John Ireland Blackburne

Who was John Ireland Blackburne?

John Ireland Blackburne was a British army officer and Conservative politician.

Blackburne came from a political family: his father, also John Ireland Blackburne was Member of Parliament for Newton from 1807–1818 and Warrington from 1835–1847, his mother was Anne née Bamford, of Bamford, Lancashire. His grandfather was John Blackburne, also a member of the Commons. He sat for Lancashire from 1784 – 1831.

He was born at Hale Hall near Liverpool, the family home of the Ireland Blackburnes, and was educated at Eton College. He obtained a commission in the 5th Dragoon Guards and served with the regiment for 14 years, retiring with the rank of captain.

In 1874 he inherited his father's large land holdings, and was actively involved in the management of the estate until his death, when it was noted that he was popular with his tenants. In October 1875, Charles Turner, MP for South West Lancashire, died. Accordingly a by-election was held to fill the vacancy. Blackburne was the only candidate nominated, and was thus elected unopposed on 5 November 1875.

Blackburne successfully defended his seat at the 1880 general election.