Description
Object description
Americans Joan and Julius Evans travel around Northern Ireland meeting young people, and receive a favourable impression.
Full description
The first port of call for Joan and Julius is a youth hostel in the Mountains of Mourne. Northern Ireland is "a restless place, but restless in a positive way". The teenagers spoken to are hopeful about the future. They also visit an expresso bar "where older young people meet in preference to pubs" and talk to some of the customers, most of whom are students. At the Queen's Campus, Belfast University, Professor Wilson (Head of Chemistry) is interviewed about his work (including development of the element technetium) and about the prospects for his students. John and Julius set off on the road, visiting Dundas Castle and the Giant's Causeway before reaching "historic Londonderry", where they visit Dr Desmond McCourt at Mcghee College. He plays rugby and talks about his visit to the United States (Ulster had originally been trial run for US plantation system) and the similarities between Ulster and New England (Scots-Irish settlers). The fates of other players in his old team: Jamie Kyle (doctor), Ewart Fell (government minister), Noel Henderson (businessman). The Evans' then drive their Ford Consul to Ballymena (?) to meet successful mill owner Frank Dinsmore who talks about his business and his family; he believes the future of Ulster is very bright. Loughry Agricultural College (for girls) is visited. At a cattle market, youngsters judge cattle. Albert McAllister, President of the Young Farmers' Clubs explains its role in teaching youngsters about farming and bringing the community together through evening meetings. One such meeting is shown, attended by an American girl who is part of the International Farm Youth Exchange. Next interviewee is Audrey Ruth Robinson, "Miss Secretary of Great Britain"; she talks of her prize and trip to New York. Finally, at Stormont Castle, the Ulster Girls' Choir sings; Irene Brown (founder and conductor) is interviewed about their charity tour of the US. The girls are interviewed about fund-raising. John and Julius conclude that the pioneer spirit is very much alive in Ulster, especially amongst young people.
Physical description
16mm