Thomas Purcell of Loughmoe facts for kids

Thomas Purcell (born 1538, died around 1607) was an important person from Ireland. He held the title of Baron of Loughmoe. A Baron was a type of nobleman, which meant he was a powerful and respected leader in his area.

Life of Thomas Purcell

Thomas Purcell belonged to the wealthy Purcell family. They were a very important family in their region of Ireland. Thomas was a Catholic, which was a major religion in Ireland at that time.

Fighting in the Desmond Rebellions

In 1599, Thomas Purcell and his family members joined forces to fight against troops led by the Earl of Desmond in a place called Kerry. This was part of a bigger conflict known as the Second Desmond Rebellion. These rebellions were a series of wars fought in Ireland during the late 1500s.

On the very last day of the Second Desmond Rebellion, Thomas Purcell managed to escape from the fighting. After this, he stopped being involved in warfare.

The Lament for the Baron

Thomas Purcell is perhaps best remembered for a special piece of music. In 1599, he asked for a harp song to be created. This song was meant to be played at his funeral.

The song was called 'Cumha Bharúin Loch Mór'. This means 'the lament for the Baron of Loughmoe'. A lament is a song or piece of music that expresses sadness or grief. It was likely made because Purcell knew he would pass away eventually.

Thomas Purcell wrote his last will in March 1597. The harp song was composed in 1599. He finally died on August 3, 1607.