Joseph Leeson, 4th Earl of Milltown facts for kids
Joseph Leeson, 4th Earl of Milltown (born 11 February 1799 – died 31 January 1866) was an important nobleman from Ireland. He held the title of an Anglo-Irish peer, which means he was a member of the nobility in both England and Ireland. For some years, from 1801 to 1807, he was known as Viscount Russborough.
Who Was Joseph Leeson?
Joseph Leeson was a significant figure in the 19th century. As an Earl, he was part of the noble families who often owned large estates and played a role in society and politics of the time. He was also made a Knight of the Order of St Patrick, which is a special honor given in Ireland.
Early Life and Family
Joseph Leeson was born in 1799. His father, also named Joseph Leeson, sadly passed away shortly after Joseph was born. His mother was Emily Douglas.
Later, in 1811, his mother remarried. She married Valentine Lawless, 2nd Baron Cloncurry. Joseph gained new family members through this marriage, including three half-siblings. One of his half-brothers was Edward Lawless, who later became the 3rd Baron Cloncurry.
Becoming an Earl
Joseph Leeson became the Earl of Milltown in 1807. This happened after his grandfather, Brice Leeson, 3rd Earl of Milltown, passed away. An "Earl" is a high rank in the British and Irish nobility, just below a Marquess.
Years later, on 13 March 1841, Joseph received a special award. He was appointed a Knight of the Order of St Patrick. This is a very old and respected order of chivalry in Ireland, similar to how knights are honored.
His Family and Legacy
Joseph Leeson married Barbara Meredyth. Barbara was the daughter of Sir Joshua Colles Meredyth, who was a Baronet, and Maria Nugent. She had also been married before to Eyre Coote, the 3rd Baron Castle Coote.
Joseph and Barbara had five children together. They had two daughters and three sons. Their sons continued the family line and titles:
- Joseph Leeson, who became the 5th Earl of Milltown.
- Edward Leeson, 6th Earl of Milltown.
- Henry Leeson, who was the 7th and last Earl of Milltown.
Today, the title of Earl of Milltown is considered dormant. This means that no one currently holds the title, but it could potentially be claimed again in the future by a descendant of the first Earl.
