The Early Luttrells

The Luttrells were in the vanguard of William the Conqueror's army at the Battle of Hastings and amassed large estates as a reward for their service to the Crown. Geoffrey Luttrell first appeared in Ireland in 1204 as a member of a royal commission appointed by King John with a brief to settle some disputes between the Norman barons which possibly related to land. He purchased his estate with twenty ounces of gold. Geoffrey assisted King John on his Irish expedition of 1210 and was later to act as his ambassador to the Pope.

A Robert Luttrell became Lord Chancellor of Ireland in 1236 and held this powerful position for ten years. He was also treasurer of St Patrick's Cathedral and married into the Plunkett family. This was the start of numerous marriage alliances with wealthy Norman families that resulted in substantial land acquisitions.

(Excerpt from Candle in the Window by Jim Lacey)