Roger Maguire facts for kids
Roger Maguire (born 1641 – died October 1708) was an important Irish soldier and courtier. He was known as Lord Maguire of Enniskillen. He supported King James II during a time of big changes in Ireland and Britain.
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Roger Maguire's Life
Early Life and Family
Roger Maguire was the son of Rory Maguire. His mother was Deborah. In 1648, Roger inherited a claim to a special title, Baron Maguire. This title had been lost by his family a few years earlier, in 1645.
A Time of Change
Roger Maguire became a captain in the Earl of Antrim's Regiment of Infantry. This was a group of soldiers. In 1689, King James II called a special meeting in Ireland. It was known as the Patriot Parliament. Roger Maguire was asked to join the Irish House of Lords during this time. King James also made him the Lord Lieutenant of Fermanagh. This meant he was the King's main representative in that area. However, the new rulers, known as the Williamites, never agreed that he had the title of Baron.
Soldier and Leader
Roger Maguire then created his own group of soldiers. They fought for King James II in the Williamite War in Ireland. He took part in important battles, like the Battle of Aughrim. After the Siege of Limerick in 1691, Roger Maguire faced a serious problem. He lost his property and rights because of his support for King James.
Later Years
After losing his property, Roger Maguire joined many other Irish soldiers and families. They left Ireland and went to France. This journey was known as the "Flight of the Wild Geese." In France, Roger Maguire did not get a new command in the army. So, he retired to the home of the exiled King James II. This home was a castle called Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye. Roger Maguire lived there until he passed away in 1708.
Family
Roger Maguire was married to Mary. Her father was Philip MacHugh O'Reilly. Roger's son, Alexander, took over his family's position. Alexander also died in France in 1719.
