William Dongan, 1st Earl of Limerick facts for kids

William Dongan, 1st Earl of Limerick (1630 – 1698) was an important Irish soldier and nobleman. He was known for supporting King James II during a time of big changes in Ireland.

William Dongan was the second son of Sir John Dongan and Mary Talbot. His older brother, Sir Walter Dongan, was involved in the Irish Rebellion of 1641. However, William was found innocent of any part in this rebellion.

Early Life and Royal Service

William Dongan served Charles II of England when Charles was living in exile, meaning he was away from his home country. After Charles II became king again, a time known as the Stuart Restoration, William Dongan got his lands back.

Rising Through the Ranks

In 1661, William Dongan was given the title of Viscount Dungan in the Peerage of Ireland. This meant he became a nobleman and could take his place in the Irish House of Lords, which was like a parliament for noblemen. In 1662, he also became a baronet after his brother Walter.

Later, in 1686, he received an even higher title: Earl of Limerick. This was also part of the Peerage of Ireland. That same year, he joined the Privy Council of Ireland, a group of important advisors to the king.

Supporting King James II

In 1689, William Dongan showed his loyalty to King James II. He created a special army group called Lord Dongan’s Dragoons. This was during the Williamite War in Ireland, a conflict where people fought over who should be king.

The Patriot Parliament

Dongan also took part in the Patriot Parliament in 1689. This was a special meeting called by King James II. After the important Battle of the Boyne, Dongan had to leave Ireland. He went to France as part of a group known as the Flight of the Wild Geese, which were Irish soldiers who left their homeland.

Loss of Lands and Exile

Because he supported King James II, William Dongan lost his titles and lands in 1691. His large estate, which was about 3,000 acres, was given to another person. However, the English Parliament later changed this decision. William Dongan lived in France until he passed away in 1698.

Family Life

William Dongan married Euphemia Maria in Spain. They had one son, Walter Dungan, Viscount Dungan. Sadly, Walter was killed fighting for King James II at the Battle of Boyne. Because his son died before him, William Dongan's titles were passed to his younger brother, Thomas Dongan, after his death.