Over the centuries, many hundreds of thousands of Ulster-Scots have left our shores, travelling to every corner of the earth in search of new opportunities.
Their influence has been immense and includes pioneers, politicians, soldiers, social reformers and giants of commerce.
Below are just a few of the Ulster-Scots who have made a mark on the nations of the Commonwealth:
Retail pioneer Timothy Eaton from Ballymena founded one of Canada's largest department stores, which at its height employed over 70,000 people. Another Canadian with Ballymena roots is Bobby Orr, one of the greatest ever ice hockey players, who was the youngest player ever inducted to the NHL Hall of Fame.
Dave Gallaher from Ramelton, Co. Donegal was captain of the original New Zealand All-Blacks Rugby team. He was killed in action during the First World War. Two Ulster-Scots have also served as Prime Minister of New Zealand – John Ballance from Glenavy and William Ferguson Massey from Limavady.
Three Ulster-Scots earned the Victoria Cross in the First World War after enlisting in Commonwealth countries. Robert Hill Hanna VC (born Kilkeel) and Edmund de Wind VC (born Comber) signed up in Canada, while James Crichton VC (born Carrickfergus) fought with the Anzacs.
Ulster-Scots: Mined in Scotland, Forged in Ulster and Exported Worldwide!
[The above images are from the publications 'Ulster & Canada' and 'Ulster & New Zealand' from the Ulster-Scots Community Network. Both books are available to read below.
