Our day at the Ulster-American folk
park was quite interesting. The park is dedicated to the migration of man and
women from the Ulster region of Ireland to the United States. Our first on our
tour through the park was in the small museum that provided a lot of contextual
information. Dr. Threadgill, as always, provided us with a pertinent information
as he guided us through the museum. The next part of the day we spent wandering
around in small groups through the many buildings scattered across the compound.
It was interesting to step into the past as we entered the family homesteads
and barns. In some instances, we were met with a park staff member on the ready
to explain the significance of the building, and provide us with a better
understanding of life in those times. We even got a chance to try some tradition
fire cooked soda break with butter. (It was delightful!) After some time
experience the old shops and storefronts we came upon something surprising. The
Ulster-American folk part had imported a cabin from the Appalachian region to
be displayed in the part. For us living in the Great Smoky Mountains currently it
felt a little bit like a stroll through Cades Cove! After a few hours of
experiencing the park we convened in the park’s café to have a nice shared meal
together. It was a location that is extremely relevant to our current studies
of Celtic Connections. There is no questioning that our home in the Appalachia was
first settled and partly shaped by Scots-Irish immigrants.
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