John Eccles (mayor) facts for kids

Sir John Eccles, from the portrait collection at Castle Ward

Sir John Eccles (born around 1664, died 1727) was an important person in Dublin, Ireland. He was a successful merchant, which means he bought and sold goods. He also owned a lot of land.

Sir John Eccles was known for his work in Dublin's government. He became the city's Lord Mayor and was later honored by the King.

Who Was Sir John Eccles?

Sir John Eccles was born to John Eccles and Elizabeth Best. His father, John Eccles, was from Malone near Belfast. His mother, Elizabeth, came from Hornby Castle, Lancashire in England.

His father had moved to Ireland from Scotland. He was even said to have helped William III of England, a future king, during a storm before a big battle called the Battle of the Boyne.

Life as a Merchant

Sir John Eccles became a very successful merchant in Dublin. He owned a large area of land called "Mount Eccles." This land is now part of North Great George's Street in Dublin.

His business helped Dublin grow and become an important trading city.

A Leader in Dublin

Sir John Eccles played a big role in Dublin's city government.

• In 1710, he was chosen to be the Lord Mayor of Dublin. The Lord Mayor is like the main leader or head of the city. They help manage the city and its services.
• On November 16, 1714, he was knighted by the King in London. This meant he was given the title "Sir" for his important work.
• From 1725 until he passed away, he worked as a justice of the peace for Dublin. A justice of the peace helps keep order and deals with minor legal matters in the community.
• He also supported the Old Church of St George, Hill Street Dublin. He helped fund and look after the church.

Sir John Eccles's Legacy

Sir John Eccles is still remembered in Dublin today. A street in the city, Eccles Street, was named after him. This shows how important he was to Dublin's history and development.