Richard Wesley, 1st Baron Mornington facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Lord Mornington
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| 1st Baron Mornington | |
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Richard Wesley, 1st Baron Mornington, drawing by Henry Pierce Bone
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| Tenure | 1746–1758 |
| Born | c. 1690 |
| Died | 31 January 1758 |
| Residence | Dangan Castle |
| Spouse(s) | Elizabeth Sale |
| Parents | Henry Colley Mary Usher |
Richard Colley Wesley, 1st Baron Mornington (born around 1690 – died 31 January 1758) was an important Irish nobleman. He is best known as the grandfather of Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington, a famous general.
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Richard Colley Wesley's Early Life
Richard Colley was born around 1690. His father was Henry Colley (died 1719), and his mother was Mary Ussher. He went to Trinity College, Dublin, a well-known university. He earned his first degree there in 1711.
Becoming Lord Mornington
In 1728, Richard Colley inherited large family lands. These lands were in County Meath, Ireland. They included places called Dangan and Mornington. He inherited them from his cousin, Garret Wesley. After this, Richard Colley officially changed his last name to Wesley.
Richard Wesley became a member of the Irish House of Commons. This was like being a politician in the Irish Parliament. He represented the area of Trim from 1729 to 1746. In 1734, he also served as the High Sheriff of Meath. This was an important local role.
In 1746, he was given a special title. He became the first Baron Mornington. This made him a "peer" in Ireland. A peer is a person who holds a noble title.
What Was Richard Wesley Like?
People who knew Richard Wesley described him as a kind and interesting country gentleman. He was known for being good-humored and friendly. He cared about making others happy. He used his wealth to help people.
Richard Wesley was very proud of his son's musical talent. He encouraged his son to develop his skills. However, he also spent a lot of money. When he died, he had some debts. This started a pattern of debt in the family. Later, his grandson had to sell the family home, Dangan Castle.
Richard Wesley's Family
The Colley family came to Ireland from England around the year 1500. Richard Colley Wesley married Elizabeth Sale in 1719. She was the daughter of John Sale.
Richard and Elizabeth had three children:
- Garret Wesley, 1st Earl of Mornington: He was their only son. Garret became a very important person. His children included Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington. Arthur Wellesley was a famous military leader.
- Frances: She married William Francis Crosbie.
- Elizabeth: She married Chichester Fortescue.
