Event: Charles Thomson, Secretary of a Revolution

02 February 2026

A new book about Charles Thomson, the Ulster-Scots Secretary of the US Continental Congress during the American Revolution, will be showcased at a special talk on Friday 13 February.

📍 Discover Ulster-Scots Centre (1-9 Victoria Street, Belfast, BT1 3GA) 

🗓️ Friday 13 February, 12 noon – 1pm 

🎟️ £10 (includes a light lunch afterwards)

Taking place in the Discover Ulster-Scots Centre, award-winning historical writer – and author of the new book – Courtney McKinney-Whitaker, will be in attendance to talk about Thomson and the key role he played as a Founding Father of the United States.  

Dayna Jost from the Ulster-Scots Community Network explained: “As we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence, and celebrate the pivotal role played by Ulster-Scots figures in the American Revolution, one of the first names that comes to mind is Charles Thomson, Secretary of the Continental Congress.

“Born at Upperlands near Maghera in County Londonderry, Thomson is now the focus of a new book by award-winning American author, Courtney McKinney-Whitaker. We are delighted that Courtney is travelling to Belfast, a city built by Ulster-Scots, to talk about one of the icons of the community.

“Proud Ulster-Scots, history lovers, politics enthusiasts, people who enjoy a brilliant story – this is an event for all, and we are looking forward to welcoming everyone to the Discover Ulster-Scots Centre for an engaging talk and a light lunch afterwards.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for people to learn about a man who was at the centre of major events that changed the world and began a nation. Thomson’s journey from Maghera to the heart of American revolutionary politics is one of the most remarkable local tales they’ll hear during this very special year.”

There are a limited number of tickets available for the talk, which has been organised by the Ulster-Scots Community Network. Priced at £10, they are available now via Eventbrite here.