Essex Digby facts for kids
Essex Digby was an important English Anglican priest who lived and worked in Ireland during the second half of the 1600s. He held significant positions within the church, serving as a dean and later as a bishop.
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Who Was Essex Digby?
Essex Digby came from a very well-known and respected family. His life was dedicated to serving the church in Ireland during a time of change.
Early Life and Family Connections
Essex Digby was the son of Sir Robert Digby from Coleshill, Warwickshire in England. His mother was Lettice FitzGerald, who came from Geashill, Ireland. Her family was also very important, as she was the granddaughter of Gerald FitzGerald, 11th Earl of Kildare, a powerful Irish noble.
Essex Digby had many notable relatives. John Digby, 1st Earl of Bristol, was his uncle, and Robert Digby, 1st Baron Digby, was his brother. His own son, Simon Digby, also became a bishop, following in his father's footsteps.
Education at Trinity College
Essex Digby received his education at Trinity College, Dublin, which is one of Ireland's oldest and most famous universities. This education prepared him for his future roles in the church.
A Life in the Church
Essex Digby spent many years serving the Anglican Church in Ireland, holding important leadership roles.
Serving as Dean of Cashel
From 1661 to 1671, Essex Digby served as the Dean of Cashel. A dean is a senior priest who leads a group of clergy (other priests) in a cathedral or a specific area. It's a key leadership role within the church.
Becoming Bishop of Dromore
After his time as Dean, Essex Digby was chosen to become the Bishop of Dromore. He was officially made a bishop on February 27, 1671. A bishop is a high-ranking leader in the Christian church, responsible for overseeing many churches and priests in a large area called a diocese. He held this important position until his death on May 12, 1683.
