Abstract
The book was launched on 8th December 2009, 149 years to the day after the McIlrath brothers set sail for a new life on the other side of the world.
The 64 letters, which make up the book, have been carefully preserved by the McIlrath family, the descendants of which still live in the house which James and Hamilton left behind. The book has been put together by John Bassett and this launch saw the culmination of 20 years of his dedication to the project. The letters chart the progress and achievements of the McIlrath brothers, as well as personal events, marriages, births, illness and deaths. The relaxed, familiar style gives these letters an immediacy not to be found in history books, bringing their lives and troubles very close to the reader despite the 150 year gap. The writers also make frequent reference to other emigrants from the local area whom they meet in their new home, passing on news and greetings, which makes the book a valuable resource for local historians and genealogists.