Ralph Freke facts for kids
Sir Ralph Freke, 1st Baronet (born around 1675 – died 1717) was an important person in Irish history. He lived in West Bilney, Norfolk, England, and Rathbarry (later called Castle Freke) in County Cork, Ireland. He held a special title called a baronet and was also a Member of Parliament in the Irish House of Commons. This meant he helped make laws for Ireland.
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Early Life and Family
Ralph Freke was the son of Percy Freke and Elizabeth Freke. His father, Percy, was also a Member of Parliament for areas like Clonakilty and Baltimore. He also held the important job of High Sheriff of County Cork in 1694.
Elizabeth Freke's Diary
Ralph's mother, Elizabeth Freke, lived from 1641 to 1714. She was a very interesting woman for her time. Like many wealthy women, she collected recipes, but not just for cooking! She also collected medical recipes. She used these to make her own medicines to help her family when they were sick. These medicines treated common problems like feeling weak, as well as specific illnesses. Elizabeth also kept a detailed diary. This diary tells us a lot about her family's life, which was sometimes quite challenging.
Political Career and Title
Ralph Freke was born after 1673. He followed in his father's footsteps and became a Member of Parliament for Clonakilty. He served in this role for three different parliaments, from 1703 until he passed away in 1717. In 1709, he was the High Sheriff of County Cork, which was a significant local leadership position.
In 1713, Ralph Freke received a special honor. He was made a baronet on June 4th. This title is passed down through families, similar to a knight but hereditary.
Marriage and Children
Ralph Freke married Elizabeth Meade on March 5, 1699. Elizabeth was the daughter of Sir John Meade, 1st Baronet.
After Ralph Freke died in 1717, his eldest son, Percy, inherited his baronet title. Ralph and Elizabeth had other children too. Their second son, Ralph, died young without marrying. Their third son, John Redmond, also passed away without having children.
Eventually, the family's main estate was inherited by Ralph Freke's only daughter, Grace. She married a man named John Evans, who was the younger son of George Evans, 1st Baron Carbery.
