'Major opportunity': New US Presidents Trail to bring tourism boost to Limerick town

AN AMERICAN Presidents Trail on the island of Ireland is “a major opportunity for heritage, tourism and community pride in a number of locations”, said a TD.

Bruff is set to feature prominently as Thomas Fitzgerald - great grandfather of  John Fitzgerald Kennedy, 35th president of the United States - emigrated from Bruff in 1852.

Fine Gael Deputy Edward Timmins, who first proposed the initiative, said the trail recognises something many Irish communities already know, that the story of 23 American presidents have deep roots in Ireland.

“The trail will shine a light on those connection and give visitors from across the world a new and compelling reason to explore Ireland beyond the usual tourist trail.”

“I proposed this shortly after I was elected to the Dáil in early 2025. It has received support from many people as an initiative which will boost tourism and community spirit across the island,” said Mr Timmins.

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The initiative, brought to Cabinet by Tourism Minister and Limerick TD Patrick O’Donovan, will identify, mark and celebrate the ancestral connections that numerous communities across Ireland share with former US Presidents.

The project is being advanced as part of the America250 Programme, a joint effort between the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The programme will mark the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States later this year.

It will be delivered in partnership with the Department for Communities in Northern Ireland and local authorities across the island, making it a genuinely all-island project.

Each ancestral site will be marked with a native tree and information panel, creating a network of living landmarks connecting Irish communities to the White House.

“The all-island dimension of this project is particularly significant. This is heritage that belongs to the whole island, and it is fitting that it will be celebrated and promoted North and South,” said Mr Timmins.

He said the trail has strong potential to drive tourism intro rural communities that may not currently feature on the itineraries of American visitors.

With millions of Americans claiming Irish heritage, the trail is well positioned to attract significant international interest as US Presidents Barack Obama, John F Kennedy and Ronald Reagan all hold Irish links.

“American visitors come to Ireland in huge numbers every year, and many of them are specifically looking for a connection to their roots. 

“This trail gives them a structured meaningful way to explore that connection, while also bringing footfall and economic benefits to communities right across the country.”

Mr Timmins said he’s going to continue to work with Mr O’Donovan, local authorities and community groups to ensure the trail is developed and promoted effectively both in Ireland and in America.

He added he is hopeful of support from the shared island fund for the project as it aligns perfectly with its aims.