Murrough O'Brien, 1st Marquess of Thomond facts for kids

Murrough O'Brien, 1st Marquess of Thomond KP, PC (1726–1808), 5th Earl of Inchiquin (1777–1800), wearing purple coat, white waistcoat, pale blue sash and breast star of the Order of Saint Patrick (Henry Bone)

Sir Murrough O'Brien (1726 – 10 February 1808) was an important Irish nobleman, soldier, and politician. He was known by many titles, including the 5th Earl of Inchiquin and later the 1st Marquess of Thomond. He was also a Knight of the Order of St Patrick.

Life of Murrough O'Brien

Murrough O'Brien was born in 1726 in Drogheda, Ireland. His parents were James O'Brien and Mary Jephson. His uncle was Henry O'Brien, the 8th Earl of Thomond.

Military Career

Murrough O'Brien joined the Grenadier Guards, a famous group of soldiers. He served as an officer in Germany. In 1747, he bravely carried the flags during the Battle of Lauffeld. He left the army in 1756.

Political Career

After his military service, Murrough O'Brien became involved in politics. In 1757, he joined the Irish House of Commons, which was like the parliament for Ireland at the time. He represented County Clare until 1761. After that, he served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Harristown until 1768.

New Titles and Royal Connections

Murrough O'Brien strongly supported the Act of Union 1800. This was a law that joined Great Britain and Ireland into one country. Because of his support, he received new important titles. In 1800, he became the Marquess of Thomond. The next year, in 1801, he also became Baron Thomond in the United Kingdom. This new title allowed him to be part of the British Parliament.

He had a close friendship with King George III. In 1783, he was one of the first members of the Order of St Patrick, a special group of knights in Ireland. His main home in Ireland was at Rostellan, near Cork city.

Interests and Hobbies

Murrough O'Brien was very interested in farming. He worked to improve his lands around Taplow, using new methods and machines.

Family and Marriages

Mary, Countess of Inchiquin (1750–1820), by Thomas Lawrence

Murrough O'Brien was married two times.

First Marriage

In 1753, he married Mary O'Brien, 3rd Countess of Orkney (who passed away in 1790). They had one daughter together:

• Mary O'Brien, 4th Countess of Orkney (1755–1831).

Second Marriage

His second marriage was on 25 July 1792, to Mary Palmer (1750-1820). She was the niece and heir of the famous artist Sir Joshua Reynolds. They lived in Sir Joshua Reynolds' old home in Leicester Square for a time.

His Son

Murrough O'Brien also had a son named Thomas Carter (1769–1800). Thomas was a composer, which means he wrote music. He lived in London during the 1790s.

Death and What Happened Next

Murrough O'Brien passed away on 10 February 1808. He died in Grosvenor Square, London, after falling from his horse.

After his death, the title of Marquess of Thomond went to his nephew, William O'Brien, 2nd Marquess of Thomond. However, the title of Baron Thomond ended because he had no direct male heir for that specific title.