The Eagle Wing sailed from Groomsport on 9th September 1636. On board were 140 Presbyterians, including four ministers, who were traveling to Massachusetts where they felt they would be free to practice their religion.
Following a storm which damaged the ship, they decided to return and they arrived back in Lough Fergus (Belfast Lough) in November 1636. The significance of the Eagle Wing is that it was the first attempt by Ulster-Scots folk to emigrate to the American colonies. Later, from the early 1700s, it is estimated that some 250,000 Ulster-Scots emigrated to America where they became known as the “Scotch-Irish”.
Join us for a celebration of the Eagle Wing and it's place in history in the village. All events are free except for the two below where there is a small cover charge.
The evening with David Lennon and friends at 7:30pm in the Walter Nelson Hall on 6th September costs £5, including a light supper, and tickets are on sale at Cockle Row cottages in Groomsport (open Thursday - Sunday from 11am to 5pm).
The Seafarer's Breakfast at 10am-noon in the Parish Church Halls on 7th September costs £5 (donation to the Parish Church) and tickets are on sale at Cockle Row cottages in Groomsport (open Thursday - Sunday from 11am to 5pm).
All other events are free to attend and everyone is welcome to join in the celebrations.
Full details of events and locations can be found at
https://discovergroomsport.com/eagle-wing-newsletter-aug-2025/
Funded by the Ulster Scots Agency.
Also check out other Nonprofit events in Newtownards.
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