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WIN wITH weAnS’ wURlD -Scots Agency (Boord o Ulstér-Scotch) official publication SATURDAY MAY 17 2014 PAGe 16 UniqUeinnovatoRsgalleRysettolaUnCh at BelfasttitaniCMaRitiMefestival

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Blue plaque in Mallusk honours United Irishman Ulster-Scots literary trail launched in - Page 5 - Page 15 2 www.ulsterscotsagency.com SATURDAY MAY 17 2014 CLASSESINTRODUCE

Fair Faa Ye

Welcome to the May 2014 CULTUREANDLANGUAGE edition of The Ulster-Scot. Summer is almost upon us once again and the Ulster- Scots Agency is gearing up for a few busy months of festivals and outdoor events. This month we will be taking part in the Titanic Maritime Festival at the Titanic Dock & Pump-House and Thompson Dry Dock at Queens Island with a range of Ulster-Scots activities (including the Agency’s juvenile pipe band). We will use the event from May 24-26 to launch our long awaited Ulster-Scots Innovators Gallery. You can read more about the festival on Page 7. The Agency will also be present at the May Fair (May 20-24) and the Northern Countryside Festival (May 31- June 1), which has been relocated this year to Balmoral Park in . More details can be found on Page 11. Also in this edition we look back at some of the highly successful events that have taken place over the past couple of months – including the Ulster and Conference at the A series of classes took place in Peninsula, the Plantation of Ulster, banging a Lambeg drum and tasting Europa Hotel on Page 6, the annual Whitelaw Reid Memorial The Auld House in Moneyreagh the Black Oath, the Eagle Wing, the home-made fadge, hot off the Lecture on Page 10 and the Ulster-Scots Cultural Evening in village during March and April 1641 massacres, and the 1798 griddle, with cock-a-leekie soup and Craigavon on Page 8. aimed at introducing participants Rebellion. cranachan. Hopefully everyone will find something of interest. to various aspects of Ulster- In terms of language and literature, Students learned the correct way to Ian Crozier is Chief Executive of the Ulster-Scots Agency Scots history, culture, language the group studied Ulster-Scots ‘perform’ Auld Lang Syne, as well and literature. poets from the rhyming weaver as encountering villains and raiders, tradition as well as modern-day mercenaries and entrepreneurs – Organised by Castlereagh Borough authors including James Fenton and even a few tales of Ulster-Scots The Ulster-Scot Council, with support from the and Charlie Gillen. They also wrote romance. Ministerial Advisory Group (Ulster- their own impressive poetry using And then of course there was The official newspaper for the Ulster-Scots Agency / Scots Academy), the classes were the traditional Standard Habbie and homework! Tasks were set including Tha Boord o Ulster-Scotch designed and delivered by Laura Christis Kirk stanza forms. translation, prose and poetry – and Spence of Stone Circle Consulting. Dialogues, role plays and class several gold stars were awarded. Main office: More than a dozen students signed- conversation each week introduced The course concluded with an The Corn Exchange up from Belfast, Ballynahinch, elements of Ulster-Scots language extra party night for students with 31 Gordon Street, , , – and this was reinforced through their friends and families. There Belfast, BT1 2LG and , and the class listening to Ulster-Scots dramas and was musical entertainment from numbers were sustained for the recitations. ‘Risin Stour’, humorous recitations, Telephone: (028) 9023 1113 entire course duration, which was Each week a guest speaker was presentation of certificates – and a Fax: (028) 9023 1898 particularly encouraging. invited to join the group – and their delicious supper. Email: [email protected] The participants had little or no talks included Ulster-Scots musical Overall the class was enormous previous knowledge of Ulster-Scots traditions; the impact of Robert fun, and plans are already under International callers dialling the Ulster-Scots Agency: but were very keen to find out more. Burns on Ulster; the Scotch-Irish way for a Level 2 course, subject to Europe - 00 44 28 9023 1113 The course examined key events in America; the Plantation of funding. Australia - 00 11 44 28 9023 1113 and periods in Ulster-Scots history Ulster; Ulster-Scots surnames and For more information or to be USA - 011 44 28 9023 1113 including the Bruces in Ireland, the local ; and Ulster-Scots kept informed about further failed colony of Sir Thomas Smith, cookery. classes, contact lspence@ Regional office in Raphoe: the 1606 settlement of the Ards The students thoroughly enjoyed stonecircleconsulting.co.uk. The Ulster-Scots Agency William Street Raphoe, Co Donegal Telephone: +353 7 4917 3876 CLICK ON THIS... Fax: +353 7 4917 3985 WORD Email: [email protected] For details of what’s on check out our events calendar - OF THE ISSUE Editor: Gary McDonald www.ulsterscotsagency.com/events Associate Editor: Gillian Pearson Production: The Irish News For Ulster-Scots news - www.ulsterscotsagency.com/news Printing: Interpress NI Limited Clatchin To sign up for the Ulster-Scots E-Newsletter - The Ulster-Scot next edition: Saturday July 12 2014 visit www.ulsterscotsagency.com/newsletter/subscribe/ Deadline for copy: Wednesday June 25 2014 register your details and receive updates on the areas that you Meaning: Contributors should note that publication of any are most interested. submitted article is at the Editor’s discretion a collection Join us on Facebook - visit www.facebook.com/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 17 2014 buShMillShopeStohonour NEwS AND EvENTS PRONI lecture series on Belfast’s past, atrueworldwaronehero present and future

The Public Record Office of Northern Talks have begun to explore the leadership from the Council in delivering such Ireland (PRONI) is hosting a special series possibility of having a dedicated a memorial will be important.” of lectures this month and next focused memorial or sculpture in Robert Quigg left Bushmills to enlist in the on the . 12th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles (Mid- to honour one of the village’s World volunteers) during world war One. War One heroes. This year marks the 180th anniversary of His platoon commander was Lieutenant Harry industrial flax-spinning into Belfast; 175 Macnaghten (Sir Edward Harry Macnaghten, years since the city’s first railway; and Sergeant Robert Quigg was awarded the 6th Baronet, 1896–1916). 125 years after the death of Sir Charles victoria Cross for his valour at the Battle On July 1 1916 Robert’s platoon advanced Lanyon. within this context, the series of the Somme in 1916 and Moyle Council three times, only to be beaten back by will unravel the historical development of has now agreed to write to the Royal British the Germans. Many hundreds of the 12th Belfast’s architecture, layout and society, Legion in Bushmills and the Macnaghten Battalion were either killed or wounded. as documented in PRONI collections. family, of Dundarave, to get their views. In the confusion of battle, it became known Latest experts lined up to speak are: Many are keen to see a memorial in place that Lieutenant Macnaghten was missing. • Tuesday May 20 - Dr Peter Smyth, in Bushmills ahead of 2016 to mark the Robert Quigg immediately volunteered to go historian and author: Belfast post-1945: centenary of Quigg’s ww1 heroics. out into no-man’s land and search for his Sergeant Robert Quigg a society in transition; Local historian Robert Thompson said: “In commander. • Tuesday May 27 - Andrew Molloy, July 1916 Robert Quigg risked his life to His actions during that fruitless search led “hearingarumourthathisplatoon University of Ulster: Modernism vs. rescue wounded soldiers at the Somme and him to receive the victoria Cross. Conservation: planning 20th century was awarded the victoria Cross for his efforts. His victoria Cross citation reads as follows: officerwaslyingwounded,he Belfast; “He is the only victoria Cross winner north of “Hearing a rumour that his platoon officer wentoutseventimestolook • Tuesday June 3 - Gary Potter, PLACE Belfast, yet he is ignored by his home town. If was lying wounded, he went out seven NI: The Contemporary City: Current this was anywhere else in the world, he’d be times to look for him, under heavy shell and forhim,underheavyshelland developments, visions for the future. feted and honoured forever.” machine-gun fire, each time bringing back a • All lectures will be held from 1pm-2pm North Antrim MLA Robin Swann, who is wounded man. machine-gunfire,eachtime at PRONI’s headquarters at 2 Titanic among those pushing for a memorial, said: “The last man he dragged on a waterproof Boulevard, Belfast. “while Robert is acknowledged by the sheet from within yards of the enemy’s wire. bringingbackawoundedman.” presence of a plaque at the war memorial, He was seven hours engaged in this most Admission is free but booking is essential. the community have suggested that a more gallant work, and was finally so exhausted Robert Quigg returned to Bushmills to a Email [email protected] or phone (028) fitting tribute or a statue or sculpture could that he had to give it up.” hero’s welcome. He died in 1955 and was 9053 4800 to reserve a place. be provided in time for the centenary of his The body of Sir (Edward) Harry Macnaghten buried with full military honours at Billy actions. was never found. Most tragically for Edith, Church. For further information visit the Talks and “I’m sure the community will play a full part Lady Macnaghten, her two sons, the 6th and Councillor Joan Baird described Quigg as “a Events section at www.proni.gov.uk. in planning such a tribute, though clearly 7th Baronets, were both killed in action. very famous hero of our area”. CelebrateallthingSulSter-SCotS inCarriCkferguS...

Come and celebrate the Ulster-Scots cultural heritage of in the very heart of Scotch Quarter! The events on Saturday and Sunday August 16 & 17, which take place from noon to 5pm each day, include live music, cookery demonstrations, food, highland dancing, children’s entertainment and much more! Carrrickfergus is only one of two walled towns in Northern Ireland, and on the Sunday it will celebrate international walled Towns Day, when re-enactors, historical vignites and tours will combine to bring the history of the town to life. 4 www.ulsterscotsagency.com SATURDAY MAY 17 2014 SATURDAY MAY 17 2014

TheBallyclareMayFair

is information . BallyclareMayFairreTurnsFor More at www available . ballyclaremayfair com or by contacting MoreTradiTionalFunandFesTiviTies at Borough Council The Ballyclare May Fair, one of the oldest continuously-running festivals in Ireland, dating back 028 9034 0000. more than two and a half centuries, takes place from Tuesday May 20 until Saturday May 24.

he Ulster Scots Agency will around the May pole to traditional music in next six months. surrounding areas would need a hundred again be supporting the fair by the hope of attracting a suitable husband The May Fair was traditionally held on animals each. The great days of the horse putting on a wealth of activities or, more likely, an employer. a Tuesday in late May but in the 19th fair ended with the First World War and Tto keep the family entertained. On December 16 that year George II century such was the demand for horses growing mechanisation. But at a time granted to the Earl of Donegal the right that the Monday was given over to the when the working day was from dawn to Highlights from the fair (which is held in to hold “two fairs yearly at the Town and trade. One dealer alone brought 100 dusk the May Fair day was the only break partnership with Newtownabbey Borough Lands of Ballyclare - yielding therefore horses each year while others came into in the year when the workers could enjoy Council) include the annual horse trading yearly to us the sum of thirteen shillings Ballyclare riding bareback and leading a some simple fun. fair, piping and lambeg drum workshops, and four pence for the said fairs, to be string of horses. Representatives of cavalry However, in recent years Ballyclare’s Tim McGarry’s Ulster Scots history night, paid forever”. regiments from all over Europe came to Main Street again echoes with the sound traditional Ulster-Scots music and ceilidh At first the fairs were markets for animals buy as the reputation of the fair spread. of horse being exercised and dealers dancing and the annual May Fair Parade. and goods, but as they grew to four in a Local farmers also needed horses to shouting. This is not just a colourful revival The Ballyclare May Fair dates back to year it was the May and November fairs plough and transport their produce while of part of the town’s cultural heritage 1756 and was an occasion for young which became the most important as it Belfast sought carriage horses and sturdy but a real market where bidding is keen. girls to dress up in their finest and dance was there that the farmers hired their animals to pull carts. Any of the huge It is now the centrepiece of the week of labouring men and servant girls for the bakeries that serviced Belfast and the festivities which is the May Fair Festival. alookbackatoneoftheoldestfestivalsinireland...

The Charter which began the Ballyclare May Fair in 1756 is preserved in the Public Record Office. This is one set of photographs of the fair taken in the 1880s. They were discovered in by Andrew Gill who collects and shows Victorian Lantern Slides.

RIGHT: On May Fair day the square in Ballyclare was filled with stalls selling hard nuts and yellow RIGHT: A group man. The farmers are of farmers and in their Sunday suits barefoot boys while small boys all have gathered wear caps. On the left at the bottom there is a glimpse of of the Square the hobby horses as to watch some they swing past. Very entertainers. few women are to be seen.

LEFT: There was always gambling of some kind at the fair in the 19th century, like this table with a spinning pointer, a primitive form of roulette. Various characters were to be seen operating the three-card trick until the police appeared on the scene. Since this was the one time in the year the farm boys might have a few coins, they ABOVE: The early amusements at the fair were swings, became the target for but the big change came with the arrival of steam power. all such tricksters. These engines drove the hobby horses and the steam organ which provided the music for the fair. From 1901 until 1972 the Sharples family provided the rides, and today Cullens have the most up to date amusements. www.ulsterscotsagency.com www.ulsterscotsagency.com 5 SATURDAY MAY 17 2014 ANOTHERPAT&PLAINSCRIPTBROUGHTTO BLUEPLAqUEINMALLUSkHONOURSUNITED LIFEBYMEADOWBRIDGEPRIMARYSCHOOL IRISHMANAND‘MANOFNOPROPERTY’ A blue plaque has been unveiled in Mallusk to perpetuate the memory of Co Antrim man Jemmy Hope, a United Irishman and faithful friend of Henry Joy McCracken. The plaque at Mallusk Cemetery was unveiled by the Ulster History Circle in partnership with the Ulster Scots Agency. Born on August 25 1764 in , near as the son of a linen-weaver, James (Jemmy) Hope was greatly influenced by the American and French Revolutions, and he joined the Society of United Irishmen in 1795. He quickly established himself as a prominent organiser and was elected to the central committee in Belfast, becoming close to the leaders including Samuel Neilson, Thomas Russell and Henry Joy McCracken. In 1796, he was sent to Dublin to assist the United Irish organisation there to mobilise support among the working classes, and he was successful in establishing several branches throughout the city and especially in the Liberties area. He also travelled to counties in Ulster and Connaught, disseminating literature and organising Above: Chris Spurr localities. Known as ‘the Spartan’, he was and Mayor Alderman described as being observant, discreet, Fraser Agnew with thoughtful, incorruptible and independent. Blanche McMordie “His Scottish forebears gave him the zeal to After the collapse of the general rising in Right: Maynard follow his principles. The Ulster History Circle 1798, Hope refused to avail of the terms of Hanna, Ulster-Scots is delighted to celebrate the achievements an amnesty offered by Lord Cornwallis on the Agency, Alderman of Jemmy Hope, and would especially like grounds that to do so would be “not only a Fraser Agnew, Dr Ian to thank the Ulster-Scots Agency for their recantation of one’s principles, but a tacit Adamson support towards this plaque.” acquiescence in the justice of the punishment Far right: Jemmy Maynard Hanna, development officer at which had been inflicted on thousands of my Hope Ulster-Scots Agency, said “I’m delighted that unfortunate associates”. we are honouring Jemmy Hope, a man who He lived the years following 1798 on the Mallusk Cemetery. Crown and Shamrock; aviatrix Lillian Bland, would not lie , a man who truly lived move between counties Dublin, Meath and The plaque refers to Hope as ‘A man of no who is honoured at the site of Tobercorran what he believed in.” Westmeath but was finally forced to flee property’, which was a label that could be House; and philanthropist Sir Edward Coey, Newtownabbey mayor Alderman Fraser Dublin following the failure of Robert Emmet’s attached to any United Irishman (Wolfe Tone whose commemorative plaque is at Merville Agnew and Mrs Blanche McMordie, a direct rebellion in 1803. He returned to the north coined the phrase when he talked about House. descendant of Jemmy Hope, were both in and evaded the authorities’ attentions in the the ‘respectable class’ and said that ‘Our Chris Spurr, chairman of the Ulster History attendance for the unveiling. ensuing repression by securing employment strength is in the men of no property’). Circle, said: “This is the latest in the series of Blanche had been born in a bungalow close with a sympathetic friend from England. He His is the fourth plaque unveiled in Circle’s blue plaques, joining those already in by and Jemmy himself had been born just is today regarded as the most egalitarian and Newtownabbey, alongside those of Newtownabbey and today these plaques are over the wall. His wife and four children, and socialist of all the United Irish leadership. antiquarian and Celtic revivalist Francis to be joined by one to a man whose name both his parents, are buried at the back of Jemmy Hope died in 1847 and is buried in the Joseph Bigger, who is commemorated at the matched his aspirations. the cemetery. MAGUSchairlaunchesnewbookonUlster-Scots

The Ulster-Scots Academy MAGUS chairman Bill Smith said: the book would be a useful source of Group, part of the Department “What makes this book such an reference and learning for students of Culture, Arts and Leisure, interesting read is that Liam Logan of Ulster-Scots. has launched a new book has focused this book on exchanges He said: “I’m pleased much of the highlighting words and phrases and words that many of us use on a material for the book began life as daily basis, sometimes without even a series of columns in The Ulster- from Ulster-Scots which are in being aware of their Ulster-Scots Scot newspaper, for which I was common usage. significance. responsible. “The Ulster-Scots Academy - “While many Ulster-Scots words are ‘Thon Ulster Scots Book’ is written Ministerial Advisory Group is incorporated into everyday urban by Liam Logan, a contributor and delighted to have part-funded this speech, there’s a rich linguistic presenter of BBC Radio Ulster’s book which provides the reader with tradition associated with rural life flagship Ulster-Scots programme ‘A a light hearted and enjoyable insight that lives on in the minds of so many Kist O’ Wurds’. into the everyday terminology that we people. L to R: Dr Ian Adamson, Liam Logan, Alister McReynolds and Bill Smith The book has already been all share. “Through the funding the Ulster- distributed to a segment of schools “We will now be considering how it Scots Academy Group has provided, and learn from their shared understanding and enhanced free of charge through a pilot can be used as part of our Ulster- I have been able to undertake a pilot linguistic heritage.” learning opportunities. exercise which was a condition Scots education project in both exercise of free distribution of the DCAL minister Carál Ní Chuilín of funding from the Ulster-Scots mainstream education and lifelong book to various schools around the said she believed the book would To purchase this book or for Academy - Ministerial Advisory Group learning.” north of Ireland, in the hope that make a useful contribution more information email Liam (MAGUS) through DCAL. Author Liam Logan said he hoped young people will get to experience to Ulster-Scots through wider Logan at [email protected] 6 www.ulsterscotsagency.com SATURDAY MAY 17 2014 SATURDAY MAY 17 2014

SHAREDINHERITANCECONFERENCE CONFERENCEExpLORESDIFFERENTCULTURES

A two-day ‘shared inheritance At the Orange conference’ in Belfast’s Europa Order stand at the Shared Hotel explored the links that Inheritance exist between Ireland, Ulster and Conference Scotland. on Wednesday March 26 are L to R: (seated) Tim The hugely successful event had a McGarry and Paul representative cross-section of speakers and Clark and (back activities, and was attended by more than 30 row) John Erskine, exhibitors from across the community. Mark Thompson The exhibitors showcased the work of their (Guest Speaker), organisations and included the Ulster-Scots Ashleigh Hill, Dr Agency, Ulster-Scots Community Network, Jonathan Mat- Ulster-Scots Language Society, the Ulster- tison, Dr David Scots Academy, the GAA, Colmcille, Foras na Hume and Brian Gaeilge and the . McTeggart. The Ulster-Scots Academy Ministerial Advisory Group worked in partnership with the Ulster Historical Foundation to organise the conference, where the theme was to explore, explain and improve understanding of our rich and diverse cultural inheritance. The packed programme consisted of spoken, literary, musical and historical contributions from all sections of society. “Ulster-Scots traditions are key components especially those of us from the north, can steps we are taking to help build a united Culture Minister Carál Ní Chuilín, who of Ireland’s culture in this part of the island, benefit from, as are the common traditions, community and a shared and better future.” officially opened the conference, said: which we can all celebrate and cherish. dimensions and cultural history we all share. Entertainment included a fusion of Ulster- “The event allows us to reflect on our “I’m delighted to be supporting such an “The key aim of the conference is Scots and traditional Irish music and dance. shared heritage across Ireland, Ulster and important event through the work of the to celebrate our shared inheritance Speakers included Dr Roger Blaney (director Scotland. Through music and speech we will Ulster-Scots Academy. and recognise that a wide range of of the Ullans Academy), Aodán Mac Poilin celebrate the bonds that exist between our “Both the Ulster-Scots and Gaelic traditions commonalities and bonds exist across our (ULTACH Trust) and well known actor, communities. are something everyone on this island, and community. This is another example of comedian and broadcaster Tim McGarry. OVIDANDHISRHYMINgBRITHERS

By Frank Ferguson very self-consciously portray themselves as hardships is something attested to by many of humble types, an act whose pedigree can the Ulster-Scots poets. The dignity in tholing In recent years there’s been much be traced back to the acclaimed Greek poet troubles occurs throughout the tradition. David scholarly work done on discussing the Theocritus in the 3rd century. Herbison’s The Auld Wife’s Lament for her connections between Ulster writers and The pastoral genre developed at a time when Teapot tells the poignant story of a woman’s the Lowland Scots literary tradition. the rise of cities began to erode the traditional life through the central object of her teapot. Quite rightly, these associations values of everyday rural living. Poetry played have been celebrated in many books, a role in harking back to simpler times, where ’Twas then my teapot had to thole articles, conferences, soirees, radio and shepherds would compete in verse with each The power of mony a blazing coal, television programmes. other and their world was supposedly more Which knaw’d me to the very soul manageable and perhaps more magical. To hear it crackin’, Yet less acknowledged, but no less significant, The poetry of pastoral was always a balance While they prepared the butter’d roll has been the link which Ulster-Scots poets between the use of rustic speech and an For lads to smack on. have shared with the classical tradition. ability to handle sophisticated metre and You do not have to go far to look for the style. The vitality of the language of individuals Thole is a great word, with its softening guiding influence of ancient Greek and Latin working the land was matched with the combination of the ‘th’ at the beginning and Titlepage of Dublin Pirate Copy of writers amongst the makars of the hamely elegance of finely turned lines. the cradling ‘o’ vowel sound at the end, its Thomas Percy’s The Reliques of tongue. Such energising combinations in verse very sound as well as its meaning seeks to Ancient English Poetry Arguably, Ireland’s first great poet in Scots, continued through the worlds of ancient reassure and provide comfort - especially William Starrat, was a fine exponent of the Greece and Rome, on into renaissance in this poem where life’s tribulations are so classical pastoral tradition. Europe and ultimately into modern Ulster and painful, evidenced in the harsh ‘z’ of the His verse letter to Allan Ramsay, thought perhaps encapsulate what lies at the heart ‘blazing coal’ and the sharp ‘ack’s’ of ‘crackin’ Theenduringpowerof worthy enough to be included in Ramsay’s of great literature - the art of finding creative and ‘smack’. published poems along with a courteous reply, harmonies between dissonant form and Herbison’s poem highlights the role of poets to poetryagainstmany imagines Starrat as a lowly shepherd writing content. offer a means to endure life in difficult times. to Ramsay from a cold and watery hillside in This legacy is neatly encapsulated in Ovid’s Here, the story of ageing and loss is poised hardshipsissomething Donegal: phrase ‘Durat Opus Vatum’ - the work of the between the musicality of the vernacular and bards endures. The line was used by Thomas the regularity of the Standard Habbie or Burn’s attestedtobymany Ae Windy Day last Owk, I’ll ne’er forget, Percy, one time Bishop of Dromore, County Stanza verse form. Of course this is a clear I think I hear the Hailstanes rattling yet; Down, for the titlepage to his influential demonstration of Herbison’s kinship with his oftheUlster-Scots On Chrochan Buss my Hirdsell took the Lee, collection of English and Scottish Ballads, Scottish literary influences, but also perhaps As ane wad wish, just a’ beneath my Ee: The Reliques of Ancient English Poetry. Ovid’s as important, if less obvious, it indicates the poets.Thedignityin I in the Beild of yon auld Birk-tree Side elegy to his friend Tibullus suggests that the influence of the classical tradition upon his tholingtroublesoccurs Poor cauldrife Coly whing’d aneath my Plaid, work and words of poets remain while all other work. When Herbison’s poetry helps us to Right tozylie was set to ease my Stumps things in life fade and disappear (Amores III, thole the human condition, it might be said throughoutthetradition. 9, 29). we owe as much to the legacy of Ovid and Such poems play on the fact that their writers The enduring power of poetry against many Tibullus, as we do to Scotland’s bards. www.ulsterscotsagency.com www.ulsterscotsagency.com 7 SATURDAY MAY 17 2014

BELFASTMARITIMEFESTIvAL Ulster-ScotstaketotheseaforBelfastMaritimeFestival

Ahoy there land lubbers and seafarers... get down to Belfast’s quaysides next week as they play host to a fleet of Tall Ships as part of the 2014 Galleryhonours10ofthegreat Belfast Titanic Maritime Festival.

For further information ULSTER-SCOTSInnOvATORS on the Ulster-Scots element of the festival click on A major exhibition is made major discoveries, altered www.ulsterscotsagency. to be launched at the our understanding of the natural com/events/event/573/ Thompson Dry Dock on world and developed products of ulster-scots-family-fun- worldwide significance. at-the-belfast-titanic- Belfast’s Queen’s Island Those featured are scientist maritime-festival during this month’s William Thomson; Lord Kelvin; Titanic Maritime Festival Harry Ferguson developer of the For general information to honour and celebrate modern tractor; William Ritchie, on the Titanic Maritime famous Ulster-Scots Belfast’s original shipbuilder; Festival contact the John Boyd Dunlop, inventor of Belfast Welcome Centre innovators. the pneumatic tyre; physicist Sir on 028 9024 6609 or Joseph Larmour; Robert Adrain, visit www.belfastcity. The Innovators Gallery, launched scientist and mathematician; gov.uk/events in partnership with the NI Lillian Bland, the first woman Science Park, promotes the to design, build and fly her own involvement of Ulster-Scots in aeroplane; Sir James Martin some of the most important who designed the ejector seat; scientific, engineering and Edward Robinson, founder of entrepreneurial achievements. the worlds’ largest mail order And it’s fitting that its home will business; and Ernest Thomas be within the Thompson Dry Sinton Walton who won the Dock, which once held another Nobel Prize for splitting the Ulster-Scot designed marvel – atom. the Titanic. It will be officially launched on The Innovators Gallery features Saturday May 24 at 11am in 10 famous Ulster-Scots who the Thompson Dry Dock.

rganised by Belfast City Among the visiting Tall Ships is famous Titanic Dock and learn all Council and supported Morgenster, on its first visit to about urban sports with our highly by the Northern Ireland Belfast, and the welcome return of trained experts! Tourist Board and Belfast Pelican of and the Gulden All that sea air is sure to generate Harbour, the festival Leeuw. a healthy appetite, and the O Along the quaysides, children can Continental Market returns to takes place over the late May Bank Holiday weekend (May take part in a fantastic range of free Queen’s Quay with all of its popular 24-26) at Queen’s Quaysides. maritime themed arts and crafts, goodies and treats. face painting, balloon modelling and And with a free Maritime Festival It will celebrate the city’s unique caricature drawings. Enjoy the ‘crazy bus running between maritime heritage alongside Titanic carry-ons’ of sea life with laugh out Chichester Street and the Odyssey activities that will include tours, loud street theatre a plenty! And and Titanic Belfast from 24-26 May talks, exhibitions and drama as well you’ll be able to enjoy close up - it’s so easy to get around! as family friendly entertainment and views of the ships in berth from the The Ulster-Scots Agency will also music throughout the three days. water by taking a boat tour. be celebrating the contribution of And the Ulster-Scots Agency will Sail on down into the Titanic Quarter Ulster-Scots have made to Belfast’s have a significant presence at and delve into the hidden treasure maritime industry. Titanic’s Dock and Pump-House of activities taking place there. Get The Agency will be in attendance over the weekend, and will also the kids’ day off to a swashbuckling at Titanic’s Dock and Pump- use the festival to launch the start with pirate and kite making House (11am-4pm) with a variety Ulster-Scots Innovators Gallery. workshops, or if you’re feeling more of free entertainment, including With Belfast gearing up to adventurous, try your hand at Zip performances from the popular welcome back the Tall Ships lining or even juvenile pipe band, highland Races from July 2-5 next year, take to the water dancers, ‘living history’ characters, the Titanic Maritime Festival will on Belfast’s only face painting, children’s craft offer a taste of the excitement Cable Wake. workshops, piping and drumming we can expect in 2015! Scale the workshops and the launch of its Organisers have lined up walls of Innovators Gallery. a fantastic range of land- the On Sunday May 25 the juvenile based fun, free activities and pipe band will join the entertainment for friends festivities and perform in and family. There will be the Thompson Dry Dock. an opportunity to learn Daily activities will include more about Belfast’s a Doodlebugs craft unique maritime history, workshop, face painting, to board the Tall Ships and highland dancing, live watch the thrilling pirate Ulster-Scots music re-enactments on the and a chance to meet River Lagan by Vilma and some famous Ulster-Scots Soteria! characters! 8 www.ulsterscotsagency.com SATURDAY MAY 17 2014

PIPINGROUND-UP PIPINGROUND-UP

InconversationwithUlster- scotsagency, juvenilepipe UlsteR-scOtsheRItaGe bandmemberaaronMagee...

How long have you been playing the pipes? celebRateDINcRaIGavON My tutor Andy McGregor gave me a set of pipes just six weeks before I went to compete at the World Pipe Band The Ulster-Scots heritage is alive and Championships in last August. thriving in the Armagh, and Craigavon areas. How did you come to join the band? The Ulster-Scots Agency were holding pipe lessons in my school, Royal & Prior in This was underlined when more than 300 Ulster-Scots Raphoe, and after a few weeks I started enthusiasts descended on Craigavon Civic Centre for to attend. a special cultural evening celebrating the Ulster-Scots vibrant heritage and its influence on the local area. Do you enjoy playing in the band and Organised by Craigavon Council and funded by what types of challenges do you face? OFMDFM, the free event provided an insight into the I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t enjoy it! The tradition of Ulster-Scots across the borough and its biggest challenge is learning new tunes. adjoining council areas. Markethill Highland The evening included inspiring recitals of Ulster-Scots Dancers accompanied by What are your plans for the future? stories and heritage from BBC radio presenter Liam the Bernagh Folk Group This year I intend to continue playing with Logan, and a feast of music and dance. the Ulster-Scots Juvenile Band at concerts Topping the bill were the & District pipe band, and festivals and hopefully compete with which lived up to their billing as genuine contenders my local band, Raphoe. Longer term for silverware this season with an impressive debut of I hope to get into Bristol or Liverpool their 2014 contest pieces. University to study Veterinary Medicine. Nigel Davidson’s ensemble - comprising 14 pipers, six sides and a seven-strong bass section - wowed the What was it like to play at the World capacity audience as they premiered their first-choice Championships in 2013? MSR (Balmoral Highlanders, Susan McLeod and John It was good crack, although I was a wee Morrison of Assyant House) and also gave a debut to bit nervous because I was worried about a stunning medley selection which opens with Jimmy Caitlin Cousins from Banbridge making mistakes and getting my pipes Troy’s Wedding hornpipe and culminates with the and Alice Cartmill and her family stopped at the end. impressive Aylesbury Fiddle Rally. The night also included rousing piping and drumming from performed with Bernagh Folk Group What would you say to anyone thinking performances from cousins Lee Lawson and Mark of taking up the pipes / drumming? Wilson (who was the show’s musical director), a I would tell them it’s hard but doable. display from world championship-winning drum major OrmeauParkpreparestohostUKchampionships If you work at what the instructors tell Lauren Abraham and solo piping stints from Bleary’s you, you’ll get lots of opportunities. In James Fraser and Dion Boyle. the past year I’ve competed at the World There were also various pieces from the Markethill More than 110 pipe bands are in The running order for the top grade Championships, played at a concert in highland dancers, song from Caitlin Cousins and the starting line-up as Belfast’s is: Police Scotland Fife Pipe Band the Waterside Theatre, performed with the Alice Cartmill, and traditional music from the Bernagh Ormeau Park prepares to host the (2pm); Ravara (2.10); Field Marshal Montgomery (2.20); Inveraray & Ulster Orchestra in the Waterfront Hall and folk group under the guidance of the multi-talented inaugural UK Championships on Saturday June 14. District (2.30); Ballycoan (2.40); hopefully later this year we will be taking Brendan Monaghan from Banbridge. Boghall & Bathgate Caledonia (2.50); part in the Walled City Tattoo. The event was also the perfect opportunity to showcase a newly developed publication ‘Ulster-Scots This is a new date on the calendar for (3pm); Denny & Dunipace in Craigavon’, which highlights Ulster-Scots tradition this year and 2015, and it replaces Gleneagles (3.10); St Laurence across the Borough and was supported by Council and the Cowal Games, which has been O’Toole (3.20); Shotts & Dykehead the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure on the stripped of its majors status after Caledonia (3.30); Vale of Atholl more than a century. (3.40); Scottish Power (3.50); Greater recommendation of the Ministerial Advisory Group on The line-up of bands at Ormeau (4pm). the Ulster-Scots Academy. includes 37 from Northern Ireland, 14 Councillor Carla Lockhart, who chairs from the and even The pipe band contesting season in the council’s development committee, one from the Netherlands (Concord, Northern Ireland begun in Lisburn said: “I’m delighted to see so many who will compete in grade 3a). on May 10 and continues today at local Ulster-Scots enthusiasts The Ulster-Scots Agency Juvenile band Newtownards. Upcoming dates for come along to this fantastic will take its 2014 competitive bow at the pipers and drummers are: event which was full of the Belfast showpiece. • May 24 - Enniskillen wonderful music, dance and Under pipe major Andy • May 31 - British Championships literature recitals detailing the McGregor, the band has been (Bathgate) borough’s vibrant Ulster-Scots drawn to play second of the • June 7 - Antrim culture and heritage. nine ensembles in the novice • June 14 - UK Championships “Our new publication contains juvenile grade, (Belfast) a treasure trove of historical and will take to • June 21 - Lurgan information on Ulster-Scots the arena at • June 28 - European and is the perfect read 10.37am. Championships (Forres) The full • July 5 - All Ireland for people interested in breakdown of the Championships (Wexford) researching this area further.” eight grades is: • July 26 - Scottish Championships For your free copy of ‘Ulster- novice juvenile - (Dumbarton) Scots in Craigavon’ contact 9 bands; juvenile • August 2 - Cookstown Susan Burns on - 6; grade 4B • August 9 - Ulster Championships 028 3831 2540 or - 20; grade 4A - (Omagh) email 18; grade 3B - 16; • August 15/16 - World susan.burns@ grade 3A - 17; grade two - Championships (Glasgow) craigavon.gov.uk 12; grade one - 13. • August 23 - www.ulsterscotsagency.com www.ulsterscotsagency.com 9 SATURDAY MAY 17 2014

PIPINGROUND-UP PIPINGROUND-UP callINGallPIPeRs... Dancingallovertheworld On Saturday June 21 2014, organisers Have you an interest in pipe bands? Are band community form organisations in the of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth you a current (or past) player, supporter, preservation and promotion of a rich musical Games are holding a global 24- supplier or family member? Have heritage, records remain sparse and difficult hour Commonwealth Ceilidh. The you been attending band parades or to locate. Commonwealth Ceilidh begins on June 21, competitions for as long as you care to That scarcity of records is not due to any and then follows the time zones to create remember? form of limited capacity within pipe bands, a 24 hour global ceilidh event to celebrate which were in essence part-time voluntary the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. If so, the Royal Scottish Pipe Band organisations based within communities The Ulster-Scots Agency is taking part by Association’s Northern Ireland branch where the primary objective was to perform hosting a Commonwealth Ceilidh in Belfast (RSBPANI) wants to hear from you. and promote music (and not necessarily - further details will be published at www. The branch is currently undertaking a major record it for future reference). ulsterscotsagency.com/events over the research project to investigate important Similarly, bands which existed prior to the coming weeks. aspects of its own history and the associated formation of the branch have left little or no Dancing in the Commonwealth Ceilidh is an Scottish highland bagpipe tradition in tangible documentation of their existence, yet easy, enjoyable and sociable way to share Northern Ireland from its earliest days at the they remain ever-prominent in the memories in the celebrations of Scotland’s culture turn of the 20th century. of those who learned, performed and and heritage with 15 dances, including It is seeking to delve into the past, from its appreciated their music in years gone by. three specially devised ones. Entry will be free and open to everyone. inception just after the Second World War, “It is these collections of memories that the highland bagpipe tradition in Northern Don’t worry if you have never attended a through the difficult and complex “Troubles” form the basis of what is an oral history and Ireland. Ceilidh before as members of the Royal period in Northern Ireland, and to the post ethnographic project in ethnomusicology,” “But we need to learn more, and if anybody Scottish Country Dance Society’s Belfast conflict peace agreement period of the 21st says NI Branch projects officer Ian Burrows, has any nuggets of information we’d be Branch we be on hand to offer support and century. who is overseeing the project. delighted to hear from them.” a ‘caller’ will accompany the Alistair Scott The organisation also hopes to develop an “Initial research has already made some key • If you have information which might Ceilidh Band to talk you through the dance ethnographic overview of the current pipe findings on the history of the local branch, be relevant to this project contact Ian steps. This will be a fantastic evening of band tradition. and these findings are exclusively due to the Burrows on +44 (0)28 9267 0445 or via Ceilidh music, dancing and fun! Although recent decades have seen the pipe generosity of spirit of numerous figures from email [email protected] PIPINGINNI:aFactFIle

• Bagpiping, as a marching band tradition, capacity of their instruments were not being was already established well before the appreciated. advent of the Northern Ireland branch. • In 1945 the pipe band movement in the It was particularly vibrant in Antrim at Irish Free State organised a Pipe Band this time,when prominent bands in the League. Pipe band musicians from Northern area included Seven Towers, Hillstown, Ireland (among them Sam McManus, Mickey Cullybackey, Ballydunmall, McNeilstown, Magee, John Drennan, Eddie McVeigh and , Flower of the Hill and Crumkill. Tom Hart) sought to organise the first All- • Many bands lost momentum during the Ireland Pipe Band Championship in tandem World War Two as members joined the with the newly-formed Pipe Band League, forces. Rehearsals were also stopped in leading to the first All-Ireland on August 26 the evening due to the blackout policy. 1946 in the Gardens in Dublin, when But new bands developed in the post-War 26 pipe bands took part. era from the remnants of other types of • In 1950 the Northern Ireland Pipe Band marching bands (flute, and/or brass) or League was formed to organise outdoor The Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band has won the World Championship on 9 occasions defunct pipe bands. performances and competitions. At its first • Initially the key attraction for joining bands annual general meeting it was proposed the musicianship (open, intermediate, second within Protestant communities. Often was a balance between the social network League should join the Scottish Pipe Band grade junior and first grade junior) and 13 this was because there was a lack of that stemmed from membership and Association (the addition of ‘Royal’ didn’t bands took part. pipe bands associated to a particular the enjoyment of performance. For pipe come until 1980). • Due to ever increasing prominence community, or the musician was sought bands in Antrim and Down the emphasis • A sustainable Northern Ireland branch of the Northern Ireland branch, the simply for his or her musical talent. later shifted to prioritising performance of the SPBA would require 10 bands to SPBA opted to host the European Pipe • Sectarianism, however, did have an skill and winning competitions. But form, and declarations of interest came Band Championships in the Balmoral impact as some fraternal organisations, pipe bands in Fermanagh maintained from Ballynahinch, Ballycoan, Sydenham, Showgrounds in 1953, with the World for instance, refused to engage pipe emphasis on musical performance as a Waringsford, St Joseph Artana, 8th Belfast Championships following later at the same bands where a member from another source of enjoyment, with competition Memorial, Duke of York, Raffrey, Boardmills venue in 1956 and 1962. community was performing. Other bands success being an added component. and Rasharkin. • Structured summer schools were offered were often ridiculed by those from • Bands typically used rope tension drums • When the branch was formed in 1950 and/or supported by the SPBA to assist outside the tradition who disagree with with gut snares and natural skin. In the its inaugural elected office-bearers were: in the development of the tradition and them performing at events not typically 1940s there was no lead tip or lead President - James A Faulkner; vice-chairman musical standard in Northern Ireland. It associated to their tradition (for example drummer in the drum corps, where a - George Milligan; secretary - Tom Hart; was the beginning of a tradition of musical a Protestant pipe band performing on St ‘time drummer’ instead informed the assistant secretary - George Finlay; treasurer education that continues today. Patrick’s Day in the Republic). band what the upcoming time signature - Arthur Nelson; reps to Scotland - Tom Hart • In 1969 the annual North West • In recent years pipe bands have been would be. and Arthur Nelson; advisory reps - pipe Championships in Portrush, organised by affected by the changing dynamics of • Bands tended to be smaller in size, major William Woods and drum sergeant the branch, was cancelled due to security contemporary rural life. Young members ranging from six to 12 pipers. William Reynolds. concerns. It was the only competition often take lengthy breaks from their • Competitions for pipe bands were • Outreach from the umbrella organisation of cancelled as a result of . band membership to attend university. initially organised through the North of the SPBA began in 1951 when officials from • By the 1980s the Northern Ireland branch Sometimes they return to the tradition, Ireland Bands Association (NIBA) which headquarters in Glasgow - president McLean membership surpassed 100 pipe bands but often they don’t, and the number of was formed in 1907 and accepted and general secretary McIntosh - travelled for the first time. bands is generally in decline. non flute bands from 1909. The NIBA to Northern Ireland to formally legitimise the • Prior to the Troubles bands were protected • Today, Northern Ireland is seen as one of affiliation was later viewed by pipe band local branch, which was made up of four from sectarianism but most formed the world’s piping “super-powers” largely musicians as a limited opportunity to sections: Mid-Ulster, Fermanagh, Antrim and along traditional community lines. But thanks to the success of the Field Marshal perform competitively, with only two Down. it was not a pre-requisite in pipe bands Montgomery band, which has won the large competitions taking place. And with • The first Ulster Pipe Band Championship was for a member to be from a particular World Championships on nine occasions NIBA competitions held mostly indoors, held on Saturday May 5 1951 in community, and a Roman Catholic could, and has often enjoyed a clean sweep of pipe band musicians argued the full Showgrounds. There were four grades of and often did, join pipe bands formed every single major trophy. 10 www.ulsterscotsagency.com SATURDAY MAY 17 2014 SATURDAY MAY 17 2014

WHITELAWREIDLECTURESERIES WhitelawReidLecturehearsWarof1812story

Dr John McCavitt, widely known One of the lasting legacies of the War of for his extensive knowledge on 1812 is the US National Anthem, the Star General Ross, the War of 1812 and Spangled Banner, which will mark its 200th anniversary in September this year. the involvement of Ulster-Scots on The lyrics of the Star-Spangled Banner come both sides of the war, was guest from ‘Defence of Fort McHenry, a poem lecturer at this year’s Whitelaw written in 1814 by the 35-year-old lawyer Reid Lecture in the Presbyterian and amateur poet Francis Scott Key, who Assembly Buildings. had witnessed the bombardment of Fort Those attending the event included US McHenry by British ships of the Royal Navy in Consul General Gregory S. Burton and his Chesapeake Bay during the War of 1812. wife Nana Lee Felding; Minister Nelson In penning his lyrics, Key was McCausland and Bill Smith, chairman of profoundly influenced by Ross’s MAGUS. victory at the Battle of He spoke about the Battle of Baltimore, Bladensburg, followed by his For further which that time had profound Ulster- burning of the public buildings information on the Scots connections on both the British and in Washington, including the the US War of 1812, American sides, and which is symptomatic White House and the Capitol. or Dr National Anthem of the War of 1812. His opening lines of the US click on Fort McHenry in Baltimore was named National Anthem are: John McCavitt after Dr James McHenry from Ballymena, Oh, say can you see by the www.themanwhocap- whose son fought against the British at that dawn’s early light turedwashington.com time (the British army was led by Major What so proudly we General Robert Ross, an Ulster-Scot from hailed at the twilight’s last Nana Lee Felding; Gregory S Burton US Consul General; Nelson ). gleaming? McCausland, Minister for Social Development; Dr John McCavitt; Tom Scott, Chairman of the Ulster-Scots Agency

ULSTER-SCOTS PLACESTOvISIT: CASTLECOOLE Located on the edge of Enniskillen, the 18th-century Castle Coole mansion is widely recognised as being among the finest neo-classical houses in Ireland and one of the jewels in the crown of thecountry’s built heritage.

But did you know the property - currently Richard, the 4th Earl, by a combination managed by the - has strong of hard work, prudence and sales of large Ulster-Scots connections? parts of his estates, was able, above all, to ‘Belmore: The Lowry-Corry Families keep Castle Coole. of Castle Coole 1646-1913’ tells the The Castle Coole estate actually dates from fascinating story of two families who left 1611, when Roger Atkinson was granted Dumfries in the mid 17th century to settle an estate of 1,000 plantation acres called in Fermanagh and Tyrone. Coole. The marriage of Galbraith Lowry to Sarah Today property, together with the estate, is Corry united their considerable fortunes a mere fraction of its original size (just 79 and political clout. Their only surviving acres) and was given to the National Trust son, Armar Lowry Corry, inherited some by the Ulster Land Fund in 1951. 70,000 acres and an income of £12,000 For more The present Lord Belmore still retains and moved up in the heady world of Irish the family wine cellar in the house, information ring society and politics as Baron Belmore with 2690 or situated in the basement of the house it is a marriage arranged to a beautiful young 028 6632 equipped with a massive iron door which is wife and heiress, the eldest daughter of the OPENING TIMES: email castlecoole@ surmounted by a carved effigy of Bacchus Grounds are open: Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. nationaltrust.org.uk god of wine. To celebrate he built a great fashionable January 1 – February 28: Across the lawn is Lough Coole where house - which we know today as Castle 10am to 4pm daily, greylag geese have nested for the last 300 March 1 - October 31: 10am Coole. years. The Lords Belmore have a triple- to 7pm daily, But a year later his life was in despair; his barrel surname “Armar Lowry-Corry” which November 1 - December 31: marriage over, leaving him with a baby girl 10am to 4pm daily. represents the three components of the and a sickly son. The expense of building Opening times for house, shop and estates. and politicking made him ‘poor as a rat’. tea- room: As today’s visitors will discover, Castle Coole Bitter opposition to the Union with England Open at weekends until May showcases stunning architecture, regency in 1801 resulted in their exclusion from 31, then daily until the end of interiors, magnificent vistas and beautiful political power for many years. August, then at weekends through parklands. His son, Somerset the 2nd Earl, an September. House: admission by extravagant Regency figure, furnished guided tour (last tour at 4pm). • Be wowed as you visit the opulent Castle Coole in the latest style, and state bedroom on a guided tour with characteristic panache, refitted a • Discover the servants’ tunnel from captured American schooner and took his the basement to the grand yard whole family for several years around the • Soak up the changing seasons on Mediterranean, up the Nile and into the woodland walks Holy Land. • Enjoy stunning views from the As Governor of Jamaica he successfully shores of Lough Coole faced the bigotry of settlers and the great • Hear stories about the filming of slave rebellion of 1832. His death in period drama Miss Julie 1841 left the family facing bankruptcy and • Try some tempting lunches or contributed to the 3rd Earl’s early death. In snacks served in the Tallow House spite of this threat to his family, Somerset tea-room www.ulsterscotsagency.com www.ulsterscotsagency.com 11 SATURDAY MAY 17 2014

COUNTRYSIDEFESTIVAL MOVESTOTHEMAZE

The ever-popular Northern Ireland to move from Moira, which has been our free parking too, it is not an expensive day events including the Scruff’s Pet Dog show. Countryside Festival will have a new home venue for 10 years. out either! Northern Ireland’s champion strongman, home this year. “But over the last few years it’s been Lisburn Council’s economic development Glenn Ross will bring together some of After more than a decade at Moira difficult to accommodate the ever increasing committee chair Allan Ewart said: “We are Ireland’s strongest men on both days for Demesne, the 2014 showpiece on Saturday numbers of visitors and exhibitors to Moira pleased to again support the NI Countryside the Highland Games and Ulster’s Strongest May 31 and Sunday June 1 will move to Demesne. Festival and look forward to seeing the Man. Balmoral Park, the Royal Ulster Agricultural “The land we used for car parking adjacent changes in the new venue of Balmoral If it’s shopping that interests you then Society exhibition centre at the Maze in to the Demesne is no longer available Park.” browsing around the estimated 200 stalls Lisburn. and in any case it is not adequate for our The Ulster-Scots Agency has been exhibiting packed full of food and crafts, country But despite the four-mile venue move, the increased visitor numbers and it has been at the event for several years and says it is clothing, boots and leather goods, gardening event - one of the largest in Ireland - will frequently affected by inclement weather. delighted with the news that the festival is equipment, off-road vehicles, ladies fashion retain much of the attractions which have “Fortunately the new venue at Balmoral moving to the new venue. and outdoor living items to mention but a helped it attract many thousands of visitors Park will not be adversely affected by wet The Agency is planning a range of new few, will delight visitors young and old. each year. weather and its hard surface car parks attractions within its stand at the Festival, But it’s the festival’s main arena programme And whether you’re interested in the will provide parking for several thousand including celebrating famous Ulstermen who that is really family-orientated, with never countryside, country sports, rural lifestyle, vehicles.” were also from an Ulster-Scots background, seen in Ireland before Cyril the Squirrel and artisan food, local crafts, music, dance and With dozens of country sports activities including Harry Ferguson of tractor fame, his racing terriers from Loch Lomond, the culture, great children’s entertainment or planned, some 200 trade stands confirmed Sir James Martin, inventor of the ejection Drakes of Hazard dog and duck herding just a wonderful day out with your family, and a range of satellite activities such seat and John Boyd Dunlop, inventor of the display, Young Farmer’s “Farmathon”, the this really is the place to be! as Ulster’s strongest man competition, pneumatic tyre. pet dog shows, horses and hounds, vintage Festival director Bill Beckett says the move rural life displays, food and crafts There’ll also be soda bread making, live vehicles and gundog training displays all is a positive one for the event which has festivals, Ulster Aviation Society displays, music, dressing up for kids and historical re- designed to entertain and educate. grown so much over the last few years that cookery demonstrations, traditional and enactments within the Ulster-Scots marquee • For more on the Festival click on retaining it within the confines of Moira contemporary music this will be a another on both days. www.countrysidefestivals.com or see Demesne had become extremely difficult. great family experience with lots to see and Festival visitors will also be entertained by the Festival’s social media sites which He explained: “We were obviously reluctant do and with the under 12s going free and a programme of fishing, shooting and dog are linked from the website.

ABOVE: In a festival first, Cyril the Squirrel and his racing terriers are travelling from Loch Lomond to showcase their skills • To celebrate their move to Balmoral Park, at the new Maze location organisers of NI Countryside Festival are giving away four family passes to the event. Visit www.facebook.com/ countrysidefestivals for more information. 12 www.ulsterscotsagency.com 5 SATURDAY MAY 17 2014 SATURDAY MAY 17 2014 ANOTHERPAT&PLAINSCRIPTBROUGHTTO LIFEBYMEADOWBRIDGEPRIMARYSCHOOL

In 2009 the Ulster-Scots Agency commissioned a series of six ‘Pat & Plain’ plays, written by Dan Gordon. The project was developed in partnership with the Lyric Theatre and ran in 36 schools across Ulster. The titles of the plays are The Boat Factory (Belfast shipyard), Kissing the Shuttle (the linen industry), A Lemonade Bottle for Clabberin’ Hitler (the Blitz), Sit There For The Present (education), Scahldies Up The Chimley (World War II evacuees) and She Was Alright When She Left Us (the Titanic). Now Meadow Bridge Primary School in Hillsborough has just completed production of its third Pat & Plain play. Principal Joan Shields explains the school’s fascination with the project.

• Joan, this is your third Ulster- on mill jobs and street signs, to name but a Scots play after Lemonade Bottle for few examples. The opportunities to involve Clabberin’ Hitler and The Boat Factory. all areas of the NI curriculum are vast Why did you decide to do another one? and history came to life through Kissing We chose to do a third Pat & Plain the Shuttle. All our staff, both teaching play after the success of our previous and non-teaching, pooled their skills with productions. We all thoroughly enjoyed parents, in so many ways to support the the challenge of A Lemonade Bottle for children – team work is the key! Clabberin’ Hitler and The Boat Factory - children and adults alike learnt so much • The P6 and P7 classes took part in about life and work in the past and this the performance; did the rest of the is brought alive for everyone through Dan school also get involved? If so, how? Gordon’s amazing scripts. The opportunity P6 and 7 were joined by the choir for this to involve the talents of so many children, play, widening its impact to include P4 and in a production which is so different 5 children. The younger children enjoyed from the norm, always really catches the all the street games and songs which attention and enthusiasm of the children. featured in the performance! We turned There are many varied opportunities the school foyer into a museum, linked to involved in a Pat & Plain production for the linen production, complete with a children to benefit from – and it’s fun! ten foot built by one of our parents. All the • How did you introduce the idea to children in school the children? were involved in At Meadow Bridge it has become this exhibition traditional to present a play on alternate and enjoyed years, so the P6 and P7 children were Hard copies of all six scripts a full dress asking about this year’s production plans, (which include a CDavailable sound rehearsal from term one! To set the scene for of the play. track) are alsoand community Kissing the Shuttle, the Children visited to schools The budget the Linen Museum in Lisburn and a linen groups in Northernpublic team from factory in Banbridge. We gathered photos Re P6 and P7 and archived old radio broadcasts - the Ireland and the ‘balanced excitement mounted from day one! – contact the Ulster-Scotsinfo@ the books’ Agency by emailing regarding • How did you schedule your ulsterscotsagency.org.uk the finance rehearsals? for more information. involved in Rehearsals were scheduled initially the production, with P7 children on several afternoons designing and (2-3pm). From these early sessions, selling tickets, and the larger speaking parts were allocated managing expenses! and after-school rehearsals began with these boys and girls. P6 and P7 began to • What sort of feedback have you work on the larger group scenes, again received from your pupils, other in the afternoons. Gradually the scenes teachers and parents about the play? came together and the smooth transition Positive feedback from parents and other from one scene to the next evolved. We guests is much appreciated and is shared constantly worked with ideas from the with the children. Verbal compliments, children and they gave huge input to the letters and cards mean so much and final presentation. It was great to be able recognition of the children’s hard work to involve the children from our P4 and is so important in developing their self- 5 choir during the play, and in total we confidence. had approximately 85 children costumed and making memories, while entertaining • What advice would you give to friends and family, on two evenings. someone thinking about undertaking one of the Pat & Plain plays? • How did the play and rehearsals fit in My advice to anyone thinking about around school life and the curriculum? undertaking a Pat & Plain play is definitely The play became a huge part of school to go ahead and do it! Our school life from February to April. The P5, 6 community has gained so much from three and 7 children had Friday clubs based different productions and children have The cast of Kissing around the linen industry. These involved priceless memories of an amazing primary the Shuttle, the activities such as , painting flax third Pat & Plain school experience. flowers and building model mill houses. script to be brought For more information or to download the Primary seven worked on all aspects of to life by Meadow the mill - producing display work for the Bridge Primary six scripts, click on foyer of school showing Conor artwork, School www.ulsterscotsagency.com/education/ podcasts on mill life, information posters pat-and-plain-drama-series www.ulsterscotsagency.com www.ulsterscotsagency.com 13 SATURDAY MAY 17 2014 Brunswickaccordion NEWS AND EVENTS Presbyterian Historical Bandlaunchcdanddvd Society annual lecture -based Brunswick Presentations were made to an entertaining overview of the The Presbyterian Historical foundation members and current history of the band since its Accordion Band has launched Society of Ireland has unveiled players, including eight junior formation in 1958 before the band a CD and DVD at an event in details of its upcoming events, members of the band who are entertained the audience with a the Bracken Centre in Ballinran, which include a lecture and products of the Ulster-Scots Agency’s selection of pieces from their new field trip. where 350 people enjoyed a music tuition programme. recording. It begins on Thursday May 22 celebration evening highlighting Band president Professor Fred The CD/DVD package is part of a with the annual Robert Allen the band’s 56-year history. Gordon OBE delivered year-long programme of events Lecture at 8pm in Belfast’s which saw the band research their Union Theological College hosting a field trip on Saturday history and create a photographic where Dr Olwen Purdue June 14 which will take and video archive cataloguing (Queen’s University) will speak participants to visit churches major events over the past on the subject of ‘Paupers, and sites in the Belfast area. five decades. The project was Presbyterians and the Poor Starting at 10.15am at supported by the Culture for All Law in 19th Century Ulster’. the Bobbins coffee shop in scheme from Big Lottery NI. In 1969 Mrs Doris V Allen, Belfast City Hall, the trip will widow of the Rev Dr Robert include visits to Assembly The band can be contacted Allen, who had been honorary Buildings, City Hall, May via their Facebook page or secretary of the Presbyterian Street Presbyterian Church by emailing brunswickband@ Historical Society for many and Balmoral Cemetery. live.co.uk years, made a donation to the The cost is £25 for the Society to create this annual ‘wheels and meals’ option lecture dealing with some or £20 for the ‘meals only’ aspect of Irish ecclesiastical option. history. Indeed this particular To book contact the lecture has been delivered Librarian, PHSI, 26 College LEFT: Compere Gary Wilson every year since except 1972, Green, Belfast, by emailing launches the Band’s new CD 1983 and 1986. [email protected] or and DVD Meanwhile the Society is by phoning 028 9072 7330. Sarah’s success in Scotland

Bright Lights dancer Sarah Graham (pictured) won the overall highland and overall national trophies in the 15-years premier section at the Stranraer and District annual highland dance competition at Stranraer Academy Hall. Sarah has been dancing for nearly eight years and has had a steady stream of titles under her belt from recent competitions. Having won her pre- championship highlands at the BATD Championships in Paisley in 2012, she went on to win her pre-championship nationals at the British Championships in Edinburgh in 2013 and came third in the Ulster Championships in Londonderry last year. She is currently working towards becoming a teacher in highland dancing and has plans to start up her own dance group while also teaching at the Bright Lights dance group. Siege of Carrick

The now annual re-enactment of the siege of Carrickfergus Castle and the landing of King William takes place on Sunday July 13 at Carrickfergus Castle and Castle Green (noon to 5pm). Events include re-enactment groups from around the country dressed in period costume followed by a pageantry parade to meet King William upon his landing. Young members of Brunswick Accordion Band who are receiving tuition This event has proven in the past to be a hugely popular attraction as part of the Ulster-Scots Agency’s Music Tuition scheme. over the July holiday period. 14 www.ulsterscotsagency.com SATURDAY MAY 17 2014 SATURDAY MAY 17 2014

RECIPES Cooking with Judith MCLoughLin SyllabubwithiriShwhiSkey andMeyerleMon

The story: How to make it:

Syllabubs are so refreshing after a meal and 1. Zest Meyer lemon and so delicate and light and one of those ancient squeeze 3 Tbsp of juice in to desserts that seems to be getting popular again. a small bowl. 2. Using a whisk stir together the Most old English recipes use white wine to infuse the lemon juice, whiskey, sugar sugar and lemon juice but because I am an Ulster girl and honey until sugar has my recipe includes Irish whiskey. dissolved. 3. Beat the heavy whipping Meyer Lemon trees are commonly grown here in cream until soft peaks appear. Georgia and somewhere between an orange and a Add lemon and whiskey lemon to my tastes. Lemons will of course work if you mixture to the cream. cannot find Meyer lemons. 4. In a clean bowl beat the egg white until it is firm enough to Ingredients: leave a trail with a spoon. (Recipe makes 4 mason jars or 6 small martini glasses) 5. Fold the egg white in to the • 1 Meyer lemon (zest and 3 Tbsp juice) cream mixture. Transfer • 2 oz (1/4 cup sugar) syllabub in to 4 small mason • 3 Tbsp honey jars or preferred glass • 5 Tbsp whiskey container. • 8 oz heavy whipping cream (1 cup) 6. Refrigerate until ready to • 1 large egg white (beaten) serve. 7. Serve with thin almond or www.shamrockandpeach.com ginger cookies for dipping. writerSfeStival thenewMarlaghbooklet ShowCaSeStopni Marlagh Educational & Cultural Group’s new booklet, Marlagh n’ Braid has been literarytalent launched in Ballymarlowe Orange Hall by Gary Blair from the Ulster-Scots Agency The booklet features a collection Belfast’s Linen Hall Library welcomed top Northern of local interest stories written Ireland writing and acting talent earlier this month at using Ulster-Scots language, its inaugural Writers on Writers Festival. on subjects such as the 1859 To receive a Revival in the area, Crebilly copy of the Dan Gordon, Martin Lynch, Sinéad Morrissey and Glenn Fair and local aristocrat Henry booklet contact Patterson were among those who led workshops and debated Reuben Glover Hutchinson Hamilton O’Hara. past Belfast writers who have significantly contributed to the 07733100803 The venue was packed for the body of work produced by the city. event, and the crowd were en- The four-day event took place during the Library’s Founders’ tertained by local fifers and Mat- week (it was formed on May 13 1788), and comprised a thew warwick from the Ulster-Scots selection of free events including workshops and discussions. Community Network, who read extracts of The festival concluded with a debate on how the city should local Ulster-Scots poetry by David Herbi- honour its Belfast literati. son, “Bab McKeen” and Thomas Given. Linen Hall Library director Julie Andrews said: “The Linen Hall Library is a literary treasure trove which has always supported Pictured at the launch local writers. Our collection of Belfast and Ulster publications of Marlagh n’ Braid are the most comprehensive in the world. are (from left) Reuben “The new writers on writers Festival was a way of congregating Glover, Roberta some of our most influential talent and encouraging members McCauley and Mary of the public, local schools, and local community groups to Carson (Marlagh come in and interact, learn and be inspired by the wealth of Educational & Cultural talent that has gone before and those who are currently taking Group), with Matthew the literary mantle forward.” warwick (USCN) and The Festival was funded by Belfast City Council through an Glenda Gaston (Ulster- Arts and Heritage Project Grant, and the Department for Social Scots Agency). Development. Complementing the Festival was an art display by Helen Heron featuring work inspired by Seamus Heaney and Michael Longley. The Linen Hall Library is one of the oldest charities in Belfast and depends on public support to ensure its survival. Readers can donate online at www.linenhall.com. www.ulsterscotsagency.com 15 SATURDAY MAY 17 2014 ONThELITERARyTRAILINMONEyREAGh

A new Ulster Scots literary trail has LEFT: Mark been launched in Moneyreagh. Thompson, Castlereagh The event was opened by Rev Chris Wilson in Borough Council the Non-Subscribing Presbyterian Church and deputy mayor the guests were welcomed by Castlereagh’s Cllr Ann Marie deputy mayor Cllr Anne-Marie Beattie. Beattie and Sandra Maslanka of The children of Moneyreagh PS provided a Moneyreagh PS wonderful display of artwork and entertained pictured in the new guests by singing a Robert Huddleston poem Literary Garden in and later in the church hall reciting some of Hillmount Drive, his more famous poetry. Moneyreagh, Chris Spurr from the Ulster History Circle pre- beside the sented a blue plaque to honour Robert Hud- commemorative dleston. It was unveiled by Annemarie Beattie plaque to Robert the deputy mayor and Mark Thompson gave Huddleston the guests a tour of the Literary Garden where he explained the background to the project and the history behind the various pieces. The launch was attended by 63 guests includ- BELOW: Mark ing Natasha Wells, a descendent of Robert Thompson with Huddleston, who read a poem by the famous Tim Smyth of the poet. Ulster Historical Sandra Gilpin, a renowned expert in Ulster- Foundation beside Scots, talked about the history of the famous the interpretation poet and the links to Moneyreagh. panel to Robert Bill Smith from MAGUS was in attendance Huddleston in and spoke about the work it currently carries Moneyreagh out and the organisation’s ambitions for the Church car park future. The event was a great success and the final product includes the restoration of Robert Huddleston’s grave stone, the installation of an Ulster History Circle Blue Plaque in memory of Robert Huddleston and the literary garden on the site of the former playground in Moneyreagh which has five pieces of public art recognising the contribution to Ulster-Scots literature from Robert Huddleston, Nesca Robb, Charlotte Cowan, Francis Boyle and The replacement headstone to the Huddleston Robert Brown. Family in Moneyreagh Churchyard, with the original broken headstone covering the grave CulturaldaysatForthillPS

Six-year-old Kian McBrier urges Game of Thrones fans in Northern Ireland to join him for Blockbuster Battle at Bannockburn Live next month. Visitors are invited to step back in time to June 1314 and soak up the atmosphere, sights and sounds of medieval life and experience a large-scale re-enactment of the legendary clash taking place on Saturday, Sunday and Monday June 28-30 in Pupils at Fort Hill Integrated Primary School followed by lessons in highland dance, fife and drums, Stirling. With more than enjoyed two exciting Ulster-Scots cultural days accordion, Ulster-Scots Innovators, singing, lambeg 40 clans attending, it’s as a launch to Integration week, during which the drum, bagpipes, and Scottish dance. the perfect opportunity for school celebrated the rich diversity within the The celebration of Ulster-Scots culture and exciting Ulster-Scots to uncover their school family and community. learning opportunities was brought to a fitting and roots and family role within the impressive climax as William Wallace piped the Key battle. For more information go Pupils from nursery class through to P7 were Stage 2 pupils out of school and up to their waiting to www.visitscotland.com introduced to the tutors in a special assembly parents at the end of the school day. 16 www.ulsterscotsagency.com SATURDAY MAY 17 2014

nevertyreofdiscoveringsomethingnew...

Unless you have been living in the tyre – or pneumatic tyre - which had been Outer Hebrides, you can’t fail to have recently invented by Ulster-Scot John Boyd noticed the buzz surrounding this Dunlop! year’s Giro d’Italia – professional Dunlop’s pneumatic tyres made bikes cycling’s second most prestigious faster and more comfortable, and led to stage race after the Tour de France – a huge increase in the number of women which kicked off in Belfast earlier this who were able to take up cycling and month. indeed revolutionised the way we travel. More than 125 years later, Northern one of But who’d have ever thought that one Ireland is still at the leading edge of This exhibit is just of the world’s most popular sporting innovation and Dunlop’s tyres can be 250 interactive exhibits to activities has its roots right here in used for many things other than cycling original track. This is done in the context be found at Ireland’s award Northern Ireland, where 125 years ago including solving crimes as W5’s Crime Lab of a simple crime story. winning science centre, W5. ‘Tyretracks’ exhibit shows. Forensic science services use databases a local cyclist Willie Hume took part in For more information on a series of races at the North of Ireland Tyre tracks are sometimes used as of tyre tread patterns, so that a track w5 cricket ground on Belfast’s Ormeau Road. evidence in the solving of crimes and in can be used to establish what make and this and what’s on at Hume was not considered one of the this exhibit visitors can compare a cast of model of tyre made the track, and hence this month visit better cyclists at the time, but on May a car tyre track with a number of car tyres. possibly which make and model of car was www.w5online.co.uk 18 1889 he won every race he entered – By examining the patterns on the tyre involved. In addition, the pattern of wear and why? treads and on the cast, they must work out and damage on a car tyre may be used to His secret weapon was an air filled rubber which of the tyres could have made the match a particular tyre to a tyre track.

FOR YOUR cHAnce TO wIn: wIn TwO FAMIlY PASSeS TO THe nORTHeRn Just tell us: IRelAnD cOUnTRYSIDe FeSTIVAl COMPETITIONS Q. what famous Ulster-Scot invented the pneumatic tyre? The Ulster-Scots Agency have two Email your answers to: FAMILY PASSES for the Northern Ireland WIN [email protected]. Countryside Festival to give away! A FRee FAMIlY uk with ‘w5 competition’ in the subject FOR YOUR cHAnce TO wIn: line, providing your name and address. To enter simply email your name, PASS FOR FOUR address and telephone number to PeOPle TO w5 [email protected] CLOSING DATE: wednesday June 25 by noon on Friday May 23. Good luck! WeekendentertainmentatCockleRow For a full line up of weekend activities for A full programme the whole family, from of Ulster-Scots children’s activities to entertainment is live music, visit www . coming back to cockle northdowntourism.com Row cottages in during the summer months.

Audiences will be treated to a range of musical talent including pipers Ian Burrows and Andy McGregor, Ulster- Scots band Risin Stour, the Down and Out Bluegrass Band and The Woodworms. Highland dancers from Bright Lights Highland Dance School will also be performing throughout the summer. The entertainment will run from 2pm-4pm each Sunday, and the events are free to attend. Cockle Row Cottages are also free to attend. They are open from 11am-5pm at weekends and daily from June to September.