James Hamilton, 3rd Baron Hamilton of Strabane facts for kids

James Hamilton, 3rd Baron Hamilton of Strabane (1633–1655) was an important figure in Ireland during a time of great conflict. He became a baron at a young age and later fought in the Irish wars. He bravely defended a fort alongside his stepfather, Phelim O'Neill, against the forces of Charles Coote. James died young, at about 22 years old, in an accident.

Early Life and Family

James Hamilton was born in 1633, likely at Strabane Castle in Ireland. He was the oldest son of Claud Hamilton and Jean Gordon. His father was the 2nd Baron Hamilton of Strabane, which meant he held a special title. James's mother, Jean, was the daughter of a powerful Scottish nobleman, George Gordon, 1st Marquess of Huntly. James had one younger brother and two sisters.

Becoming Baron Strabane

In 1638, when James was only about five years old, his father passed away. This meant that James inherited his father's title and became the 3rd Baron Hamilton of Strabane. Because he was so young, his mother, Jean Gordon, managed the family's lands and affairs for him. They continued to live at Strabane Castle.

Fighting in the Irish Wars

Ireland faced many conflicts during James's lifetime. When he was about eight years old, in 1641, a major uprising called the Irish Rebellion began. The rebel leader, Phelim O'Neill, captured Strabane Castle and even took James, his mother, and his siblings prisoner. However, they were released after a few days.

Years later, in 1649, during the Irish Confederate Wars, Strabane Castle was attacked again. This time, it was by an army led by Robert Monro. But Phelim O'Neill, who had once captured James, now helped to save the castle. Soon after, in November 1649, James's mother married Phelim O'Neill, making him James's stepfather.

In 1649, a powerful English army led by Oliver Cromwell arrived in Ireland. This led to more intense fighting. In July 1650, when James was about 17, he joined his stepfather, Phelim O'Neill, to fight against Cromwell's forces. They defended Charlemont Fort in a difficult battle known as the Siege of Charlemont. They fought against Charles Coote and his army. After a tough fight, the fort had to surrender in August 1650.

Even though the soldiers were allowed to leave the country, James did not want to go. He tried to hide in the wild areas of the Munterlony mountains but was soon captured. He later rejoined Phelim O'Neill to continue fighting. Because of his actions against the English Parliament, his family's lands, including what is now called the Baronscourt Estate, were taken away. In 1653, his stepfather, Phelim O'Neill, was captured and executed.

Death

James Hamilton died in 1655, at around 22 years old. He accidentally drowned in the River Mourne near Strabane. He had never married, so his younger brother, George, became the 4th Baron of Strabane.

Timeline