The HomePlace Blog: From Gorteade to the New World – The Story of Charles Thomson with Dr. Latimer

An American Founding Father with roots in South Derry – who knew?

Born in Gorteade near Maghera in 1729, Charles Thomson left Ireland as a young boy, travelling to the New World with his father and brothers. That journey marked the beginning of the life of one of the United States’ Founding Fathers – though one who is perhaps less widely known.

Thomson was widely respected and trusted by all who encountered him – something that cannot be said of many figures in political life. He served as Secretary of the Continental Congress, his name appeared on the first published version of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and he played a role in the design of the Great Seal of the United States. Yet his greatest impact seems to have been as a meticulous recorder of federal government business. Renowned for the accuracy of his note-taking, Thomson complied detailed records of debates, votes and decisions – all written in his own hand.

On Thursday 12th February, we will welcome Rev. Dr. David Latimer to HomePlace where he will deliver a lecture marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and tracing the remarkable journey of this Ulster-Scot from County Derry to the very seat of American power.

Ahead of the event, we spoke with Dr. Latimer to learn more about Charles Thomson and what first drew him to this extraordinary figure:

What first sparked your interest in Charles Thomson?

I was introduced to a man called Don Mullan about two years ago. Don grew up in the Creggan Estate in Derry but now lives in Dublin. During our conversation, he enquired if I had ever heard of a south Derry man called Charles Thomson, a lesser known American Founder.

Do we know if anything in Charles’ background helped spur the success he achieved in the United States? Was there something particular to the Ulster-Scots that enabled this drive and determination?

Amazingly, a proverb came to be associated with Charles Thomson: ‘It’s as good as if Charles Thomson were here.’ He stood out as a diligent man who could be trusted, and this reputation enabled him to build bridges between diverse groups and to help progress the founding of America.

The Scots-Irish were, by nature, pioneering. It was that same spirit that first brought their forbears from Scotland to Ulster, and then onward to America.

Ulster’s contribution to the founding of the United States of America lies in the men, women and young people who left home and family to seek a new life in a new land. They were infinitely more than the meagre possessions they carried with them.

How are you enjoying your retirement?

I am relieved to be free of the responsibility of running two Presbyterian churches on either side of the Derry-Donegal border. Happily, however, I am far from idle, as I continue to be active in peacebuilding, particularly with young people, once described by President Kennedy as ‘a country’s greatest resource and its best hope for the future’.

This will be your first time appearing at HomePlace, and I have seen in previous interviews that you have quoted Seamus Heaney. Are you a fan of his poetry, and what is it that draws you to his work?

I am greatly looking forward to being in Seamus Heaney HomePlace mid-February. I have frequently quoted Seamus Heaney’s poetry, both in articles I have written and in public speeches. His poetry is, I believe, equivalent to a window where the blind has been lifted to allow light to fill the space. In a world with very few rules I take strength from his final words namely, ‘Noli timere’, meaning ‘Don’t be Afraid.‘

We are certainly looking forward to learning more about Charles Thomson on 12th February with Dr. Latimer and Courtney McKinney-Whittaker, an award-winning historical author whose new book on Thomson is due later this year. The event will also include a screening of the documentary The Man Who Told The Truth, featuring journalist Bruce Clark, promising an in-depth look at this extraordinary figure. Additionally, there will be a free public viewing of Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI) artefacts in our library from 4pm – 9pm.

If you would like to join us for this special event, you can book your tickets online or call our box office on 028 7938 7444. We hope to see you there!