Grace O'Malley: The Pirate Queen

Grace returned to Connaught and the lands and possessions which had been returned to her. Two years later, a recalcitrant Sir Richard Bingham was dismissed from his office in disgrace. Grace continued on through the years as chieftain of her clan.

In 1603, Grace died at Rockfleet Castle at the age of seventy-three. Grace is said to be buried in the abbey on Clare Island, near Belclare Castle, where she was born.

There has never been a female pirate who could equal Grace O'Malley. Her foresight, resolve, and seamanship skills surpassed all others. She was a force which knew no barriers.

Her life was an adventure and she lived it fully and completely. She knew no fear and was a true swashbuckler who loved the sea. Throughout the centuries, many poems and songs have been created to expound the legendary feats and life of Grace O'Malley "The Queen of the Irish Seas," "The Dark Lady of Doona," "The Pirate Queen of Connacht," and "The Sea Queen of Connemara."

Granuaile (Grace's Gaelic nickname)
The walls of Carrick Clooney
Now lie crumbling and low
Its battlements dismantled are
All most over every stone.
But the rebel youth in Westport
Feel their Irish hearts aglow
When they tell how Grace O'Malley
Fought and conquered in Mayo
Irish Minstrelsy Vol. II