster-Scots and is likely to run and run. Enjoy! supporter of the modern Ulster- Scots revival and he brought Ian Crozier is Chief Executive of the Ulster-Scots Agency vital international support to our language movement at a time when it was under frequent attack from critics in the media and academia. Michael Montgomery saw not only the linguistic value of Ulster- Scots, but also its societal value, Professor Montgomery addressing stating: a conference at the University of ‘‘When written, a full account of Michigan Ulster-Scots will profoundly affect our understanding of the linguistic history of Ireland. It will throw because of the community and Williams/James Brown Award into sharp relief the necessity of the tradition it represents. from the Appalachian Studies seeing the language situation in ‘‘If it is to play a role in the Association; one of the Top 100 Ulster over the past four centuries building of mutual respect and Most influential People in the as pluralistic and trilingual, understanding in Ireland, it must Great Smoky Mountains History involving continuing contact be seen within proper context as by the Great Smoky Mountains between English, Scots, and Irish representing one of three historic Association; and a Grammy Gaelic and the influence of each language traditions in Ulster.’’ nomination for the music CD ‘‘Old upon the others. Honours Time Smoky Mountain Music.’’ ‘‘We must surely agree with the Professor Montgomery’s honours Professor Montgomery was Good Friday Agreement that included the 2004 Wilma past President of the American Ulster-Scots deserves respect. Dykeman Award for Historical Dialect Society, the Southeastern ‘‘Though declining like many Writing from the East Tennessee Conference on Linguistics and the regional languages, it is of value Historical Society; the Cratis D. Ulster-Scots Language Society.

Guising

‘Trick or treating’ – children in fancy dress going from door to door offering entertainment for gifts or money Saturday, October 26, 2019 ♂ ♂ 3

www.ulsterscotsagency .com 3 Culcrow Principal encourages schools to include Ulster-Scots

As principal of Culcrow Primary In 2017 we completed a local – the agency provides steady Culcrow Primary School pupils School in Aghadowey near history project in conjunction with support and excellent staff who work visiting Ulster American Folk Park Coleraine, I have had the pleasure Ballybay Primary, Monaghan and tirelessly to promote our culture. As of a close working relationship studied the 1718 immigration led a school we are most grateful for the with the Ulster-Scots Agency in by Rev. McGregor from our own programmes they have provided; we recent years. townland of Aghadowey. This project are now officially an Ulster-Scots We have availed of a range of tuition concluded with a most enjoyable day ‘‘flagship’’ school and our award which has included Scottish Country at the Ulster American Folk Park, takes pride of place in our school Dancing, drumming, fiddle and tin Omagh where both schools’ pupils entrance foyer. whistle playing. met, formed friendships and had a I wish Ulster-Scots every success as The pupils have really enjoyed wonderful day soaked in history and they continue their work in primary their experiences and formed great good company. schools and encourage other relationships with their tutors as We are currently looking forward principals to avail of their resources, well as being equipped with a range to developing this further by excellent tutors and curriculum of skills linked to performance, participating in the ‘‘Land Of enhancing programmes. musical skill and entertainment. Our Promise’’ project and have made drummers performed at our Spring links with Derry Village Elementary By Olive Collins, Concert this year and our junior School in New Hampshire, USA Principal of Culcrow choir were recorded by Radio Ulster to participate in a cross-Atlantic Primary School and enjoyed hearing themselves on history/geography project following the radio in December 2018. our ancestors who left Aghadowey Ulster-Scots has also enriched our in 1719 and researching how they pupils’ sense of personal history and fared in America. links with Scotland. This year is the 300th anniversary of We have enjoyed plays performed in the 1719 immigration and historians Ulster-Scots has school by travelling companies, ‘‘Fair in New Hampshire are keen to share Faa Ye’’ being one notable example, their stories of our ancestors and also enriched our and our pupils have performed the legacy they have left in New pupils’ sense of their own ‘‘Kissing The Shuttle’’ (a England and throughout the celebration of the linen industry) American states. personal history under Dan Gordon’s writing and with Ulster-Scots as an organisation, has and links with professional tuition from a drama really enriched and enhanced our specialist. pupils’ primary school experiences Scotland ‘Upward trend’ sees five new Over 1,000 children primary schools receive Ulster- attend Summer Scots Flagship School award School Programmes Over 1000 children attended 24 Newtowncunningham all hosted Recent months have seen five the child, it is right for the child, Ulster-Scots Summer Schools summer schools for the first time, new primary schools in receipt because children learn better funded by the Ulster-Scots while Ardinariff Historical and of the Ulster-Scots Flagship when they are being taught about Agency. The Ulster-Scots Summer Cultural Association hosted a very School award, four in Northern things that are familiar to them; School programme supported successful Summer School for the Ireland and one in the Republic and because helping them to a wide range of Ulster-Scots 13th year. of Ireland. understand who they are helps activities running throughout the Additional summer schools were The addition of Garvagh Primary them to relate to others. summer. organised by Castlederg Young School, Co Londonderry; ‘‘We look forward to working with Ulster-Scots summer schools are Loyalists Flute Band; Clooney Estate Kilross Primary School, Co schools and colleagues across held right across the province with Residents Association; Fermanagh Londonderry; Lack Primary government to continue this many now holding multiple schools Sports and Cultural Awareness School, Co Fermanagh; William upward trend.’’ to accommodate the number of Association; First Steps Community Pinkerton Memorial Primary The Ulster-Scots Flagship children involved. Group; Hillcrest Trust; Irish Street School, Dervock, Co Antrim; School programme is a cultural Raphoe Ulster-Scots Pipe Band Youth and Community Association; and Creeslough National School and educational programme for hosted three summer schools, Loughinsholin Cultural Music in Co Donegal bring the total primary schools in both Northern attracting a total of 150 children Group; and Mourne Valley Cultural number of Ulster-Scots Flagship Ireland and the Republic of from throughout East Donegal. Association. Schools in Ulster to 60, with Ireland, which encourages These included a Drama Summer The Summer School programme another 30 working towards children to enjoy learning about school with 30 children, who at the seeks to offer fun to all the children recognition. Ulster-Scots and recognise how end of the week put on a public participating, and through fun Ulster-Scots Agency CEO Ian Ulster-Scots has shaped them, performance of Alice in Wonderland children and young people are also Crozier said: ‘‘The progress their community and society. in a script adapted to include Ulster- learning about their Ulster-Scots of our Flagship Programme The Flagship programme at least two academic years. Scots. South East Fermanagh culture and heritage. Many of the demonstrates the growing supports Ulster-Scots in Schools must complete a Foundation (SEFF) also hosted summer schools also take the interest in ensuring that children primary schools by providing series of Ulster-Scots themes three Summer Schools, including opportunity for an educational visit to can learn about their Ulster-Scots tutors, educational resources in their classroom in order to be a residential Summer School for places such as the Ulster-American identity in school. and activities, all aimed at successful. teenagers at Roscur Youth Village, Folk Park, the Giants Causeway and ‘‘It is a human right of every encouraging their children to and for the first time SEFF hosted Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, Ulster-Scots child to learn in learn more about Ulster-Scots If any schools would like to a summer school in Rathfriland. all of which are eligible for funding. school about the culture of the traditions and culture. register their interest in the Small Steps in North Belfast and the Funding is open to all constituted community that they come from. Each school works with the flagship programme, please Schomberg Society in hosted voluntary and community groups. ‘‘This is enshrined in the UN Education Team at the Ulster- contact Gary Blair at gblair@ two Summer Schools each. Interested groups should contact Convention on the Rights of the Scots Agency to devise a ulsterscotsagency.org.uk for Augher Central Primary School our Community Development Child. Not only is it the right of suitable programme running over more information. PTA, Killinchy After-School Officer Derek Reaney reaneyd@ Club and Project Orange in ulsterscotsagency.org.uk. 4 ♂ ♂ Saturday, October 26, 2019

4 www.ulsterscotsagency .com Permanent exhibition will help tell the story of Presbyterianism

he story of Presbyterianism £250,000 from the Ulster-Scots In this building we welcome people in Ulster is integral to Agency. Speaking about the new from across these islands and from TUlster-Scots and the attraction, Agency CEO Ian Crozier around the world, and while we Historical Society holds telling of that story took a major commented: ‘‘These excellent have been able to provide them step forward recently, with the new facilities will be invaluable in with some information, we have opening of major new exhibition helping people to understand the not been able to really tell them an extensive archive of at Assembly Buildings, the Scottish origins of Presbyterianism of our Church’s rich history and Belfast headquarters of the here, the role of Presbyterians its contribution to society across Presbyterianism in Ireland Presbyterian Church in Ireland. in shaping our society and also Ireland.’’ Visitors can see a new permanent the impact that Ulster-Scots With over 30 historically important exhibition, which tells the story Presbyterians have played beyond artefacts on display, many of which The Presbyterian Historical The library and archive is open of Presbyterianism from the these shores. It is a must see for were loaned by the Presbyterian Society of Ireland holds printed Tues- Wed from 9.30am -1.00pm arrival of Scottish Presbyterians every Presbyterian here, as well as Historical Society of Ireland, and archival material relating to and then from 1.30- 4.30pm and in Ulster some 400 years thousands of international visitors the centre also has a range of the history of Presbyterianism Thurs 9.30am- 1.00pm. The ago, to the founding of the in search of their Ulster-Scots interactive exhibits and audio-visual in Ireland and is located on Society also has a programme Presbyterian Church in Ireland as heritage.’’ installations. the other side of the main of talks and lectures which a denomination in 1840 as well as Speaking at the launch, then Here visitors are able to locate entrance into the visitor centre. anyone can attend: the work, mission and ministry of Presbyterian Moderator, Rt Rev the denomination’s 500-plus The Society provided all the Thurs 21 Nov 2019 at 8.00pm - the Church today. Dr Charles McMullen spoke of congregations across Ireland, artefacts, documents and books Presbyterian Clerical Families in Those who want to delve more the need that would be met by the interact with a 19th century map on display in the exhibition 19th century Ulster by Dr Janice deeply into their heritage can new facilities: ‘‘In recent years we of Presbyterians in Ireland and cases. If you are interested in Homes in McQuiston Memorial then visit the new premises of the have seen a huge and welcome view short films on the history, carrying out research into any Presbyterian Church, Belfast. Presbyterian Historical Society increase in visitors to Belfast, life and work of the Church. The aspect of Irish Presbyterian Thurs 20 Feb 2020 at 8.00pm of Ireland, which have also been coming here from all over the world exhibition also explores some of history, researching the history - The Rise and Fall of the developed as part of the project. to experience, not only the city and the influential men and women, of a Presbyterian congregation, Eastern Reformed Presbyterian The PHSI are custodians of a vast its sights, but the rest of Northern mostly Ulster-Scots, who left their tracing your Presbyterian Church by Dr William Roulston collection of Presbyterian records, Ireland too. While we are an all- mark on Presbyterianism and looks ancestry or want to find out in Cullybackey Reformed books and artefacts and which can Ireland Church, the administrative at the democratic nature of the about a minister who ministered Presbyterian Church. be explored at their bespoke new heart of the denomination is here Presbyterian Church government in Ireland then a visit to the Any enquiries should be Reading Rooms. in Belfast and we want to be as well as some of the religious Presbyterian Historical Society directed to phsilibrarian@pcinet. The new facilities were made supportive of the city that we are a and political controversies, both is essential. org. possible by funding of more than part of in so many different ways. past and present. Saturday, October 26, 2019 ♂ ♂ 5

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New centre for Killinchy

xcitement is building in our Ulster-Scots heritage. Rev. John the village Livingston is rightly regarded as the Eof Killinchy, where a new first incumbent of three churches in community hub is taking shape Killinchy, the Church of Ireland, the at the local Church of Ireland. Presbyterian Church and the Non- Called The Livingston Centre Subscribing Presbyterian Church in memory of one of Ulster’s and we hope that our shared history first Presbyterian ministers, it and identity will serve as a unifying has been made possible by an force in the local community.’’ investment of £70,000 from the Rev. Livingston was one of the early Ulster-Scots Agency. Scottish ministers who came over The new centre will be a focal point to pastor to the burgeoning Ulster- for a whole range of community Scots community, occupying a activities and will include a pulpit in the Church of Ireland years permanent exhibition on the life before an organised Presbyterian of Rev. John Livingston and his denomination was established. He illustrious descendants, who was part of a group of Presbyterian include one man who helped clergy who, faced with growing draft the American Declaration of hostility from the Anglican Independence and later negotiated establishment, organised the Eagle Michelle McIlveen MLA visits the the Louisiana Purchase; one Wing expedition of 1636, the first centre under construction who signed the Declaration of organised attempt by Ulster-Scots to Independence; and another who travel to America. was a key aide to Andrew Jackson The expedition failed and Livingston at the Battle of New Orleans and eventually died in exile in the later served as his Secretary of Netherlands, but he and his family State. have made an indelible mark on Ulster-Scots Agency Chief the history of Ulster and the United Executive, Ian Crozier, said: ‘‘The States. Agency was delighted that we were The community in Killinchy has able to support the community in also recently organised the second Killinchy with funding which helped annual Livingston Days Festival, them to secure a total funding from September 27 - 29. The festival package of more than £250,000 to is intended to celebrate the life and allow this brilliant project to proceed. legacy of Rev. John Livingston, It is tremendously exciting to see the as well as connecting the local progress of the building work and community with their broader Ulster- now the beginnings of the work on Scots identity. the new exhibition.’’ This year’s programme included a Rev. Stanley Gamble, Rector of Tattoo on Friday evening, which was Killinchy commented: ‘‘Everyone held at Killinchy Primary School at Killinchy Parish Church is and featured the talent of a range of delighted with the progress of the local bands including Killinchy Silver Livingston Centre and we are all Band, Cleland Memorial Pipe Band looking forward to seeing it finished and Lord Londonderry’s Own CLB and starting on the next chapter, Flute Band. This was followed up by supporting the development of our a Family Fun Day on Saturday with a Livingston Tattoo, and right: Rev community in all sorts of ways, not range of exhibitions and talks on an Livingstone least through greater appreciation of Ulster-Scots theme. 6 ♂ ♂ Saturday, October 26, 2019

6 www.ulsterscotsagency .com Bonar Law: The Ulster- Scots Prime Minister

he recent anniversary of Churchill’s speech in Celtic Park on Ulster Day on September 28 8 February 1912 had an audience Tgives us a good opportunity of perhaps 5,000 nationalists and to think about an Ulster-Scot liberals, Law was astounded to find whose support was vital to the himself with an audience of between campaign against Home Rule. 100,000 and 200,000 - one of the While Ulster-Scots can lay claim to largest political demonstrations 20 Presidents of the United States, in British history. 70 special trains to date there has only been one brought unionists from all over Ulster-Scots Prime Minister of the Ulster. Large contingents of unionists : Andrew Bonar Law. and Orangemen marched in Law was Prime Minister from 23 formation from the centre of Belfast October 1922 to 20 May 1923. His to Balmoral. Law and Sir Edward short tenure is no reflection on his Carson were the principal speakers. ability. Ill-health alone curtailed his The Church of Ireland Primate of occupancy of 10 Downing Street. All Ireland and the Moderator of the After Law’s funeral in Westminster Presbyterian Church conducted a Abbey on 5 November 1923, religious service. Their presence H.H. Asquith, the Liberal leader, contributed to the solemnity of the uncharitably remarked: ‘‘It is fitting occasion. The presence of seventy we should have buried the Unknown Conservative MPs representing Prime Minister by the side of the English and Scottish constituencies Unknown Warrior.’’ It was a demonstrated that Ulster cruel jibe. In his History of unionists did not lack the English-Speaking influential friends. The Peoples since 1900 largest Union Flag Andrew Roberts ever woven was has aptly described dramatically unfurled Law as ‘‘not so above the assembled much the Unknown multitudes. The event Prime Minister as was designed to the Unappreciated impress upon both the one.’’ While Law lacked Liberal Government charisma, Roberts and British public admires him for being opinion the unrelenting ‘‘utterly straight and decent’’ opposition of Ulster unionists to and his patriotism. In December Home Rule. Andrew Bonar Law 1916 Law put his country before Law spoke eloquently, invoking party and his own ambition to allow the siege of Derry as a paradigm Lloyd George to become Prime for Ulster’s plight, identifying the which, in my belief, they would not the Great War compromise proved bailie.’’ A ‘bailie’ was a minor official Minister in the belief that the latter Parliament Act of 1911 as the be supported by the overwhelming extremely elusive and generous in Scottish local government. This would prosecute the Great War equivalent of the boom constructed majority of the British people.’’ emotion was in short supply. Despite was pure intellectual snobbery. more effectively. by the Jacobites across the Foyle There was a strong personal Law’s rhetoric, his views were Balliol, in effect, displaying contempt In April 1912 Law was the recently during the great siege: ‘‘You are a dimension to Law’s support for essentially moderate and his case for ‘the university of life’. Most elected leader of the Conservative besieged city. The Government by Ulster. Law’s Balmoral speech was reasonable. If Ireland, by virtue of Liberals, with the conspicuous Party and the Leader of the their Parliament Act have erected not drafted by a clever speechwriter. history, religion and race, merited exception of Lloyd George, who Opposition. He had been appointed a boom against you, a boom to cut Law’s speech came from the heart special treatment from the rest of also had not been to university, leader in November 1911 in order to you off from the help of the British because he was steeped in the the UK, by the same criteria Ulster shared Asquith’s evaluation. When restore his party’s electoral fortunes. people. You will burst that boom. culture and heritage of Ulster. differed from the rest of Ireland. Law became Conservative leader He could not fail to be conscious The help will come and when the Although Law was born on 16 Therefore, Ulster merited different Lloyd George shrewdly observed: of the fact that he was party leader crisis is over men will say of you in September 1858 in Kingston, New treatment from the rest of Ireland. ‘‘The fools have stumbled on the because his predecessor, Balfour, words not unlike those once used by Brunswick (now part of Canada), Law also denied the right of the right man by accident.’’ Law was had led the party to defeat in three Pitt: ‘‘You have saved yourselves by and largely grew up in Glasgow, Government to expel loyal and intelligent, a master of detail and an successive elections and that the your exertions and you will save the his father, Rev James Law, was contented citizens from a community accomplished debater. His debating Conservatives were unforgiving Empire by your example.’’ a Presbyterian minister from to which by birth they belonged and skills had been finely honed in the when it came to electoral failure. He At the conclusion of his speech, Coleraine. His brother, William, to place them under the rule of a Glasgow Parliamentary Debating would also have been conscious Carson invited every one present was a much respected physician Dublin Parliament. Law believed Society. As Chancellor of Exchequer, that the Conservative Party was to raise their hands and repeat in Coleraine. In 1877 Rev Law that Home Rule was not in the he was to deliver budgets with accustomed to being in power after him: ‘‘Never under any returned to live at Maddybenny, near best interests of nationalist Ireland minimal notes, to the consternation because, apart from a brief interval circumstances will we submit to Coleraine, and died there in 1882. but if that was what nationalist of Treasury officials. Above all, Law between 1892 and 1895, the party Home Rule.’’ Law joined Carson During the last five years of his Ireland wanted, he would waive his possessed what Asquith did not: had been in office from 1886-1906. in raising his hand and repeating father’s life, the then-Glasgow-based opposition to Home Rule, subject passion. He cared passionately On Easter Tuesday 1912, two Carson’s pledge. Law visited Ulster almost every only to the proviso that Ulster should about two things in politics: Tariff days before the introduction of At a Unionist demonstration at weekend. Law knew Ulster and her not be subject to Dublin rule. Reform and Ulster. the third Home Rule Bill in the Blenheim Palace on 29 July 1912 people well. Asquith, the Prime Minister and When Law talked about Ulster he House of Commons, Law was the Law went further: ‘‘I can imagine According to A. J. P Taylor: ‘‘British a graduate of Balliol College, meant business. guest of honour at a great Unionist no length of resistance to which politics flourish on the basis of Oxford, and thereby a member of Gordon Lucy is Publications demonstration at the Balmoral Ulster can go in which I would not compromise and generous emotion,’’ the intellectual elite, despised Law Officer of the Ulster-Scots Showgrounds. Whereas Winston be prepared to support them, and in but in the years immediately before for having ‘‘the mind of a Glasgow Community Network. Saturday, October 26, 2019 ♂ ♂ 7

www.ulsterscotsagency .com 7 Learning at home and in America

The first of these talks took place on Partnership September 23 in Articlave, County Londonderry and in Maine the first sees courses classes took place on September 27 and 28. delivered in Those enrolled on the course have access to the new online learning Northern platform developed by the Ulster- Scots Agency. This includes all Ireland and course materials and tools to allow learners to engage with experts United States in Ulster and the USA as well as connecting all of the learners s part of the Ulster- enrolled on the course on both Scots Agency’s learning continents. Adevelopment programme, The Ulster-Scots Agency has a very in Autumn 2019 a course about effective partnership with the Maine Ulster-Scots history and heritage is Ulster-Scots Project and has worked being delivered in on a number of joint projects over and the United States as part of a the last year. This work has helped partnership programme between the raise awareness about Ulster-Scots Ulster-Scots Agency and the Maine migration in both countries and Ulster-Scots Project based in Maine, develop a better understanding USA. about how these determined people Beginning in the late 1600s had significant influence on shaping thousands of Ulster-Scots families America and their enduring legacies. left their homes and made the long The recent book ‘1718-2018 and dangerous journey across the Reflections on 300 years of the Atlantic to settle in America. Scots-Irish in Maine’ published The course of six two-hour sessions by the Ulster-Scots Agency in has been designed in two parts. partnership with the Maine Ulster- One is being delivered in Northern Scots Project has proved very Ireland the other in Maine, USA as popular. part of a Senior College Programme This course is part of the Ulster- of the University of Maine. In Maine, that they brought with them helped about other aspects of Ulster-Scots The course has six talks given by Scots Agency’s learning programme the course is being delivered in two influence principles of government at culture and heritage. Dr William Roulston of the Ulster which includes support for learning locations. Augusta, the capital of local and national levels that endure The course content in the USA Historical Foundation, looking at in schools and for adults. the state and Damarisciotta, a small in the United States to this day. covers similar background but such subjects as the Plantation ‘Land of Promise’ http://ccea.org. Maine coastal town. In Northern Ireland, content will will include the experiences and of Ulster and the immigration of uk/curriculum/land_promise and Maine has a higher proportion of focus on Ulster and examine the influence of the early Ulster-Scots families from Britain; the emergence ‘Woven in Ulster’ http://ccea.org.uk/ Ulster-Scots descendants than any background of migration to America settlers in Maine, in the north-east of of organised Presbyterianism woven_ulster are curriculum based other state in the USA and there in the late 17th and 18th centuries. the United States. and the impact of the Penal Laws resources designed for primary is considerable interest there to In Northern Ireland the focus will be Learners on both sides of the on Dissenters; the relationship schools. better understand historic links with on the valleys of the Rivers Bann Atlantic will have access to the between landlord and tenant; the Other adult-learning experiences Ulster. Ulster-Scots settlers made a and Foyle and the area in between. course materials and will collaborate development of towns and villages; are being planned that will include significant contribution to the history This is an innovative project and if with each other using an online and the factors that contributed to aspects of Ulster-Scots history and of the state in terms of culture and successful, it is hoped to use the learning platform developed by the the departure of so many families for culture, language and literature as commerce. The egalitarian principles approach for teaching and learning Ulster-Scots Agency. America. well as emigration and influence. A wee taste of Ulster-Scots

The Ulster-Scots Agency’s Learning Development Programme is a Paula’s food planned programme of work that seeks to create learning videos show opportunities for aspects of Ulster- Scots culture and heritage. our rich food The approach is one of lifelong learning – developing teaching and heritage learning opportunities for school and non-school based learning. welcome warmth on cold January One aspect of the programme days when the filming took place is focused on Ulster-Scots food earlier this year. traditions. The videos are being used as a ‘food ‘A wee taste of Ulster-Scots’ is a culture’ aspect in the course being series of 12 short videos in which delivered in Ulster and America. local celebrity chef Paula McIntyre As part of the course experience prepares dishes that represent some in Maine our partners there plan to aspects of Ulster food traditions. have course participants prepare Filming took place in Arthur Cottage some of the dishes at home and in Cullybackey, County Antrim – share with others when they meet ancestral homestead of Chester up on the course. Arthur, 21st President of America. At present the videos are only Paula used a traditional griddle over available as part of the course but a turf fire in preparing some of the we plan to publish these for a public recipes. audience soon. As well as a source of heat for Details about when and where these cooking the fire provided some will be available will follow. 8 ♂ ♂ Saturday, October 26, 2019

8 www.ulsterscotsagency .com New look for regional office in Raphoe £30,000 investment as the Discover Ulster-Scots Centre undergoes a make-over

he Ulster-Scots Agency’s point for the Ulster-Scots community regional office in Raphoe, throughout East Donegal and the TCounty Donegal has recently wider county. undergone a makeover and has ‘‘The new exhibition in the centre re-emerged as the Discover reflects the Ulster-Scots history Ulster-Scots Centre East Donegal. of the area, but also recognises The revamp, which involved an that the centre is not a museum, investment of €30,000, saw an it is a vibrant and growing cultural overhaul of the building’s frontage; hub, which is why it includes many a new look for the main foyer and pictures of the new generation of the installation of an interpretive Ulster-Scots and key messages exhibition throughout the main areas that speak of heritage, history, of the building which focuses on neighbours and community’’ different aspects of Ulster-Scots The centre is home to a very well identity in East Donegal. supported piping and drumming It follows an expansion of the centre, class which is delivered in which has seen the footprint of the connection with the Ulster-Scots premises more than doubled. Agency’s Juvenile Pipe Band and Agency Chief Executive Ian Crozier very successful summer schools said: ‘‘There is a growing demand for delivered by Raphoe Ulster-Scots Ulster-Scots activity in the Raphoe Pipe Band. area and the Agency has responded It welcomes many young people to that with the expansion of our who attend the nearby Royal and premises in Raphoe. Prior School and is also a focal ‘‘At the same time, the rebranding point for a range of Ulster-Scots of the building as the Discover community activities, including the Ulster-Scots Centre East Donegal successful Ulster-Scots Heritage reflects the fact that it is a regional Day, which has grown from strength facility and that the ambition of the to strength in Raphoe over the last Agency is for it to serve as a focal five years. Fifth annual Ulster-Scots Heritage Day

The Ulster-Scots Agency hosted the 5th Annual Raphoe Ulster- Scots Weekend on Friday 20 and Saturday 21 September 2019.

The weekend kicked off with a heritage walk on Friday night led by local historian Sean McClafferty. The event included a visit to Raphoe Cathedral, where Dean Barrett had the Cathedral’s Communion Silver dating from 1669 on display. The walk also visited the Volt House to see an exhibition of local artefacts. Those attending the walk also viewed the recently installed exhibition in the Discover Ulster- Scots Centre. Events on Saturday commenced with a brilliant performance by the Ulster-Scots Agency Juvenile Pipe Band in the Diamond, the young Highland dancers in people taking part were mostly the Diamond, Raphoe from the Raphoe Class, along with young pipers and drummers who display, living history re-enactors, Band. conclusion to the day. ‘‘The event attracted over 2,500 attend the Juvenile Pipe Band a performance from Fermanagh Hollymount Pipe Band from County Derek Reaney, the Agency’s visitors to Raphoe and we had quite classes in Belfast, Cookstown and comedian Gary Wilson, a variety Down, which is celebrating its Development Officer based in a few folk who visited the area for Fivemiletown. of stalls and live music on stage centenary this year, was also in Raphoe commented: the weekend. One of the highlights of the day throughout the day with the popular attendance. ‘‘The event is growing year on year ‘‘I would like to thank the local was the highland dance display Co Antrim folk group Pure Blarney. The bands then formed a massed and the real focus of this year’s Garda, Raphoe Tidy Towns, choreographed by Georgina Kee- A total of 15 pipe bands took part band in the Diamond under the event was youth. residents and business community McCarter of the Sollus School of in the parade with pipe bands for command of Pipe Majors Andy ‘‘It is very encouraging to see so for their cooperation and support. Highland Dance from Bready in Co Counties Down, Armagh, Tyrone, McGregor and Alex Brown and many young people taking part in ‘‘We have already started planning Tyrone. Monaghan and Donegal, the parade entertained the crowds who the pipe bands, the highland dance to make next year’s event even There was also a drum majors being led off by Arranmore Pipe had gathered for the impressive display and drum majors display. bigger and better.’’ Saturday, October 26, 2019 ♂ ♂ 9

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Scotch-Irish legacy explored at New look for regional office in Raphoe lunchtime lectures in Belfast

The cultural impact of the Scotch-Irish (Ulster-Scots) in the USA is being explored in a lunchtime lecture series at the Discover Ulster-Scots Centre in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter. Local historian, educator, author and Americana enthusiast Alister McReynolds has been exploring the lasting legacy in the United States of people whose roots can be traced back to Ulster. Over the last eight weeks he’s talked about pioneers in the field of music – people like Eck Robertson, Henry Gilliland and Clayton McMichen who, whilst unknown to many people, were ground breaking in their day, being amongst the earliest to record their music. including Robert Dinsmoor be held at lunchtime every Alister also talked about one who although born in the US Friday from November 8 through of the most famous icons of wrote much of his poetry in the to November 22. The Discover modern music in his discussion Ulster-Scots language of his Ulster-Scots Centre is located at of Elvis Aaron Presley – The forefathers and the people he 1-9 Victoria Street, Belfast. King to many – and how his lived among. If you are driving, it is within family roots brought together a Alister’s talks give a fascinating easy reach from the Westlink mix of cultures and influences in insight into the role played in and M3 bridge. It is also just a the same way his music did too. the cultural life of America by short walk from Central Station, Country music features widely those whose families left our the Europa Bus Centre and too in the conversations, with shores for the New World. There Belfast City Hall. For further the Bristol Sessions in 1927 and are still three more talks in the information, you can contact the songs of Jimmie Rodgers, series including a look into the the Ulster-Scots Community but so too has the poetry and Scotch-Irish role in the Gunfight Network with any queries on 028 New look reception in the Discover prose of others of Ulster descent at the OK Corral. The talks will 90436710. Ulster-Scots Centre, East Donegal

Hollymount Pipe Band, Downpatrick on parade in Raphoe 10 ♂ ♂ Saturday, October 26, 2019

10 www.ulsterscotsagency .com East Donegal and Foyle family history festival a great success

Monreagh Heritage Centre Festival activities focused on hosted another major Ulster- the impact of the enormous Scots event recently. Delegates contribution of the Ulster-Scots gathered from all over the diaspora across the world. UK, Ireland, USA, Canada and With this in mind, Frank Collins Australia for the second annual spoke of a virtually unknown East Donegal and Foyle Valley aspect of Ulster American Family History Festival at An history concerning the Buchanan Grianan Hotel, Family of County Tyrone. Local on Thursday, October 3, which genealogist, Boyd Gray, presented was made possible by funding his reflections on the Irish from the Ulster-Scots Agency. Immigrants in the land of Canaan - the Ulster experience of migration Well-known local musician and to the United States of America. funny man, Leslie Matthews, Local historian and author, Belinda compered the full-day event of talks, Mahaffy, presented a fascinating workshops, music, song and living account of the local Ulster-Scots history plays. families who influenced the early The day began with piper, Mervyn transatlantic migration to the New Elvin, entertaining guests with World. informed delegates on how to demonstrate the art of processing Manorcunningham, scripted and a few favourite Scottish tunes, The Reverend Francis Makemie, research Ulster ancestors in the flax stalks into raw linen. performed a play entitled ‘Family followed by an impressive regarded as one of Donegal’s 1700s. Brian Mitchell spoke of (For those interested in viewing Ties’ about the Ulster-Scots array of local and international most famous sons, migrated emigration from the Foyle by sail the full process of sowing and migration. speakers and performers. Local to Maryland in 1682 and is and steam: Londonderry Gateway harvesting flax, please go to The honour of closing the day’s historian, Stewart Buchanan, recognised as the father of to the New World 1680-1939. the Monreagh Centre Youtube proceedings belonged to the informed guests of advances American Presbyterianism. The industrial and artistic heritage channel). ever-talented Cool Hand String in DNA research, including the A descendant of Francis’ brother, of Ulster is another significant Scottish folk singer, Isobella Ward, Band from County Tyrone, who findings of the recent Buchanan David McKamey from the United aspect of family history and sang a selection of ballads, while entertained by performing some project conducted by his son States presented an overview therefore featured strongly at the the Mood Swings Ladies Choir of the best-loved bluegrass songs Ross. Additionally, Roberta Kay of the history of the Makemie festival. delighted the audience with some and melodies. from Canada emphasised the family in America entitled: One Colm Clarke from Monreagh traditional American Country During the day, delegates availed importance of DNA in discovering Ulster American Family. Dr worked in the flax/linen industry sounds. of free time to visit the many the roots of the world family of William Roulston, a leading Ulster as a young man and kindly A local drama society, led exhibitors displaying artefacts and Robinsons. historian, genealogist and author, volunteered his services to by Andrew Tinney from offering family history services. Broad range of Ulster- Scots festivals held throughout 2019 The Ulster-Scots Agency supported an Ulster-Scots art exhibition, a varied range of Ulster-Scots Ulster-Scots poetry workshops community festivals yet again this in schools promoting the Ulster- year, offering a wide variety of Scots language and living history Ulster-Scots activities throughout tours within Belfast graveyards Ulster and successfully attracted telling the stories of some notable large numbers of attendees. Ulster-Scots. In County Donegal These festivals included a number the festival programme supported of new activities, chiefly an the East Donegal and Foyle outdoor Ulster-Scots Family History Festival Tattoo in Rathfriland organised by Monreagh showcasing the local Ulster Scots Heritage talents of Ulster-Scots & Education Centre. music and dance. This festival focused on Other novel events Ulster-Scots genealogy included Ulster-Scots and family history, guided walking tours attracting interest from and Highland Dance throughout Ulster and flash mob’s on Derry’s the USA. The Community walls as part of the New Gate Festival programme in Fringe Festival in Londonderry, and 2019 supported a number of new the Ulster-Scots music and dance festivals including, the Seskinore displays on July 13 in Scarva. Gatherin in West Tyrone, which The Agency’s Community Festivals included an Ulster-Scots Ceilidh, programme supports a number as well as a family fun day as of annual festivals, including part of the Livingston festival in Schomberg Society’s festival in Killinchy Co Down. Derek Reaney, Kilkeel, starting with an annual Development Officer at Ulster-Scots Ulster-Scots gathering at Hanna’s Agency, revealed the Agency was Close and finishing off with their delighted to offer funding to these traditional pageant and open air festivals and actively encourages Pipe bands performing in concert. Also receiving support community groups to get involved. Rathfriland Tattoo was the North Belfast Ulster- Email Derek directly at: reaneyd@ Scots Festival which included ulsterscotsagency.org.uk for details. Saturday, October 26, 2019 ♂ ♂ 11

www.ulsterscotsagency .com 11 Dave Gallaher: Ulster-Scot and original New Zealand All Black

he 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan sees the New TZealand All Blacks trying to win their third World Cup in a row, having run out as champions in both 2011 and 2015. They are the most successful team in World Cup Rugby, having won the famous Webb Ellis Trophy on three occasions. They are the only international rugby team with a winning record against every opponent. That formidable record started with their very first touring team, whose captain, Dave Gallaher, was an Ulster-Scot.

Born on 30 October 1873 in Ramelton, County Donegal, and baptised in the First Ramelton Meeting House on 8 January 1874, in May 1878 David Gallaher’s family sailed from Belfast on the Lady Jocelyn to make a new life for themselves in New Zealand. The family name was actually Gallagher but the New Zealand immigration officials in mis-spelt the name. The family originally settled in , a settlement founded by George Vesey Stewart of Martray, County Tyrone, in 1874, which might be justly regarded as ‘an Ulster plantation in New Zealand.’ Part of Vesey Stewart’s sales pitch for the new settlement was its Ulster and Orange character. In the words of one Robert Stuart: ‘‘Be you an Orangeman, you shall meet Orangemen; be you a Blackman, you shall meet Blackmen; be you a Freemason, you shall meet ‘‘Standing six feet in height, 13 Freemasons; be you what you may, you shall always meet a hearty stone in weight, hard as nails, welcome from honest and contented countrymen.’’ John Hamilton, fast and full of dash, he bolted another settler, identified another appealing feature of life in Katikati. from the mark every time, He thanked Stewart for bringing him to a land ‘‘where a man can live played right up to the whistle under his own vine and fig tree’’ and without ‘‘fear of landlord, agent or and stopped for nothing...’’ bailiff.’’ Dave Gallaher’s birthplace in The Gallaher family subsequently Ramelton, Co Donegal moved to Auckland in the 1890s and it was here that Gallaher began to play provincial rugby. He played Gallaher was one of rugby’s greatest carried, dying, from the battlefield. stone in weight, hard as nails, fast Shield, awarded to the winner of 26 representative matches for strategists. At the conclusion of An Irish priest was giving the last and full of dash, he bolted from the Auckland’s premier club competition Auckland. the tour Gallaher and his friend rites to a soldier, Edward Fitzgerald, mark every time, played right up to since 1922. A more recent trophy, Gallaher was the captain of the and fellow player J. W. (‘Billy’) at the No 3 Australian Casualty the whistle and stopped for nothing the Dave Gallaher Cup, has since Original All Blacks (often simply Stead wrote ‘The Complete Rugby Clearing Station when he drew big or small.’’ 2000 been held by the winner referred to as ‘The Originals’), New Footballer,’ a 300-page master class Fitzgerald’s attention to a stricken 13 former All Black rugby players of the first rugby test between Zealand’s first national in rugby. It is still widely regarded colleague nearby. ‘‘Do you know who were killed in the First World New Zealand and France in each team to tour outside Australasia. He as ‘‘the most exhaustive and finest that is, on the next table?’’, the padre War – one in 10 of those who had calendar year. captained the team from 1903-1906. written exposition of the rugby game asked. Fitzgerald shook his head. worn the black jersey during the In July 2011 a 2.7 metre bronze The legendary All Blacks five-month that has yet been printed.’’ ‘‘That is Dave Gallaher, captain of previous decade. statue of Dave Gallaher was tour of Britain in 1905 constitutes Gallaher served in the Boer War the 1905 All Blacks.’’ He died on Four of them were killed within a unveiled in front of the highlight of his career. The in the 6th and 10th New Zealand 4 October is buried at Nine Elms fortnight in June 1917 when the New Stadium, Auckland – the home of All Blacks scored 976 points and Mounted Rifles. He shaved three Cemetery, Poperinge. Zealand Division took part in the . conceded only 59 in 35 matches. years off his age to serve in the Five of the nine Gallaher brothers stunningly successful assault on the In October 2015 an All Blacks rugby They won 34 matches and lost only Great War. served during the Great War and Messines ridge in which the 36th jersey worn by Dave Gallaher during one against Wales and controversy On 3 during the three of them died (David, Douglas (Ulster) and 16th (Irish) Divisions the 1905 tour was sold for £180,000 still surrounds the referee’s decision Third Battle of Ypres Dave Gallaher and Henry). also participated. at auction in Cardiff. that cost them the match. ‘The led the men of the 2nd Auckland Gallaher was one of the outstanding In recent years All Black teams It had been expected to sell for Originals’ set a very high standard Regiment over the top for the last sportsmen of his era. As his obituary touring France have paid homage to between £20,000 and £40,000 but for all subsequent All Black sides to time. A piece of shrapnel smashed on the front page of Auckland Star Gallaher at his Belgian grave. such is the legend that was Dave emulate. through his helmet and he was put it: ‘‘Standing six feet in height, 13 His name lives on in the Gallaher Gallaher. 12 ♂ ♂ Saturday, October 26, 2019

12 www.ulsterscotsagency .com Ulster-Scots visibility continues to grow in Culture Night celebrations

Culture Night has continued to grow as an important date in the local cultural calendar. This year’s event took place on Friday, September 20 and continued into Saturday 21. The visibility of Ulster-Scots at the event has grown year on year and the best of our music and dance was proudly on display yet again. The largest Culture Night events take place in Belfast, where the city centre comes alive with a wide variety of entertainment. The Discover Ulster-Scots Centre, in the city’s bustling Cathedral Quarter, is ideally placed for Culture Night and we put on memorable displays from the Ulster-Scots Agency Juvenile Pipe Band; Michelle Johnston School of Highland Dance; and Bannside Lambeg Drumming Club so many people, visitors and locals song dance and rhyme; Mountfield in the area around the centre, as alike, coming into the city centre, Scottish Country Dancers held well as a traditional Ulster-Scots Culture Night is a great opportunity a Scottish ceilidh evening with music session. to let people experience the best of performances from Mountfeild Pipe Ulster-Scots Agency Chief Ulster-Scots and we want to make Band; and Omagh Protestant Boys Executive, Ian Crozier, said: ‘‘Our sure that it gets bigger and better Flute Band held an indoor concert to presence at Culture Night in every year.’’ celebrate Ulster-Scots melody within Belfast grows every year and we Ulster-Scots entertainment was also Fermanagh and Omagh District will be sitting down soon with key on display at other Culture Night Council. There were also displays of Pictured, above: Culture Night stakeholders in our community to celebrations across around Northern Highland dancing and living history in Belfast, and left: Culture plan the next step in building our Ireland. Kirlish Ulster-Scots held at Ranfurly House in Dungannon, Night, Burnavon Cookstown presence for next year’s event. With an evening of community music, organised by Mid-Ulster Council. Blackthorn Pipers getting in tune with monthly meetings

The Discover Ulster-Scots Centre or in small ensembles. Each plays host to a monthly gathering gathering also features a Piper designed to promote Bagpipe of the Month who plays a set music across both Northern at the end of the night to bring Ireland and the Republic of proceedings to a close. This is Ireland as the Pipe Band Season undoubtedly one of the highlights winds down each year. From of the gatherings as it provides a September through to April, chance to get to hear some on the third Wednesday of the finest players in of each month, the the country usually in Centre is the venue a solo capacity or as for meetings of part of an ensemble the Blackthorn rather than in the Ulster-Scots Agency hails Pipers Society. surroundings of The Society, a full band. A few set up in 2011, times a season success of two junior drummers brings together there is also an solo pipers, opportunity for a RSPBA judges, band Junior Blackthorn The Ulster-Scots Agency is drumming summer scheme in The students all performed musicians as well Piper to play too. The last delighted with the success of Spa Primary School ran by music brilliantly, getting placed 1st to as bagpipe enthusiasts year has seen performances two junior drummers, Arren tutors, Barney Megoran and 5th. The Ulster-Scots Agency to provide an opportunity to from an impressive array of McWilliams and Jamie Kerr. William Wallace. would like to congratulate all of perform, learn from others and piping talent, including Ashley A huge congratulations to Arren Students from a variety of ages the musicians in their competition share the music in a relaxed and McMichael, Sean Maloney, Andy and Jamie who both competed and abilities attended these results as well as those who like-minded environment away Wilson, Andrew Shilliday, Beth in the All-Ireland Solo Piping and classes, with some travelling a performed at Raphoe Heritage from the competition scene that’s Preston, Harry Stevenson, Ryan Drumming Championships in considerable distance. Day. often associated with the world of Cupples, Samantha Coburn and Lusk, Dublin and were crowned The results are already evident A special thanks must also go to pipe bands. Mark Hasson. All-Ireland champions, Arren won as a number of pipers and the tutors for all their efforts. The Society gatherings are open All are welcome, so get yourself 1st place in under 16 drumming drummers performed at Raphoe Anyone looking to join an Ulster- to anyone with an interest in down to one of the gatherings and Jamie won 1st place in under Heritage Day in Donegal, and Scots music or dance tuition class bagpipe music – whether as a from 7-10pm. Dates for your diary 14 drumming. on the same day, a number of should get in contact to find their player or a listener – and feature are: November 20, December 11, Jamie and Arren attended the students travelled to the Solo nearest class by emailing info@ a range of players playing tunes January 15, 2020, February 19 Ulster-Scots Agency piping and Championships in Dublin. ulsterscotsagency.org.uk new and old either as soloists 2020, March 18 and April 15. Saturday, October 26, 2019 ♂ ♂ 13

www.ulsterscotsagency .com 13 Rangers’ link to Ulster-Scots Billy Kennedy’s new book explores enduring connection with Ibrox club

any folk will be aware of Billy Kennedy with Linfield was the club’s assistant manager. the enormous following manager David Healy, an ex- The Ulster connection at Ibrox Park Mthat Rangers FC enjoys in Rangers player continues right up to the present Ulster, but how many are aware day, with two Northern Ireland of the role played by Ulster in internationals in the Rangers the formation and success of the playing squad - Steven Davis, the famous club? current Northern Ireland captain A new book, Rangers Football and Jordan Jones. This book, Club – The Ulster Connection, richly illustrated with colour and has been published which will be mono photographs, is a testimony essential reading for the thousands and tribute to momentous of Rangers supporters in Northern achievements of Ulstermen past Ireland and beyond. The 132-page and present at Rangers Football publication, authored by veteran Club. The work also acknowledges News Letter journalist and lifelong the vital contribution made by the Rangers supporter Billy Kennedy, thousands of supporters from charts this lesser-known but hugely Northern Ireland, who regularly significant chapter in the illustrious journey across the North Channel history of the mighty Glasgow to Ibrox. Today, Rangers Football Rangers from the club’s inception Club has 60 supporters’ clubs in in 1872 to the present day. With NI. Author Billy Kennedy served Christmas approaching, it will be a for nearly 50 years as a Director of must-have stocking filler for every Linfield Football Club and as Vice Rangers fan. Chairman of the famous Belfast Two of the club’s Founding club, which enjoys close ties with Fathers, Moses and Peter McNeil Rangers F.C. He is also the author had Ulster-Scots roots through of 13 books on 18th century Ulster- their mother Jean Bain, who left Scots (Scots-Irish) migration from Bellshill near Crossgar, Co. Down, Ulster to America and the impact of and moved to Scotland for work those pioneers on the development in the mid-19th century, marrying From 1896 to 1901, Moses and and contributed much to the and culture at Ibrox Park. of the United States as we know it Scotsman John McNeil. Moses, another brother Harry, capped 10 success of Rangers Football Club. Three Ulstermen have captained today. The book was made possible Peter and another brother, Hugh times for Scotland, ran the Royal The book provides a fascinating Rangers - Bertie Manderson, John with support from the Ulster-Scots all played in the first Rangers team Court Hotel in Bangor, Co Down. insight into the careers of more McCelland and Steven Davis: six Agency, which is established to and Moses McNeil became the 19 ‘Ulster Rangers’ who played than 30 players from this side from an Ulster connection have preserve, promote and develop the club’s first international, capped for at Ibrox were capped for Ireland of the water, who, through the been elevated to the Rangers Hall cultural identity of the Ulster-Scots Scotland against Wales in 1876. (before 1921) and Northern Ireland decades, became part of the fabric of Fame: and one - Jimmy Nicholl - people at home and abroad. Tide turning on bridge prospect

The prospect of a bridge linking in China last year. It is built to withstand Northern Ireland with Scotland has typhoon conditions. His answer to been much in the news since Boris Beaufort’s Dyke is simply to cross to the Johnston entered 10 Downing Street. north, where the sea is more shallow. The new Prime Minister has asked Naeem Hussain, global bridge design government officials to look closely at leader at design and engineering firm the idea, which he first mooted when Arup, agrees a Portpatrick-Larne bridge he was Foreign Secretary. is ‘‘entirely practical and doable.’’ Discussion of a bridge to Scotland Hussain favours a cable-stayed bridge is nothing new. Carrickfergus-born or a suspension bridge. Both styles Engineer Luke Livingston Macassey would be supported by towers standing (1843-1908) proposed a series of options on top of oil-rig-style frames. He told to span the North Channel 150 years National Geographic: ‘‘The bridge ago, including a channel tunnel between could be constructed with existing and Belfast and Glasgow to ‘‘promote order proven technologies, marrying off-shore and prosperity.’’ oil technology with long-span bridge The idea went nowhere because critics technology. The substructures would be were concerned that the state would constructed in a dry dock, floated out to have to meet the high cost. Macassey the site, and then lowered into position. went on to mastermind a new water Large pre-fabricated deck units would supply for Belfast, which included also be brought to site on barges and building the Silent Valley Reservoir. lifted into place.’’ Critics of the idea today cite practical This analysis brings the discussion difficulties, including the breadth and architects/engineers who believe the Central Belt is more practical, given the the required technology already exists: back to the issue the Prime Minister depth of the North Channel; the difficult bridge can be built. existing road infrastructure on both sides. ‘‘This would be a challenging proposition, himself identified. The stumbling block for weather conditions in the area; the Alan Dunlop is the Scottish architect More challenging than the length of such but we have the technology and the significant national infrastructure projects presence of the munitions dump at whose 2018 report sparked serious a bridge is the depth of the sea bed – up talent in NI and Scotland to create is not science, but the will to make them Beafort’s Dyke; and the significant cost discussion of the idea. He suggested to 160m at its deepest. Dunlop proposed something as potentially brilliant as this.’’ happen. The businessman who first (up to £20billion) as reasons to dismiss two potential options: a 12-mile crossing a cable-stayed or suspension bridge for Dunlop addresses the weather problem proposed the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau the proposal. Others however, are from Torr Head to the Mull of Kintyre the shallower sections and a floating with the example of the Hong Kong- Bridge in the early 1980s was dismissed considering it with more of an open mind. or a 26-mile crossing from Larne to pontoon-style bridge for the deeper Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, a 34-mile series of as a crank, but the 34-mile bridge, In a recent article, National Geographic Portpatrick. The southern route, which sections. He stresses that since oil rigs cable-stayed bridges, an undersea tunnel which took 8.5 years to build at a cost of magazine talked to several accomplished would be closer to Belfast and Scotland’s can operate in seas as deep as 3,000m, and four artificial islands which opened £15billion, opened last year. 14 ♂ ♂ Saturday, October 26, 2019

14 www.ulsterscotsagency .com Hallowe’en and the Ulster-Scots It is that time of year when the Rev. John McCloskey of Banagher castles, peculiar superstitions and nights are on the turn and the parish, Co Down proposed that the occasionally morbid history, it’s not smell of hearth fires are in the Scots who migrated to Ulster in the surprising that Halloween first took air. It is not freezing yet, but you seventeenth century came with the off in Scotland. know it is on the way. Of all the “whole train of witches, the tribe of Even the world famous Bard of seasonal holidays, Halloween fairies, the overlooking (bewitching) Ayrshire Robert Burns got with the might not have the spiritual of horses and cows”. spirit of Halloween and wrote a significance or inspire the same The Ulster-Scots Halloween poem in 1785 which details many of excitement as Christmas, but traditions included lighting bonfires, the national customs and legends there’s just something about its parties with unusual food and surrounding the festival. ghoulish theatricality which never games, practical jokes and children Halloween is just around the corner, fails to enchant. visiting houses guising (wearing a so why not introduce some Ulster- disguise) & rhyming - in the hope Scots into your celebrations this A special time of the year when of receiving apples or nuts. Turnips year with many believe that the spirit world (Neeps) were hollowed out and Dookin’(Dunking) for apples –This can make contact with the physical faces carved into the skin of the age old game involves trying to grab world, a night when magic is at its turnip. They were then lit by a candle apples floating in a tub of water most powerful. placed inside the turnip and put using your mouth, with your hands Where did Halloween originate? outside the home to ward off evil tied behind your back. If you want Why the 31st October? spirits. make it more difficult have a go at Firstly the Hallowe’en comes from Every year we hear the kids rhyming catching them with a fork. a Scottish term for All Hallows’ this verse with varying degrees of Treacle scones – Once again with Eve. The date of 31st October was accuracy and enthusiasm: your hands tied, this messy game adopted by the church in the 8th challenges participants to take a century as the eve of All Saints Day. “Hallowe’en is cumin’ tha goose bite out of treacle covered scones The day originates from ancient is gettin’ fat. hanging from ropes. pagan festivals held by the Celtic Wud ye please put a penny in tha Nut burning – Recently engaged? people of Ireland & Britain. In the oul man’s hat. Find out if you and your husband/ modern day Halloween continues If ye havnae got a penny a wife to be will live happily ever after. to be one of the most celebrated ha’pney wull do. Each throw a nut into an open fire. If festivals of the year throughout If ye havnae got a ha’pney God they quietly smoulder amongst the Scotland, Northern Ireland and bless you. flames your marriage will be a happy Ireland. And yer oul man too.” one, but if they hiss and crackle you Despite their staunch could be in for trouble! Presbyterianism, the Scots were Not forgetting our kinfolk in the Sausage rolls – The Witchcraft Act superstitious people and belief in United States where Halloween is of 1735 forbade the eating of pork fairies and the supernatural world also very popular, people are often pastries on Halloween. was quite normal. When the Scots unaware of the celebration’s strong It wasn’t until the 1950s the law was came to Ireland they brought with Scottish connections. repealed and since then sausage them their traditions. This was A land that has such atmospheric rolls have been a popular treat at documented in 1821 when the landscape and array of haunted Halloween parties and gatherings. Mrs J.H. Riddell: Ulster-Scots ghost novelist

The Ulster-Scots novelist Charlotte also edited a magazine Knock graveyard, which was ‘a fine Charlotte Eliza(beth) Lawson called Home, which was one of the heartsome place. There’s always Riddell was born at The Barn in first women’s magazines, and was some sort of wind stirring among Carrickfergus, County Antrim, on also a frequent contributor to The the headstones.’ 30 September 1832, the youngest Saturday Review. From 1867 she Charlotte was the first pensioner daughter of James Cowan and was co-proprietor and editor of the of the Society of Authors, receiving his wife Ellen Kilshaw. Her father St James’s Magazine. a pension of £60 a year in May was a prominent citizen and for She was a prolific writer of 1901. In 1903 she published The some years he was an alderman supernatural tales, especially stories Banshee’s Warning and other tales, and High Sheriff for the county of of haunted houses and E F Bleiler a collection of six short stories. Carrickfergus. once called her ‘the Victorian ghost One of the stories contains fine novelist par excellence.’ This aspect descriptions of the coast-drive from The surname Cowan is common of her work included classic short Belfast to Larne in olden days. throughout the Scottish Lowlands stories like The Open Door and Charlotte died at Hounslow, London but especially Ayrshire and Nut Bush Farm, along with four on 27 September 1906, aged 74 Dumfriesshire, areas from which supernatural novellas. In 2017 one years, and her death was reported many Ulster settlers came. At that reviewer put her in a list of the top in newspapers across the British time Carrickfergus had a population ‘11 Women Horror Writers You Need Isles. of more than 8,000 people of whom to Read’ and remarked: ‘For great The Northern Whig (29 September 6,000 were Presbyterians and Victorian-era ghost stories, look no 1906) had a long obituary, headed mostly of Scottish descent. further than Charlotte Riddell. Today, ‘AN ULSTER NOVELIST’ and James Cowan was widely read and Riddell’s stories feel old-fashioned it reflected the high regard in was a member of the Belfast Natural in the best possible way – they’re which she was held in her home History and Philosophical Society. full of musty deserted mansions and province. ‘British fiction has lost of He ensured that Charlotte was also ghosts with unfinished business’. its pleasantest modern exponents, widely read and by the age of ten Weird Stories, a collection of some and one whose work was warmly she had read through the Koran. of her best ghost stories, was appreciated in this city and Charlotte started writing at an early financial circumstances and Fens appeared in 1858 in three published in 1832 and has been neighbourhood on its own merits as age and she produced her first eventually moved to England, where volumes under the pseudonym of F described as a “classic of Victorian well as from her local connections… serious work at the age of fifteen. It she married JH Riddell, a civil G Trafford. This was the name she supernatural fiction”. Mrs Riddell wrote her own name wasn’t published but those who saw engineer, in 1857. They were not used in her early years of writing. It Due to its county Down setting and high on Ulster’s roll of fame.’ it were impressed by her potential as well off, however and she turned was the start of a long writing career its Ulster-Scots characters, a later Nelson McCausland is an Ulster- a writer. increasingly to writing as a means to which spanned about 40 years and novel Berna Boyle (1884) was the Scots author, activist, media After her father’s death Charlotte boost their income. in which she produced nearly 40 best known in Ulster. It contains a commentator and newspaper and her mother were left in poor Her first novel, The Moors and the novels. wonderful description of a funeral at columnist. Saturday, October 26, 2019 ♂ ♂ 15

www.ulsterscotsagency .com 15 £100k funding boost for cottages

story of the Scotch-Irish (as Ulster- Scots are known in America) at the Discover Ulster-Scots Centre in Belfast and a Patriots, Pioneers and Presidents Trail which encompasses all of the key sites in Northern Ireland and the border counties. At the same time, the Agency has worked closely with the Northern Ireland Bureau in Washington DC to promote our heritage through events and exhibitions in Maine, Louisiana, Georgia and New York. This included a highly successful mission to the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Savannah, alongside the Omagh Protestant Boys Flute Band and successful involvement with the Carnegie Migrations Festival in . Ian Crozier added: ‘‘Our Presidential cottages are the most tangible demonstration of our connection to the United States, but for many years, instead of being seen as a crown jewel, they have been treated as the Cinderella of Northern Ireland n a development that signals the Andrew Jackson Cottage outside the Ulster-Scots community that and President Woodrow Wilson tourism. good news for the promotion of Carrickfergus and the Chester Alan they came from and the contribution near Strabane. The remains of a Now, as a result of the work of Iour links to the United States, the Arthur Cottage in Cullybackey, which that we made to the development of fifth cottage, linked to assassinated the Ulster-Scots Agency and our Ulster-Scots Agency has secured are in the care of Mid and East the American nation.’’ President William McKinley, were partners in the local Councils and £100,000 in additional resources to Antrim Council. Northern Ireland can boast four removed from Dervock and are held beyond, the cottages are starting fund improvements in how our story Ulster-Scots Agency Chief Executive cottages linked to American by National Museums Northern to be recognised once again for is told at two of Northern Ireland’s Ian Crozier said: ‘‘Through this Presidents which are open to Ireland. their immense cultural significance Presidential cottages. project, we want to make it easier visitors. In addition to the Jackson The Ulster-Scots Agency has and the potential that they offer in The money, secured from Stormont’s for visitors to find their way to the and Arthur cottages that will be already undertaken work at the tapping into an American tourist Department for Communities, will be cottages and once they get there, targeted by this initiative, there are Grant Cottage in partnership with market that is already worth more used to improve the presentation of to make sure that they learn not just also cottages linked to President Mid Ulster Council, as well as than $72million a year to Northern the Ulster-Scots/Scotch-Irish story at about the individual Presidents, but Ulysses S. Grant, near Ballygawley developing a visitor gallery telling the Ireland.’’ New Ulster-Scotch Leid Week

launching a brand new badge for those that hae a wheen o wurds in that Ulster-Scotch leid, which we hope people of all ages and backgrounds will wear as a symbol of pride in their Ulster-Scots uropean Day of Languages linguistic identity.” on 26th September saw the The Ulster-Scots Agency made Eannouncement of a new the announcement with a social initiative from the Ulster-Scots media post in Ulster-Scots, which Agency to promote the Ulster-Scots stated: ‘‘It’s European Day o Leids language. Ulster-Scotch Leid Week tha day. A brave day tae tell ye that will take place from November 25 tha Boord o Ulster-Scotch wull be to 30 and will see a wide range of haein tha first ever Ulster-Scotch activities to promote awareness of Leid Week fae tha 25th til 30th and respect for the language. Novemmer. Ulster-Scots Agency Chief “Owre tha siven days thaur wull Executive Ian Crozier said: “We be a guid wheen o events tae help are really excited that the first ye til ken mair anent tha Hamely ever Ulster-Scotch Leid Week will Tongue, whas taaked bae fowk aa take place this year, during the owre Ulster. Luk oot fur mair news International Year of Indigenous nearerhaun tha time. Languages. “The announcement was very “We are working hard to put together positively received on social media, a diverse programme that will help with the overwhelming reaction from folk to understand more about the people being surprise that they Ulster-Scots language, the role that could read all or most of the Ulster- it plays in the lives of its speakers Scots text. This isn’t surprising, as and the place that it has within our most people here have quite a lot wider community. We have already of Ulster-Scots but often they don’t confirmed distinguished speakers realise it. from Ulster, Scotland and beyond, ‘‘We want ye tae ken that maist fowk but the week will also include talks, in Norlinn Airlann hae a wee bit o workshops and screenings in a Ulster-Scotch, an monie fowk hae range of local community venues. a brave bit mair forbye,’’ added Mr “Forbye that, we will also be Crozier. 16 www.ulsterscotsagency .com

Let’s learn The Scots Hallowe’en tradition of guising involves children going from door to door in disguise and a gift in the form of food, coins, apples or chocolate is given out in exchange GIE THA for the child performing a party trick. The tradition is called guising because of the disguises or costumes worn. Are ye gang guising? Send us your NEEP A photo, we’ll share it on our Facebook page. www.facebook.com/ SCARY UlsterScotsAgency BAKE!

WIN A FAMILY PASS TO ARMAGH OBSERVATORY & PLANETARIUM

To be in with a chance of winning a family pass either: 1. Send us your scary face neep design 2. Draw us a scary Hallowe’en picture 3. Send us a photo of your carved neep or pumpkin

dae ye ken?

Traditionally it was root vegetables like Send your entries by email to competition@ulsterscotsagency. the neep (turnip) that was carved to com with Weans’ Wurld competition in the subject line. scare away the monsters. Please remember to include your name and contact details. Immigrants travelling to America Alternatively, post your answer to: Ulster-Scots Agency, The took this tradition with them and COMPETITION Corn Exchange, 31 Gordon Street, Belfast, BT1 2LG used pumpkins instead when Closing date: 15th November 2019 they couldn’t find turnips. Competition winners’ names and the winning photo will be shared in the next issue. Places to visit: Armagh Observatory and Planetarium A spooky attraction for half term

Join us this Halloween for an out of this world experience. We have events for people of all ages, from Wee Wonders to our Adult Only Takeover. Come see our telescopes on our special Observatory tour and bring the kids along to watch our very special “Spooky Space” 360 degree dome show. Armagh Spookservatory and Planetscarium, the place for space this half term!