Cuchonnacht Maguire, d. 1608

Maguire coat of arms

The heraldic coat of arms of the Maguires of county Fermanagh A knight in full coat of armour on horseback carries a shield bearing the same image. The Latin inscription translates: "justice and fortitude are invincible."

Donegal Education Centre

Maguire coat of arms
Donegal Education Centre

Maguire coat of arms

The heraldic coat of arms of the Maguires of county Fermanagh A knight in full coat of armour on horseback carries a shield bearing the same image. The Latin inscription translates: "justice and fortitude are invincible."

Donegal Education Centre

Enlarge image

The last real Irish Chieftain of Fermanagh he was also the last to give in to the English after the Nine Years War. Once he did, Cuchonnacht found he was unable to live under English rule and law.

Having half his land confiscated by the Royal Commission in 1605, he left land travelled to the continent. He was instrumental in the organizing the Flight of the Earls, acquiring the boat in France from which they sailed.

He had planned the mission for over a year and was determined to personally make sure it went to plan. Under great personal danger he sailed with the boat back to Ireland dressed as a mariner.

He was often described as a master of disguise and adventure but this would be his greatest test. Near their destination the ship was stopped by a British warship and was held for two days.

They would certainly have been arrested if Maguire had not insisted the boat be disguised as a fishing vessel by placing nets and salt onboard.

Cuchonnacht Maguire died in Genoa, Italy in August 1608.