Sir Boyle, Bart. Roche - Encyclopedia

GEOGRAPHICAL NAMES

SIR BOYLE ROCHE, Bart. (1743-1807), Irish soldier and politician, famous for his "bulls," came of a branch of the family of the Viscounts Fermoy. He served in the American War, and sat in the Irish parliament from 1777 onwards, being created a baronet in 1782 for his loyalty to the government. He supported the Union, and one of his recorded "bulls" - many, however, being only fastened on him - was his declaration that he would have "the two sisters" (England and Ireland) "embrace like one brother." Sir Boyle Roche was a characteristically witty and genial Irishman, and was master of the ceremonies at Dublin Castle.