Thomas Butler, 2nd Baron Cahir facts for kids

Thomas Butler, the 2nd Baron Cahir, was an important person in Ireland long ago. He was born before 1568 and passed away on January 31, 1626 or 1627. He was a noble, meaning he held a special title and land. Thomas was the son of Theobald Butler, 1st Baron Cahir and Mary Cusack. He became the Baron Cahir on April 28, 1596, after his father.

His Family Life

Thomas Butler was married two times. His first wife was his distant cousin, Eleanor Butler. She was the daughter of Richard Butler, 1st Viscount Mountgarret. They married before October 1598, but they did not have any children together.

Later, after 1601, Thomas married his second wife, Ellice Fitzgerald. She was the daughter of Sir John Fitzgerald. Thomas and Ellice had one daughter:

• Margaret Butler (born around 1606, died 1632). She married Edmond Butler, 3rd/13th Baron Dunboyne. Margaret and Edmond had eight children. Their children included James, who became the 4th Baron Dunboyne, and Eleanor, who was the mother of the 4th Baron Cahir.

Since Thomas did not have any sons, his title as Baron Cahir went to his nephew, Thomas. This nephew was the third son of Thomas's uncle, Piers Butler. After Thomas Butler passed away, his wife Ellice married again to Sir Thomas Esmonde, 1st Baronet. They also had more children.

What He Did as Baron

In 1599, a famous castle called Cahir Castle was taken over by the Earl of Essex. During this time, Thomas Butler was held as a prisoner. However, his wife and brother bravely refused to give up the castle.

Later in 1599, Thomas joined a big uprising led by Tyrone. But he later gave up and was punished for his actions. On May 27, 1601, he was forgiven for everything he had done.

See also

• Butler dynasty