James Agar, 1st Viscount Clifden facts for kids
James Agar, 1st Viscount Clifden (born March 25, 1734 – died January 1, 1789) was an important person in Ireland's history. He was an Irish peer, which means he held a special noble title. He was also a politician and served as one of the main Postmasters General of Ireland. This job was in charge of the country's mail system.
James Agar's Family Life
James Agar was born on March 25, 1734. He was the second son of Henry Agar, who had been a Member of Parliament (MP) for Gowran. His mother was Anne Ellis. Her father, Welbore Ellis, was a Bishop of Meath. James was likely born at Gowran Castle.
On March 20, 1760, James Agar married Lucia Martin. Lucia was the daughter of John Martin. She had been married before to Henry Boyle-Walsingham. James and Lucia had three children together:
- Henry-Welbore
- John Ellis (born December 31, 1763)
- Charles-Bagnell (born August 13, 1765)
James Agar received several important titles during his life. He became a Baron Clifden on July 27, 1776. Later, he was made Viscount Clifden on January 12, 1781. He also became Baron Mendip on August 13, 1794.
James Agar passed away on January 1, 1789. After his death, his oldest son, Henry-Welbore, became the second Viscount Clifden and Baron Mendip. James's wife, Lucia, lived until 1802.
James Agar had two younger brothers who were also well-known. One was Charles Agar (1736–1809). He became the Archbishop of Dublin for the Church of Ireland. His other brother, Welbore Ellis Agar, was famous for collecting art.
James Agar's Political Career
James Agar was very active in Irish politics. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Gowran three different times. He represented Gowran from 1753 to 1761, then again from 1768 to 1769, and finally from 1776 to 1777.
Because his family owned a lot of land and had influence, he also controlled three other political seats in different towns. Between 1761 and 1776, he was an MP for County Kilkenny. He also represented Thomastown from 1768 to 1769.
One of his most important roles was being a joint Postmaster General of Ireland. He held this position from 1784 until his death in 1789. He shared this job with William Ponsonby, 1st Baron Ponsonby. As Postmaster General, he helped manage the postal service across Ireland.
