Frederick Trench, 1st Baron Ashtown facts for kids
Frederick Trench, 1st Baron Ashtown (born 17 September 1755 – died 1 May 1840) was an Irish politician. He played a part in important changes in Ireland's history. He is best known for becoming a Baron, a special title, around the time Ireland joined with Great Britain.
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Who Was Frederick Trench?
Frederick Trench was born in 1755. His parents were Frederick Trench and Mary Sadleir. His family, the Trenches, originally came from France.
Early Life and Family
Frederick grew up in Ireland. He was part of a family that had some influence. Knowing about his family helps us understand his background.
His Political Journey
Frederick Trench became involved in politics. This meant he helped make decisions for his country. He served as a representative for the town of Portarlington.
Serving in Parliament
From 1798 to 1801, Frederick Trench was a Member of Parliament (MP). He represented Portarlington in the Parliament of Ireland. This was the main law-making group in Ireland at the time.
The Act of Union
A very big event during his time was the Act of Union. This was a law that joined Ireland and Great Britain together. It meant Ireland would no longer have its own separate parliament. Instead, Irish representatives would go to the parliament in Westminster, London.
Frederick Trench first did not agree with this Union. But later, he changed his mind and supported it. His support was important for the Act to pass.
Becoming Baron Ashtown
Because he supported the Act of Union, Frederick Trench received a special reward. On 27 December 1800, he was given the title of Baron Ashtown. This made him a "peer," which is a member of the nobility. His full title was Baron Ashtown, of Moate in the County of Galway.
This type of title was sometimes called a "Union peerage." It was a way to thank people who helped make the Union happen. The title was set up so it could be passed down to the male members of his father's family.
Frederick Trench was chosen to be an MP for Portarlington in the new parliament in Westminster. However, because he became a Baron, he could not take his seat there. This meant he never served in the Westminster Parliament.
Later Life and Legacy
Lord Ashtown married Elizabeth Robinson in 1785. They did not have any children together.
He lived a long life and passed away in May 1840. He was 84 years old. Since he had no children, his title of Baron Ashtown went to his nephew, also named Frederick. Lady Ashtown, his wife, died a few years later in 1844.
