Meet the people who helped make Moyle

A new publication is giving an insight into the people who formed the communities of Rathlin Island, Ballycastle, and the Glens.
By The Newsroom
Published 2nd Apr 2022, 07:53 BST
Updated 2nd Apr 2022, 07:53 BST
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Moyle Migrations, created in a collaboration of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Museum Services and a group of community volunteers, presents seven personal experiences featuring stories of loss and heroism, big houses and great poverty.

Family mysteries are unravelled, and the region’s international links are explored through stories of immigration, emigration and colonialism.

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Geraldine Anslow, who participated in the creation of the booklet, commented: “This was a really enjoyable and interesting project and I know everyone absolutely loved being part of it.

Nic Wright, Museums Engagement Officer at Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council (left), pictured at Portaneevy Viewpoint outside Ballintoy with community volunteers who participated in the ‘Moyle Migrations’ projectNic Wright, Museums Engagement Officer at Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council (left), pictured at Portaneevy Viewpoint outside Ballintoy with community volunteers who participated in the ‘Moyle Migrations’ project
Nic Wright, Museums Engagement Officer at Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council (left), pictured at Portaneevy Viewpoint outside Ballintoy with community volunteers who participated in the ‘Moyle Migrations’ project

“The contributions were so diverse and yet every one was fascinating. Friendships were forged and fun was had.”

Brian Molloy added: “A very stimulating experience.

“We had a great bunch of participants and it was fascinating to learn their stories, as much as it was enlightening to uncover more of our own.”

Orla Duncan said: “I loved this programme, the camaraderie from everyone, the research and instruction, the incredible support, patience and dedication, made this a thoroughly enjoyable and memorable experience.”

The ‘Moyle Migrations’ publication was created in collaboration by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Museum Services and a group of community volunteersThe ‘Moyle Migrations’ publication was created in collaboration by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Museum Services and a group of community volunteers
The ‘Moyle Migrations’ publication was created in collaboration by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Museum Services and a group of community volunteers
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Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Richard Holmes, said: “Moyle Migrations is a wonderful example of what happens when we collaborate with our community groups.

“An enormous amount of time and dedication went into the creation of this booklet and I congratulate all the participants involved for this outstanding piece of work.

“From their feedback, the positive impact of this project is made clear and everyone greatly enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about the area from each other.”

Moyle Migrations was the final part of a wider ‘Who do you think you are?’ programme delivered in partnership with Carey Historical Society, Glens of Antrim Historical Society and Rathlin Development and Community Association.

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Since 2019, more than 60 participants have taken part, attending talks and training, carrying out DNA sampling and also recording oral histories.

The programme was supported by the District Council Good Relations Programme, delivered as part of the Executive’s wider ‘Together: Building a United Community strategy.

Free copies of Moyle Migrations will be available through Ballycastle Museum throughout the open season, as well as Ballymoney Museum, Rathlin Island Boat House, and the Visitor Information Centres in Ballycastle, Cushendall and Ballymoney.

Digital copies of the publication are also available.

Related topics:Rathlin IslandCauseway Coast