Sir Robert Anderson, 1st Baronet facts for kids

Sir Robert Anderson, as Lord Mayor

Sir Robert Anderson (born December 8, 1837 – died July 16, 1921) was an important Irish businessman. He also held important public roles, serving as a High Sheriff and later as the Lord Mayor of Belfast.

Early Life and Moving to Belfast

Robert Anderson was born in 1837. His family lived in a place called Corbofin in County Monaghan, Ireland. When he was just 15 years old, Robert moved to the city of Belfast. There, he started working for a business owned by John Arnott. This was the beginning of his career in the business world.

Starting a Business

In 1861, Robert Anderson teamed up with John B. McAuley to start their own company. They called it Anderson & McAuley. This business was a drapery store, which means it sold fabrics and clothing. It grew into a large department store in Belfast.

The Anderson & McAuley logo on one of their old buildings in Belfast.

By 1874, their store on Donegall Place was selling many different items. They were known for "Irish Linens, Irish Poplins, Irish Lace," and even special "real Balbriggan hosiery" (which are types of socks or stockings).

Robert Anderson stayed in charge of Anderson & McAuley, Ltd., for a long time. He was also a director for several other companies. This shows he was a very busy and successful businessman. Some of the companies he was involved with included Sir John Arnott & Co., Ltd., and Vulcanite, Ltd.

Public Service and Important Roles

Sir Robert Anderson also dedicated time to public service. He became a Justice of the Peace (J.P.) for County Antrim. A J.P. is a local official who helps keep the peace and deals with minor legal matters.

In 1903, he was chosen to be the High Sheriff of Belfast. The High Sheriff is a very old and important official, often involved in legal and ceremonial duties for the county or city. That same year, he was given the title of "Knight" by King Edward VII during the King's visit. This meant he could be called "Sir Robert Anderson."

From 1893, he was a member of the Belfast Corporation, which was like the city council of Belfast. In 1908, he was elected Lord Mayor of Belfast. The Lord Mayor is the head of the city government and represents the city.

In 1911, he was made the High Sheriff of Monaghan. Also in 1911, he was given an even higher honor: he became a baronet. A baronet is someone who has a special hereditary title, meaning it can be passed down in their family. His full title became Sir Robert Anderson, 1st Baronet.

Family Life

Quick facts for kids Anderson baronets
The coat of arms for the Anderson baronets.
Creation date	1911. Granted 31 October 1911 by Nevile Rodwell Wilkinson, Ulster King of Arms.
Status	extinct
Extinction date	1921
Motto	Providentia
Arms	Argent a saltire engrailed Sable between two thistles in chief and as many trefoils in flank slipped Proper.
Crest	A phoenix Sable charged on the breast with a trefoil Or and issuing out of flames Proper. Torse: of the colours.

In 1890, Sir Robert Anderson married Wilhelmina Long. They lived in two main homes: Parkmount in County Antrim and Mullaghmore House in County Monaghan.

Sir Robert Anderson passed away in 1921. He was buried in the Belfast City Cemetery. Because he did not have any children to inherit his title, the baronetage (the special title of baronet) ended when he died.