Domhnall Ó Madadhan

Who is Domhnall Ó Madadhan?

Domhnall Ó Madadhan, chief of Síol Anmchadha, fl. 1567 - after 8 March 1611.

Domhnall was the grandson of Breasal mac Eoghan Ó Madadhan, chief of Síol Anmchadha] and a son of John Ó Madadhan, chief from 1554 to 1556. In 1567 he surrendered his Gaelic title and was in return appointed Captain of his Nation by letter patent from Elizabeth I. He thus became the first of the Madden family chiefs to recognise English law instead of Gaelic Brehon law, in return for crown protection of his title to his lands.

The Madden ghost appeared to him and his son Anmchadh at Meelick in 1577, thereby saving their lives. He attended the 1585 Parliament at Dublin. Despite most of the family rebelling during the Nine Years' War, Domhnall himself did not participate. He was nevertheless lucky to escape the slaughter at Lusmagh Castle on 12 March 1595. During the winter of 1602-1603 he attacked the followers of Dónall Cam Ó Súilleabháin Béirre. When he drew up his will on 8 March 1611 he did it under English law, settling his estate upon his eldest son while reserving some smaller properties for his younger sons and other heirs.

By his wife, Morne na Maigh O'Kelly of Creagh Castle he had the following known issue: