Richard Butler, 1st Viscount Mountgarret facts for kids

Richard Butler, 1st Viscount Mountgarret (born 1500 – died May 20, 1571) was an important person in Irish history. He was the son of Piers Butler, 8th Earl of Ormond and Lady Margaret Fitzgerald. Richard married Eleanor Butler, who was his half first cousin. He was given the special title of 1st Viscount Mountgarret in 1550.

Richard Butler's Life and Work

Richard Butler was known as a strong and capable leader. People described him as a "Knight of goodly personage," meaning he was a well-respected and impressive man. He did many helpful things for the King of England at the time.

Building and Royal Recognition

Richard largely rebuilt a strong stone house called a tower house at Mountgarret in County Wexford. Because of his good service, King Edward VI of England decided to give him a special honor. On October 23, 1550, Richard was officially made Viscount Mountgarret. This was a very important title.

Serving the Crown

During the rule of King Edward VI and Queen Mary, Richard was in charge of Ferns Castle. This meant he was responsible for keeping the castle safe. In 1558, he worked with Sir Nicholas Devereux to enforce laws in certain areas.

Later, in 1559, he helped keep the peace in counties like Kilkenny, Tipperary, and Wexford. This was especially important when the main leader, Lord Sussex, was away. Richard also attended the Parliament, which was a meeting where laws were made.

His Death

Richard Butler passed away in 1571. He was buried with his family members in St. Canice's Cathedral in Kilkenny city.

Family Life

Richard Butler was married three times and had several children.

First Marriage

His first wife was Eleanor Butler. She was the daughter of Theobald Butler. With Eleanor, Richard had his son and future successor, Edmund.

Second Marriage

His second wife was Catharine Barnewall. She was the daughter of Peter Barnewall. They had one son named Barnewall, but he died when he was young and did not marry.

Third Marriage

His third marriage was in 1541 to Anne Plunket, daughter of John Plunket, Lord Killeen. This marriage ended in divorce after only one year. Despite the short marriage, they had several children together.

• Edmund Butler, 2nd Viscount Mountgarret (born around 1562 - died 1602). He married Grania FitzPatrick and had children.
• Burnewall
• Pierce Butler
• John, who had children.
• Thomas, who also had children.
• Ellice or Cicely, who married Walter Walsh. They had five sons.
• Margaret, who married Sir Nicholas Devereux. They did not have children.
• Lady Eleanor Butler (died after 1601). She married three times but did not have children.
• Ellen, who married Sir Oliver Shortall and later Lucas Shea.

See also

Butler dynasty