Joseph Deane
(1674 - 1715. )
Joseph Deane, Chief Baron of the Irish Exchequer, was born in Crumlin, Dublin, in 1674 or 1675. He was the son of Joseph Deane of Deanehill, County Meath, and Elizabeth Parker. Joseph Deane’s family had significant ties to Cromwellian England, with his grandfather Major Joseph Deane being an associate of Oliver Cromwell.
Joseph Deane received his education at Trinity College Dublin and later studied law at Gray’s Inn, being called to the Bar thereafter. He entered politics, serving as a member of the Irish House of Commons representing County Dublin from 1703 to 1714. He earned the trust and recommendation of Archbishop William King of Dublin, who praised his legal acumen and character to the English Crown.
In 1714, with the accession of King George I, Joseph Deane was appointed as the Chief Baron of the Irish Exchequer, a prestigious position in the judiciary. However, his tenure was cut short when he died suddenly in May 1715, just eight months after taking office. His death was attributed to catching a cold while watching a solar eclipse earlier that month, as reported by Archbishop King. He was buried in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin.
Joseph Deane married Margaret Boyle, daughter of Colonel Henry Boyle and Lady Mary O’Brien, and sister of Henry Boyle, 1st Earl of Shannon. They had five daughters, all of whom made notable marriages into the aristocracy.
The Deane family’s connection to Crumlin remained significant throughout generations. Joseph Deane’s Crumlin estate was inherited by his son, who died soon after him, leaving the estate to his daughters. The Chief Baron’s house in Crumlin, which served as a country residence, was eventually put up for sale about ten years after his death.
