Caryll Molyneux, 3rd Viscount Molyneux facts for kids

Caryll Molyneux, 3rd Viscount Molyneux (born 1623 or 1624 – died 1700) was an English nobleman. A peer is a person who holds a high rank in the nobility, like a duke, marquis, earl, viscount, or baron.

A Life of Change

Caryll Molyneux was the younger son of Richard Molyneux, 1st Viscount Molyneux. His mother was Mary Caryll. He became the 3rd Viscount Molyneux in 1654 after his older brother, Richard Molyneux, 2nd Viscount Molyneux, passed away.

Family Life

Caryll Molyneux married Mary Barlow. Her father was Sir Alexander Barlow. Sir Alexander's brother was Ambrose Barlow, a Catholic figure. Caryll and Mary had one son who survived, named William. They also had five daughters: Mary, Frances, Margaret, Elizabeth, and Anne.

Serving in the English Civil War

When the English Civil War began, Caryll Molyneux joined the Royalist army. This army supported King Charles I. He fought alongside his brother in the Lancashire Regiment. This group was mostly Catholic. They fought in many battles, from Manchester in 1642 to Worcester in 1651.

After the war, in 1654, Caryll became the Viscount. He also became the constable of Liverpool Castle. This meant he was in charge of the castle. Because he was a well-known Catholic who supported the King (a Cavalier), he faced difficulties. His family's lands and wealth suffered during this time.

A Turn of Fortune

Things got better for Caryll Molyneux when James II became king. King James II appointed him to important roles. He became the Custos Rotulorum of Lancashire from 1685 to 1689. This role meant he was the chief keeper of the county's records. He was also the Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire from 1687 to 1688. This was a high-ranking official who represented the king in the county. He was also named Admiral of the Narrow Seas, a naval position.

Caryll Molyneux was one of the few who continued to fight for King James II. He fought against the Prince of Orange, who later became King William III. Caryll even managed to take control of Chester city. However, eventually, further fighting became pointless.

Facing Accusations

After the new king took power, Caryll Molyneux was arrested. He was accused of plotting against the new government in something called "The Lancashire plot." Along with other Catholics, he was held in the Tower of London. However, he was found innocent in 1694.

Even though he was cleared, he did not get back his role as constable of Liverpool Castle. The castle was later rented out. In 1704, the Crown allowed the local people to tear it down.

Later Life and Legacy

Viscount Molyneux passed away in 1700 at Croxteth. His title then went to his only surviving son, William Molyneux, 4th Viscount Molyneux.