Derry, Northern Ireland: First drive of the trip!

It's been such a great day! This morning we said goodbye to Belfast and headed across Northern Ireland to Derry.  It was a gorgeous drive!! One of the best things about being in Ireland is the scenery! I love the driving time.

While we drive to Derry, you can read a little about Derry:

- First founded as a settlement around 1400 years ago, the name Derry has its roots in the Irish word Doire which translates as Oak Grove. In 1613 the name was changed by Royal Charter to Londonderry to reflect the London Guilds involvement in establishing the planned city and Cathedral.
- In the 19th century Derry became a major port for those leaving for North America, especially those fleeing the famine. Those emigrants included the founders of Derry and Londonderry in New Hampshire (yep, they decided to have 2 towns).
- In WW2 Derry was the most westerly Allied Naval Port, played host to American troops and witnessed the surrender of the 19 U-boats (scuttled off the north coast of Donegal).
- From the 1830’s until relatively recently shirt making was the one of the city’s main industries – making Derry, at it’s peak, the shirt making capital of the world.

Your turn!! Learn a little about Derry:

Brainiac question
This is the only remaining intact city of its kind in Ireland, and the first city like it in Europe. This famous part of Derry was built between 1613-1619.  What is the famous part of Derry that makes the city unique?
**( Use the research websites below or find the link on the main page)

Wikipedia- Derry
Information about Derry


Do you have any questions for us? We would love to hear from you!!!

Peace Bridge and Guild hall