The King of Tory (Irish:Rí Thoraí) is a customary title used by inhabitants of the island of Tory off the coast of County Donegal, Ireland. The title is currently claimed by Patsy Dan Rodgers (Irish:Patsaí Dan Mac Ruaidhrí).
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History
The history of the kings goes back at least as far as the sixth century and as long as 5000 years ago. It has been suggested that some of the pre-historical kings included Conand and Balor. During the 1800s the Heggerty/Heraghty family supplied the kings, however the role of king is no longer hereditary. The role usually entails being a representative for the island to outsiders. In 1995 it was reported that the current king personally greeted every incoming ferry from the mainland.
It is the only extant kingship in Ireland.
Current king
Rodgers claims a family connection to the island of over 3,400 years. He first assumed the role of king in 1993.