Bernard Hughes facts for kids

Bernard Hughes (born 1808, died 1878) was an important Irish businessman and politician in the 1800s. He was known for making affordable and healthy bread. He also worked to bring people together and make society fairer.

Who Was Bernard Hughes?

Bernard Hughes was born in County Armagh, Ireland, in 1808. When he was 18, in 1826, he moved to the city of Belfast. This is where he would build his famous business and become a well-known public figure.

Bernard's Big Bakery Business

In 1840, Bernard Hughes started his own bakery. He worked very hard, and his business grew quickly. By 1870, he owned the biggest baking and milling company in all of Ireland! This meant he made a lot of bread and also processed the grain (like wheat) to make flour.

The Famous "Barney's Baps"

Bernard Hughes became famous for making bread that was both cheap and good for you. His most well-known product was the Belfast Bap. People often called them Barney's Baps after him. These baps were a popular and affordable food for many people in Belfast. His main mill, where he made his flour and bread, was located on Divis Street in the lower Falls Road area of Belfast.

Bernard Hughes, the Politician

Bernard Hughes was not just a successful businessman; he was also involved in politics. He made history by becoming the first Catholic person to be elected to the Belfast Corporation. This was like the city council of Belfast at the time.

Fighting for Fairness

As a politician, Bernard Hughes strongly believed in social justice. This means he wanted everyone to be treated fairly, no matter their background. He also worked against sectarianism, which is when groups of people dislike or fight each other because of their religion or beliefs.

He even spoke to a special group called the Royal Commission of Inquiry. He gave them information about serious riots that happened in Belfast in 1857 and 1864. These riots were caused by sectarian tensions. His honest words about these events upset some of the powerful people in the city.

Helping the Community

Even though he sometimes disagreed with the Catholic church, Bernard Hughes was a generous person. He donated land so that St Peter's Cathedral could be built in the Lower Falls area. This shows his commitment to his community.

Where is Bernard Hughes Buried?

Bernard Hughes is buried in Friar's Bush Graveyard. This is the oldest cemetery in Belfast, making it a historic place.