Robert FitzGerald, 19th Earl of Kildare facts for kids
Robert FitzGerald was an important Irish nobleman who lived a long time ago. He was known as the 19th Earl of Kildare. He was born on May 4, 1675, and passed away on February 20, 1743. Before 1707, he was just known as Robert FitzGerald. He was also a member of the Irish Privy Council, which was a group of important advisors to the ruler.
Early Life and Family
Robert FitzGerald came from a very old and important family in Ireland. His father was also named Robert FitzGerald. His grandfather was George FitzGerald, 16th Earl of Kildare. Robert's mother was Mary Clotworthy, who came from County Londonderry.
Public Service and Beliefs
Robert FitzGerald became the Earl of Kildare in 1707. He took over the title from his first cousin. In 1710, he became a member of the Irish Privy Council. This was a group of important people who advised the King or Queen on matters in Ireland.
In 1714, he held an even more important position. He served as a Lord Justice of Ireland. This meant he helped govern Ireland when the King's main representative was not there.
Robert FitzGerald was known for his strong religious beliefs. This was quite special for a nobleman at that time. He was very serious about his faith.
A Funny Mix-Up
Once, a funny misunderstanding happened because of his strong beliefs. Another nobleman, Richard Parsons, 1st Earl of Rosse, was known for not being very serious. Before he passed away, he received a letter from his local priest. The letter was a serious message asking him to change his ways.
Lord Rosse noticed the letter was only addressed to "My Lord." As a joke, he put the letter in a new envelope and sent it to Robert FitzGerald. Lord Kildare thought the letter was meant for him! He became very upset, thinking someone was criticizing him. He even asked the Archbishop of Dublin, John Hoadly, to investigate. But soon, everyone realized it was just a prank.
Family Life and Legacy
Lord Kildare married Lady Mary O'Brien on March 7, 1708. She was the daughter of William O'Brien, 3rd Earl of Inchiquin. Robert and Mary had a large family with four sons and eight daughters.
Some of their children included:
- James FitzGerald, 1st Duke of Leinster (1722-1773)
- Hon. Richard FitzGerald
- Margaretta Hill, Countess of Hillsborough (died 1766), who married Wills Hill, 1st Marquess of Downshire
Lord Kildare passed away in February 1743 when he was 68 years old. His son, James, became the next Earl of Kildare. James later received even higher titles, becoming the Marquess of Kildare in 1761 and the Duke of Leinster in 1766.
A special monument was made to honor Robert FitzGerald. It was created by a famous artist named Henry Cheere. The monument shows his wife and his children, Margaretta and James, mourning him. This beautiful monument can be found in Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin. It was first placed in one part of the church and later moved to another.
