Eleanor Beaufort facts for kids

Arms of the Beaufort family

Lady Eleanor Beaufort (born 1431, died 16 August 1501) was an important noblewoman in England. She held the titles of Countess of Ormond and Countess of Wiltshire. Eleanor was the daughter of Edmund Beaufort, 2nd Duke of Somerset, a powerful figure. She also had brothers who became Dukes of Somerset.

Who Was Eleanor Beaufort?

Eleanor Beaufort came from a very important family. Her father, Edmund Beaufort, was the 2nd Duke of Somerset. Her mother was Lady Eleanor Beauchamp. Eleanor's mother was also connected to other powerful families, including the Earls of Warwick. This meant Eleanor grew up surrounded by influence and nobility.

Eleanor's Marriages and Family Life

Eleanor Beaufort was married twice during her life. These marriages connected her to other significant families in England.

Her First Marriage: James Butler

Around April 1458, Eleanor married James Butler, 5th Earl of Ormond. He was also known as the 1st Earl of Wiltshire. James Butler was a key leader in Ireland and later became involved in the Wars of the Roses. This was a big conflict in England between two noble families, the Lancastrians and the Yorkists. James Butler supported the Lancastrian side.

He fought in several important battles, including the First Battle of St. Albans and the Battle of Towton. After the Battle of Towton, his side lost, and he was captured. He died in 1461.

Her Second Marriage: Robert Spencer

After James Butler's death, Eleanor married Sir Robert Spencer of Spencer Combe in Devon. With Robert, Eleanor had two daughters. These daughters became important in their own right and had many famous descendants.

Eleanor's Daughters and Their Descendants

Eleanor's two daughters with Robert Spencer were:

• Margaret Spencer (also called Eleanor Spencer; 1472–1536): Margaret married Thomas Carey. Their family line led to some very well-known people.
  • Her son, William Carey, married Mary Boleyn. Mary Boleyn was the sister of Anne Boleyn, who became Queen of England! This means Eleanor Beaufort is an ancestor to many famous historical figures.

• Catherine Spencer (1477–1542): Catherine married Henry Percy, 5th Earl of Northumberland. Their son, Henry Percy, 6th Earl of Northumberland, was known for his early romantic interest in Anne Boleyn.

Eleanor Beaufort lived a long life, seeing many changes in England. She passed away on 16 August 1501, leaving behind a family with many important connections in English history.

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  Arms of the Beaufort family