Terence MacDermott facts for kids

Sir Terence MacDermott was an important Irish merchant and politician who lived in the 1600s. He supported King James II, who was also known as a Jacobite.

MacDermott was born in County Louth, Ireland. He became a very successful merchant in Dublin, the capital city. He even owned property in a faraway place called Montserrat.

Early Political Career

In 1687, Terence MacDermott became an alderman in Dublin. An alderman is a senior member of a city council. This meant he helped make important decisions for the city. On April 15, 1688, he was officially added to the list of people allowed to vote and hold office in Dublin.

Supporting King James II

MacDermott was a strong supporter of James II of England. After an event called the Glorious Revolution, King James II lost his throne in England. However, he still had many supporters in Ireland. In 1689, King James II called a special meeting of the Irish Parliament, known as the Patriot Parliament. Sir Terence MacDermott was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Dublin City during this time.

Lord Mayor of Dublin

On March 31, 1689, Sir Terence MacDermott was elected as the Lord Mayor of Dublin. This was a very important job, like being the main leader of the city. He officially took office on September 29, 1689.

Actions as Mayor

As Lord Mayor, MacDermott put in place policies that supported King James II. For example, during a time of war, he set strict rules on how much goods could cost in the city. This was to make sure prices didn't get too high for people. In May 1690, King James II honored him by making him a knight. This is why he is called "Sir" Terence MacDermott. He was also made a justice of the peace on July 15, 1689. A justice of the peace helps keep law and order.

Life After the Battle of the Boyne

On July 3, 1690, a major battle called the Battle of the Boyne took place. King James II's side lost this battle. After the defeat, Sir Terence MacDermott had to leave Dublin quickly.

Fleeing to France

He went to Galway, another city in Ireland. He took the special chain and collar that belonged to the Lord Mayor with him. For a short time, he was held by the Earl of Tyrconnell because he wouldn't give up the mayoral chain.

After another important battle, the Battle of Aughrim in 1691, Sir Terence MacDermott fled Ireland completely. He went to France, where many supporters of King James II had gone.

Seeking a Pardon

In April 1692, he asked for a pardon so he could return to Ireland. He said he would be loyal to the new government of William III of England. However, his request was turned down. Later, he was officially declared an outlaw, meaning he lost his rights and property. In September 1695, King James II, who was also in exile, told him to give the mayoral chain to Sir William Ellis.

Later Life and Legacy

Sir Terence MacDermott died sometime after the year 1699, most likely in France. He was the last Roman Catholic Lord Mayor of Dublin for a very long time. It wasn't until 1841 that another Catholic, Daniel O'Connell, became Lord Mayor of Dublin.