Follow the emigration trail at Ulster American Folk Park

See emigrant ship and American Independence re-enactments

Get a unique insight into Irish emigration to North America. See authentically furnished Old and New World buildings, be amazed at early 19th century sailing boat, and relive American Independence with colourful re-enactments in July.

See, up close, a full-size reconstruction of a sailing ship of the type which carried thousands of Irish emigrants across the Atlantic in the early 19th century! Just one of the many highlights of a visit to the Ulster American Folk Park in Co. Tyrone.

Imagine what it was like to sail across the treacherous Atlantic in such conditions two centuries ago. And picture the challenges on the other side that awaited those who traveled.

All these thoughts will come vividly to mind as you stroll through this extensive open-air museum at Castletown, just outside Omagh. You will also get a real sense of what it was like to live in Ireland in the 18th and 19th century. Find out what led thousands of Ulster people to seek out a new life across the Atlantic,

One of those who made the journey was a five year-old boy named Thomas Mellon from Camphill in County Tyrone. Look in amazement at Thomas' original home, lovingly reconstructed in 1968 by his family descendants, which now forms the centerpiece of the Folk Park.

Think how, after emigrating with his parents to Western Pennsylvania, Thomas made his mark in his adopted homeland. Learn of his fascinating story - how he went on to found a vast industrial empire and become a judge.

Spare a thought also for Dr. T. Matthew Mellon, the relative of Thomas who, together with Mr Eric Montgomery OBE, was instrumental in the establishment of the Ulster American Folk Park in July 1976.

July 1 - 6 celebrations
The Park was established as Northern Ireland's contribution to the bicentenary of American Independence. If you visit the Ulster American Folk Park in July this year, you will be in for a special treat.

From July 1 - 6, you will be able to watch, in awe, as thrilling scenes from the American War of Independence are re-enacted as part of special celebrations marking American Independence Day and the Park's 30th Anniversary.

See the Redcoats, American Militia and Woodland Indians relive those momentous times. Walk around the army encampments; mingle with the 18th century re-enactors and witness battles and skirmishes as you are transported back to one of the most dynamic periods in American history.

There will be something for all ages to savour... ranging from Punch and Judy shows, traditional American games and music to readings from the Declaration of Independence. A major indoor concert on 5th July featuring the best in Cajun, Jazz and Folk music by international performers will enchant music lovers.

For visitors to the Park at any time, there is much to see and do. Tour the many authentically furnished Old and New World original and replica buildings that form part of this unique "living history" experience. See costumed demonstrators go about their everyday tasks in the traditional manner of a bygone age.

Learn more about the many thousands of Irish settlers, mainly from Ulster, who sought land and a new way of life on the Appalachian frontier during the 18th century. These early pioneers were predominantly Presbyterian and became known in their adopted country as the Scotch Irish.

The great tide of emigration continued into the nineteenth century as America began to attract immigrants from all parts of Ireland. Even before the Great Famine when the number of emigrants dramatically soared (1845-9), there were as many as half a million Irish in the New World.

After a fascination tour of the outdoor exhibits, including the Ship and Dockside Gallery, why not drop inside to see the major indoor exhibition on the theme of 'Emigrants'?

If you want to find out more about emigration history and the way of life of emigrants and settlers, the Centre for Migration Studies located at the Park can assist.