Ireland Lord of Waterford
The Lordship of Waterford
Waterford is Ireland's oldest city, founded by Vikings in 914 AD as Vadrarfjord. The Norse rulers of Waterford built Reginald's Tower, which still stands and is the oldest civic building in Ireland. Waterford was one of the five great Viking port cities of Ireland (along with Dublin, Wexford, Cork, and Limerick).
Strongbow's Norman invasion began near Waterford in 1170, and the city was one of the first to fall to the Norman lords. Waterford became one of the most loyal English cities in Ireland, earning the motto 'Urbs Intacta' (the unconquered city) for its resistance to various sieges.
The Marquessate of Waterford, held by the Beresford family, was one of the most powerful titles in the Irish peerage. The 3rd Marquess was known as the 'Mad Marquess' for his wild behaviour, and his death in 1859 after a fall while riding was mourned across the county.
Waterford and the Peerage
The Marquess of Waterford (Beresford family) has held the title since 1789. The title carries the subsidiary Earldom of Tyrone. The current holder is the 9th Marquess. The Earl of Shrewsbury also holds the Earldom of Waterford in the Irish peerage.
Among the notable figures associated with Waterford, Viking Kings of Waterford was known for 914-1170. Strongbow, invaded via Waterford, 1170, also left a significant mark on the area's history.
View the full Peerage Hierarchy ChartNotable Lords of Waterford
Reginald's Tower in Waterford was built by the Vikings around 1003 AD and has been in continuous use ever since, serving as a mint, prison, military store, and now a museum.
Ireland Noble Surnames
Explore the noble heritage of Ireland's most prominent family names and discover their connections to the peerage.
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