Sir John Vaughan (governor) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir
John Vaughan
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St Columb's Cathedral, built under Vaughan's supervision
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| Born | c.1560s possibly Breconshire or Montgomeryshire |
| Died | 1643 Derry |
| Allegiance |  Kingdom of Ireland |
| Branch | Infantry |
| Years of service | c1599-1643 |
| Rank | Military Governor of Londonderry and Culmore (1611-43) |
| Battles/wars | Nine Years' War O'Doherty's rebellion Irish Rebellion of 1641 |
Sir John Vaughan (died 1643) was a brave soldier and important leader from Wales. He moved to Ireland during a time called the Plantation of Ulster. This was when many people from England and Scotland settled in Ulster, a part of Ireland. Sir John Vaughan is best known for his long connection with the city of Derry. He was the Governor of Londonderry and Culmore from 1611 until he died. He also served twice as a Member of Parliament (MP) for County Donegal. An MP is someone chosen to represent their area in the government.
Contents
Sir John Vaughan's Story
Very little is known about where Sir John Vaughan came from. He arrived in Ireland in 1599. He was a company commander, meaning he led a group of soldiers. He came with Henry Docwra and was given land in County Donegal.
A Survivor and Leader in Derry
Sir John Vaughan survived a terrible event in 1608. This was when the city of Derry was attacked and burned during O'Doherty's rebellion. After this, he became the military governor of Derry in 1611. As governor, he was in charge of the city's defenses.
He worked hard to repair the city's walls and other defenses. These had been built earlier by Docwra. In 1615, he was knighted, which means he was given the title "Sir" by the king.
Building Derry's Future
Sir John Vaughan was a very important person in Derry for 35 years. He was a constant part of the city's government. He even served as the city's mayor twice.
As governor, he was responsible for building many important structures in Derry. This included the famous Derry city walls. He also oversaw the completion of St Columb's Cathedral in 1633. These buildings helped make Derry a stronger and more important city.
Defending the City
In 1641, a major conflict known as the 1641 rebellion began. Sir John Vaughan was responsible for organizing Derry's defense during this time. He led the city's protection during the early parts of the fighting. He continued in his role until his death in 1643. After he died, Robert Stewart took over as governor.
Family Life
Sir John Vaughan had one child, a daughter named Sidney Vaughan. She married Sir Frederick Hamilton. It is also thought that the Royalist soldier Sir William Vaughan was his nephew.
