Granuaile ~ Pirate Queen Of Connaught
Second Marriage to Richard 'An Iarnainn' Bourke
On her marriage to Richard-na-Iarainn Bourke of Burrishoole and Carra in 1567, Gráinne retained possession of her fleet and continued to ply her trade. Her new husband’s territory comprised the north shore of Clew Bay, his main residence being at Carraigahowley. One of the more persistent legends states that Gráinne’s marriage to Richard-na-Iarainn was provisional for one year. However, there exists no evidence for this form of marriage within the Gaelic legal codes. At the end of the year Richard is reputed to have returned to Carraigahowley to find his clothes packed, doors locked and his wife dismissing him from the battlements. Traditionally this has been described as their divorce.
Yet their later life raises another interpretation. Gráinne and Richard-na-Iarainn continued to present themselves as man and wife until his death. She remained based at Carraigahowley rather than returning to Umhall, which would have been a legal requirement under Gaelic law. On his knighthood, she took the title Lady Bourke and accompanied him to official functions. It is possible, given the fiery personalities of both partners, that Richard-na-Iarainn upset Gráinne, and found himself, temporarily, barred from the house.
The birth of the couple’s only child, Tibbot-na-Long, is also the stuff of legend. Apparently he was born on one of Gráinne’s galleys. The following day the ship was attacked by Algerian corsairs: Gráinne is said to have arisen from her bed and turned the tide of battle.
Yet their later life raises another interpretation. Gráinne and Richard-na-Iarainn continued to present themselves as man and wife until his death. She remained based at Carraigahowley rather than returning to Umhall, which would have been a legal requirement under Gaelic law. On his knighthood, she took the title Lady Bourke and accompanied him to official functions. It is possible, given the fiery personalities of both partners, that Richard-na-Iarainn upset Gráinne, and found himself, temporarily, barred from the house.
The birth of the couple’s only child, Tibbot-na-Long, is also the stuff of legend. Apparently he was born on one of Gráinne’s galleys. The following day the ship was attacked by Algerian corsairs: Gráinne is said to have arisen from her bed and turned the tide of battle.