James McHenry (1817-91): Larne’s Forgotten Tycoon - A talk by Dr Barry Henderson

James McHenry (1817-91): Larne’s Forgotten Tycoon

A talk by Dr Barry Henderson

Larne Museum & Arts Centre

Saturday 13th June 2026, 1.00pm – 2.30pm

Join us for a talk delivered by historian Dr Barry Henderson, who will be sharing the findings of his recently completed doctoral dissertation, The Forgotten Tycoon, which investigates the extraordinary life and career of Larne-born Irish-American merchant, financier and railroad developer James McHenry (1817-1891). 

The son of celebrated writer and diplomat, Dr James McHenry (1785-1845), McHenry left Larne in his youth, migrating to the United States where the family settled in Philadelphia.  Moving to England in the late 1830s, he rose to prominence as a pioneering transatlantic shipping magnate at Liverpool.  Pivoting to American railroad development, he would later emerge as one of Victorian London’s most influential financiers.

In discussing McHenry’s career, particular focus is given to his role as the driving force behind the development of the Atlantic and Great Western Railroad (A&GW); an ambitious tri-state project located in New York, Pennsylvania and Ohio, originated in 1851.  Upon joining forces with the A&GW in 1858, McHenry’s interventions revitalised the hitherto struggling enterprise.  The railroad was ultimately completed in 1864, constructed against the dramatic backdrop of the American Civil War.  It was hailed as one of the greatest works of the age, with McHenry celebrated as its visionary leader.

Whilst highlighting McHenry’s many notable contributions to American development, Dr Henderson will also discuss more controversial aspects of his legacy.  Following the close of the Civil War, McHenry would find himself locked in conflict with America’s leading industrialists in a battle for control of America’s railroad network.  Exerting influence of a more insidious kind, he would be implicated in some of the most notorious and defining financial machinations and financial crises of the period.

An influential, enigmatic, ostentatious, and at times shadowy figure, McHenry’s legacy is complex.  At his height, he was a friend of European royalty, creator of kings, and a commander of fortunes.  As a cosmopolitan captain of industry, he once harnessed European capital in service of American nation-building to great acclaim, but later, demonstrated the calculated, ruthless and unorthodox characteristics associated with an archetypal robber baron.

His story – once lost to time – has now been reclaimed.  Other topics discussed include McHenry’s extensive social networks, his relationships with a range of notable historical figures, activities as a publisher, philanthropic and artistic contributions, and his complex relationship with his family.

Drop into Larne Museum to hear the remarkable story of Larne’s forgotten tycoon.

Speaker Bio:

Dr Barry Henderson is a historian who received his doctorate from Queen’s University, Belfast.  He also holds a BA in International Politics, and MA in Peace and Conflict Studies, attained at Ulster University, Magee.  His groundbreaking 2025 doctoral dissertation The Forgotten Tycoon represents the most in-depth examination ever undertaken concerning the life and career of Irish-American merchant-financier and railroad developer, James McHenry (1817–1891).

This event is part of Larne’s America 250 Programme. 

This is a free event, however places are limited and must be booked in advance by contacting Larne Museum & Arts Centre on 028 28 262443 or by e-mailing marian.kelso@midandeastantrim.gov.uk. 

Entrance Fee