On September 21
September 21, 2005
ALBAN ELFED (Welsh Bardic name for autumn equinox)
Alban Elued, The Light of the Water, the first day of Autumn, was also called Harvesthome. Observed on September 21, the Autumnal Equinox was the day when the sun again began to wane, as the dark half of the year drew near.
September 21, 1932
Birth of Mariga Guinness, née Princess Hermione Marie Gabrielle von Urach, Countess Württemberg
Mariga Guinness, born Princess Hermione Marie Gabrielle von Urach, Countess of Württemberg, is born on March 21, 1932. Of German nobility, she would later become a prominent cultural figure in Ireland after marrying Desmond Guinness. Together, they co-founded the Irish Georgian Society in 1958, a pivotal organization dedicated to preserving Ireland’s Georgian architectural heritage. Known for her charisma, aristocratic flair, and deep passion for Irish history, Mariga Guinness played a central role in raising awareness about the importance of historic conservation at a time when many buildings were under threat.
September 21, 1795
The Battle of the Diamond takes place near Loughgall, County Armagh, between the Protestant Peep o’ Day Boys and the Catholic Defenders. The violent clash results in the deaths of around 30 Defenders. In the aftermath, the victors go on to found the Loyal Orange Institution — later known as the Orange Order — with the declared aim of defending “the King and his religion.” This event marks a turning point in the sectarian tensions of 18th-century Ireland.
September 21, 1745
Charles Edward Stuart victorious at Battle of Prestonpans.
Charles Edward Stuart, known as Bonnie Prince Charlie, leads the Jacobite army to a decisive victory at the Battle of Prestonpans on September 21, 1745. With a force of just over 3,000 Highlanders, the Jacobites overwhelm the English Royal forces commanded by Sir John Cope in a swift and stunning attack near Edinburgh.
September 21, 1722
Minister, historian, playwright and tutor to the Prince of Wales, John Home born.
John Home, born on September 22, 1722 in Leith, Scotland, was a Scottish minister, historian, and playwright, best known for his tragedy Douglas (1756). He was also a tutor to the Prince of Wales and a respected figure in Enlightenment-era literary circles
September 21, 1170
MacMurrough and the Normans march on the Norse kingdom of Dublin
In 1170, Diarmait Mac Murchada, the deposed King of Leinster, led an expedition to retake power in Ireland with the help of Norman mercenaries, notably Richard de Clare, better known as Strongbow. After their success at Wexford and Waterford, MacMurrough and the Normans marched on Dublin, a key Norse-Gaelic stronghold and a strategic target.