Northern Ireland Welcomes America 250 Officials

America250 Executive Vice President Jennifer Condon and Commissioner Joe Crowley pictured at Hillsborough Castle ahead of their two-day visit to Northern Ireland.

(November 3, 2025) – Northern Ireland Communities Minister Gordon Lyons and Department for the Economy NI Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald have welcomed a landmark visit by the America250 Commission this week to formally mark Northern Ireland’s special status in the Semiquincentennial celebrations next year.

America 250 Executive Vice President Jen Condon and Commissioner Joe Crowley will join with Minister Lyons in the signing of a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the two-day visit.

“It is a privilege to welcome Commissioner Crowley and Executive Vice President Jen Condon to Northern Ireland in recognition of the unique contribution our people have made to the foundation of the United States of America,” Lyons said.

“The stories of our nations have been woven together over the last 250 years. More than 250,000 people left these shores during the 18th century to help shape modern America.  We must seize this special opportunity to showcase our contribution and celebrate our continued strong relationship.”

The MoU will set out the terms for co-operation in support of the anniversary commemorations. In preparation, the Minister has launched a new USA–NI250 funding program, managed by the Ulster-Scots Agency, for organizations to commemorate Northern Ireland’s contribution to American history.

“The US market plays a vital role for our tourism sector and America 250 brings a variety of opportunities to mark the many links between the US and those of Irish and Ulster-Scots heritage”,” said Dr. Archibald.

“Being here in Northern Ireland is a powerful reminder of the deep roots that connect Ulster and the United States,” said Commissioner Crowley.  “This visit reminds us that the story of America’s founding is also a story of shared heritage and friendship that continues to this day. We’re grateful for the chance to deepen our partnership in the year ahead.”

During their visit Crowley and Condon will visit Hillsborough Castle, Parliament Buildings, the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI), the Ulster-Scots Agency and the Ulster American Folk Park.

Ulster American Folk Park

At PRONI and the Ulster-Scots Agency, they will view documents and memorabilia connected with some of the significant figures who went to America from these shores. The visit to the Ulster American Folk Park  in Co. Tyrone will provide a vivid recreation of the environment and conditions faced at the time.

“It is a privilege to visit Northern Ireland and reaffirm the historic ties that continue to connect our people,” said Condon.  “As we prepare to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, we are inspired by Northern Ireland’s commitment to celebrating its unique place in our shared heritage, and we look forward to strengthening our collaboration in the year ahead.”

The visit will help spotlight Northern Ireland’s pivotal role in American history, with several founding figures tracing their roots back to Ulster:

• James McHenry, born in Ballymena, Co. Antrim, signed the US Constitution.
• Charles Thomson, from Maghera, Co. Derry, was the first Secretary of the Continental Congress; his name graces the first copy of the Declaration.
• John Dunlap, a printer from Strabane, Co. Tyrone, produced the first printed version of the Declaration of Independence.
• Hercules Mulligan, born in Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, was a tailor, spy and hero who twice saved George Washington’s life and has been immortalized in the hit musical Hamilton.

Read full Press Release.