Theophilus Butler, 1st Baron Newtown-Butler facts for kids

Theophilus Butler, 1st Baron Newtown-Butler (born 1669 – died March 11, 1724), was an important Irish politician and a noble. He held a special title called a "peer."

The family crest of Butler, Earl of Lanesborough.

Theophilus Butler: An Irish Politician

Early Life and Education

Theophilus Butler was born in 1669. His parents were Francis Butler and Judith Jones. He went to Trinity College Dublin for his education. This was a well-known university in Ireland.

A Career in Parliament

Theophilus Butler became a politician. He served in the Irish House of Commons. This was like the parliament of Ireland at that time.

Representing County Cavan

From 1703 to 1713, he was a Member of Parliament (MP) for County Cavan. An MP is someone chosen to represent people in government. In 1711, he joined the Privy Council of Ireland. This was a group of important advisors to the ruler.

Moving to Belturbet

After representing County Cavan, he then represented Belturbet. He served as an MP for Belturbet from 1713 to 1714.

Becoming a Baron

In 1715, Theophilus Butler received a special honor. He was given the title of Baron Newtown-Butler. This title was part of the Peerage of Ireland. Being a baron meant he became a member of the Irish House of Lords. This was another important part of the Irish government.

The title had a special rule for who would get it next. If Lord Newtown-Butler did not have children, the title would go to his younger brother. Theophilus Butler passed away in 1724 without having any children. So, his title then went to his brother, Brinsley Butler. Brinsley later received an even higher title, becoming Viscount Lanesborough in 1728.

Family Life

Theophilus Butler was married to Emily Stopford. She was the oldest daughter of James Stopford. James Stopford was an officer from Newhall in County Meath. Her mother was Mary Forth.