Definition
Hamilton Gorges was an Anglo‑Irish politician who served as a member of the Irish House of Commons in the mid‑18th century.
Overview
Born in 1711, Gorges entered Irish politics as the representative for the borough of Coleraine, County Londonderry, holding that seat from 1757 until 1760. He subsequently represented the constituency of Swords, County Dublin, from 1761 to 1768. During his parliamentary career he was associated with the Protestant Ascendancy that dominated Irish political life prior to the Acts of Union 1800. Gorges died on 8 April 1786. He is recorded as the father of Richard Gorges‑Meredyth, who later also sat in the Irish Parliament.
Etymology / Origin
The given name Hamilton is of Scottish origin, derived from a place‑name meaning “crooked hill.” The surname Gorges traces to a Norman family that settled in England in the early 13th century and later established branches in Ireland. The Gorges family became part of the Anglo‑Irish landed gentry, holding estates in County Meath and elsewhere.
Characteristics
- Political affiliation: As a member of the Irish House of Commons, Gorges aligned with the interests of the Anglo‑Irish Protestant elite. Specific party affiliations or policy positions are not detailed in surviving records.
- Parliamentary service:
- Coleraine (1757‑1760) – a borough constituency in the north of Ireland.
- Swords (1761‑1768) – a borough constituency near Dublin.
- Family connections: Contemporary genealogical sources identify him as the son of Richard Gorges and Lady Amelia FitzWilliam, though some references differ on his parentage. His son, Richard Gorges‑Meredyth, continued the family’s parliamentary involvement.
- Estate: Gorges is associated with the Kilbrew estate in County Meath, a typical seat for members of the Irish gentry of his era.
Related Topics
- Irish House of Commons (pre‑1801)
- Protestant Ascendancy in Ireland
- Parliamentary boroughs of Coleraine and Swords
- Gorges family genealogy
- Richard Gorges‑Meredyth (son)
Note: The available historical records provide limited detail on Gorges’s legislative activities, political viewpoints, or personal life beyond his parliamentary service and family connections.