East Antrim link to new book

The role played by a man with east Antrim roots in the history of education in theUnited States is revealed in a new book launched this week.

By The Newsroom

Published 14th Jan 2014, 11:50 BST

‘Kith and Kin’ by well-known local historian Alister McReynolds includes the story of Robert Adrain, who became Vice Provost of the University of Pennsylvania in the 1820s.

Robert was born in Carrickfergus in 1775 and went on to teach maths in Ballycarry for a time before travelling to America.

His is just one of the life stories in the book which highlights the roles played by Scotch-Irish pioneers, clergy, cavalry men, presidents, and inventors in shaping America.

Alister said: “These are warts and all portraits of those who left these shores and played substantial roles in establishing the new country.”

‘Kith and Kin - The Continuing Legacy of the Scotch-Irish in America’ is available in local bookshops or online from www.booksni.com