George Blacker (antiquary) facts for kids
George Dacre Blacker (1791–1871) was an important figure in the Church of Ireland, which is the main Protestant church in Ireland. He was a clergyman, meaning he was a priest. He was also an antiquary, which means he was someone who studied old things, like history, ancient objects, and old buildings. He loved learning about the past.
Contents
About George Dacre Blacker
His Early Life and Education
George Dacre Blacker was born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1791. He was the older son of James Blacker, who was a magistrate in Dublin. A magistrate is like a judge who handles less serious legal cases. His father was also an armiger, which means his family had the right to use a special family symbol called a coat of arms.
When George was sixteen years old, he started studying at Trinity College Dublin. This was on October 5, 1806. He was a very good student. In 1809, he was chosen as a "scholar" of the college. This is a special award given to students who show great academic ability. He earned his first university degree, a Bachelor of Arts (BA), in 1811. Much later, in 1858, he earned a Master of Arts (MA) degree.
His Work as a Clergyman
George Dacre Blacker spent many years working as a priest. He was a curate at St Andrew's Church in Dublin. A curate is a junior priest who helps the main priest. He also worked as a chaplain for the Dublin Corporation. This meant he was a priest who served the city's council. Later, he became the rector of Taghadoe. A rector is a more senior priest who is in charge of a church parish.
In 1840, George Blacker took on new roles. He became a prebendary in St Patrick's Cathedral. A prebendary is a type of clergyman who receives income from a cathedral. At the same time, he became the vicar of Maynooth. A vicar is another type of priest who leads a church and its community.
His Writings and Legacy
Besides his church work, George Blacker was very interested in local history. He wrote three books about the history of places in Ireland. These books were printed for a small group of people, not for everyone to buy in shops.
- Castle of Maynooth (first published in 1853, with a second edition in 1860)
- Castle of Kilkea (published in 1860)
- A Record of Maynooth Church (published in 1867)
He also wrote a religious book called Types and Prophecies Relating to Messiah in 1829.
George Dacre Blacker passed away on May 23, 1871. He was living at his home in The Glebe, Maynooth, and he never married. He was buried four days later in the Leinster mausoleum. This burial was paid for by the local church parish. He left less than £3000 in his will.
