John Vesey, 2nd Viscount de Vesci facts for kids
John Vesey, 2nd Viscount de Vesci (born 16 February 1771 – died 19 October 1855), was an important Irish politician and noble. He held the title of Viscount de Vesci, which is a type of lord.
Around 1790, John Vesey planned and built a new town called Abbeyleix. The old town often flooded because it was too close to the River Nore. So, the old town was moved, and its residents settled in the new, safer location. John Vesey was known as a kind and caring landlord. He helped the local people a lot, especially during difficult times like famines. Today, a fountain in the Market Square of Abbeyleix stands as a memorial to him. In 2016, a map of Abbeyleix Manor from 1828, ordered by John Vesey, was found after nearly 200 years.
Contents
John Vesey: A Leader for His Time
His Early Life and Family
John Vesey was the son of the 1st Viscount de Vesci, Thomas Vesey, and Selina Elizabeth Brooke. He inherited his father's titles on 13 October 1804, becoming the 2nd Viscount de Vesci.
A Career in Politics
John Vesey began his political career in 1796. He was elected to the Irish House of Commons, which was like a parliament for Ireland at the time. He represented the area of Maryborough.
Later, in 1839, he was chosen by other noblemen to join the British House of Lords. This meant he became an Irish representative peer, speaking for Ireland's interests in the British government. From 1831 until he passed away in 1855, he also served as the first Lord Lieutenant of Queen's County. This was a very important role, acting as the monarch's representative in the county.
Marriage and Children
On 25 August 1800, John Vesey married Frances Letitia Brownlow. She was the fifth daughter of his great-uncle, William Brownlow. John Vesey's eldest son, Thomas Vesey, later inherited his father's title.
John Vesey and Frances had several children:
- Thomas (who became the 3rd Viscount Vesey)
- William John (1806–1863)
- Catherine, who married her cousin, Patrick John Nugent
