Gerald Fitzgerald, Lord of Offaly

Gerald Fitzgerald, Lord of Offaly (died 1204), was the son of Maurice FitzGerald, Lord of Lanstephan. Both took part in the Norman invasion of Ireland (1169–71).

Though the Geraldines had already become a well-known family, Gerald is more often called Fitzmaurice than Fitzgerald. Accompanying his father from Wales to Ireland, he and his brother Alexander showed great valour in the battle against Roderick O'Conor outside the walls of Dublin in 1171. After his father's death William Fitzaldhelm deprived him and his brothers of their stronghold of Wicklow, though after a time compelled to give them Ferns in exchange. He had already received from Strongbow Naas and other districts in what became County Kildare, and had erected Maynooth Castle.

In 1199, though receiving King John's letters of protection, he was ordered to "do right" to Maurice Fitzphilip for the lands of 'Gessil and Lega' (possibly Geashill; maybe 'Lega' is in County Laois), that he had taken from Maurice. On his death Gerald was still in possession of those estates. He is often described as 'Baron Offaly,' the middle cantred of which had been among his father's possessions. He died before 15 January 1204, though generally is said to have died in 1205.

He married Catherine, daughter of Hamon of Valognes, Justiciar of Ireland between 1197 and 1199. He left by her two sons. one of whom, his successor, was Maurice Fitzgerald, lord of Offaly. Gerald is described by his cousin, Giraldus Cambrensis, as small in stature, but distinguished for prudence and honesty. He was the patrilineal ancestor of the earls of Kildare.

References

 This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain: "Fitzgerald, Gerald (d.1204)". Dictionary of National Biography. London: Smith, Elder & Co. 1885–1900.