The launch of the trail coincides with America 250, the celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and presents an innovative, joined up approach for visitors to learn how ordinary Ulster families played extraordinary roles in shaping the history of the United States.
In Antrim and Newtownabbey, the trail will bring visitors to Pogue’s Entry Historical Cottage in Antrim. Pogue's Entry contains the childhood home of Alexander Irvine, who became a missionary in New York's Bowery and eventually pastor of the Church of the Ascension on Fifth Avenue. His book 'My Lady of The Chimney Corner' recalls his boyhood years in Pogue’s Entry and describes the lives of Irish country folk during the post-famine days.
The trail also includes President Arthur Homestead in Cullybackey, Andrew Jackson Cottage in Carrickfergus, U.S. Grant Ancestral Homestead in Dungannon and The Mellon Homestead at the Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh.
Visitors will have the opportunity to engage in living history experiences such as storytelling sessions, traditional griddle baking demonstrations and traditional music workshops.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan said, “This trail is a great way to celebrate the strong historical links between Ulster and the United States. It's great to see councils and the Ulster American Folk Park working together to bring these fascinating stories to a wider audience."
For further detail on the trail visit www.ancestralcottagestrailni.com