Henry Piers facts for kids

Henry Piers (born 1568, died 1623) was an important landowner in Ireland long ago. He had both English and Irish roots. He also served as a Member of Parliament, which means he helped make laws for the country. Henry Piers owned a large estate called Tristernagh Abbey in the early 1600s.

Henry Piers' Life Story

Henry was the only son of William Piers, a man from Yorkshire, England. His father received land in Ireland from Elizabeth I, who was Queen of England, because he served her well as a soldier. Henry's mother was Ann Holt.

Henry married Jane Jones, whose father, Thomas Jones, was an important religious leader in Dublin. Henry and Jane had eight children.

Working for the Government

Henry Piers worked as a secretary for Lord Chichester, who was a very important leader in Ireland at the time. In 1613, Henry was chosen to represent the town of Baltimore in the Irish Parliament. This was like being a representative for people in a specific area. Besides his father's land at Tristernagh, Henry also gained more land in an area called Cavan, which was part of a new settlement plan.

A Change in Beliefs

When Henry was in his late 20s, he decided to change his religion to Catholicism. A family story says he did this "against the advice of his wife." He was especially influenced by his close friendships with nearby families who had kept the Catholic faith.

After this, Henry traveled around Europe for about eight years. When he returned, he encouraged some of his children to also become Catholic. One of his sons, Thomas Piers, became a Franciscan friar, which is a type of religious brother.

Henry also wrote a book about his travels. This book was later found by Sir James Ware, whose sister married into the Piers family. The book was found again recently and has been very helpful for learning about Irish people living in Europe during the time of the Nine Years' War.

Where Henry Piers Was Buried

Henry Piers was buried in a special tomb. This tomb is in the old, ruined chapel of Templecross, which is near the entrance to the Tristernagh estate. There is still a stone monument there with the Piers family symbol and a Latin message. The message remembers Henry Piers as a kind person who was known for his strong faith. It also says he helped repair Tristernagh Abbey.

Henry Piers' Family

Henry Piers' oldest son, William Piers, took over his estates after Henry passed away. William was later given the title of "Sir." Henry's grandson, also named Sir Henry Piers, was a soldier and someone who studied old things. In 1661, he was given the special title of baronet, starting the Piers baronets family line of Tristernagh.