Last Thursday, Mr. Cullens’s class visited the Ulster American Folk Park as part of their World Around Us topic, “Location, Location, Location”. The pupils are currently exploring reasons why many Irish people left their homes to settle in new locations around the world, particularly the United States.
The visit provided valuable insight into life in Ireland in the past, especially for poorer communities, and highlighted the opportunities and challenges faced by those who emigrated. The children participated in interactive activities, including re-enacting aspects of traditional Irish life and learning how emigrants were chosen to travel to America.
A particular highlight was discovering the harsh realities faced by immigrants during their journey aboard sailing vessels commonly referred to as ‘coffin ships’.
The visit would not have been complete without a stop at the traditional sweet shop, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all. The day concluded with a rendition of the song “In the City of Chicago”, which tells the story of Irish emigrants travelling from the hills Donegal to Chicago.
