Patrick Crawford (soldier) facts for kids

Patrick Crawford (died 1614) was a Scottish soldier. He moved to Ireland and became a landowner there. He played a part in important events in Irish history during the early 1600s.

Who Was Patrick Crawford?

Patrick Crawford was a soldier from Scotland. He lived during a time when there were many changes in Ireland. He is known for his military service and for settling in Ireland. He became an important landowner in the country.

His Role in Ireland

In 1608, Patrick Crawford led a group of Scottish soldiers. They were stationed in places like Strabane and Lifford in Ireland. Their job was to help keep peace and order.

Helping to End a Rebellion

A leader named Sir Cahir O'Doherty started a rebellion in 1608. During this time, the city of Derry was burned. Patrick Crawford and his troops helped to stop this uprising. This event became known as O'Doherty's Rebellion. Crawford's actions were important in ending the fighting.

Earning Land in Ireland

Because of his service, Patrick Crawford received a reward. He was given 1,000 acres of land. This land was located near Kilmacrennan in County Donegal, Ireland. He was given this land as a "servitor." A servitor was someone who had served the Crown, usually as a soldier, and was given land as a reward.

Some people were not happy about this. They felt that English and Irish soldiers who fought in the Nine Years' War should have received land first. However, King James I supported Crawford and another Scottish soldier, William Stewart.

His Final Mission

In 1614, Patrick Crawford was called to lead another mission. He led a group of soldiers to the island of Isla. This island is off the coast of Scotland. Their goal was to stop a rebellion happening there. Sadly, Patrick Crawford was killed during the fighting on Isla in 1614.