Robert Gookin facts for kids
Robert Gookin (died 1666 or 1667) was an important person from Courtmacsherry. He was an Anglo-Irishman, which means he had English roots but lived in Ireland. Robert Gookin was a captain in the English army that supported Parliament. He also received land in Ireland.
Robert Gookin's Early Life
Robert Gookin was the younger son of Sir Vincent Gookin and his first wife, Mary Wood.
Military Service and Land
Robert Gookin served as a soldier in Ireland during a time of big changes. He fought in the Irish Confederate Wars for the King's side, known as the Royalists. Later, he joined the English Parliament's army during the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland.
In 1648, he played a key role when the forces in Munster changed sides. The next year, he helped with the surrender of Bandon.
In 1652, Robert Gookin worked with the Parliament's leaders. He helped to strengthen the abbey in Rosscarbery, County Cork. He later asked for and received payment for this work.
During the time when England was a Commonwealth (without a king), Robert Gookin received a lot of land. This land had been taken from others. When King Charles II was about to return to power, Gookin wanted to make sure he kept his land. He transferred it to Roger Boyle, 1st Earl of Orrery. Gookin then leased the land back for 100 years. He passed away in late 1666 or early 1667.
Robert Gookin's Family
Robert Gookin married a woman named Dorothy. After he died, Dorothy married Randal Clayton. Robert and Dorothy had two sons, Vincent and Robert, and two daughters, Anne and Mary. His older brother, Vincent Gookin, was a very important official. He was the surveyor-general of Ireland during the time England was a Commonwealth.
