Carrickfergus, Ireland

Jackson has a sister city relationship with Carrickfergus, Ireland. We have been a sister city since 2005.

Carrickfergus is located in Northern Ireland. It is a compact historical town that is packed full of things to see and do, most of which can be reached easily by foot. And with over 1000 years of history under its belt Carrickfergus has lots to revel.

There’s one sight you simply won’t be able to miss. Standing on a rocky spur on the northern shore of Belfast Lough, Carrickfergus Castle dominates all approaches to the town. John de Courcy, the Anglo-Norman baron who conquered much of Ulster, started building it about 1178 and it remained fully garrisoned for 750 years until 1928. Now preserved as an ancient monument, it is open to the public and remains an iconic symbol of the town.

Carrickfergus Castle is just one of the town’s many attractions. To find out what else is on offer, visit the Tourist Information Centre (TIC). It’s located inside Carrickfergus Museum and Civic Centre on Antrim Street (Tel : +44 (0)28 9335 8000), and you’ll find friendly, informed staff who will advise you about where to go and what to see. There’s also a superb range of quality gifts that celebrate the heritage of Carrickfergus and Northern Ireland. Take a browse around the Museum while you’re there and gain a fascinating insight to the tumultuous events in the town’s history.

In September of 2005 the mayor of Carrickfergus Alderman David Hilts visited Jackson Michigan. His visit took in a number of events with city officials, public events at schools, businesses, museums and art centers. As part of the trip the delegation considered such characteristics as size, population, industries, tourism, education, culture, history and natural resources.

Members of the Chamber of Commerce and the Sister City Committee visited Carrickfergus in March 2006 to learn about their renewable energy, manufacturing industry, tourism and their higher education system. It was a very exciting and educational trip and we are looking forward to making it back to Ireland in the near future. See pictures from the trip below:

For more information on Carrickfergus, Ireland click here to visit their website.