Former Times man charts the history of the Ulster Scots

Dr Hume said that the late Rev Lambert McAdoo of First Larne Presbyterian Church had described Ulster Scots in a sermon as “people of the horizon” because he felt they were always pushing towards new horizons.

The author said that those horizons were initially to the east, which was where the original Scots of Dalriada had moved in the fifth and sixth centuries, giving their name to the land in which they settled.

Centuries later the horizons were to the west, involving migration to the north of Ireland and then to America.

He said that his book had been inspired by the fascinating story of the journeys of Ulster Scots as a community, and urged the community to engage with its history; “We need to direct the journey, not be tossed on the waves by cultural crosswinds,” he told a large gathering at the village community centre.

Dr Hume said that the book, which he started to write five years ago, was intended to be comprehensive and provide a layman’s guide to Ulster Scots history.

The book includes details on historic sites to visit and famous figures from the various historical periods which are covered as well as written material from each period.

The book, and another Ulster Scots publication, The Scullery, by Diane Hoy, were launched by Colourpoint Books as part of the recent Broadisland Gathering festival events, and copies are available in selected bookshops or online at www.booksni.com