Sir Henry Piers, 1st Baronet facts for kids

Sir Henry Piers (born 1629, died 1691) was an important person in Ireland. He lived at Tristernagh Abbey in County Westmeath. Sir Henry was a landowner, a soldier, and a member of parliament. He also served as a sheriff in different counties. He was also an antiquarian, which means he studied old things and history.

Sir Henry Piers' Life Story

Sir Henry Piers came from a family with a long history. His father was Sir William Piers. His mother, Martha, was the sister of a famous historian named Sir James Ware.

Sir Henry's great-great-grandfather, William Piers, was an English naval officer. Queen Elizabeth I of England gave him Tristernagh Abbey as a reward. This was for his military service in Ireland.

Early Career and Titles

In the 1640s, Sir Henry Piers was a military officer. He led a group of soldiers in a regiment. Later, he became the Sheriff for Counties Longford and Westmeath. This was from 1657 to 1658. A sheriff was like a chief law enforcement officer for a county.

In 1658, he was made a knight by Henry Cromwell at Dublin Castle. This was a special honor. However, this title ended when the king returned to power in 1660. This event was called the Restoration.

Sir Henry was also a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1659. He represented Counties Longford and Westmeath. An MP helps make laws for the country.

After the Restoration

After the king returned, Sir Henry Piers received a new title. He was made a baronet on February 18, 1661. A baronet is a special hereditary title, like a knight but passed down through the family.

He continued his work in parliament. He was an MP for St Johnstown, County Longford. He held this position from 1661 to 1666. In 1663, he also served as the High Sheriff of Westmeath.

Sir Henry Piers' Writings

Sir Henry Piers is best known for his book. It was called Chorographical Description of the County of Westmeath. He wrote it in 1682. However, it was not published until 1770.

This book is very important for history. It shares many interesting details about the past. For example, it describes the old ruins of Tristernagh Abbey. The abbey ruins were later taken down in 1783. Sir Henry's book is still a key source for learning about the history of that area.

Sir Henry Piers' Family

Around 1653, Sir Henry Piers married Mary Jones. Her father was Dr. Henry Jones, who was the Bishop of Meath.

Sir Henry and Mary had many children. Their son, William, became the next baronet after his father. They had seven other sons and six daughters. Some of his famous descendants include Sir John Piers and Sir Vere Hunt.