America 250

Mid & East Antrim has a rich and deeply rooted connection with the United States - a story woven through the people, places and milestones that link our corner of Northern Ireland to the shaping of America itself. As we approach America 250, a nationwide celebration marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, our borough is proud to honour the shared heritage that binds our histories together.

From the thatched childhood home of President Chester Alan Arthur at President Arthur Homestead in Cullybackey, to the Andrew Jackson Cottage and US Rangers Museum in Carrickfergus - commemorating both the 7th U.S. President’s ancestral story and the founding of the elite US Rangers during World War II - Mid & East Antrim is home to some of the most significant American heritage sites on this side of the Atlantic.

To mark this historic anniversary, we’re bringing these stories to life with a packed programme of America 250 events happening throughout the year. Expect heritage celebrations, living history, talks, performances, family activities and special commemorations inspired by our transatlantic connections.

Join us as we celebrate the people, places and events that helped shape America - and discover the lasting ties that continue to connect Mid & East Antrim with the USA today.

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Number of results: 3

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Arthur Dobbs - 'Curious in Everything'

Carrickfergus

Address

Carrickfergus Town Hall, 11 Antrim Street, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 7DG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8241

Carrickfergusmuseums@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Price £8.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Talks/Lectures

Join a relaxed and engaging seminar exploring Arthur Dobbs, with expert talks on his life and legacy, lunch included, and a live Appalachian dulcimer performance by Dick Glasgow.

Dates

From:
22 Aug 2026Open 11:00 - 14:30

Price
Price £8.00 Per Ticket

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America 250: Arthur Dobbs (1689-1765), Explorer, colonial governor, and early botanist from Carrickfergus

Carrickfergus

Address

Andrew Jackson Cottage and US Rangers Museum, 2 Boneybefore, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 7EQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8241

Carrickfergusmuseums@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Exhibition

An exhibition on Arthur Dobbs (1689 - 1765)

Dates

From:

6 June 2026to5 Sept 2026Various Opening Times

Price
Free

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Ordinary People Extraordinary History

1-29 Bridge Street, Ballymena

Address

Mid-Antrim Museum and Arts Centre at The Braid, The Braid, 1-29 Bridge Street, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 5EJ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2563 5028

BraidMuseum@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Exhibition

Ordinary People : Extraordinary History exhibition developed by Cullybackey Community Partnership to mark 250 years since the Declaration of Independence and founding of the United States of America.

Dates

From:

26 Nov 2026to6 Feb 2027Open 10:00 - 16:00

Price
Free

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