The Barry family is of Welsh origin, and came to Ireland in the 12th century. Barrys are most common in Cork, where the Irish version of the name, de Barra, can be spotted on many shop and pub fronts. The Barrys were a wealthy family in Cork, however they lost much of their wealth through gambling. There is also a connection between the Barry family and county Wicklow. One of the most famous Irish patriots belongs to the family, Kevin Barry.