Solomon Augustus Richards facts for kids

Ardamine House, the Richards family home, which was destroyed by fire in 1921

Solomon Augustus Richards was an important person in Ireland during the 1800s. He was born in August 1828 and passed away on January 13, 1874. He was known for his role in local government and his family's history.

Solomon Augustus Richards: A Life in Ireland

Early Life and Family Connections

Solomon Augustus Richards was the oldest son in his family. His father was John Goddard Richards, who worked as a lawyer. His mother was Anne Catherine Ward.

Solomon Augustus came from a well-known family. His grandfathers were also notable figures. One grandfather, named Solomon Richards, was a surgeon, which means he was a doctor who performed operations. His other grandfather was Robert Ward, who was involved in politics.

Land and Estates

In 1846, Solomon Augustus took over his family's large properties and lands after his father passed away. He owned significant areas of land, known as estates, in different parts of Ireland.

These estates included the Roebuck Estate, located in County Dublin. He also owned the Ardamine Estate, which was in County Wexford. Owning these estates meant he was a major landowner in his time.

Public Service and Military Role

Solomon Augustus Richards held a special job called the High Sheriff of Wexford in 1854. This role was like being the main law enforcement officer for the county back then. It was a very important position in local government.

He was also a captain in the Wexford Militia. The Militia was a local army group made up of citizens who could be called upon to help keep order or defend the area.

Family Life

Solomon Augustus Richards married his first cousin, Sophia Mordaunt Ward. Her father, Bernard John Ward, was his mother's brother. Sophia passed away on August 11, 1899, when she was 70 years old.

Solomon Augustus and Sophia had three sons together. Both Solomon Augustus Richards and his wife, Sophia, are buried in the Ardamine graveyard.