Michael O'Loghlen facts for kids
Sir Michael O'Loghlen, 1st Baronet (born October 6, 1789 – died September 28, 1842) was an important Irish judge and politician. He made history as the first Roman Catholic to become a senior judge in Ireland in a very long time.
Early Life and Education
Michael O'Loghlen was born in Port Ruan, near Ennis in County Clare, Ireland. He was the third son of Colman O'Loghlen and his second wife, Susannah Finucane. His family, the O'Loghlens, were descendants of ancient princes from a region called Corcomroe in the Burren.
He went to college at Trinity College Dublin. After his studies, he became a lawyer in Ireland in 1811. He worked very hard and became known as an excellent lawyer who was great at arguing cases in court.
Family Life
In 1817, Michael O'Loghlen married Bidelia Kelly. She was the daughter of Daniel Kelly from Dublin. Michael and Bidelia had a large family with four sons and four daughters. Their sons were named Colman, Hugh, Bryan, and Michael. Their daughters were Maria, Susan, Bidelia, and Lucy.
A Career in Law and Politics
Sir Michael's career began to rise in 1815. He worked as a junior lawyer alongside a very famous Irish leader, Daniel O’Connell. Their friendship helped Michael a lot in his career.
In 1834, he became the Solicitor-General for Ireland. This was a high-ranking legal job, helping the government with legal matters. The next year, from 1835 to 1837, he was elected as a MP for Dungarvan. This meant he represented the people of Dungarvan in the British Parliament.
In 1835, he was promoted again to Attorney-General for Ireland. This is the chief legal advisor to the government. The following year, in 1836, he became a judge. He was appointed as a Baron of the Court of Exchequer. This was a very significant moment because he was the first Roman Catholic to hold such a high judicial position since 1688.
He served as a judge for a year. Then, in 1837, he was appointed Master of the Rolls in Ireland. This was another very important judicial role. In July 1838, he received a special honor. He was given the title of Baronet, which is a hereditary title, like a knight, but it can be passed down in the family. His title was "Baronet, of Drumcanora in Ennis."
Later Life and Legacy
Sir Michael O'Loghlen passed away in London in 1842. He was buried in his family's vault at the old graveyard in Ruan, Ireland. His tomb is a large and impressive monument.
Today, you can see a statue of Sir Michael O’Loghlen at the Ennis Courthouse in Ireland. After his death, his eldest son, Colman, became the next Baronet. When Colman died, the title passed to his younger son, Bryan. Bryan later became the Premier of Victoria, a leader in Australia.
