|
The Ulster-Scots Society Of
America is primarily an educational and social organization committed to
the promotion of the Ulster-Scots history and heritage, especially as it
pertains to the nearly quarter of a million immigrants who left the north
of Ireland (Ulster) during the 18th century and settled in
America (often referred to as: The Great Migration). The majority of these
immigrants were the descendants of Lowland and Border Scots as well as
Northern English who had settled in Ulster four generations earlier. They
sought to carve out of the American wilderness a better life for
themselves and their families. In the process, they helped establish and
build our great American republic. Once in America, these immigrants came
to be known as Scotch-Irish. In the British Isles they are known also as
Ulstermen or Ulster-Scots. Today nearly 22 million Americans can trace the
roots of at least one family member to these hardy settlers from the North
of Ireland.
The Society is a
not-for-profit, non-sectarian, non-political organization. It
encourages its' members across the country, in each particular locale,
to gather together on a regular basis to collectively puruse the
goals of the organization through active participation in family
oriented social activities as well as educational and special cultural
events. When sufficient numbers are present in a particular locale, an
Area Convener from among their number will be recruited to help
coordinate those efforts. If desired the Area Convener can apply for
approval to form a local chapter of the Society. The Area Convener
Reports to the Region Commissioner when that position is filled,
otherwise they will report diretly to the national council of the
Society."
The current national
leadership council of the Society is located in North Carolina. The Area
Convener for the greater Raleigh, North Carolina area conducts local
membership meetings on the first Monday of every month. All Society
members regardless of their location are encouraged to represent the
Society at local cultural events such as Scottish Highland games, Celtic
Festivals, Irish and Scotch-Irish Festivals, parades, etc.
Membership is open
to anyone interested in establishing and promoting the Society. Membership
dues are as follows: Individual: $15 and family: $20. Upon the initial
dues payment, dues are paid in January of each year. Completed
applications and dues can be mailed to the Ulster-Scots Society Of
America, PO Box 724, Matthews, North Carolina, 28106-0724. For more
information contact Paul Smallwood (President, Ulster-Scots Society Of
America) at email address: ulstermen@yahoo.com
or telephone 919-380-0383. Also contact Diane Campbell (Membership
Secretary) at email: decmpbl@carolina.rr.com. Members
receive a quarterly newsletter, updates on local events and happenings as
well as contact info for the nearest Area Convener.
Why Join The Society?
- Receive a newsletter with information
about Ulster-Scots history, current events of interest to Ulster-Scots
and opportunities to attend various educational and cultural events
throughout the United States.
- Assist in promoting awareness of
the history and heritage of the Ulster Scots through participation in
special events and activities
- Join with a local Area Convener in
coordinating the efforts of Ulster-Scots in your locale to promote and
establish the Society.
- Have a sense of belonging to a group
of people who have made a difference in the history of the United
States of America.
|
