William FITZ-GERALD

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He became involved in the political troubles of the times, was several times prosecuted for his connection therewith, and, although he escaped conviction through the influence of powerful friends, (particularly one Mr. flood, a wealthy and influential gentleman of the neighborhood, who had a great friendship for him) he thought it wise, in order to avoid further annoyance, to leave the country for a time. He accordingly came to America with the intention of returning in a year or two, after the trouble had blown over. It fell out quite otherwise, however, for he married Hannah Driscoll and settled on a large farm in the township of Warwick, Orange County, New York. He was prominent in the affairs of his town and held town office between 1765 and 1775. His homestead was in Dutch Hollow, near the township line of Warwick.

Family/Spouse: Hannah DRISCOLL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

1. Kate FITZ-GERALD
2. Bridget FITZ-GERALD was born in 1777 in Dutch Hollow, Orange Co., New York; died in 1812.

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There is a distinct tinge of romance to the story of the Fitz-Gerald and Clare families. Richard de Clare, Earl of Pembroke, nicknamed "Strongbow" (probably for his prowess in battle), having forfeited or lost the family estates in 1168, crossed over into Ireland in 1170 at the solicitation of Dermot, King of Leinster, and in conjunction with the soldiers of the Fitz-Gerald party, defeated Roderick, King of Connaught, who had been Demont's enemy. Henceforth the Fitz-Geralds and Clares were o cast their fortunes with Ireland. Although Strongbow died in 1176, he had made himself so beloved by the Irish that County Clare was so named in his honor. He is described as a tall and fair man, of pleasing appearance, modest in bearing, delicate in features, of low voice, but sage in council and the idol of his soldiers. He was buried in the cathedral church of Dublin, where his effigy and that of his wife re still preserved. Strongbow was the statesman, as the Fitz-Geralds were the soldiers, of the conquest.

John married Margaret CLARE. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]