George Owens (mayor) facts for kids

Sir George Bolster Owens (1808 – 1897) was an important Anglo-Irish politician. This means he was from Ireland but had strong connections to England, and he was involved in governing and making laws.

Owens was born in New Barracks, Limerick, Ireland. His father, George Owens, was a barrack master, which meant he was in charge of a military base.

Early Life and Education

George Owens studied at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. He worked hard and became a Doctor of Medicine in 1850. This means he was a trained medical doctor.

A Champion for Women's Rights

Sir George Bolster Owens was a forward-thinking person. In 1872, he led a big meeting for the "Irish Society for Women's Suffrage." This group worked to get women the right to vote, which was a very new idea at the time. He supported this important cause, showing he believed in fairness for everyone.

Political Career and Honors

Owens had a busy career in politics. He was a member of the Irish Unionist party. This political group wanted Ireland to remain part of the United Kingdom.

In 1876, he became the Lord Mayor of Dublin. The Lord Mayor is like the main leader of the city council and represents the city of Dublin. During his time as Lord Mayor, he was given a special honor: he was knighted. This meant he received the title "Sir" from the King or Queen.

Sir George Bolster Owens also served as a Justice of the Peace for Dublin. A Justice of the Peace is a local official who helps with minor legal matters. Later, in 1881, he became the Sheriff of Dublin City. This was another important role in the city's legal and administrative system.

Family Life

In 1831, George Owens married Rebecca Anna Letitia Owen. She was the daughter of Major William Owen.