Irish Knighthoods
 

Author: Chevalier William F.K. Marmion
(pg 64)

'There were five equestrian Orders:

The first of these was the Neagh Nasc, or knights of the Golden Collar, instituted by one of the ancient Milesian kings, Muinheamhoin, who derived his name from the golden chain worn round his neck, like the golden collar of Toman knights.  This order was perculiar to the blood royal, and none could be a candidate for the monarchy without being admitted to it

The knights of Ulster, the Craobh-Ruadh, for number, prowless, and discipline were the most distinguished in Irish history.  Why they have been called the Knights of the Red Branch has not been ascertained - the Bloody Hand (being the arms of Ulster) was more likely the real title.

The Clana Deagha, or Munster knights, were most valiant and intrepid, derived their name from Deagha, who was expelled from Ulster and who reorganized their order about 112 B.C.  They bore the arms of Munster.

The knights of Leinster were called Clana Baoisgne.

The knights of Connaught were of the Danaan race.'