President Arthur Homestead

Step back into old-fashioned country ways

President Arthur Homestead

The President Arthur Homestead is a modest thatched cottage with an extraordinary story. Located close to Lough Neagh, this historic home is the ancestral homestead of Chester Alan Arthur, the 21st President of the United States, whose father was born here before emigrating to America in the early 19th century.

Today, the cottage offers visitors a chance to step inside a place that connects rural Ulster life with a pivotal chapter of international history.

A Cottage with a Global Story

President Arthur’s father, William Arthur, was born in this area and spent his early years in and around the homestead before leaving Ireland for North America. His son would go on to become President of the United States in 1881.

The cottage has been carefully preserved to reflect the simplicity of life at the time, telling the story of emigration, identity and opportunity, and highlighting the deep historical links between Ireland and the United States.

What to Expect

Visitors can explore the interior of the thatched cottage and learn about:

  • Life in rural Ulster in the late 18th and early 19th centuries

  • The Arthur family’s story and their journey to America

  • The wider context of Irish emigration and its global impact

Interpretation panels and displays help bring the story to life, offering a thoughtful and engaging experience for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Visiting the Homestead

The President Arthur Homestead is open to the public throughout the year and can also be visited as part of a wider heritage experience around Lough Neagh.

Opening times
Wednesday to Sunday
11.00am – 3.00pm

Visits outside of these hours can be arranged with prior notice.

Location

21A Dreen Road, Cullybackey, County Antrim, BT42 1FX

Click HERE for directions

For group enquiries or to arrange a visit outside standard opening hours:

Email: Arthur.cottage@midandeastantrim.gov.uk
Telephone: Mary – 07867 136220