As part of the 200-Year Anniversary celbration of the Benevolent Irish Society in 2025, the Society is proud to feature at the Irish Hall a very select group of local and international speakers on Irish subjects. There are 8 lectures in total in the period of August 1 - August 16 and the range of topics is expected to be thoroughly thought provoking.

The lectures are free but we are asking for sign-up so that we can predict refreshment numbers.

WILLIAM FITZMAURICE: 2ND EARL OF SHELBURNE

In July 1782, John Parr was appointed governor of Nova Scotia, which then included present-day New Brunswick. Parr, born in Dublin and a former Captain in the 20th Foot, had previously served with Lieutenant Thomas Carleton and Lieutenant William Fitzmaurice at the Battle of Minden in 1756. Upon arriving in Port Roseway in May 1783, Parr renamed it Shelburne to honor Fitzmaurice, known as the 2nd Earl of Shelburne. Thomas Carleton, later the first governor of New Brunswick, was Shelburne's brother.

During Lord Shelburne's tenure, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Shelburne became refuges for American loyalists due to decisions made during the Peace of Paris negotiations. Shelburne, a prominent yet enigmatic figure, faced mistrust and political challenges partly due to his Irish heritage. His tenure as British prime minister lasted only 266 days, and his Irish background was a significant aspect of his life and political career.

The lecture will explore Shelburne's Irish roots, his career, and his impact on Canada, First Nations, the Newfoundland fisheries, and loyalists. It will also examine how the American Revolution affected Ireland and Shelburne’s role in granting limited home rule to Ireland in 1782, as well as his stance on religious toleration and anti-Catholicism. The discussion aims to shed light on Shelburne’s complex legacy and its connections to the Atlantic region's history and the Anglo-Irish relationship during a period of significant change.