McHenry: An Ulster American Story Premieres at St Cedma’s Church in Larne

McHenry: An Ulster American Story premiered at St Cedma’s Church in Larne, offering audiences a moving look at the life, work and legacy of Dr James McHenry.

The community theatre production was commissioned by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council as part of its America250 programme.

The programme marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It also highlights the important contributions made by people from Mid and East Antrim to American life, from the 18th century through to the present day.

A Powerful Setting at St Cedma’s Church

St Cedma’s Church provided an atmospheric setting for the premiere.

The production explored the story of Dr James McHenry, a Larne-born author, playwright, poet, doctor and diplomat.

McHenry’s story connects Larne, Ulster Scots heritage and the United States in a powerful way. The play also celebrated the cultural links between Mid and East Antrim and America.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Thomas Gordon, praised the production and thanked those involved.

He said: “As a Council, we thank everyone who has supported our events over recent months, highlighting the strong historical and cultural links between Mid and East Antrim and the United States.

“It was a privilege to attend this insightful community drama and musical production, which eloquently showcased the rich cultural and literary talents of Dr James McHenry, a remarkable figure who hailed from Larne.

“Several local people took part, and their talented performance and musicianship were enjoyed by a packed audience.”

The Life and Legacy of Dr James McHenry

Written by Dr David Hume, McHenry: An Ulster American Story explored key moments from McHenry’s life.

These included his childhood experience of witnessing the Battle of Larne during the 1798 Rebellion.

The play also examined McHenry’s later life in America, where he worked as a medical doctor and draper in eastern seaport cities. During this time, he produced a number of notable literary works.

McHenry became known as a pioneer of American Frontier Gothic literature. He was also the first writer to feature Ulster Scots characters in American literature.

You can read more about Dr James McHenry’s life and literary significance through The Linen Hall’s feature on Dr James McHenry.

East Antrim Roots and American Connections

Although Dr James McHenry built much of his career in America, he never forgot his East Antrim roots.

He was an admirer of President Andrew Jackson, whose family had links to Carrickfergus.

The production also explored McHenry’s final role in Ulster, where he served as United States Consul in Londonderry.

He died in 1845 after suffering a severe chill and was later laid to rest in St Cedma’s Churchyard in Larne.

Music and Ulster-Scots Heritage

The audience also enjoyed a series of musical performances woven throughout the production.

These included music played on a dulcimer, an Ulster-Scots musical instrument that later found a home in the Appalachian region of the United States.

This helped underline the deep cultural connections between Ulster and America.

Ulster American Heritage Trail in Larne

Dr James McHenry also features prominently on the newly relaunched Ulster American Heritage Trail in Larne.

For further information, members of the public can contact Larne Museum & Arts Centre on 028 2826 2443.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council also thanked Reverend Lockhart and the Select Vestry for granting permission for the performance to take place in St Cedma’s Church of Ireland.

To learn more about Larne’s links with America and the legacy of Dr James McHenry, visit Larne Museum & Arts Centre or explore the Ulster American Heritage Trail.