Presidential Homesteads

A Journey Through Irish-American History

In the heart of Mid & East Antrim, two fascinating historic sites—Arthur Cottage and Andrew Jackson Cottage—offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the deep-rooted connections between Ireland and the United States. These presidential homesteads are not only significant for their architecture and charming rural settings but also for their pivotal roles in the stories of two U.S. Presidents, Chester Alan Arthur and Andrew Jackson, whose ancestors once lived in this very region. Visiting these cottages allows you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the historical journey that shaped both the Irish and American identities.

Arthur Cottage – Birthplace of a President’s Heritage

Located near the village of Cullybackey, Arthur Cottage is the ancestral home of Chester Alan Arthur, the 21st President of the United States. Although Arthur himself was born in Vermont, USA, his father, William Arthur, hailed from this simple, yet charming Irish cottage. The cottage has been carefully restored to reflect the way of life during the time the Arthur family lived there, providing visitors with a vivid glimpse into the rural Irish experience of the early 19th century.

Inside Arthur Cottage, you can explore a traditional Irish hearth, where demonstrations of open-fire cooking using authentic methods add to the immersive experience. As you wander through the cottage, you’ll see how the Arthur family lived, worked, and thrived before William emigrated to America in search of a better life. It’s a humbling reminder of the modest beginnings of a man who would one day become President of the United States. The cottage's location within the scenic countryside of Mid & East Antrim also adds to its allure, offering a peaceful escape and a connection to history through its tranquil surroundings.

Andrew Jackson Cottage – The Ulster-Scots Connection

Just a short drive away in Carrickfergus, you’ll find another historically rich site: Andrew Jackson Cottage, the restored 1750s thatched farmhouse where the parents of Andrew Jackson, the 7th President of the United States, once lived. Jackson's parents emigrated from this small, humble cottage in 1765 to America, where Andrew Jackson would rise to become one of the most influential figures in U.S. history.

The Andrew Jackson Cottage has been carefully restored to its original state, featuring traditional furniture, a cozy hearth, and rustic decor that transport visitors back to the 18th century. The guided tours provide a wealth of historical insights, allowing you to learn not only about the Jackson family but also about the broader Ulster-Scots migration that shaped much of American history. The cottage also features a fascinating exhibition on Andrew Jackson's life and political career, offering a deeper understanding of his presidency and the lasting legacy of his family's Irish roots.

Irish-American Links and Historical Significance

Both Arthur Cottage and Andrew Jackson Cottage stand as powerful symbols of the historic migration between Ireland and America, reminding us of the strong cultural and familial bonds that continue to connect the two nations. The cottages highlight how ordinary families from Ulster played extraordinary roles in shaping the course of American history.

The Ulster-Scots migration, which both Arthur and Jackson’s ancestors were a part of, saw thousands of families from Northern Ireland cross the Atlantic in the 18th and 19th centuries. Many of these immigrants, like the Arthurs and the Jacksons, would go on to become influential figures in the development of the United States, contributing to its economic, political, and cultural landscape.

For those interested in history, genealogy, or the rich ties between Ireland and America, visiting these two presidential homesteads offers an unparalleled opportunity to trace the footsteps of two families whose journeys helped shape not only their own lives but the future of two great nations. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the past, Arthur Cottage and Andrew Jackson Cottage are must-see destinations in Mid & East Antrim, bringing Irish-American heritage to life.

These homesteads are open to the public, with both locations offering guided tours and informative exhibitions. Embrace this chance to explore the fascinating story of two Irish families whose legacies reached across the ocean, leaving an indelible mark on U.S. history.