The Wirrall Family: Doncaster Merchants, Yorkshire Gentry, and Settlers in Ulster, 1514–1641

Abstract The Wirrall family emerged as leading figures in the borough of Doncaster in the early sixteenth century and by mid-century had begun to establish themselves firmly amongst the gentry. From time to time they exhibited abrasive commercial acumen in dealings with the borough corporation as they sought to make the most of the opportunities offered by their newly-acquired manorial rights. These tensions became evident in a series of law suits and in an episode of municipal unrest over a mayoral election. The fifth generation, Hugh Wirrall junior, knighted in 1603, was the last head of the family to be resident in the locality. After apparently calamitous business dealings he made various attempts to retrieve his financial prospects and ultimately became one of the settlers in the Plantation of Ulster.