Laurence Parsons, 1st Earl of Rosse facts for kids
Lawrence Harman Parsons was an important person in Irish politics who lived from 1749 to 1807. He held several important titles during his life, including Lord Oxmantown, Viscount Oxmantown, and finally, the 1st Earl of Rosse. He was a leader who helped make laws for Ireland.
About Lawrence Harman Parsons
Early Life and Family
Lawrence Harman Parsons was born in 1749. His father was Sir Laurence Parsons, 3rd Baronet, who lived at Birr Castle in County Offaly, Ireland. Lawrence was the second son in his family.
He inherited land in County Longford from his uncle, the Rev. Cutts Harman. To receive this inheritance, Lawrence agreed to add "Harman" to his name, becoming Lawrence Harman Parsons.
His Time in Politics
Lawrence Harman Parsons was a member of the Irish House of Commons (a part of the government that made laws) for County Longford. He served there from 1775 to 1792.
In 1792, he received a special title called Baron of Oxmantown. This title was meant to pass to his nephew, Sir Lawrence Parsons, 5th Baronet, after him.
Later, in 1795, he was given an even higher title: Viscount Oxmantown. This title was meant to pass down to his own sons.
In 1806, he received the highest title of all, becoming the Earl of Rosse. This title, like the barony, was also set to pass to his nephew.
From 1800 until his death in 1807, he was one of the 28 Irish Representative Peers. This meant he represented Ireland in the House of Lords, another important part of the government.
His Family Life
In 1772, Lord Rosse married Lady Jane. She was the daughter of Edward King, 1st Earl of Kingston.
Lawrence Harman Parsons passed away in April 1807 when he was 57 years old. After his death, his title of Viscount became extinct (meaning it ended). However, the titles of Baron and Earl passed to his nephew, Lawrence, as planned.
Lady Rosse, his wife, died much later in January 1838. Their only child, Lady Frances, inherited their family estates. Lady Frances was married to Robert King, 1st Viscount Lorton. Their family later became known as the King-Harman family.
