Downpatrick Whigs And Volunteers

The Whig Clubs as explained by a contemporary source in the no-holds-barred historical style of the day, seemed to be intended to allow a forum for discussion of more liberal ideas, and act as a kind of pressure valve that would discourage more radical action. 

From a History Of Ireland from its First Settlement to the Present Time (1845)

Deeply influenced by the ideals of the French Revolution, members of these clubs, whether in Downpatrick, or nationally, could envisage a future in which rights and privileges were not accorded on a sectarian basis, and in which a united Ireland would be able to exercise at least some moderate form of self-government. 

The Irish Volunteers meanwhile were originally founded in 1778, as a voluntary defence and police force, since much of the British Army were needed in America.  The Volunteers however took advantage of the circumstances to exert pressure on London for more independence for the Dublin parliament. 

Out of these groups and out of their various internecine disagreements evolved both the United Irishmen organisation, and also the Yeomanry. The United Irishmen eventually opted for armed rebellion. The Volunteers transformed themselves into the Yeomanry, discarded liberal principles, and as a Protestant militia played a significant part on the crushing of the 1798 rebellion. 

This then was the new territory through which the Potters, Nevins and Haughtons now had to manoeuvre themselves and their Hadzor wives and their children through. Without doubt they began on the side of liberal reform and an end to religious discrimination - at least for the Presbyterians. Where they all finished is not quite so clear.