The greatest event in Irish history, the unexpected and sudden departure of Earl Tyrone, Earl Tyrconnell, Cuchonnacht Maguire and Cathabarr O'Donnell with ninety nine followers has mystified historians for centuries, giving rise to much speculation about the reasons for the northern nobles departure from Ireland on 14th September 1607. The event has been well chronicled yet the records give the facts of the flight from Ireland but say little about the emotional impact of such an event. Accompanying the Irish Earls and their retinue, were their wives and female relations as well as some of their young children. Most notable among them were Catherine, wife of Earl Tyrone, Nuala O'Donnell, Earl Tyrone's aunt and Rose, wife of Cathabarr O'Donnell. This is their story.

Until the end of 16th century, Ulster was the most Gaelic part of Ireland. Fifty years later, it was the last Gaelic part. In 1607 Hugh O'Neill, Earl of Tyrone, and other Gaelic chieftains fled the continent and settled in Rome. Their lands were declared forfeit to the crown and were cleared for the plantation of Ulster, which followed.

Until the end of 16th century, Ulster was the most Gaelic part of Ireland. Fifty years later, it was the last Gaelic part. In 1607 Hugh O'Neill, Earl of Tyrone, and other Gaelic chieftains fled the continent and settled in Rome. Their lands were declared forfeit to the crown and were cleared for the plantation of Ulster, which followed.