Taylor Swift's Irish roots explored by genealogy experts

Taylor Swift’s Irish roots have been traced back to Derry.

Genealogy experts have pieced together the global icon’s ancestry and found that her forebearers departed for a new life in America on board a ship that left Derry in 1836.

Ahead of the American popstar’s arrival to Dublin’s Aviva Stadium next week, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, along with their genealogy partners The Irish Family History Centre, has revealed the superstar’s ancestral ties to Ireland.

Read more: Daughter’s birthday ruined after mum scammed for fake £600 Taylor Swift tickets

Read more: PSNI in Taylor Swift ticket fraud warning as almost £300k lost to scammers in NI

On September 12, 2008, Taylor catapulted to stardom with her song Love Story, which explored themes of romance, growth, and heartache. Long before this chart-topper, however, a love story unfolded aboard the ship AMY, sailing from Derry on June 11, 1836.

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.

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.

Susan and Francis settled in Philadelphia, marrying in 1839, raising a family of six children, two girls and four boys. Francis Gwynn established a successful soap-making business, and the family prospered.

Their idyllic life in Philadelphia was touched by tragedy. Five of the Gwynn children died before their parents. Only one, Mrs Mary Douglas (née Gwynn), Taylor Swift’s great-great-great-grandmother, outlived her parents.

Aileesh Carew, CEO of EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, said: “In tracing Taylor Swift’s roots back to 1836, EPIC exemplifies its vital role in preserving the rich tapestry of our past, ensuring that each individual thread contributes to the vibrant narrative of our collective history.

“As audiences prepare to witness Taylor’s performances in Ireland, we invite visitors to visit and experience the moving and unforgettable stories of those who left the island of Ireland, and how they influenced and shaped the world.”

Experts discovered that in December 1886, Mary buried her father and in February 1887, she buried her mother. Some might speculate that Susan Davis Gwynn died of a broken heart, or that might just be folklore.

Fiona Fitzsimons, Director at the Irish Family History Centre at EPIC, said the tale of Susan Davis and Francis Gwynn illustrates the connections in family history and global narratives.

“Their journey is not just a personal love story, but a testament to the resilience and courage of countless Irish emigrants.”

To learn more about ‘The Love Story Before Love Story’ and to download a poster created by Irish illustrator Lauren O’ Neill, visit the EPIC website here.

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.