The Graves' of County Limerick were a remarkably talented family. Originally from Yorkshire, they came to Ireland with Oliver Cromwell, when their ancestor, Colonel William Graves (who became a Cavalier after being placed in charge of Charles I of England) commanded a Regiment of Horse and was granted land there in 1647. The Colonel's descendants held various public offices in the county (Richard Graves' grandfather, John, and uncle, Richard, both served as High Sheriff of County Limerick), but the family is particularly noted for its scholars – John Greaves and Thomas Greaves; clergymen – Charles Graves, Robert Perceval Graves, etc.; But most of all writers – Richard Graves, Alfred Perceval Graves, Clotilde Graves, Philip Graves, Robert Graves and Charles Patrick Graves. Another branch of the Colonel's descendants were elevated to the peerage and became notable for the number of them (seven) who served as Admirals in the Royal Navy. Richard Graves' grandfather was a first cousin of Rear-Admiral Sir Thomas Graves, the cousin of Admiral Thomas Graves, 1st Baron Graves, nephew of Admiral Samuel Graves.