Derry mayor invites Taylor Swift to city to explore ancestral roots

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council has written to popstar Taylor Swift inviting her on a trip to Northern Ireland ahead of her Eras Tour arriving in Dublin.

As the Shake It Off singer prepares to perform to three sold-out crowds in the Aviva Stadium next weekend, it has been revealed that the singer's great-great-great-grandmother was the daughter of a couple who emigrated from Derry.

Susan Davis, a 21-year-old dressmaker, and Francis Gwynn, a 21-year-old weaver, embarked on a journey across the Atlantic, seeking a better life. They left from Derry, though it is unclear where exactly they hailed from.

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Their meeting aboard the ship marked the start of a love story that would transcend generations, laying the foundation for a far-reaching legacy. After a two-month voyage, the AMY arrived in port in the United States.

Mayor Lilian Seenoi Barr is more than excited that the star is an honourary Derry girl and has penned a letter to encourage her to visit the city and learn more about her ancestral history.

Sharing the letter on social media Cllr Barr has extended "a heartfelt invitation" to visit "our beloved city".

It reads: "I hope this letter finds you well. As Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council I am honoured and delighted to share the exciting news that you have Irish ancestry and that over 170 years ago your great great grandparents left the shores of the city of Derry in the north of Ireland, on board a ship called the 'Amy' to travel to Philadelphia in the United States in search of a better life.

"The exciting discovery of your ancestral ties to Derry, dating back to 1836, has stirred a wave of joy and curiosity among our residents and I would therefore like to extend a heartfelt invitation to you to visit our beloved city.

"We are extremely proud to call you a Derry girl and are hugely excited to extend this invitation to you to come visit and allow us to help you trace your ancestral journey and explore the places and stories that form part of your heritage."

She continued that the people of Derry have followed her journey and are supportive of the singer's "strong values around community" and how she have become a "beacon for inclusivity, creativity, and progressive spirit".

Cllr Barr continued: "The city of Derry has undergone a significant transformation over the years. We have become a city that embraces diversity and champions innovation, while holding a deep respect for our rich cultural heritage.

"As someone who has inspired millions with your music and philanthropy, we believe that your visit would be a poignant and inspiring homecoming, bridging past and present in a celebration of your roots.

"We would be thrilled if you could time out of your busy schedule to come see for yourself our vibrant city and explore its historic walls, its lively arts scene that pulses through our streets and experience its unique blend of the old and the new, much like your own illustrious career.

"Your presence here would not only honour your ancestors but also inspire a new generation of Derry's youth to pursue their dreams with the same passion and determination that you have shown throughout your life.

"As the first ever Black person to be elected to the Mayoral Office in the vibrant and progressive city of Derry, it would be a privilege for me to host you and to share with you our community's warmth and hospitality and to show you how your story continues to inspire and shape our city.

"Thank you for considering this invitation. We hope that you will visit us and allow us to celebrate your incredible journey and deep connection to Derry."

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