When and where was Lady Joan Fitzgerald born?
Joan Fitzgerald was born in 1514 within the rolling hills of Munster, Ireland. She stood alone as the only daughter and heiress to James fitz Maurice FitzGerald and Amy O'Brien.
Questions about Lady Joan Fitzgerald
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who were the husbands of Lady Joan Fitzgerald and when did they die?
James Butler died suddenly on the 28th of October 1546 during a dinner at Ely House in London. Francis Bryan died suddenly on the 2nd of February 1550 at Clonmel while traveling. Gerald FitzGerald became Earl of Desmond in 1558 and died after her death in 1583.
How many children did Lady Joan Fitzgerald have with James Butler?
Their union produced seven sons including Thomas, Edmund, John, Walter, James, Edward, and Piers. The marriage brought land in County Tipperary along the boundary between the Desmond and Ormond possessions.
What diplomatic role did Lady Joan Fitzgerald play for Queen Elizabeth I?
The queen recognized Lady Desmond's skill in diplomacy and relied upon her to keep peace in southern Ireland. Her intervention secured peaceful outcomes during stand-offs near Tipperary known as the battle that never was.
When and where did Lady Joan Fitzgerald die?
Lady Desmond died on the 2nd of January 1565 at Askeaton in County Limerick. She was buried at the Franciscan Friary of Askeaton immediately following her funeral rites.