Robert Adair

Adair, Robert, the hero of the song of "Robin Adair," set to the music of the old Irish air of "Aileen Aroon," was an Irishman, a descendant of the Desmond FitzGeralds. He died about 1789. His father, Sir Robert Adair, was made a knight-banneret by William III . on the field, after the battle of the Boyne. For particulars concerning him and the tune of "Robin Adair," see Notes and Queries, 3rd Series.

Note from Addenda:

Adair, Robert—According to Dr. Reeves, he was not descended from Sir Robert Adair, Knight-banneret.[233]

Sources

233. Manuscript and Special Information, and Current Periodicals.

254. Notes and Queries. London, 1850-'78. O'Callaghan, John C., see No. 186.