President Arthur Homestead Interpretative Centre reopens after major refurbishment

Friday 28 November 2025

This significant investment enhances one of the Borough’s key tourism attractions, strengthening the local economy and boosting visitor numbers.

The redevelopment was supported by funding from the Ulster Scots Agency for the design element, enabling the Council to create a modern exhibition space that celebrates the life and legacy of President Chester Alan Arthur, the 21st President of the United States, and his strong ancestral ties to Cullybackey.

The newly reopened centre offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and enjoy:

• the cottage, where traditional baking over an open fire brings history to life
• live demonstrations from the resident crafter, spinning yarn and sharing stories
• a redesigned exhibition capturing themes of community, working the land, and the journey from Cullybackey to the White House

The exhibition has been carefully curated to highlight President Arthur’s achievements during his term in office, while offering a rich learning experience through stories, songs, and poems.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said: “Mid and East Antrim boasts huge tourism potential. With existing global attractions like Carrickfergus Castle, and exciting new projects underway, our area has so much to offer to visitors and locals alike.

“This project is a great investment and provides much potential to increase and attract visitors to the area.”

He added: “With so much breath-taking scenery, world-class events, and rich heritage sites, growing our economy and developing our tourism potential are key priorities for council.

“By encouraging and inspiring our key tourism and hospitality businesses to work together and with us, we can truly showcase our fantastic tourism product here in Mid and East Antrim to a global audience.”

For more information and to keep up to date, you can go to the Shaped by Sea and Stone website.