The 40th anniversary Coleraine Historical Society conference is ‘outstanding success’

DID you know there was a Cushendall landlord who wanted to use his vast fortune to make the glens village a centre for global human reconciliation?
I didn’t – his name was Francis Turnly.
Or did you know that a Limavady man went on a great tour of America in the 1830s and was hobnobbing with both the widow of Irish patriot Wolf Tone and the first Ulster-Scots President Andrew Jackson?
I didn’t - his name was Thomas Cather.
These were just two of the new things I learned at the Preserving Local History in the Causeway Coast and Glens and Beyond conference that took place at Ulster University last Wednesday, May 8.
The conference was held to mark the 40th anniversary of Coleraine Historical Society.
Addressing a sell out audience, keynote speaker Prof. Sean Connolly of Queen's University overhauled some of the traditional preconceptions about pre famine Ireland.
Broadcaster Joe Mahon regaled the audience with his mixture of local historical knowledge and amusing anecdotes.
13 speakers in total treated the audience to talks as varied as the 17th century townlands, Ballymoney at a time of Revolution and much more.

Chairman of Coleraine Historical Society, Fiona Pegrum, said: “I am delighted to say that Coleraine Historical Society's first joint conference with Ulster University, was an outstanding success.
“Our sell out audience was treated to a huge variety of papers from a very impressive line up of contributors.
“There was something for everyone, appealing to local, Irish and worldwide audiences! 
“I would like to thank Ulster University, as partners and hosts for all their hard work, support and for providing the Atrium as venue, and, of course not forgetting the staff who served a delicious lunch.
“I would also like to thank our keynote speaker, Professor Sean Connolly and all the other speakers; in particular the two undergraduates Tom Black and Paul Shevlin, with their impressive performances.
“A special thanks must go to our Secretary Aaron Callan, who not only took a key role in organising the conference, but who also gave the talk for a contributor who was unable to attend.
“Finally I would like to thank everyone who came along and supported the event; it is only with the support of CHS members and the public that such events are made possible and worthwhile.
“We, as Coleraine Historical Society, are very much looking forward to building on this, with similar events in the future.”
Sam Kennedy who attended the very first talk of CHS, also attended last Wednesday's conference. He said: “An excellent day, good interesting, down to earth speakers with Joe to give us a laugh. Thank you very much.”

Dr Kyle Hughes, Course Director in History, Ulster University, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Coleraine Historical Society to our Coleraine Campus to celebrate its fortieth anniversary.
“The conference was a great success. The wide range of informative and entertaining papers showed the continuing importance of local history, and highlighted the fact that there is still so much to learn and discover about our local areas.
“Over 60 guests and speakers attended the event, and they were treated to some fascinating talks and discussions.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to all who took part and attended. It was a thoroughly enjoyable day and I look forward to collaborating with the Society on similar events in the future.”

A final thank you must also go to CHS Chairman Fiona Pegrum for her selfless work contributing to the success of the conference, both in the run up and on the day.