The Ulster American Folk Park

An open air museum situated in just outside Omagh, the Ulster American Folk Park invites visitors to learn of the historical link between American and Ulster educating them on the lifestyle and experiences of those early Ulster immigrants in America. The museum caters for large groups and school excursions and has a large restaurant which offers good food, snacks, drinks and desserts. It also has a visitor’s centre where you will find all staff very helpful and friendly and willing to answer any questions you may have.

Ulster American Folk Park

There are many reasons as to why the people from Ulster immigrated to America the main being the Great Irish Famine which occurred in the 1800’s, where the main source of food at the time, the potato, became poisoned and thousands of people died through starvation and poverty. America was seen as the New World and was full of promise and opportunities and so many Ulster Irish travelled on the notorious coffin ships ( so called for their high death rates) to make their name in America. The Ulster American Folk Park offers a special insight into how these people lived in Ulster, their journey on the ships, and their lives in America. With thatched cottages, samples of the food that the people ate, tour guides dressed in the traditional outfits of the time, a large model of a coffin ship, a fully working historic sweet shop and many more buildings and information, the park gives visitors an idea of how their ancestors may have lived, died or survived in those dark times.

The Ulster American Folk Park and is one of three Ulster Museums, but undoubtedly one of the most popular. Children enjoy this attraction just as much as adults do with the large open walkways, costumes and props, and of course the gift store. Educating and yet entertaining, this attraction must be visited by families and individuals alike and will not fail to disappoint.