Today in History

James Caulfeild, the 4th Viscount and 1st Earl of Charlemont, was born in Dublin on this day in 1728. Lord Charlemont was well known for his love of classical artwork, music and literature. He was politically connected to both Henry Flood and Henry Grattan, who were nationalists. Although he was an Earl, the first President of the Royal Irish Academy, a member of the Royal … [Read more...] about August 18, 1728

Sir Arthur Guinness, founder of the Guinness Company, is reportedly born in Co. Kildare on this day in 1725. There is much historical debate over whether this is the actual birthdate of Sir Arthur, yet to end further debate, the 1991 Guinness Company chose September 28 as his official birth date. After inheriting money from his godfather, 27 year old Arthur established a … [Read more...] about September 28, 1725

Thomas Lewis, a pioneer of the state of Virginia, was born on this day in 1718, in Co. Donegal to John and Margaret Lynn Lewis. John emigrated from Ireland to Philadelphia in 1728 and sent for his family to come over in 1730. In 1732 the Irish family made the bold move to Spotsylvania County, an area near the Shenandoah River, along what was then the western frontier of the … [Read more...] about April 27, 1718

Protestant William of Orange and his forces defeated Catholic James II on this day in 1690 at Battle of the Boyne. William's victory rendered James II's attempt to regain the British throne unsuccessful and allowed for a continuation of Protestant ascendancy in Ireland. The battle was fought across the River Boyne near Drogheda. July 12 is also known as "The Twelfth" or "Orange … [Read more...] about July 12, 1690

King William III (of Orange) landed in Ireland to confront former King James II. Ireland was controlled by Roman Catholics loyal to James, and Franco-Irish Jacobites arrived from France with French forces in March 1689 to join the war in Ireland and contest Protestant resistance at the Siege of Derry. William sent his navy to the city in July, and his army landed in August. … [Read more...] about June 14, 1690