John FitzMaurice, Viscount Kirkwall

John Hamilton FitzMaurice, Viscount Kirkwall (born 9 October 1778, died 23 November 1820), was a British politician active in the early 19th century.

**Early Life and Family Background**

He was the son of the Honorable Thomas FitzMaurice, who was the younger son of John Petty, 1st Earl of Shelburne. His mother was Mary, suo jure Countess of Orkney, granddaughter of Murrough O'Brien, 1st Marquess of Thomond, and Mary, suo jure Countess of Orkney. His paternal grandfather was Thomas FitzMaurice, the 5th Earl of Orkney. His uncle was William Petty FitzMaurice, who served as Prime Minister of Great Britain.

In 1791, upon his mother’s succession as Countess of Orkney, he acquired the courtesy title of Viscount Kirkwall.

**Political Career**

Kirkwall was elected as a Member of Parliament for Heytesbury in 1802, a position he held until 1806. Subsequently, he represented Denbigh Boroughs from 1812 to 1818.

**Marriage and Children**

In 1802, he married the Honorable Anna Maria Blaquiere, daughter of John Blaquiere, 1st Baron de Blaquiere. Together, they had children, including his eldest son Thomas, who later succeeded to the earldom. His second son, the Honorable William FitzMaurice, was involved in politics.

**Later Life and Death**

John FitzMaurice died in November 1820 at the age of 42, predeceasing his mother by eleven years. His wife, Lady Kirkwall, died in January 1843.

**Additional Notes**

His lineage connected him to prominent noble families, including the Earl of Shelburne and the Marquess of Thomond. His parliamentary contributions are documented in sources such as Hansard records.