Amidst the turmoil of the scandalous 1884 Cleveland vs. Blaine campaign for the presidency, Irish immigrants were arriving en masse. The initial increase in Irish immigration during the 1840s was caused by the infamous potato famine that affected not only Ireland but also much of northwest Europe. In addition, the steamship replacement of sailing vessels and a lack of immigration restrictions made the United States a viable destination for those seeking a better life. The Dunlop family was one of the many families who made the grueling trip across the Atlantic, through eastern states, across the Mississippi to eventually establish residency near Parker, Kan.