Council considers renaming Co Antrim park to honour local historian and a US President’s local roots

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has put forward a motion to rename a park in Dervock.

At December’s Leisure and Development Committee meeting, a motion proposed by TUV councillor Allister Kyle, and seconded by TUV councillor Jonathan McAuley, called for Riverside Park in Dervock to be renamed McKinley Park, in memory of William McKinley, the 25th President of the United States, and to “commemorate the deep ancestral ties between Dervock and the McKinley family”.

The motion noted that 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in the United States, describing it as “a momentous event that laid the foundation for the nation’s freedom and democracy”.

It continued:

“In recognition of this anniversary and taking into account we have set up a committee to oversee the anniversary, we believe it is fitting that we reflect on the profound historical connections between the North Antrim village and the United States.

“Dervock’s primary link to the Americas lies in its ancestral connection to William McKinley, the 25th President of the United States. McKinley’s great-great-grandfather, James McKinley, emigrated from the townland of Conagher, near Dervock, in 1743.

“This historic connection offers a unique opportunity to honour Dervock’s contribution to American history and heritage.

“The renaming of Riverside Park to McKinley Park would serve as a lasting tribute to the legacy of William McKinley, highlighting the role that Dervock’s local heritage has played in shaping American history.

“This renaming would not only honour McKinley’s presidential legacy but also strengthen the bond between the town and its American roots.

“By renaming the park, the council would help raise awareness of this important historical link, fostering a greater understanding of the global influence of the Causeway Coast and Glens region.

“This gesture could also encourage cultural exchanges and promote tourism, with an emphasis on the rich historical ties between the United States and Dervock.

“This renaming would serve as a lasting tribute to both the McKinley family and the history of the United States, while also promoting local heritage, education, and international ties between Dervock and the United States.”

Dervock historian, the late Peter Thompson.

At the request of councillor McAuley, DUP councillor Tanya Elder proposed an amendment to the motion to include a tribute to the late Dervock historian Peter Thompson.

“Following some contact by residents, including friends and family, we propose that the renaming of the park reflects the substantial research carried out by Peter,” councillor Elder said.

“We propose that, in memory of Peter Thompson, the park is renamed McKinley Park at the Fairhill.”

Councillor Kyle said Mr Thompson’s work as a local historian was “immense” and confirmed his support for the amended motion.