Stories

Our collections tell the story of our shared experiences. These articles help to connect the dots around who we are, the past we share and the future we are building together.

Two men laying out linen to dry on the grass on the "bleach green"

Guest Blog

The Cottage Linen Weavers

Discover the fascinating history of Ireland's flax farming and linen weaving ancestors.

Ulster

An Easter postcard showing a bunch of flowers, reading 'with every wish for happiness this Easter card I send, and like this anniversary may our friendship never end.'

Easter Traditions

Explore Ireland's Easter customs with Liam Corry, Curator of Emigration.

A woman stands in the doorway of a thatched cottage. She looks out at us, smiling.

Making Mrs Mellon

Our Visitor Guide, Pamela Gunn, has interpreted Mrs Mellon for multiple years. Join us on International Women's Day as we explore her story.

Sheep on a hill

The Mellon Migration Story

Learn more about the story of Thomas Mellon and migration

Connections

A greeting card for Saint Patrick's Day, reading 'a greeting from over the sea'.

St. Patrick's Day

St. Patrick's Day is a celebration that began in Ireland, moved to America, and then returned in the later 20th century to reinvigorate the homeland celebrations.

A postcard reading: 'One for your album Minnie. Hope you are real well love to all. Cassie'

The McBrien Postcard Collection

Join Fiona Casey, Curatorial Assistant, in exploring the McBrien postcard collection - 'the instant messages of the time'.

Murmurations Sculpture Close Up

Murmurations Sculpture

A collaborative art piece echoing Ulster’s links with the Appalachians and a reflection on contemporary migration to Ireland.

America

A man sits for a photograph in the late 1800s. He looks strong and stoic, facing away from the camera.

Frederick Douglass

The 14th of February is marked as Frederick Douglass Day. Learn more about his life and Ulster connections with Liam Corry, Curator of Emigration.

Image of a red brick house with a garden and cabin outline in the foreground

Reframing the Rogan House

The Tennessee Rogan Plantation House is home to many different stories. Explore how we're developing the narrative.

A close up photograph of a turkey. It has a large black and white body, a bright red long neck, and a piercing stare.

Unravelling Thanksgiving

Curator of Emigration Liam Corry explores the tradition of Thanksgiving and unravels its history.