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King of the Claddagh

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The King of the Claddagh was the title given to the leader of the Claddagh community in Galway City. It is now an honorary role.

Background

Up to the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Claddagh was a distinct Irish speaking community across the Corrib river from Galway City,[1] with its own king, who led the fishing fleet and made the big decisions. The King of the Claddagh sailed a galway hooker with a special white sail, and settled disputes between the locals.

Historically he was elected annually, he enforced the local bye-laws, settled disputes, and his power was described as being absolute among the fishermen.[2]

Recent Kings

The King of the Claddagh today is Mike Lynskey. The first recorded King of the Claddagh was the Rev Thomas Folan, who died in 1887.

References

  1. ^ Galway - A Maritime Tradition: Ships, boats and people, Brendan O'Donnell, Galway, 2001
  2. ^ The Reader's Companion to Ireland (paperback), Alan Ryan, Mariner Books 1999
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