Thomas Southwell, 1st Baron Southwell facts for kids
Thomas Southwell, 1st Baron Southwell was an important Irish politician and a nobleman. He was born in 1665 and passed away on August 4, 1720. For a period, he was known as Sir Thomas Southwell, 2nd Baronet, before he became a Baron. He was also a member of the Privy Council of Ireland, which was a group of advisors to the King in Ireland.
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Early Life and Family Connections
Thomas Southwell was the oldest son of Richard Southwell. His grandfather was Sir Thomas Southwell, who was the 1st Baronet. A Baronet is a special title, like a knight, that can be passed down through a family. Thomas's mother was Lady Elizabeth O'Brien. He also had two younger brothers, William and Richard.
In 1681, Thomas's grandfather passed away. Because his own father had already passed away, Thomas inherited the title and became the 2nd Baronet.
A Time of Change: The Glorious Revolution
In 1689, there was a big event in history called the Glorious Revolution. During this time, King James II was replaced by King William III and Queen Mary II. Thomas Southwell was involved in an uprising in County Galway, Ireland, which was not successful. Because of this, the parliament of King James II declared him and his brother "attainted." This meant they lost their rights and property. Thomas was also put in prison, but he was released and pardoned (forgiven) the next year.
Thomas Southwell's Political Career
Thomas Southwell began his political journey in 1695. He was elected to the Irish House of Commons, which was like the parliament in Ireland at the time. He represented County Limerick until 1713. He was elected again for the same area in 1715.
In August 1717, Thomas Southwell received a very special honor. He was made a Baron Southwell in the Peerage of Ireland. This meant he became a nobleman and could sit in the Irish House of Lords. His title was "Baron Southwell, of Castle Mattress," which was a place in County Limerick.
Working for the Government
Beyond being a Member of Parliament, Thomas Southwell also held important government jobs. In 1697, he became a Commissioner of the Revenue. This role involved managing taxes and money for the government. He resigned from this job in 1712 but was reappointed two years later. He continued to serve as a Commissioner until he passed away in 1720.
In May 1710, Thomas Southwell was sworn into the Privy Council of Ireland. This was a group of important advisors to the King, and being a member showed he was trusted and influential.
Family Life
In April 1696, Thomas Southwell married Lady Meliora Coningsby. She was the oldest daughter of Thomas Coningsby, who later became the 1st Earl Coningsby. Thomas and Meliora had a large family with six sons and five daughters.
Thomas Southwell passed away in Dublin and was buried in Rathkeale. His oldest son, also named Thomas, inherited his title and became the 2nd Baron Southwell. Another of his sons, Henry, also became a politician and served in the Parliament of Ireland.
