William Óge Martyn facts for kids

William Óge Martyn (fl. 1566–1592) was the 101st Mayor of Galway.

Early life
Grace O'Malley
Execution of the earl's sons
Mayor of Galway
Later life
See also

Early life

Also known as William Óge Martyn fitz Thomas, he was a son of Thomas Óge Martyn and Evelina Lynch of Galway. Bailiff of Galway in 1566 to 1567, he was kidnapped by the Earl of Thomond in January 1570 but was free in time to participate at the battle of Shrule in April of the same year. He served as High Sheriff of County Galway and Jailer of Athlone Castle during the 1570s and 1580s.

Grace O'Malley

Martyn attempted to capture or kill the pirate Grace O'Malley at her stronghold of Rockfleet Castle in 1579, but was repulsed.

Execution of the earl's sons

In 1580 he personally hanged, among others, William Burke, third son of the Earl of Clanricarde, for rebellion at the gallows outside the walls of Galway, fully aware that the condemned men had been pardoned.

Mayor of Galway

Martyn served as Mayor of Galway from September 1586 to September 1587.

Later life

William Óge also served as an interlocutor between the O'Flaherty's of Connemara and the administration in Dublin Castle in 1585 and 1586, and again in 1589 and 1590, when they rose in rebellion. He enjoyed a good working relationship with Murrough na dTuadh Ó Flaithbheartaigh.

He was survived by his brother, Francis, sons John and Richard, and was the ancestor of Edward Martyn of Tullira Castle (1859–1923).