Edward King, 1st Earl of Kingston facts for kids
Edward King was an important Irish politician and nobleman who lived from 1726 to 1797. He became known as the 1st Earl of Kingston. He played a big part in Irish politics during his time.
He was the oldest son of Sir Henry King, 3rd Baronet and Isabella Wingfield. Edward also had a twin sister named Frances. She married Hans Widman Wood and had children.
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Edward King's Political Journey
Edward King began his political career in the Irish House of Commons. This was like the parliament of Ireland back then. He was a Member of Parliament (MP) for Boyle from 1749 to 1760. After that, he represented County Sligo from 1761 to 1764.
In 1755, he inherited the family title of Baronet. This happened after his older brother, Robert King, 1st Baron Kingsborough, passed away.
Rising Through the Ranks
Edward King received several special honors during his life.
- In 1764, he became Baron Kingston. This meant he joined the Irish House of Lords. The House of Lords was another part of the Irish parliament, usually for noble people.
- In 1766, he was given the title Viscount Kingston.
- Finally, in 1768, he became Earl Kingston. All these titles were part of the Irish nobility.
Other Important Roles
Lord Kingston held other significant positions.
- From 1772 until his death in 1797, he was the Custos Rotulorum of Roscommon. This was a high-ranking official role, like a chief record keeper for a county.
- In 1794, he joined the Privy Council of Ireland. This was a group of trusted advisors to the King or Queen.
- He was also a Freemason. He served two terms as the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ireland. This is a very important leadership role within the Freemason organization.
Edward King's Family Life
Edward King married Jane Caulfeild on January 5, 1752. They had seven children together.
His oldest son who survived him, Robert, inherited his titles. One of his daughters, Jane, married Lawrence Parsons, 1st Earl of Rosse. Another daughter, Frances, married Thomas Tenison. Their son, Edward King-Tenison, became a politician and a very early photographer.
