Lord Chancellor of Ireland
Encyclopedia
The office of Lord Chancellor of Ireland was the highest judicial office in Ireland
until the establishment of the Irish Free State
in 1922. From 1721 to 1801 it was also the highest political office of the Irish Parliament.
Ireland
Ireland is an island to the northwest of continental Europe. It is the third-largest island in Europe and the twentieth-largest island on Earth...
until the establishment of the Irish Free State
Irish Free State
The Irish Free State was the state established as a Dominion on 6 December 1922 under the Anglo-Irish Treaty, signed by the British government and Irish representatives exactly twelve months beforehand...
in 1922. From 1721 to 1801 it was also the highest political office of the Irish Parliament.
13th century
- John de Worchley (1219–1234).
- Ralph NevilleRalph NevilleRalph Neville was a medieval clergyman and politician who served as Bishop of Chichester, Keeper of the Great Seal and Lord Chancellor of England...
(1234–1235). Also Lord Chancellor of England, Bishop of ChichesterBishop of ChichesterThe Bishop of Chichester is the Ordinary of the Church of England Diocese of Chichester in the Province of Canterbury. The diocese covers the Counties of East and West Sussex. The see is in the City of Chichester where the seat is located at the Cathedral Church of the Holy Trinity...
and Archbishop of CanterburyArchbishop of CanterburyThe Archbishop of Canterbury is the senior bishop and principal leader of the Church of England, the symbolic head of the worldwide Anglican Communion, and the diocesan bishop of the Diocese of Canterbury. In his role as head of the Anglican Communion, the archbishop leads the third largest group...
. - Alan de Sanctafide (1235–1237).
- Geoffrey de TurvilleGeoffrey de TurvilleGeoffrey de Turville was an English-born cleric who was Bishop of Ossory and briefly Lord Chancellor of Ireland.He was probably a native of Turville in Buckinghamshire. He is first heard of in Ireland in 1218 in the entourage of Henry de Loundres, Archbishop of Dublin...
(1237). - Ralph de Norwich former Bishop of Norwich (1237–1238).
- Robert LuttrellRobert LuttrellThe Robert Luttrell who settled on the banks of the Liffey near Dublin at Luttrellstown, was in 1226 treasurer of St. Patrick's Cathedral, and in 1236 was Lord Chancellor of Ireland. There is mention of a Michael Luttrell in 1287, who owned the same estate at the close of the century, and later in...
(1238–1245). - William Welwood (1245–1259).
- Fromund Le BrunFromund Le BrunFromund le Brun was an English born cleric and judge in Ireland who became Lord Chancellor of Ireland, but failed in his attempt to become Archbishop of Dublin....
(1259–1283). He was elected Archbishop of DublinArchbishop of Dublin (Roman Catholic)The Archbishop of Dublin is the title of the senior cleric who presides over the Archdiocese of Dublin. The Church of Ireland has a similar role, heading the United Dioceses of Dublin and Glendalough. In both cases, the Archbishop is also Primate of Ireland...
and claimed the position in contest to William de la Corner from 1271 to 1279. Pope Nicholas IIIPope Nicholas IIIPope Nicholas III , born Giovanni Gaetano Orsini, Pope from November 25, 1277 to his death in 1280, was a Roman nobleman who had served under eight Popes, been made cardinal-deacon of St...
declared both elections void in 1279. - Walter de FulburnWalter de FulburnWalter de Fulburn , or de Fulbourn was a leading Irish statesman and cleric who held the offices of Bishop of Waterford, Bishop of Meath and Lord Chancellor of Ireland...
(1283–1288). - William Le Buerlaco (1288–1292).
- Thomas CantockThomas CantockThomas Cantock was an Irish cleric and judge who held the offices of Bishop of Emly and Lord Chancellor of Ireland.O'Flanagan, writing in 1870, complains that a biographer of Cantock is faced with an almost complete lack of information. Not a great deal more is known today...
, Bishop of Emly (1292–1294) - Adam de Wodington. Appointed in 1294.
14th century
- Thomas CantockThomas CantockThomas Cantock was an Irish cleric and judge who held the offices of Bishop of Emly and Lord Chancellor of Ireland.O'Flanagan, writing in 1870, complains that a biographer of Cantock is faced with an almost complete lack of information. Not a great deal more is known today...
, Bishop of Emly (1306–1308) - Adam de Wodington (1308). The same as above.
- Richard de BeresfordRichard de BeresfordRichard de Beresford or Bereford was an English-born cleric who held high office in Ireland in the early fourteenth century ,becoming Lord High Treasurer of Ireland and Lord Chancellor of Ireland.- Early career :...
. Deputy in 1307, Chancellor in 1308. - Walter de ThornburyWalter de ThornburyWalter de Thornbury was an English-born statesman and cleric in 14th century Ireland who held the office of Lord Chancellor of Ireland; his efforts to secure confirmation of his election as Archbishop of Dublin were cut short by his death in a shipwreck.He was probably born in Herefordshire where...
. Died in 1313 while traveling to AvignonAvignonAvignon is a French commune in southeastern France in the départment of the Vaucluse bordered by the left bank of the Rhône river. Of the 94,787 inhabitants of the city on 1 January 2010, 12 000 live in the ancient town centre surrounded by its medieval ramparts.Often referred to as the...
. His ship was sunk in a storm. - Stephen Riddel (c. 1313–1318).
- William FitzJohnWilliam FitzJohnWilliam Fitzjohn was a leading prelate in early fourteenth century Ireland. He held the offices of Bishop of Ossory, Archbishop of Cashel, and Lord Chancellor of Ireland- Early Career :...
, Bishop of OssoryBishop of OssoryThe Bishop of Ossory is an episcopal title which takes its name after the ancient of Kingdom of Ossory in the Province of Leinster, Ireland. In the Roman Catholic Church it remains a separate title, but in the Church of Ireland it has been united with other bishoprics.-History:The diocese of Ossory...
(1318–1320) - Roger UtlaghRoger UtlaghRoger Utlagh, or Roger Outlawe was a leading Irish statesman of the fourteenth century and held the office of Lord Chancellor of Ireland...
, Prior of Kilmainham. Appointed in 1321. - Alexander de BicknorAlexander de BicknorAlexander de Bicknor was an official in the Plantagenet kingdom under Edward I of England, Edward II of England, and Edward III of England...
, Primate of IrelandPrimate of IrelandThe Primacy of Ireland was historically disputed between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin until finally settled by Pope Innocent VI. Primate is a title of honour denoting ceremonial precedence in the Church, and in the Middle Ages there was an intense rivalry between the two...
(c. 1325–1343). - John L'ArchersJohn L'ArchersJohn L'Archers, or Larcher was an English born cleric and judge who had a distinguished career in Ireland, holding the office of Lord Chancellor of Ireland , but died during the first outbreak of the Black Death.- Family :...
, Prior of St. John of Jerusalem. Appointed in 1343. - John MoriceJohn MoriceJohn Morice was an English born statesman in fourteenth-century Ireland.He was born in Bedfordshire and was a knight of the shire for Bedfordshire in 1322. He is first heard of in Ireland in 1324 in the entourage of the justiciar John Darcy...
. c.1344 - John FrowykJohn FrowykJohn Frowyk became Prior of the Hospitallers in Ireland in 1356 and in the same year became Lord Chancellor of Ireland; he served as Chancellor until 1371, but O'Flanagan states that no further details of his life are recorded....
, Prior of St. John of Jerusalem (1357–1371) - John de BothbyJohn de BothbyJohn de Bothby, or Boothby was an English-born cleric and judge who became Lord Chancellor of Ireland.He was born at Boothby Pagnall in Lincolnshire; his family were Lords of the manor of Bourne...
(1371–1374). - William TanyWilliam TanyWilliam Tany was Prior of the Hospitallers in Ireland ; he also served as Justiciar of Ireland 1373-1374,and as Lord Chancellor of Ireland from 1374 to 1377. He then went on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. He was reappointed Lord Chancellor of Ireland in 1382 and held the office until 1385....
, Prior of St. John of Jerusalem (1374–1377).- John Kippoch, Lord Keeper in the absence of William Tany to Jerusalem.
- Robert WikefordRobert WikefordRobert Wikeford was a distinguished English diplomat who went on to become Lord Chancellor of Ireland and Archbishop of Dublin.- Early career :...
, Primate of IrelandPrimate of IrelandThe Primacy of Ireland was historically disputed between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin until finally settled by Pope Innocent VI. Primate is a title of honour denoting ceremonial precedence in the Church, and in the Middle Ages there was an intense rivalry between the two...
(1377–1379). - John ColtonJohn Colton (archbishop)John Colton was a leading statesman and cleric in fourteenth century Ireland, who held the offices of Treasurer of Ireland, Lord Chancellor of Ireland and Archbishop of Armagh. He is chiefly remembered today for his book The Visitation of Derry .- Early career :He was born at Terrington St...
, Deans of St. Patrick's Cathedral, DublinDeans of St. Patrick's Cathedral, DublinThe Dean of St. Patrick's Cathedral is the head of St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin, elected by the Chapter of the cathedral. The office was created in 1219 or 1220, by one of several charters granted to the cathedral by Archbishop Henry de Loundres between 1218 and 1220.For centuries, the Dean of St...
(1379–1382). Later Archbishop of Armagh. - William TanyWilliam TanyWilliam Tany was Prior of the Hospitallers in Ireland ; he also served as Justiciar of Ireland 1373-1374,and as Lord Chancellor of Ireland from 1374 to 1377. He then went on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. He was reappointed Lord Chancellor of Ireland in 1382 and held the office until 1385....
, Prior of St. John of Jerusalem (1382–1385). The same as above. - Alexander de BalscotAlexander de BalscotAlexander de Balscot , also known as Alexander Petit was one of the leading Irish clerics of the late fourteenth century, holding the offices of Bishop of Ossory, Bishop of Meath, Treasurer of Ireland and Lord Chancellor of Ireland....
, Bishop of OssoryBishop of OssoryThe Bishop of Ossory is an episcopal title which takes its name after the ancient of Kingdom of Ossory in the Province of Leinster, Ireland. In the Roman Catholic Church it remains a separate title, but in the Church of Ireland it has been united with other bishoprics.-History:The diocese of Ossory...
(1385–1388). - Richard PlunkettRichard PlunkettRichard Plunkett was an eminent Irish judge and statesman who held the offices of Lord Chief Justice of the King's Bench for Ireland and Lord Chancellor of Ireland...
(1388–1393) - Richard NorthalisRichard NorthalisRichard Northalis was an Irish cleric and jurist who held the offices of Bishop of Ossory, Archbishop of Dublin and Lord Chancellor of Ireland....
, Bishop of OssoryBishop of OssoryThe Bishop of Ossory is an episcopal title which takes its name after the ancient of Kingdom of Ossory in the Province of Leinster, Ireland. In the Roman Catholic Church it remains a separate title, but in the Church of Ireland it has been united with other bishoprics.-History:The diocese of Ossory...
(1393–1397). Also Primate of IrelandPrimate of IrelandThe Primacy of Ireland was historically disputed between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin until finally settled by Pope Innocent VI. Primate is a title of honour denoting ceremonial precedence in the Church, and in the Middle Ages there was an intense rivalry between the two...
from 1395 to his death.
15th century
- Thomas CranleyThomas CranleyThomas Cranley was a leading statesman and cleric in early fifteenth-century Ireland, who held the offices of Chancellor of Oxford, Archbishop of Dublin and Lord Chancellor of Ireland.- Early career :...
, Primate of IrelandPrimate of IrelandThe Primacy of Ireland was historically disputed between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin until finally settled by Pope Innocent VI. Primate is a title of honour denoting ceremonial precedence in the Church, and in the Middle Ages there was an intense rivalry between the two...
(1401–1410)- Sir Laurence MerburyLaurence MerburySir Laurence Merbury was an English born statesman in Ireland who held the office of Treasurer of Ireland and was also Deputy to the Lord Chancellor of Ireland.He was born at Marbury in Cheshire, son of Thomas Merbury....
, Deputy Chancellor (1403–1410). Exercised the duties while the Chancellor suffered from poor health.
- Sir Laurence Merbury
- Patrick BarrettPatrick BarrettPatrick Barrett was an Irishman who held religious and secular high offices in Ireland.-Biography:He was an Augustinian Canon at Kells Priory in County Kilkenny until appointed Bishop of Ferns on 10 December 1400. He was consecrated bishop at Rome in December 1400. Barrett was also the Lord...
, Bishop of FernsBishop of FernsThe Bishop of Ferns is an episcopal title which takes its name after the village of Ferns in County Wexford, Ireland. In the Roman Catholic Church it remains a separate title, but in the Church of Ireland it has been united with other bishoprics.-History:...
(1410–1412) - Thomas Le BotellerThomas Le BotellerThomas Le Boteller, or Butler, nicknamed Thomas Bacach or Thomas the Lame , was the illegitimate son of the Earl of Ormond, and a leading figure in early fifteenth century Ireland.He held the offices of Lord Chancellor of Ireland , Lord Deputy of Ireland and Prior of Kilmainham, but is chiefly...
, Prior of Kilmainham. Lord Keeper (1412–1413). The name of his family would change to Butler.- Robert SuttonRobert SuttonRobert Sutton may refer to:*Robert Sutton, 1st Baron Lexinton , Member of Parliament for Nottinghamshire in 1625 and again in 1640*Robert Sutton, 2nd Baron Lexinton , English diplomat...
, Deputy Chancellor (1412–1413)
- Robert Sutton
- Thomas CranleyThomas CranleyThomas Cranley was a leading statesman and cleric in early fifteenth-century Ireland, who held the offices of Chancellor of Oxford, Archbishop of Dublin and Lord Chancellor of Ireland.- Early career :...
, Primate of IrelandPrimate of IrelandThe Primacy of Ireland was historically disputed between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin until finally settled by Pope Innocent VI. Primate is a title of honour denoting ceremonial precedence in the Church, and in the Middle Ages there was an intense rivalry between the two...
(1413–1417). The same as above. - Sir Laurence MerburyLaurence MerburySir Laurence Merbury was an English born statesman in Ireland who held the office of Treasurer of Ireland and was also Deputy to the Lord Chancellor of Ireland.He was born at Marbury in Cheshire, son of Thomas Merbury....
(1417). The same as above. - William Fitz ThomasWilliam Fitz ThomasWilliam Fitz Thomas was Prior of the Hospitallers at KIlmainham from about 1420 to 1438. He also served twice as Lord Chancellor of Ireland; there is some confusion as to the dates of his terms of office, but he finally stepped down in 1426....
, Prior of Kilmainham (c. 1417–1418) - William YongeWilliam YongeSir William Yonge, 4th Baronet KCB FRS , English politician, was the son of Sir Walter Yonge, and great-great-grandson of Walter Yonge of Colyton , whose diaries , more especially four volumes now in the British Museum Sir William Yonge, 4th Baronet KCB FRS (ca. 1693 – 10 August 1755), English...
, Archdeacon of Meath (c. 1418–1419) - Richard Talbot (Dublin) , Primate of IrelandPrimate of IrelandThe Primacy of Ireland was historically disputed between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin until finally settled by Pope Innocent VI. Primate is a title of honour denoting ceremonial precedence in the Church, and in the Middle Ages there was an intense rivalry between the two...
(1423–1426) - William Fitz ThomasWilliam Fitz ThomasWilliam Fitz Thomas was Prior of the Hospitallers at KIlmainham from about 1420 to 1438. He also served twice as Lord Chancellor of Ireland; there is some confusion as to the dates of his terms of office, but he finally stepped down in 1426....
(1426). The same as above. - Sir Richard FitzEustaceRichard FitzEustaceSir Richard FitzEustace was an Irish statesman who briefly held the office of Lord Chancellor of Ireland.- Family background :...
(1426) - Richard Talbot (Dublin) , Primate of IrelandPrimate of IrelandThe Primacy of Ireland was historically disputed between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin until finally settled by Pope Innocent VI. Primate is a title of honour denoting ceremonial precedence in the Church, and in the Middle Ages there was an intense rivalry between the two...
(1426–1441) - Thomas ChaseThomas ChaseThomas Chase was a 15th century judge and cleric who was Chancellor of the University of Oxford in England and subsequently held the office of Lord Chancellor of Ireland....
(1441–1446). - Richard WoganRichard WoganRichard Wogan was an Irish judge and cleric who held the office of Lord Chancellor of Ireland and also served as a soldier....
(1446–1449). Lord Chancellor.- William Chevers (1446–1449). Deputy Chancellor
- Walter Devereux (1449–1451).
- Edmund, Earl of RutlandEdmund, Earl of RutlandEdmund, Earl of Rutland was the fifth child and second surviving son of Richard Plantagenet, 3rd Duke of York and Cecily Neville...
(1451–1460). Lord Chancellor, underage.- Edmund OldhallEdmund OldhallEdmund Oldhall was an English-born cleric and judge in fifteenth- century Ireland; he was Bishop of Meath and acting Lord Chancellor of Ireland .He was a brother of the leading Yorkist statesman Sir William Oldhall....
(1451–1454)., Bishop of MeathBishop of MeathThe Bishop of Meath is an episcopal title which takes its name after the ancient Kingdom of Meath. In the Roman Catholic Church it remains as a separate title, but in the Church of Ireland it has been united with another bishopric.-History:...
, Deputy Chancellor, exercised the duties of the office. - John TalbotJohn Talbot, 2nd Earl of ShrewsburyJohn Talbot, 2nd Earl of Shrewsbury, 2nd Earl of Waterford, 8th Baron Talbot, KG was an English nobleman and soldier. He was the son of John Talbot, 1st Earl of Shrewsbury and Maud Nevill, 6th Baroness Furnivall...
, later 2nd Earl of Shrewsbury (1454–1460). Deputy Chancellor, exercised the duties of the office.
- Edmund Oldhall
- John Dynham (1460–1461), Lord Chancellor
- Sir Robert Preston, 1st Viscount GormanstonRobert Preston, 1st Viscount GormanstonRobert Preston, Ist Viscount Gormanston was an Irish nobleman and statesman who held the offices of deputy to the Lord Chancellor of Ireland and Lord Deputy of Ireland.He was the son of Christopher Preston, 3rd Baron Gormanston and Jane d'Artois...
, Deputy Chancellor.
- Sir Robert Preston, 1st Viscount Gormanston
- Sir William WellesWilliam WellesSir William Welles was an English-born statesman and judge in fifteenth-century Ireland, who held the office of Lord Chancellor of Ireland: he was the brother of Lionel de Welles, 6th Baron Welles, a prominent supporter of the House of Lancaster, who was killed at the Battle of Towton.-...
(1461 - 1462) - John Tiptoft, 1st Earl of WorcesterJohn Tiptoft, 1st Earl of WorcesterJohn Tiptoft, 1st Earl of Worcester KG , English nobleman and scholar, was the son of John Tiptoft, 1st Baron Tiptoft and Joyce Cherleton, co-heiress of Edward Charleton, 5th Baron Cherleton. He was also known as the Butcher of England...
(1462–1463). By decree of Edward IV of EnglandEdward IV of EnglandEdward IV was King of England from 4 March 1461 until 3 October 1470, and again from 11 April 1471 until his death. He was the first Yorkist King of England...
he held the title of Lord Chancellor for life. He continued receiving the salary of the position and exercising some of its influence until his death in 1470. - Thomas FitzGerald, 7th Earl of KildareThomas FitzGerald, 7th Earl of KildareThomas FitzMaurice FitzGerald, 7th Earl of Kildare , was an Irish peer and Lord Chancellor of Ireland.-Background:Kildare was the son of John FitzGerald, de jure 6th Earl of Kildare, and Rose Basset.-Career:...
(c. 1463–1468). By decree of Edward IV of EnglandEdward IV of EnglandEdward IV was King of England from 4 March 1461 until 3 October 1470, and again from 11 April 1471 until his death. He was the first Yorkist King of England...
he held the title of Lord Chancellor for life. He continued receiving the salary of the position and exercising some of its influence until his death in 1478. - Robert Allanstown (1468–1469)
- William DudleyWilliam DudleyWilliam Dudley was Dean of Windsor and then Bishop of Durham.A younger son of John Sutton, 1st Baron Dudley, Dudley was nominated to Durham on 31 July 1476. He was consecrated between 1 September and 12 October 1476. In 1483 he supported Richard, Duke of Gloucester, the future King...
(1469–1472) - Joined Lord Chancellors of Ireland (1472–1477)
- Robert FitzEustaceRobert FitzEustaceSir Robert FitzEustace was an Irish landowner and politician.He was born at Coghlanstown, County Kildare, son of Sir Richard FitzEustace, briefly Lord Chancellor of Ireland, and Katherine Preston...
- John Taxton
- Robert FitzEustace
- Gilbert de Venham (1474)
- Rowland FitzEustace, 1st Baron PortlesterRowland FitzEustace, 1st Baron PortlesterRowland FitzEustace, 1st Baron Portlester was an Irish peer and judge.FitzEustace was the son of Sir Edward FitzEustace of Castlemartin, Lord Deputy of Ireland. He was appointed Lord Chancellor of Ireland and Lord Treasurer of Ireland by Henry VI of England in 1474 and was elevated to the Irish...
(1474–1480). - William SherwoodWilliam SherwoodWilliam Sherwood was an English ecclesiastic. He was Bishop of Meath, and later Chancellor of Ireland.-Life:He obtained the see by papal provision in April, 1460. Of his earlier life nothing is known....
, Bishop of Meathe (1480–1482) - Robert St Lawrence, 3rd Baron HowthRobert St Lawrence, 3rd Baron HowthRobert St.Lawrence, 3rd Baron Howth was a leading statesman in 15th-century Ireland who held the office of Lord Chancellor of Ireland, and had through marriage a close connection of the Tudor dynasty.- Background :...
(May 1483, died a few months later) - Sir Thomas FitzGerald of LaccaghThomas FitzGerald of LaccaghSir Thomas FitzGerald of Laccagh , younger son of the 7th Earl of Kildare, was Lord Chancellor of Ireland under Richard III and Henry VII, but rebelled against Henry and was killed at the Battle of Stoke....
(c. 1483–1487) - Rowland FitzEustace, 1st Baron PortlesterRowland FitzEustace, 1st Baron PortlesterRowland FitzEustace, 1st Baron Portlester was an Irish peer and judge.FitzEustace was the son of Sir Edward FitzEustace of Castlemartin, Lord Deputy of Ireland. He was appointed Lord Chancellor of Ireland and Lord Treasurer of Ireland by Henry VI of England in 1474 and was elevated to the Irish...
(1487–1492). The same as above. - Alexander PlunketAlexander PlunketAlexander Plunket was appointed Lord Chancellor of Ireland by King Henry VII of England in 1492. Lord Portlester was Lord Chancellor and Lord Treasurer of Ireland before Plunket. The offices were split between Alexander Plunket and Sir James Ormond, who became Lord Treasurer of Ireland...
(1492–1494) - Henry DeaneHenry DeaneHenry Deane was the Archbishop of Canterbury in England.In 1457, he is recorded as a Canon of Llanthony by Gloucester, his first appearance in the records...
(1494–1495) - Walter FitzsimonWalter FitzsimonWalter Fitzsimon was a statesman and cleric in Ireland in the reign of Henry VII, who held the offices of Archbishop of Dublin and Lord Chancellor of Ireland.- Biography :...
, Primate of IrelandPrimate of IrelandThe Primacy of Ireland was historically disputed between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin until finally settled by Pope Innocent VI. Primate is a title of honour denoting ceremonial precedence in the Church, and in the Middle Ages there was an intense rivalry between the two...
(1496–1498) - William RokebyWilliam RokebyWilliam Rokeby was a leading statesman and cleric in early sixteenth-century Ireland, who held the offices of Bishop of Meath, Archbishop of Dublin and Lord Chancellor of Ireland...
, Bishop of MeathBishop of MeathThe Bishop of Meath is an episcopal title which takes its name after the ancient Kingdom of Meath. In the Roman Catholic Church it remains as a separate title, but in the Church of Ireland it has been united with another bishopric.-History:...
(1498–1509)
16th century
- Nicholas St Lawrence, 4th Baron HowthNicholas St Lawrence, 4th Baron HowthNicholas St Lawrence, 4th Baron Howth was a leading Irish soldier and statesman of the early Tudor period.-Early life:He was born about 1460, eldest son of Robert St Lawrence, 3rd Baron Howth and his first wife Alice White. His stepmother Joan Beaufort was a cousin of Henry VII to whom Nicholas...
(1509–1513) - Sir William Compton (courtier)William Compton (courtier)Sir William Compton was one of the most prominent courtiers during the reign of Henry VIII of England. Born around 1482, Compton was about nine years older than his king, but the two became close friends. Compton was the eldest son of Edmund Compton of Warwickshire and became an attendant on young...
(1513–1515) - William RokebyWilliam RokebyWilliam Rokeby was a leading statesman and cleric in early sixteenth-century Ireland, who held the offices of Bishop of Meath, Archbishop of Dublin and Lord Chancellor of Ireland...
, Primate of IrelandPrimate of IrelandThe Primacy of Ireland was historically disputed between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin until finally settled by Pope Innocent VI. Primate is a title of honour denoting ceremonial precedence in the Church, and in the Middle Ages there was an intense rivalry between the two...
(1515–1521). The former Bishop of MeathBishop of MeathThe Bishop of Meath is an episcopal title which takes its name after the ancient Kingdom of Meath. In the Roman Catholic Church it remains as a separate title, but in the Church of Ireland it has been united with another bishopric.-History:...
. - Hugh IngeHugh IngeHugh Inge or Ynge was an English born judge and prelate in sixteenth century Ireland who held the offices of Bishop of Meath, Archbishop of Dublin and Lord Chancellor of Ireland....
, Primate of IrelandPrimate of IrelandThe Primacy of Ireland was historically disputed between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin until finally settled by Pope Innocent VI. Primate is a title of honour denoting ceremonial precedence in the Church, and in the Middle Ages there was an intense rivalry between the two...
(1522–1528) - John AlenJohn AlenJohn Alen was an English canon lawyer, Archbishop of Dublin, and Chancellor of Ireland.-Life:He was born in Cotteshall, Norfolk.The Alans were a numerous clan and six of his cousins settled in Ireland including his namesake John, who was Lord Chancellor in his turn...
, Primate of IrelandPrimate of IrelandThe Primacy of Ireland was historically disputed between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin until finally settled by Pope Innocent VI. Primate is a title of honour denoting ceremonial precedence in the Church, and in the Middle Ages there was an intense rivalry between the two...
(1528–1532) - George CromerGeorge CromerGeorge Cromer was Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland in the reign of Henry VIII of England, from 1521/2.Caught up in Henry's reformation of the Church of England, he was deprived of his see, Armagh...
, Archbishop of Armagh (1532–1534) - John Barnewall, 3rd Baron TrimlestownJohn Barnewall, 3rd Baron TrimlestownJohn Barnewall, 3rd Baron Trimleston , was an Irish landowner and politician. He was the eldest son of Christopher Barnewall, 2nd Baron Trimlestown and Elizabeth Plunket, daughter of Sir Thomas Plunket of Rathmore, Lord Chief Justice of the King's Bench in Ireland . He succeeded his father as 3rd...
(1534–1538) - Sir John AlanJohn AlanSir John Alan, or Alen was a leading statesman in Ireland in the mid -sixteenth century. he held the offices of Master of the Rolls in Ireland , Chancellor of the Exchequer of Ireland and Lord Chancellor of Ireland.- Family :...
(1538–1546, 1548-1551). Lord Keeper from 1538 to 1539, Lord Chancellor from 1539 to 1546: removed but later reinstated. - Sir Richard ReadeRichard ReadeSir Richard Reade was an English-born judge who held the office of Lord Chancellor of Ireland.- Background and early career :...
(1546–1548) - Sir Thomas Cusack (Irish judge) Thomas Cusack (Irish judge)Sir Thomas Cusack was an Anglo-Irish judge and statesman of the sixteenth century, who held the offices of Master of the Rolls in Ireland, Lord Chancellor of Ireland, and Chancellor of the Exchequer of Ireland. He was one of the most trusted and reliable Crown servants of his time, but had a...
(1551–1554) - Sir William Fitzwilliam (Lord Deputy)William Fitzwilliam (Lord Deputy)- Early life :FitzWilliam was born at Milton, Northamptonshire, the eldest son of Sir William and grandson of William Fitzwilliam , alderman and sheriff of London, who had been treasurer and chamberlain to Cardinal Wolsey and who purchased Milton in 1506...
, Lord Keeper (1554) - Hugh CurwenHugh CurwenHugh Curwen was an English ecclesiastic and statesman. He was a native of Westmorland and educated at Cambridge, afterwards taking orders in the church....
, Primate of IrelandPrimate of IrelandThe Primacy of Ireland was historically disputed between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin until finally settled by Pope Innocent VI. Primate is a title of honour denoting ceremonial precedence in the Church, and in the Middle Ages there was an intense rivalry between the two...
(1554–1567). Lord Chancellor from 1554 to 1558, Lord Keeper from 1558 to 1559, Lord Chancellor from 1559 to 1567. - Robert WestonRobert WestonRobert Weston , was Dean of the Arches and Lord Chancellor of Ireland in the time of Queen Elizabeth.Weston was the third son of John Weston of Lichfield and his wife Cicely Neville, sister of Ralph Neville, 4th Earl of Westmorland. He entered All Souls, Oxford and was elected Fellow in 1536...
, Dean of ArchesDean of ArchesThe Dean of Arches is the judge who sits at the ecclesiastical court of the Archbishop of Canterbury in England. This appeal court is commonly called the Arches Court....
(1567–1573) - Adam LoftusAdam Loftus (Archbishop)thumb|right|200px|Archbishop Adam LoftusAdam Loftus was Archbishop of Armagh, and later Dublin, and Lord Chancellor of Ireland from 1581. He was also the first Provost of Trinity College, Dublin.-Early life:...
, Primate of IrelandPrimate of IrelandThe Primacy of Ireland was historically disputed between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin until finally settled by Pope Innocent VI. Primate is a title of honour denoting ceremonial precedence in the Church, and in the Middle Ages there was an intense rivalry between the two...
(1573–1576 ) - Sir William Gerard (1576-1581 )
- Adam Loftus (Archbishop)Adam Loftus (Archbishop)thumb|right|200px|Archbishop Adam LoftusAdam Loftus was Archbishop of Armagh, and later Dublin, and Lord Chancellor of Ireland from 1581. He was also the first Provost of Trinity College, Dublin.-Early life:...
, Primate of IrelandPrimate of IrelandThe Primacy of Ireland was historically disputed between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin until finally settled by Pope Innocent VI. Primate is a title of honour denoting ceremonial precedence in the Church, and in the Middle Ages there was an intense rivalry between the two...
, (1581-1605) the same as the above.
17th century
- Thomas JonesThomas Jones (Archbishop)Thomas Jones was Archbishop of Dublin and Lord Chancellor of Ireland. He was also Dean of St. Patrick's Cathedral and Bishop of Meath and the patrilineal ancestor of the Viscounts Ranelagh....
, Primate of IrelandPrimate of IrelandThe Primacy of Ireland was historically disputed between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Archbishop of Dublin until finally settled by Pope Innocent VI. Primate is a title of honour denoting ceremonial precedence in the Church, and in the Middle Ages there was an intense rivalry between the two...
(1605–1619) - Adam Loftus, 1st Viscount LoftusAdam Loftus, 1st Viscount LoftusAdam Loftus, 1st Viscount Loftus was Lord Chancellor of Ireland in 1619. His uncle, also named Adam, was Archbishop of Armagh and Dublin....
(1619–1639) - Sir Richard BoltonRichard BoltonSir Richard Bolton was an English lawyer, an important figure in the politics of Ireland in the 1630s and 1640s.- Life :He was son of John Bolton, of Fenton, Staffordshire, and born about 1570...
(1639–1650). - Roger Tasker (1650–1655). His exact years of term are uncertain but might fit the time from the death of his predecessor to the next known appointment.
- Commissioners of the Great Seal of Ireland (1655–1656)
- Richard PepysRichard PepysSir Richard Pepys was an English lawyer and politician who sat in the House of Commons in 1640 and was Lord Chief Justice of Ireland. He was a cousin of the father of Samuel Pepys the diarist....
, Chief Commissioner (1655–1656) - Gerard Lowther (1589-1680), Second Commissioner (1655–1656)
- Miles CorbetMiles CorbetMiles Corbet was an English politician, recorder of Yarmouth and Regicide.-Life:He was the son of Sir Thomas Corbet of Sprowston, Norfolk and the younger brother of Sir John Corbet, 1st Baronet, MP for Great Yarmouth from 1625 to 1629...
, Third Commissioner (1655–1656)
- Richard Pepys
- William Steele (1656–1660)
- Sir Maurice EustaceSir Maurice Eustace-Family background:Eustace was born between 1590 and 1595, at Castlemartin, County Kildare, the son of William Fitzjohn Eustace,constable of Naas. The Eustaces of Castlemartin were cousins of Viscount Baltinglass, but played no part in the Desmond Rebellions, being generally noted for loyalty to...
(1660–1665) - Michael BoyleMichael Boyle (the younger)Michael Boyle, the younger , archbishop of Armagh, eldest son of Richard Boyle, Archbishop of Tuam, and nephew of the elder Michael, was born about 1609....
, Archbishop of Armagh (1665–1686) - Sir Charles PorterCharles Porter (Lord Chancellor of Ireland)Sir Charles Porter , was a flamboyant and somewhat controversial English-born judge who nonetheless had a successful career, being twice Lord Chancellor of Ireland.- Early life :...
(1686–1687) - Sir Alexander FittonAlexander FittonSir Alexander Fitton sometimes known as Baron Gawsworth, was an Irish barrister who became Lord Chancellor of Ireland despite having spent many years in prison.- Family and early career :...
(1687–1690) - Commissioners of the Great Seal of Ireland (1690)
- Sir Richard PyneRichard Pyne- Background :He was born in County Cork, fourth son of Nicholas Pyne of Monageely. He matriculated from Queen's College, Oxford in 1662, was called to the English Bar in 1669 and the Irish Bar in 1674...
(1690) - Sir Richard RyvesRichard Ryves- Background :He was born in Dublin, eldest son of Charles Ryves, a Chancery official and his wife Jane Ogden; he was a grandson of Sir William Ryves, judge of the King's Bench in Ireland 1636-1648. The Ryves family were originally from Dorset, but Richard prided himself on being a true Dubliner.He...
(1690) - Robert RochfortRobert RochfortRobert Rochfort was attorney-general, judge and speaker of the Irish House of Commons.Rochfort was probably born on 9 December 1652. He was the second son of Lieutenant-Colonel James "Prime-Iron " Rochfort , a Cromwellian soldier, and Thomasina Pigot...
(1690)
- Sir Richard Pyne
- Charles PorterCharles Porter (Lord Chancellor of Ireland)Sir Charles Porter , was a flamboyant and somewhat controversial English-born judge who nonetheless had a successful career, being twice Lord Chancellor of Ireland.- Early life :...
, (1690–1696) - in commission (1696–1697)
- John Methuen (1697–1703)
18th century
- Sir Richard CoxSir Richard CoxSir Richard Cox, 1st Baronet PC was an Irish lawyer and judge. He served as Lord Chancellor of Ireland from 1703 to 1707 and as Lord Chief Justice of the Queen's Bench for Ireland from 1711 to 1714.- Early life :...
(1703–1707) - Richard FreemanRichard Freeman (Irish judge)Richard Freeman was an English-born judge who became Lord Chancellor of Ireland.- Family :He was born in Gloucestershire, eldest son of John Freeman and his wife Anne Croft; educated at Christ Church, Oxford;called to the Bar 1674...
(1707–1710) - in commission (1710)
- Sir Constantine Henry Phipps (1710–1714)
- The Viscount MidletonAlan Brodrick, 1st Viscount MidletonAlan Brodrick, 1st Viscount Midleton PC was an Irish lawyer and politician.-Background:He was the second son of Sir St John Brodrick of Ballyannan, near Midleton in County Cork, by his wife Alice , daughter of Laurence Clayton of Mallow, County Cork and sister of Colonel Randall Clayton M.P., of...
(1714–1725) - Richard WestRichard West (Lord Chancellor of Ireland)Richard West was an 18th-century lawyer and politician.He represented Grampound and Bodmin in the English Parliament and was Lord Chancellor of Ireland from 1725 to 1726, succeeding Alan Brodrick, 1st Viscount Midleton.-Career:...
(1725–1726) - The Lord WyndhamThomas Wyndham, 1st Baron WyndhamThomas Wyndham, 1st Baron Wyndham PC , was an Irish lawyer and politician. He served as Lord Chancellor of Ireland from 1726 to 1739.-Background:...
(1726–1739) - The Viscount JocelynRobert Jocelyn, 1st Viscount JocelynRobert Jocelyn, 1st Viscount Jocelyn PC SL was an English-Irish politician and member of the Peerage of Ireland. He is best known for serving as Lord Chancellor of Ireland.-Early life:...
(1739–1756) - The Lord BowesJohn Bowes, 1st Baron BowesJohn Bowes, 1st Baron Bowes PC was an Irish peer and politician.-Life:He was born in London, son of Thomas Bowes, a merchant, and was called to the Bar in 1712. He came to Ireland as a member of the staff of Richard West, the Lord Chancellor in 1723...
(1757–1767) - The Viscount LiffordJames Hewitt, 1st Viscount LiffordJames Hewitt, 1st Viscount Lifford was an Irish lawyer and judge. He served as Lord Chancellor of Ireland from 1767 to 1789.-Background:...
(1767–1789) - in commission (1789)
- The Earl of ClareJohn FitzGibbon, 1st Earl of ClareJohn FitzGibbon, 1st Earl of Clare PC , later known as Earl of Clare or Lord Clare, was Attorney-General for Ireland in 1783, then Lord Chancellor of Ireland in 1789, in which capacity he was first promoted to the Irish peerage.He was a controversial figure in Irish history, being described...
(1789–1802)
19th century
- The Lord Redesdale 1802–1806
- George PonsonbyGeorge PonsonbyGeorge Ponsonby PC , was a British lawyer and Whig politician. He served as Lord Chancellor of Ireland from 1806 to 1807 in the Ministry of All the Talents.-Background and education:...
(1806–1807) - The Lord MannersThomas Manners-Sutton, 1st Baron MannersThomas Manners-Sutton, 1st Baron Manners PC, KC , was a British lawyer and politician who served as Lord Chancellor of Ireland from 1807 to 1827.-Background and education:...
(1807–1827) - Sir Anthony HartAnthony HartSir Anthony Hart was a British lawyer.He became a barrister at the Middle Temple in 1781, and was appointed a King's Counsel in 1807. He was solicitor-general to Queen Charlotte from 1816 and was appointed Vice-Chancellor of England in 1827. He was appointed a privy Counsellor and knighted in 1827...
(1827–1830) - The Lord PlunketWilliam Plunket, 1st Baron PlunketWilliam Conyngham Plunket, 1st Baron Plunket PC was an Irish politician and lawyer who eventually became Lord Chancellor of Ireland....
(1830–1834) - Sir Edward SugdenEdward Sugden, 1st Baron St LeonardsEdward Burtenshaw Sugden, 1st Baron St Leonards PC was a British lawyer, judge and Conservative politician.-Background:St Leonards was the son of a high-class hairdresser and wig-maker in Westminster, London....
(1835) - The Lord PlunketWilliam Plunket, 1st Baron PlunketWilliam Conyngham Plunket, 1st Baron Plunket PC was an Irish politician and lawyer who eventually became Lord Chancellor of Ireland....
(1835–1841) - The Lord CampbellJohn Campbell, 1st Baron CampbellJohn Campbell, 1st Baron Campbell PC, KC was a British Liberal politician, lawyer, and man of letters.-Background and education:...
(1841) - Sir Edward SugdenEdward Sugden, 1st Baron St LeonardsEdward Burtenshaw Sugden, 1st Baron St Leonards PC was a British lawyer, judge and Conservative politician.-Background:St Leonards was the son of a high-class hairdresser and wig-maker in Westminster, London....
(1841–1846) - Maziere BradyMaziere BradySir Maziere Brady, 1st Baronet PC was an Irish judge, notable for his exceptionally long tenure as Lord Chancellor of Ireland.Brady was born in Dublin, the second son of Francis Brady of Booterstown and his wife Charlotte Hodgson...
(1846–1852) - Francis BlackburneFrancis BlackburneFrancis Blackburne PC KS was an Irish judge and eventually became Lord Chancellor of Ireland.-Background:...
(1852) - Maziere BradyMaziere BradySir Maziere Brady, 1st Baronet PC was an Irish judge, notable for his exceptionally long tenure as Lord Chancellor of Ireland.Brady was born in Dublin, the second son of Francis Brady of Booterstown and his wife Charlotte Hodgson...
(1853–1858) - Sir Joseph NapierJoseph NapierSir Joseph Napier, 1st Baronet was an Irish Conservative Party Member of Parliament in the United Kingdom Parliament and subsequently Lord Chancellor of Ireland....
(1858–1859) - Maziere BradyMaziere BradySir Maziere Brady, 1st Baronet PC was an Irish judge, notable for his exceptionally long tenure as Lord Chancellor of Ireland.Brady was born in Dublin, the second son of Francis Brady of Booterstown and his wife Charlotte Hodgson...
(1859–1866) - Francis BlackburneFrancis BlackburneFrancis Blackburne PC KS was an Irish judge and eventually became Lord Chancellor of Ireland.-Background:...
(1866–1867) - Abraham BrewsterAbraham BrewsterAbraham Brewster PC was an Irish judge and Lord Chancellor of Ireland.-Background and education:Brewster was born at Ballinulta, the son of William Bagenal Brewster, of Ballinulta, County Wicklow, by his wife Mary, daughter of Thomas Bates...
(1867–1868) - The Lord O'HaganThomas O'Hagan, 1st Baron O'HaganThomas O'Hagan, 1st Baron O'Hagan KP, PC, QC , was an Irish lawyer and judge. He served as Lord Chancellor of Ireland from 1868 to 1874 and again from 1880 to 1881.-Background and education:...
(1868–1874) - Commissioners of the Great Seal of Ireland (1874–1875)
- Sir Joseph NapierJoseph NapierSir Joseph Napier, 1st Baronet was an Irish Conservative Party Member of Parliament in the United Kingdom Parliament and subsequently Lord Chancellor of Ireland....
, Chief Commissioner (1874–1875) - James Anthony LawsonJames Anthony LawsonJames Anthony Lawson PC, QC , was an Irish academic, lawyer and judge.-Background and education:Lawson was born at Waterford, the eldest son of James Lawson, by Mary Anthony, daughter of Joseph Anthony, and was educated at the endowed school there...
(1874–1875) - William Brooke (1874–1875)
- Sir Joseph Napier
- John BallJohn Thomas BallJohn Thomas Ball QC was an Irish barrister and politician in the Parliament of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland....
(1875–1880) - The Lord O'HaganThomas O'Hagan, 1st Baron O'HaganThomas O'Hagan, 1st Baron O'Hagan KP, PC, QC , was an Irish lawyer and judge. He served as Lord Chancellor of Ireland from 1868 to 1874 and again from 1880 to 1881.-Background and education:...
(1880–1881) - Hugh LawHugh LawHugh Law PC , QC was an Irish lawyer, politician and Lord Chancellor of Ireland.Law was educated at Trinity College, Dublin where he received a Bachelor of Arts in 1839. He became a barrister in 1840 and a Queen's Counsel in 1860...
(1881–1883) - Sir Edward SullivanSir Edward Sullivan, 1st BaronetSir Edward Sullivan, 1st Baronet PC , was an Irish lawyer, and a Liberal Member of Parliament for Mallow, 1865-1870 in the House of Commons of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. He was also Solicitor General for Ireland, 1865-1866, Attorney General for Ireland, 1868, Master of the...
(1883–1885) - John NaishJohn NaishJohn Naish PC, QC was an Irish lawyerEducated at Dublin University, Naish was called to the Irish Bar in 1865, becoming a QC in 1880. He was Solicitor-General for Ireland from January 1883 and Attorney-General for Ireland from December 1883...
(1885) - The Lord AshbourneEdward Gibson, 1st Baron AshbourneEdward Gibson, 1st Baron Ashbourne PC, QC was an Irish lawyer and Lord Chancellor of Ireland.-Background and education:...
(1885–1886) - John NaishJohn NaishJohn Naish PC, QC was an Irish lawyerEducated at Dublin University, Naish was called to the Irish Bar in 1865, becoming a QC in 1880. He was Solicitor-General for Ireland from January 1883 and Attorney-General for Ireland from December 1883...
(1886) - The Lord AshbourneEdward Gibson, 1st Baron AshbourneEdward Gibson, 1st Baron Ashbourne PC, QC was an Irish lawyer and Lord Chancellor of Ireland.-Background and education:...
(1886–1892) - Samuel Walker (1892–1895)
- The Lord AshbourneEdward Gibson, 1st Baron AshbourneEdward Gibson, 1st Baron Ashbourne PC, QC was an Irish lawyer and Lord Chancellor of Ireland.-Background and education:...
(1895–1905)
20th century
- Sir Samuel Walker (1905–1911)
- Redmond Barry (1911–1913)
- Sir Ignatius O'BrienIgnatius O'Brien, 1st Baron ShandonIgnatius John O'Brien, 1st Baron Shandon PC, QC , known as Sir Ignatius O'Brien, Bt, between 1916 and 1918, was an Irish lawyer and politician. He served as Lord Chancellor of Ireland between 1913 and 1918....
(1913–1918) - Sir James CampbellJames Campbell, 1st Baron GlenavyJames Henry Mussen Campbell, 1st Baron Glenavy PC was an Irish lawyer, politician in the Parliament of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and later in the Oireachtas of the Irish Free State...
(1918–1921) - Sir John RossJohn Ross (judge)Sir John Ross, 1st Baronet PC, QC Lord Chancellor of Ireland, was born in Derry, Ireland, on 11 December 1853. He was the eldest son of the Reverend Robert Ross DD, Presbyterian Minister and, at one time, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland...
(1921–1922)
External links
- The Lives of the Lord Chancellors and Keepers of the Great Seal of Ireland - from the earliest times to the reign of Queen Victoria by J. Roderick O'Flanagan, 1870 publication