John Prendergast-Smyth, 1st Viscount Gort facts for kids
John Prendergast-Smyth, also known as the 1st Viscount Gort, was an important Irish politician. He was born in 1742 and passed away on May 23, 1817.
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Who Was John Prendergast-Smyth?
John Prendergast-Smyth was born John Smyth. His father, Charles Smyth, was a Member of the Irish Parliament for Limerick City. His mother was Elizabeth Prendergast.
His family had many important people. His grandfather, Thomas Smyth, was a Bishop in Limerick. His maternal grandfather, Sir Thomas Prendergast, was a brave soldier who died in battle in 1709.
Changes to His Name
When John was 18, in 1760, he inherited land from his uncle, Thomas Prendergast. Because of this, he decided to change his last name to Prendergast.
Later, in 1785, his brother Thomas Smyth passed away. John then decided to add his original family name back. So, his full name became Prendergast-Smyth.
His Political Career
John Prendergast-Smyth was a Colonel in the Limerick Militia, which was a local army group. He was also a Member of the Irish House of Commons. This was like being a Member of Parliament today.
He represented the area of Carlow from 1776 to 1783. Later, he represented Limerick City from 1785 to 1798.
Becoming a Viscount
John Prendergast-Smyth received special honors during his life. In 1810, he was given the title Baron Kiltarton. This title was from Gort in County Galway.
Then, in 1816, he received an even higher honor. He was made Viscount Gort. Both of these titles were part of the Peerage of Ireland, which is a system of noble ranks.
Since he never married or had children, these titles were set up to pass to his nephew, Charles Vereker. Charles was the son of John's sister, Juliana.
Lord Gort also served as the Governor of County Galway from 1812 until he died in 1817. He passed away on May 23, 1817, and his nephew, Charles Vereker, became the 2nd Viscount Gort.
