Catalina Sarsfield facts for kids

Catalina Sarsfield, sometimes called Catalina von Neuhoff, was a queen! She was married to Theodore of Corsica, who was king of the short-lived Kingdom of Corsica in 1736. Her time as queen was brief, lasting only a few months. But her story is part of an interesting time in European history.

Who Was Catalina Sarsfield?

Catalina Sarsfield became queen consort of Corsica. This means she was the wife of the king. Her husband, Theodore, ruled Corsica for a short period in 1736. This was a time when many small kingdoms and rulers were trying to gain power.

Her Family's Story

Catalina was the daughter of David Sarsfield. Her uncle was Dominick Sarsfield, 4th Viscount Sarsfield. Her family had supported King James II during a big war in Ireland. After the war, her family had to leave Ireland. They went to France, joining many other Irish families. This event was known as the "Flight of the Wild Geese."

These families were called Jacobites. They hoped King James II or his family would return to power. They also hoped to get back their lands in County Limerick. Catalina's father, David, fought in armies across Europe. Sadly, he was killed in battle in 1710. Catalina was the oldest of his six daughters. All of them were born in Nantes, France.

Life in France

In 1723, Catalina and her daughter moved to Paris. She lived in the court of Louise d’Orléans. This was a royal court, a place where important people lived and worked. Her daughter later returned to the Spanish court.

A Common Mix-Up

Catalina is often mistakenly thought to be the daughter of Patrick Sarsfield. Patrick was a famous Irish hero. He and his wife, Honora Burke, were from a different branch of the Sarsfield family. They were based in County Dublin. Catalina was related to them, but only through marriage, not as their daughter.