John Thomas Gilbert facts for kids
Sir John Thomas Gilbert (born January 23, 1829, in Dublin – died May 23, 1898, in Dublin) was an important Irish historian, archivist, and expert on old things (called an antiquarian). He spent his life studying and preserving Ireland's past.
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A Look at His Life
John Thomas Gilbert was the second son of John Gilbert, who was from England and worked as a Portuguese consul in Dublin. His mother, Marianne Gilbert, was Irish. He was born in Jervis Street, Dublin.
He spent his early years in Brannockstown, County Meath. He went to school at Bective College in Dublin and Prior Park near Bath, England. He did not go to a university because his mother did not want him to attend Trinity College, Dublin. At that time, it was the only university in Dublin.
In 1846, his family moved to Blackrock, a suburb of Dublin. He lived there for 52 years until he passed away.
Early Career and Achievements
When he was just 19, John was chosen to be on the Council of the Celtic Society. This allowed him to meet famous writers and speakers like Butt and Ferguson.
In 1851, his essay called Historical Literature of Ireland was published. Four years later, he became a member of the Royal Irish Academy. He also became secretary of the Irish Celtic and Archaeological Society. This group included well-known scholars like O'Donovan and O'Curry.
In 1862, he received the Cunningham Medal from the Royal Irish Academy. This award recognized his important work.
Later Life and Recognition
John Thomas Gilbert took on many important roles in historical groups. He worked as the librarian of the Royal Irish Academy for 34 years.
In 1891, he married the Irish writer Rosa Mulholland. He received an honorary degree (LL.D.) from the Royal University in 1892. Five years later, he was made a knight for his great work in history and archaeology.
The Gilbert Library in Dublin's Pearse Street is named after him.
His Important Books
John Thomas Gilbert wrote many books that helped us understand Irish history. Here are some of his main works:
- History of the City of Dublin (1854-9), which came out in three parts.
- History and Treatment of the Public Records of Ireland (1863). In this book, he told the government that Irish historical papers should be handled by people who understood the Irish language.
- History of the Viceroys of Ireland (1865).
- Calendar of the Ancient Records of Dublin (7 vols., 1889–98).
- History of the Irish Confederation and the War in Ireland, 1641-9 (7 vols., 1882–91).
- Jacobite Narrative of the War in Ireland, 1688-91 (1892).
Other Contributions
John Thomas Gilbert also helped scholars who study Celtic history. He arranged for old Irish writings to be copied using photography. He also helped set up the Todd lectureship in Celtic studies. He also helped publish important old Irish books like Leabhar na h-Uidhre and Leabhar Breac.
