William Sherrard (died 1690) was an Irish military officer who played a significant role during the Williamite War in Ireland, particularly as a commander of forces defending the city of Derry during the historic siege of 1689.
Early Life and Background Precise details regarding William Sherrard's early life, including his exact birth date and place, are not extensively documented. He was a Protestant and a prominent figure in Ulster at the time of the Glorious Revolution and the subsequent Williamite War, holding a commission in the Protestant forces that opposed the Jacobite cause of King James II.
Role in the Williamite War As tensions escalated in Ireland between the supporters of the Catholic King James II and the Protestant Prince William of Orange, Sherrard emerged as a key military leader among the Protestants of Ulster. His service became most notable during the pivotal Siege of Derry.
Siege of Derry In April 1689, the city of Derry (or Londonderry) became the last major Protestant stronghold in Ulster against the encircling Jacobite army. William Sherrard commanded one of the nine regiments raised from the citizenry and soldiers to defend the city. His unit was commonly known as "Sherrard's Regiment" or "Derry's Regiment." As a member of the council of war, Sherrard was instrumental in the city's determined defense against overwhelming odds, enduring a 105-day siege characterized by intense bombardment, famine, and disease. The successful relief of Derry in July 1689 was a critical turning point in the Williamite War, preventing the complete conquest of Ulster by Jacobite forces.
Later Life and Death Following the lifting of the Siege of Derry, Sherrard continued his service in the Williamite army. He died in 1690, most likely during or shortly after the decisive Battle of the Boyne, which took place in July of that year and saw a significant victory for William III over James II.
Legacy William Sherrard is remembered as one of the courageous defenders of Derry, whose leadership and resilience were crucial to the city's stand against the besieging Jacobite army. His contribution to the Protestant cause in Ireland during a tumultuous period is recorded in historical accounts of the siege, solidifying his place among the figures associated with the city's celebrated defense.