John Davys (died 1689) facts for kids
Sir John Davys (born in 1646 and passed away in November 1689) was an important Irish politician. He played a role in the government of Ireland during his lifetime.
Early Life and Education
Sir John Davys was the son of Sir Paul Davys. His mother was Anne, who was the daughter of Sir William Parsons. John also had an older brother named Sir William Davys, who became a very important judge in Ireland, known as the Lord Chief Justice.
John Davys received a good education. He studied at Trinity College, Dublin, which is a famous university in Ireland. He also attended Lincoln's Inn in London, which is a place where people learn to become lawyers.
A Career in Government
Sir John Davys followed in his father's footsteps in government. In 1678, he was chosen to take over the job of Principal Secretary for Ireland after the current office holder, Lord Lanesborough, passed away. Lord Lanesborough died in 1683, and John Davys then took on this important role. His father, Sir Paul Davys, had held this same position before him.
Around 1682, John Davys was also appointed to the Privy Council of Ireland. This was a group of trusted advisors to the King, helping to make important decisions for Ireland.
During a time known as the Popish Plot, both John and his brother faced some challenges. They were called to London to explain their actions. However, they were cleared of any wrongdoing. Important figures like James Butler, 1st Duke of Ormonde, a friend of their father, and Michael Boyle, the Archbishop of Armagh, spoke up for them.
Later, when King James II came to power, it is said that John Davys did not agree with some of the King's plans. He even left Ireland for a period of time.
A historian named Francis Elrington Ball, in his book History of Dublin, described John Davys as a wise and honest person.
Family Life
Sir John Davys was married to Anne Thelwall. Together, they had two sons, named Paul and Robert.
Their uncle, Sir William Davys, made a special arrangement in his will. He decided that whichever of his nephews married his stepdaughter, Lady Catherine MacCarty, would inherit the main family estate. This estate was called St Catherine's Park, located in Leixlip. Lady Catherine was the daughter of Callaghan MacCarty, 3rd Earl of Clancarty.
Paul, the elder son of Sir John Davys, married Lady Catherine. Because of this marriage, he inherited the family estate. Paul later received a special title and became Viscount Mountcashell. This title had been held before by Lady Catherine's uncle, Justin MacCarthy, Viscount Mountcashell.
