John Edward Redmond (1806–1865) facts for kids

John Edward Redmond (1806–1865) was an important Irish banker and a magistrate (a type of judge). He was also a Member of Parliament (M.P.) for Wexford. He served in the UK Parliament from 1859 to 1865 as a member of the Liberal Party. John Edward Redmond was the first person in his family to become a Member of Parliament. His family later became a famous political dynasty in Ireland, meaning many family members were involved in politics.

The Redmond Family History

John Edward Redmond was born in 1806. He was the second son of John Redmond (1770–1822) from Somerton, County Wexford. His mother was Eliza, who was also his cousin.

Family Business and Improvements

John Edward's father and uncle, Walter Redmond, were well-known in banking and shipping in Wexford. They even started their own business called Redmond's Bank. Walter Redmond worked hard to improve life in Wexford.

• He helped remove unfair market taxes called "tithes." These taxes were very hard on people.
• He built a small pier (a landing place for boats) in the harbour.
• He got rid of bridge tolls, which were fees to cross bridges.
• He helped turn unused land into useful land.
• He also helped extend the railway. This opened up new travel routes to the West and South of Ireland, including a new route at Rosslare Strand.

Ancient Roots of the Redmonds

The Redmond family was one of the oldest Anglo-Norman families in Ireland. They settled in County Wexford around 1170. In 1350, they built a home called 'The Hall' or 'Redmond Hall'.

A long time ago, one of John Edward's ancestors, Sir Alexander Redmond, lived there. He defended his home against an attack. Eventually, Oliver Cromwell himself arrived, and Sir Alexander surrendered on fair terms. Later, the old castle was given to another family and became known as Loftus Hall.

Even though they lost their main castle, the Redmond family kept some of their land. They remained important in County Wexford. Over many years, some family members were Catholic and others were Protestant.

Some of John Edward's great-uncles fought for France. General Michael Redmond was an aide to Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor. Gabriel Redmond (1713–1789) was a Captain in the Irish Brigade (French). However, John Edward's grandfather supported the British during the 1798 Wexford Rebellion. Many other relatives became Protestant to keep their land or get official jobs.

John Edward Redmond's Political Career

The Redmond family had always been involved in politics in County Wexford. However, it was not until the late 1800s that a Catholic could become a Member of Parliament. John Edward Redmond was the first in his family to be elected to the Parliament of the United Kingdom. This made the Redmonds known as Liberals in politics.

Election to Parliament

In 1859, John Edward Redmond ran for Parliament. He was elected without anyone running against him. The other candidates stepped aside for him. The mayor introduced him with a traditional speech. This showed that John Edward was a respected citizen from a respected family. He was a good example of a Catholic gentleman from the 1800s.

Wall plaque on the Redmond Square, Wexford

Key Political Beliefs

Redmond believed in removing all civil and religious disadvantages for people. He also wanted to improve conditions for tenants (people who rented land). He thought tenants should be paid fairly for any improvements they made to the land. In those days, they often did not get paid for these improvements.

He also supported giving more people the right to vote. He believed that those who were educated and intelligent should be able to vote. However, unlike later members of his family, he did not support independence or home rule for Ireland.

Legacy and Family

John Edward Redmond lived at Newtown Lodge until he passed away. His memorial stands in Redmond Square, near Wexford railway station. The words on his memorial show his love for Wexford: 'My heart is with the city of Wexford. Nothing can extinguish that love but the cold soil of the grave'.

John Edward Redmond started one of Ireland's most famous political families.

• His nephew, William Archer Redmond, was also an M.P. for Wexford from 1872 to 1880. He was part of the Home Rule Party.
• William Archer Redmond's son was John Redmond, who became the leader of the Irish Parliamentary Party.
• This John Redmond was the brother of Willie Redmond, another M.P.
• He was also the father of William Redmond, who also became an M.P.

John Edward Redmond's first cousin, John Walsingham Cooke Meredith, was the father of a well-known Canadian family.

Images for kids

• Ballytrent House.jpg

  Ballytrent House, inherited by John Edward Redmond's elder brother, Patrick.