O'Higgins Clan - Clann Uí hUigínn

The Hon. Thomas O'Higgins of Ballynary, Chief of Clan O'Higgins

A scion of the O'Higgins of Ballynary, Chief Thomas spent his early life in Dublin and also spent time at his family seat in Summerhill, Co. Meath. He married the former Oonagh O'Meara, who is descended from Alfonsi DuPrat a 19th century Surgeon General in the French Military. After moving to England in 1956 Chief Thomas served in the British Army in Germany and the Outer Hebrides before pursueing a long career as a field engineer. Although he never sought such recognition himself, in 2005 he was acclaimed as honorary Chieftain of the O'Higgins. A committed democrat his titular style as Lord of Ballynary is something he carries with some discomfiture. However, at the same time, he also understands the designation as a perceptible connection with his Clan's heritage. 

Pictured: Madam O'Higgins, Chief Thomas and Ambassador MacKenna of Chile in Dublin, July 2008.