Explore the Rich Historical Ties Between Northern Ireland and the United States Through an Exclusive Exhibition Discover the profound historical connections that link Northern Ireland and the United States in this unique exhibition. Engage with captivating displays that highlight shared heritage, influential figures, and significant events that have shaped both regions. Join us in celebrating this remarkable relationship and gain insights into the cultural exchanges that continue to thrive...
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Efforts are underway to transport significant historical artifacts from the United States to Belfast, highlighting the remarkable influence of Northern Ireland in the formation of the United States. This exhibition coincides with the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence, aiming to illuminate the contributions of Ulster’s emigrants to American history.
Gillian Doherty, a senior archivist at the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI), has recently embarked on a journey to Washington and Philadelphia. Her mission was to uncover the historical ties that bind Ulster to the early days of the United States.
Uncovering Ulster’s historical figures
Many individuals from Ulster played vital roles in the early development of the United States. Traditional narratives often focus on the waves of Irish migration from the mid-1800s, yet the contributions of earlier emigrants from Ulster are equally significant, particularly concerning the Declaration of Independence.
Doherty emphasizes that the region’s early migrants had a profound impact that is not widely acknowledged.
Charles Thomson: A key player in independence
During her explorations in the US, Doherty delved into the life of Charles Thomson, who emigrated from Maghera in County Derry at the age of ten in 1739. Orphaned during the transatlantic journey, Thomson chose a path far from the expected apprenticeship as a blacksmith. Instead, he emerged as the secretary for the first Continental Congress, playing an indispensable role in the drafting of the Great Seal of the United States. His involvement in the early legislative assembly paved the way for the eventual signing of the Declaration.
Doherty spent considerable time poring over Thomson’s personal papers housed in the Library of Congress, gaining insights into his pivotal contributions to American independence.
John Dunlap and Hercules Mulligan: Unsung heroes
Additionally, Doherty researched the lives of other notable Ulster emigrants such as John Dunlap, who hailed from County Tyrone. Dunlap became a prominent printer, responsible for producing the first printed copies of the Declaration of Independence, and is one of the few individuals whose name appears on the document.
Another fascinating figure is Hercules Mulligan, a tailor and covert operative during the American Revolutionary War. Originally from Coleraine, Mulligan supplied uniforms to British troops, which allowed him to gather intelligence that he relayed to George Washington, ultimately aiding in the preservation of Washington’s life on multiple occasions.
The exhibition: Bridging connections
Informed by her extensive research, Doherty is preparing for an exhibition set to take place at PRONI from June through November. The exhibition is designed to reflect the rich historical connections and emphasize the key figures who contributed to the early United States. Gordon Lyons, the Communities Minister, has formalized support for this endeavor through a memorandum with the US Semiquincentennial Commission, recognizing Northern Ireland’s unique status in American history.
“We aim to showcase documents that resonate with these stories,” Doherty states, highlighting the lesser-known yet impactful narratives of Ulster’s emigrants. “Many here are unaware of the significant role played by individuals like Charles Thomson.”
The exhibition will feature existing documents from PRONI and aims to acquire original documents on loan from various US institutions. This unprecedented initiative represents a new frontier for PRONI, aiming to display transatlantic artifacts.
Highlights of the exhibition
Gillian Doherty, a senior archivist at the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI), has recently embarked on a journey to Washington and Philadelphia. Her mission was to uncover the historical ties that bind Ulster to the early days of the United States.0
Gillian Doherty, a senior archivist at the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI), has recently embarked on a journey to Washington and Philadelphia. Her mission was to uncover the historical ties that bind Ulster to the early days of the United States.1
