Maurice Crosbie, 1st Baron Brandon facts for kids
Maurice Crosbie, 1st Baron Brandon (born around 1689 – died 1762) was an important Irish politician and a member of the nobility. He held the title of Baron Brandon.
Maurice was the son of David Crosbie, who was the High Sheriff of Kerry. His mother was Jane Hamilton. His grandfather, Sir Thomas Crosbie, also served as High Sheriff of Kerry. Both his father and grandfather did not support the Glorious Revolution, a big political change in England. After this, they lived quietly on their family lands in County Kerry.
Maurice's family, the Crosbies, originally came from Gaelic and Catholic backgrounds. However, one of Maurice's ancestors, John Crosbie, became a member of the Church of Ireland during the time of Elizabeth I. He was made the Bishop of Ardfert. Over time, his family became very wealthy landowners in Kerry. Maurice's election to the Irish Parliament in 1713 showed that his family was becoming important in politics again.
Early Life and Education
Maurice Crosbie studied at Trinity College in Dublin. This was a well-known university. Around 1711, he was given the title of a knight. This meant he was recognized for his service or achievements.
A Career in Irish Politics
In 1713, Maurice Crosbie was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for County Kerry. He joined the Irish House of Commons, which was like a parliament or a group of elected representatives. He held this important position for many years, until 1758.
In 1758, Maurice Crosbie received an even higher honor. He was made a Baron Brandon in the Peerage of Ireland. A "peer" is a member of the nobility. This new title meant he moved from the House of Commons to the Irish House of Lords. The House of Lords was another part of the Irish Parliament, usually made up of nobles and bishops.
Family and Legacy
Maurice Crosbie married Lady Elizabeth Fitzmaurice. Her father was Thomas FitzMaurice, 1st Earl of Kerry. Maurice and Elizabeth had seven children together.
Some of their notable children included:
- William Crosbie, 1st Earl of Glandore, who also became a very important figure.
- Maurice Crosbie, who became the Dean of Limerick, a high position in the church. He was the father of the 4th and last Baron Brandon.
- Mary Ann, who married John Coppinger. Their son, Maurice Coppinger, became a lawyer and politician.
- Elizabeth, who married her distant cousin, Lancelot Crosbie.
- Jane, who married Thomas Mahon. Their son, Maurice Mahon, 1st Baron Hartland, also became a baron.
Maurice Crosbie passed away in 1762. He was buried in Ardfert, a place with strong family connections.
See also
- Rev. John Crosbie
