MEA councillors back giant American flag and murals for 250th Anniversary

An “extra-large” American flag that could be seen from Belfast Lough is set to be flown at a Carrickfergus visitor attraction to mark a landmark anniversary next year.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Neighbourhoods and Communities Committee has approved a proposal to fly the flag at the Andrew Jackson Cottage in Boneybefore, subject to additional funding being secured, as part of the ‘America 250’ commemorations.

It was suggested that an “extra-large” US flag be installed at the site, making it visible to cruise ship passengers travelling through Belfast Lough.

Andrew Jackson Cottage, Carrickfergus

Seventh US President Andrew Jackson

Councillors also proposed commissioning new murals in Carrickfergus and Ballymena to promote both towns’ historic connections to the United States.

However, officers advised that funding for this work is not currently available, though it could be added to a future budget bid. A draft programme of council events for the anniversary year was approved.

Next year marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America, signed on 4 July 1776.

Mid and East Antrim has a number of historic links with the United States. The Andrew Jackson Cottage is the ancestral home of Andrew Jackson, the seventh US President, while Arthur Cottage in Cullybackey was the ancestral home of Chester Alan Arthur, the 21st US President.

Arthur Cottage in Cullybackey

21st US President, Chester Alan Arthur

The proposals — including the draft events programme, a request to add US presidential murals for Carrickfergus and Ballymena to a future budget submission, and the purchase of an extra-large US flag — were put forward by Ballymena Sinn Féin councillor Breanainn Lyness and seconded by Ballymena Ulster Unionist councillor Brian Thompson.

In April, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons announced £250,000 in funding for organisations to mark the anniversary.

“We have always had strong cultural and historical bonds with the United States with early settlers from Northern Ireland playing a significant role in communities across the US. To highlight this landmark 250th year anniversary, I will be providing £250,000 of funding to ensure Northern Ireland can celebrate this historic event,” the minister said.

“This funding announcement will encourage more local people to celebrate our place in the founding of modern America and to mark the global impact of the Declaration of Independence.”