Henry Moore, 1st Earl of Drogheda facts for kids

Henry Moore, 1st Earl of Drogheda, was an important figure in Irish history. He was an Anglo-Irish nobleman, a politician, and a soldier. He lived during a time of great change and conflict in Ireland, especially during the 1600s.

Early Life and Family Connections

Henry Moore was the son of Charles Moore, who was the 2nd Viscount Moore of Drogheda. His mother was Alice Loftus. She was the youngest daughter of Adam Loftus, the 1st Viscount Loftus.

Henry Moore married Alice Spencer. She was the sister of Henry Spencer, the 1st Earl of Sunderland. Alice was also the fifth daughter of William Spencer, the 2nd Baron Spencer. Henry and Alice had five children together.

A Career in Politics and the Military

Henry Moore began his public life as a politician. From 1639 to 1643, he was a Member of Parliament (MP) for Ardee in the Irish House of Commons. This was like being a representative for his area in the government.

In 1643, his father passed away. Henry then became the 3rd Viscount Moore of Drogheda. During this time, he also became a soldier. He was a Royalist Colonel of Horse, which meant he led a group of cavalry (soldiers on horseback) who supported the King. He also served as the Governor of County Meath and County Louth in 1643. This meant he was in charge of these areas.

Facing Challenges and Gaining Titles

Henry Moore was involved in the Irish Confederate Wars. He fought in the Battle of Dungan's Hill in August 1647. After the wars, in 1653, he had to pay a large sum of money, £6,953, to the Commonwealth government. This payment allowed him to keep his family's lands.

When the monarchy was restored in England, Henry Moore's fortunes improved. In 1660, he was made the Governor of Drogheda. He also became a member of the Privy Council of Ireland. This was a group of important advisors to the King in Ireland. On 14 June 1661, the King gave him a special title. Henry Moore was created the 1st Earl of Drogheda. This was a very high honor.

Family Legacy and Dublin Streets

Henry Moore passed away on 11 January 1676. His eldest son, Charles, took over his title.

Henry's younger son, also named Henry, became the 3rd Earl of Drogheda after his brother Charles died in 1679. This younger Henry later took on the name Henry Hamilton-Moore. He became known for developing several streets in Dublin. Many of these streets still carry names related to him today. These include Henry Street, Moore Street, North Earl Street, and Drogheda Street (now part of O'Connell Street).

Henry Moore's wife, Alice, lived many years after him. She was a very strong and determined person. She became the guardian for her young grandson, Christopher Fleming. He was the 17th Baron Slane. Alice worked hard to get back lands for her grandson that had been taken from his family during the conflicts of the 1640s and 1650s.