William Molyneux, 7th Viscount Molyneux facts for kids
William Molyneux, 7th Viscount Molyneux (1685 – 30 March 1759) was an important figure in Irish history. He was a Jesuit priest and also held a special title called a Viscount. A Viscount is a noble title, like a lord, and being part of the 'peerage of Ireland' meant his family had a special place in Irish society. A Jesuit priest is a member of a religious group within the Catholic Church called the Society of Jesus.
Becoming a Viscount
William was the third of four sons born to William Molyneux, 4th Viscount. When his father passed away in 1717, the title of Viscount first went to his oldest brother, Richard.
Richard held the title until 1738, but he did not have any sons to pass it on to. So, the title then went to the second brother, Caryll. Caryll also passed away in 1745. Since he also had no sons to inherit, the title finally came to William.
Life as a Priest
William was a Catholic priest and was in charge of a church mission in a place called Scholes, near Prescot. Because he was a priest and getting older, he decided to let his younger brother, Thomas, manage the family's lands and wealth. William felt he was "old and had no intention to marry," so he thought it best for Thomas to take care of things.
However, after Thomas died in 1756, William was told he needed to stop his church duties. He was instructed to "appear in his own rank," meaning he had to take on the responsibilities of being the Viscount.
End of Life
William Molyneux passed away on 30 March 1759. After his death, the title of Viscount went to Thomas's son, Charles.
About the Family History
Sometimes, old family records can be a bit confusing. For a while, there were different ideas about how the Molyneux title was passed down. Some stories suggested there was another Richard who was a priest, or another William.
However, a detailed history book called A History of the County of Lancaster, written in 1907, helped clear things up. It explained that some of these extra family members likely never existed. The book confirmed the correct order of who inherited the title, showing that Caryll was indeed the brother of Richard, William, and Thomas.
