Sir Ralph Gore, 4th Baronet facts for kids

Sir Ralph Gore, 4th Baronet (around 1675 – 1733) was an important person in Ireland a long time ago. He is mostly remembered for building a beautiful place called Belle Isle Castle. He also held a big job as the Speaker of the Irish House of Commons, which was like the leader of the Irish Parliament back then.

Sir Ralph Gore was the fourth person in his family to hold the title of Baronet. A "Baronet" is a special honor, a bit like being a knight, that can be passed down through a family. This title for the Gore family started in 1622 with Paul Gore. Ralph's father was Sir William Gore, 3rd Baronet. Ralph also inherited a large estate called Manorhamilton from his mother's family.

Sir Ralph Gore's Important Jobs

Sir Ralph Gore had many important roles in Ireland. In 1710, he was chosen as the High Sheriff of Leitrim. This was a key local job, like a chief officer for the county.

He also worked as the Chancellor of the Irish Exchequer. This job meant he was in charge of the government's money. Later, he became the Speaker of the Irish House of Commons. The Speaker was the person who led the meetings in the Irish Parliament.

Representing the People

Sir Ralph Gore was a Member of Parliament (MP) for many years. From 1703 to 1713, he represented Donegal Borough. Then, from 1713 to 1727, he represented County Donegal. After that, he represented Clogher until he passed away in 1733.

Building Belle Isle Castle

Sir Ralph Gore's grandfather had bought an island called Belle Island in Lough Erne. But it was Ralph Gore himself who built the famous Belle Isle Castle on this island. His son, also named Ralph, later made the castle even bigger and better. Today, Belle Isle Castle is a well-known landmark.

Sir Ralph Gore's Family

Sir Ralph Gore was married twice. His first wife was Elizabeth Colville. They had two daughters together. One of their daughters was named Rose.

His second wife was Elizabeth Ashe. With Elizabeth, he had seven children. One of his sons, St George Gore-St George, became a Baronet after him but sadly passed away young. Another son, Ralph Gore, 1st Earl of Ross, became a very important person. Ralph also had a daughter named Elizabeth, who had many children, including a judge and a politician.

Today, the person who holds the Baronet title for the Gore family lives in Australia.