Mary O'Brien, 3rd Countess of Orkney facts for kids

Mary O'Brien, the 3rd Countess of Orkney, was an important noblewoman who lived from about 1721 to 1790. She was the oldest daughter of Anne O'Brien, the 2nd Countess of Orkney, and William O'Brien, the 4th Earl of Inchiquin. Mary became the Countess of Orkney in her own right, meaning she inherited the title directly, not through her husband.

Her Life and Family

Mary O'Brien was deaf. In 1753, she married her first cousin, Murrough O'Brien. Their wedding was unique because they communicated using signs. Murrough O'Brien held several important titles himself, including the 5th Earl of Inchiquin and the 1st Marquess of Thomond. He was also the 1st Baron Thomond of Taplow, England.

Mary and Murrough lived together at his family home called Rostellan, which was located near Cork Harbour in Ireland.

Becoming a Countess

Mary became the Countess of Orkney on December 6, 1756. This happened after her mother, Anne O'Brien, passed away and did not have any sons to inherit the title. So, Mary, as the eldest daughter, took on the role of Countess.

Her Daughter and Legacy

Mary and Murrough had one daughter who survived, also named Mary. This daughter later became the 4th Countess of Orkney, continuing the family's noble line.

Mary O'Brien, the 3rd Countess of Orkney, passed away on May 10, 1790. Her husband, Murrough O'Brien, lived much longer. He died on February 10, 1808, at the age of 84, after an accident where his horse fell with him in Grosvenor Square.