Portal:Piracy/Selected biography/February 2008

Gráinne Ní Mháille (c. 1530 – c. 1603), also known as Granuaile or Gráinne Mhaol, known in English as Gráinne O'Malley or Grace O'Malley, is an important figure in Irish legend but was in fact a larger-than-life figure from 16th century Irish history. O'Malley is sometimes known as "The Sea Queen Of Connaught". (Left in picture)

Many folk stories and legends about O'Malley have survived since her actual days of pirating and trading. There are also traditional songs and poems about her.

A widespread legend concerns an incident at Howth, which apparently occurred in 1576. During a trip from Dublin, O'Malley attempted to pay a courtesy visit to Howth Castle, home of the 8th Baron Howth. However, she was informed that the family was at dinner and the castle gates were closed against her. In retaliation, she abducted the Earl's son and heir, the 10th Baron. He was eventually released when a promise was given to keep the gates open to unexpected visitors, and to set an extra place at every meal. Lord Howth gave O'Malley a ring as pledge on the agreement. The ring remains in the possession of a descendant of Gráinne O'Malley, and at Howth Castle today, this agreement is still honoured by the Gaisford St. Lawrence family, descendants of the Baron. (more...)