James Riabhach Darcy facts for kids

James Riabhach Darcy was an important leader in Galway, Ireland. He served as the Mayor of Galway from 1602 to 1603. He was the first person from his family to become Mayor.

Early Life and Family History

James Riabhach Darcy belonged to one of the famous families known as the Tribes of Galway. These were powerful merchant families who shaped Galway's history. His family, the Darcys, were originally farmers from a place called Pártraí in County Mayo. They moved to Galway in the 1480s, which was a big change for them.

One of James's ancestors, named Walter Riabhac Ó Dorchaidhe, moved to Galway around the mid-1400s. He was the first of the Darcy family to settle in the city.

Career and Public Service

Besides being Mayor, James Riabhach Darcy also held another important position. He was the vice-president of Connacht, which is a province in western Ireland. This shows he was a respected and influential person in the region.

Family and Descendants

James Riabhach Darcy was married twice. With his first wife, a Miss Bodkin, he had five children: Nicholas, Martin, James, Anthony, and Anastace.

With his second wife, Elizabeth Martyn, he had two more sons, Andrew and Patrick. Elizabeth Martyn came from another important Galway family. Her nephew, Richard Martyn, later became a close partner and brother-in-law to James's son, Patrick Darcy.

James Riabhach Darcy passed away towards the end of his term as Mayor. He was replaced by Christopher Lynch, who had been the Mayor before him.

James Riabhach Darcy's family continued to be important in Irish history. His descendants include Patrick D'Arcy, who became a famous lawyer and politician, and John Darcy, who founded the town of Clifden in County Galway.