The First Eight Earls of Ormond (1327-1539)

The First Eight Earls of Ormond (1327-1539)

The Butler earls of Ormond operated one of medieval Ireland’s dominant dynasties, centred on Kilkenny and Tipperary. From James Butler, 1st Earl (created 1328) through the “Noble Earl” and the cultured “White Earl,” they combined royal service, war in France, and...
Baron Dunboyne (Butler)

Baron Dunboyne (Butler)

The Butlers of Scatorish and Maiden Hall, County Kilkenny, descend from a branch of the Viscount Dunboyne’s descendants who settled at Priestown, County Meath, returning to County Kilkenny in the nineteenth century. Become a member of Turtle’s History Library to...
Kilkea Castle – An Introduction

Kilkea Castle – An Introduction

Kilkea Castle, originally built in the 12th century, has a rich history tied to the FitzGerald family, who became prominent landowners in Ireland. Over the centuries, the castle evolved through renovations and ownership changes. Today, it stands as a testament to...
Theobald Walter – Founding Father of the Butler Family

Theobald Walter – Founding Father of the Butler Family

Almost every Butler on Planet Earth traces their lineage to Theobald Walter, an Anglo-Norman knight who arrived in Ireland in 1185 in the retinue of Prince John, Lord of Ireland. This page looks at his ancestry, and the first five Chief Butlers of Ireland, plus their...
Notes on Athy, County Kildare

Notes on Athy, County Kildare

The stories of Ernest Shackleton, a saviour ape, a Scottish invasion of Kildare, a World War One hero, a bare knuckle champ, amongst others, from the very first Past Tracks panel – installed in 2019 and illustrated by Derry Dillon. Nationwide filmed an episode...