George Browne, 3rd Marquess of Sligo facts for kids

Quick facts for kids George John Browne
Marquess of Sligo
In office 1845–1896
Preceded by	Howe Browne
Succeeded by	John Browne, 4th Marquess of Sligo

George John Browne (born January 31, 1820 – died August 30, 1896) was an important person in Ireland's history. He held the title of the 3rd Marquess of Sligo. He is remembered for his efforts to help people during a very difficult time in Ireland.

Who Was George Browne?

George Browne was the son of Howe Browne, 2nd Marquess of Sligo. He grew up in a noble family in Ireland. He went to school at Eton College, which is a famous school in England. After that, he studied at Trinity College, Cambridge, a well-known university.

His Family Life

George Browne was married three times during his life. However, he did not have any sons who lived to inherit his title.

• His first wife was Ellen Smythe. She was the daughter of the 6th Viscount Strangford.
• His second wife was Julia Nugent. Her father was the 9th Earl of Westmeath.
• His third wife was Isabelle de Peyronnet. Her father was the Vicomte de Peyronnet.

Helping During the Great Famine

George Browne was known as a very caring landlord. He wanted to help the people who lived on his land. This was especially true during the Great Irish Famine, which was a terrible time in Ireland. Many people were starving because their potato crops failed.

This house in Westport became the home of the 3rd Marquess of Sligo and his sisters during the Great Famine while Westport House was closed. It later served as the Westport Garda Station.

In the second year of the famine, his tenants gathered at Westport House. This was the big family home of the Marquesses of Sligo. George Browne promised to support them. He even gave them guns so they could hunt for food. He did this even though it might have been risky for him.

He also spent a lot of his own money to buy cornmeal. This food came all the way from the Americas. He turned most of Westport House into a place where starving people could get soup. His actions helped many people survive during the famine.

Where He is Buried

George Browne passed away in 1896. He was buried at Kensal Green Cemetery in London, England.