Rosa M. Gilbert

Rosa Mulholland, Lady Gilbert (19 March 1841 – 21 April 1921) was an Irish novelist, poet and playwright.

Life

She was born in Belfast, the daughter of Dr. Joseph Stevenson Mulholland of Newry. Originally, Mulholland wished to become a painter, but turned to literary pursuits in her early life. Beginning her literary career at a very young age, Mulholland attempted to publish her first book at age 15. She submitted several comical illustrations to the literary journal Punch, but they were ultimately rejected. She received much help and encouragement from Charles Dickens, who highly valued her work and persuaded her to continue writing.

Having spent some years in a remote mountainous region in the west of Ireland, Mulholland seemingly became intrigued by the scenery and company, inspirations which greatly contributed towards the development of her literary longings and talents.

Dependent on the professions of the men in her life, Mullholland's social position was an elevated one. Her father was a Belfast doctor, he had two medical practices in Belfast and died in 1855 Her husband, Sir John Gilbert, was a renowned Dublin historian, and her eldest sister was Lady Russell, married to Lord Russell of Killowen, Lord Chief Justice of England.

She was also a devout Catholic and a prominent member of a literacy circle. Among her female friends with whom she shared many interests were Sarah Atkinson and Charlotte O'Conor Eccles.

On 29 May 1891, Mulholland married John Thomas Gilbert at St. Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin, giving her residence in the parish registry as 48 Upper Gardner St. In the biography she later wrote of him, she describes their marriage as having "brought joy to the crowning years of his unselfish and laborious life."