John Maxwell, 1st Baron Farnham facts for kids
John Maxwell, 1st Baron Farnham (1687 – 6 August 1759) was an important Irish peer and politician. A peer is a noble person with a high rank, and a politician is someone who works in government. He was the first person in his family to hold the title of Baron Farnham.
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Early Life and Family
John Maxwell was born in 1687. His father was Reverend Robert Maxwell, and his mother was Anne Stewart. His grandfather, also named Robert Maxwell, was a Bishop of Kilmore, a high-ranking church leader.
A Career in Public Service
John Maxwell had a busy career in public service. In 1725, he became the Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas (Ireland). This was a key role, like a chief clerk, in one of Ireland's main courts. He held this job for the rest of his life.
Serving in Parliament
From 1727 to 1756, John Maxwell was a member of parliament (MP) in the Irish House of Commons. This was like being a representative for his area, County Cavan, in the government. He helped make laws and decisions for Ireland during this time.
Becoming a Baron
In 1737, he inherited the Farnham estate from a cousin. This made him a significant landowner. In 1739, he was chosen as the High Sheriff of Cavan, a local official responsible for law and order. Later that same year, he was given the title of Baron Farnham. This meant he became a member of the Peerage of Ireland, a group of noble families.
Family and Legacy
In 1719, John Maxwell married Judith Barry. They had several children who continued the family's legacy.
His Children
- Robert Maxwell, his eldest son, became the 2nd Baron Farnham. He later received the higher titles of Viscount Farnham and Earl of Farnham.
- Barry Maxwell, another son, became the 3rd Baron Farnham. He also later became an Earl of Farnham, continuing the family's noble line.
- Henry Maxwell became a respected church leader. He served as the Bishop of Dromore and later as the Bishop of Meath. His two sons, John and Henry, eventually became the 5th and 6th Barons Farnham, showing how the family's influence continued through generations.
John Maxwell, 1st Baron Farnham, passed away in August 1759. His son Robert took over his title.
