Percy Wyndham-O'Brien, 1st Earl of Thomond facts for kids

Percy Wyndham-O'Brien (born around 1713, died 1774) was an important person in British politics. He was a Member of Parliament (MP), which means he helped make laws for the country. He also held a special title in Ireland called an "Irish peer."

Percy's Family Background

Percy was the younger son of a famous politician named Sir William Wyndham, 3rd Baronet. His father was a "Secretary at War" in 1712, which was like being in charge of the country's defense. He was also the "Chancellor of the Exchequer" in 1713, meaning he managed the country's money. Sir William was a leader in the British Parliament during the time of King George I and King George II.

Percy's mother was Catherine Seymour. She came from a very important family. Her father was Charles Seymour, 6th Duke of Somerset, a powerful Duke. Catherine's brother, Algernon Seymour, 7th Duke of Somerset, also became a Duke and an Earl. Percy's older brother, Charles Wyndham, also became an Earl, inheriting a title from their uncle.

How Percy Inherited a Title and Land

When Percy was 28 years old, in 1741, a relative named Henry O'Brien, 8th Earl of Thomond passed away. Henry had no children, so he left all his large estates (lands and properties) in Ireland to Percy in his will.

Because of this special inheritance, Percy added "O'Brien" to his family name. Later, in 1756, King George II gave him the special titles of "Earl of Thomond" and "Baron Ibracken."

Percy's Political Career

Percy went to Oxford University for his education. After that, he became a Member of Parliament (MP) several times. An MP represents a specific area in the country and helps make laws in the House of Commons.

He was an MP for:

• Taunton, Somerset, from 1745 to 1747. His older brother, Charles, took over this role after him.
• Minehead, Somerset, from 1747 to 1754.
• Cockermouth, Cumberland, from 1754 to 1761. This area was connected to his family's estates.
• Winchelsea from 1768 until his death in 1774.

Death and What Happened Next

Percy Wyndham-O'Brien never married and did not have any children. When he passed away in 1774, his title of Earl of Thomond ended because there was no one to inherit it directly.

His large estates, including Petworth House and Orchard Wyndham, then went to his nephew, George O'Brien Wyndham, 3rd Earl of Egremont.

Images for kids

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  Arms of O'Brien: This shield shows the family's coat of arms. It has four sections with different designs, including three lions.