12 Facts About Raymond FitzGerald

Raymond FitzGerald was among the first of a small band of Norman knights who landed on the South coast of Ireland before being reinforced by a larger force led by Richard de Clare, 2nd Earl of Pembroke.

Raymond FitzGerald was active consolidating Norman rule over Ireland before he retired to his estates in County Waterford where he died in the late 12th century.

Raymond FitzGerald grew up in Wales, and was a grandson of Princess Nest ferch Rhys, daughter of Rhys ap Tewdwr, the last independent Prince of South Wales.

Raymond FitzGerald was sent by Strongbow to Ireland in 1170, and landed at Baginbun Head at the Hook Peninsula, near Waterford, where he was besieged in his entrenchments by the combined Irish and Ostmen, whom he repulsed.

Raymond FitzGerald was Strongbow's second in command and had the chief share both in the capture of Waterford and in the successful assault on Dublin.

At the outbreak of a general rebellion against the earl in 1174, Raymond FitzGerald returned with his uncle Meiler FitzHenry, after receiving a promise of marriage with Basilia.

Raymond FitzGerald brought about 450 men with him and relieved Strongbow who was under siege in Waterford.

Raymond FitzGerald was deprived of his estates near Dublin and Wexford, but the Geraldines secured the recall of FitzAldelm early in 1183, and regained their power and influence.

Raymond FitzGerald was certainly alive when John of England came to Ireland in 1185.

Raymond FitzGerald's nose was rather prominent, his countenance high-coloured, cheerful, and pleasant; and, although he was somewhat corpulent, he was so lively and active that the incumbrance was not a blemish or inconvenience.

Raymond FitzGerald was prudent and temperate, not effeminate in either his food or his dress.

Raymond FitzGerald was a liberal, kind, and circumspect man; and although a daring soldier and consummate general, even in military affairs prudence was his highest quality.