A new digital resource created by Nerve Centre that explores the historic connections between Ulster and the United States was recently launched as America marked the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The Community Relations Council supports Nerve Centre through its Core Funding Scheme.
America’s Ulster Story brings together more than 100 stories exploring the people, places and events that connect Ulster with the foundation and development of the United States.
Developed by Nerve Centre with support from Northern Ireland Screen’s Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund, the website explores centuries of migration, cultural exchange and shared history between Ulster and North America.
Through interactive timelines and maps, historical research and a series of new animations, visitors can discover the stories of people from Ulster who crossed the Atlantic and the influence they and subsequent generations had on American society.
The project was developed to coincide with the United States Semiquincentennial in 2026, marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Many of those involved in the political, social and cultural development of the United States had connections to Ulster, while millions of Americans today can trace their ancestry to towns and communities across Northern Ireland.
The resource aims to make this complex history accessible to a wide audience, including schools, teachers, researchers, heritage organisations and members of the global diaspora interested in exploring their connections with Ulster. Content for the platform was written and developed by Mark Thompson, with historical expertise and support from Dr William Roulston of the Ulster Historical Foundation.
Niall Kerr, Head of Heritage and Community Relations at Nerve Centre, said: “This resource has been created to help audiences engage with the Irish and Ulster-Scots connection to the formation of the United States, while also giving fresh information to those already familiar with the period. Rich in scope and detail, the website shines a light on the range of stories and people who were active more than 250 years ago, while connecting audiences with the places associated with that history today.”
Heidi McAlpin, Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund Executive at Northern Ireland Screen, said the anniversary offered an important opportunity to bring these stories to a wider audience.
“Ulster-Scots emigrants are at the root of this significant moment in American history, yet many people on both sides of the Atlantic are still discovering the story. It is important for the Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund to share it with as wide an audience as possible. The Nerve Centre team and writer Mark Thompson have created an innovative, deep-dive digital resource designed to live well beyond this 250th anniversary year.”
Writer Mark Thompson added that the anniversary provides a unique opportunity to explore the experiences of the self-described Scotch-Irish settlers and their influence on the ideas and events surrounding 1776. He said, “Rich, authentic content is at the heart of this project, offering people an engaging and immersive way to explore a pivotal moment in history.”
As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, America’s Ulster Story provides a timely opportunity to explore the connections between communities on both sides of the Atlantic and discover the people and stories that form part of their shared history.
Explore America’s Ulster Story at americasulsterstory.com.