James Hutchinson (priest) facts for kids

Rev. Sir James Hutchinson (born around 1731, died 1813) was an important Anglican priest in Ireland. He served the church during the late 1700s and early 1800s.

Early Life and Family

James Hutchinson was born in County Antrim, a place in Ireland. His family had strong connections to the church. His father was Dr. Samuel Hutchinson, who was a Bishop of Killala and Achonry. A bishop is a high-ranking leader in the Christian church.

James's great-uncle was also a bishop, Dr. Francis Hutchinson, who was the Bishop of Down and Connor. James went to Trinity College, Dublin for his education. This was a well-known university in Ireland.

His Work as a Priest

James Hutchinson held several important positions within the Anglican Church.

Archdeacon of Achonry

From 1760 until he died in 1813, James Hutchinson was the Archdeacon of Achonry. An Archdeacon is a senior church official who helps the bishop manage the churches and clergy in a specific area.

Other Church Roles

Besides being an Archdeacon, James Hutchinson also served as a prebendary. A prebendary is a type of priest who receives a special income from a cathedral. He was a prebendary of Ardagh from 1760 to 1766, and then of Killanly from 1766 to 1800. Both of these roles were in Killala Cathedral.

He also worked as a rector for two parishes, which are local church districts. He was the rector of Killashee and Tashinny from 1770 until his death. A rector is the main priest in charge of a parish.

The Baronet Title

James Hutchinson's elder brother was Sir Francis Hutchinson. In 1782, Francis was given a special title: the 1st Baronet of Castlesallagh. A Baronet is a hereditary title, which means it can be passed down in the family, similar to a knight but higher in rank.

When his brother Francis died in 1807, James Hutchinson inherited this title and became the 2nd Baronet. After James died in 1813, the title then passed to their nephew, Samuel Synge.