Elizabeth Annesley, Countess of Anglesey facts for kids

Elizabeth Annesley, Countess of Anglesey (born January 9, 1620 – died January 1698) was an important woman in English history. She was married to Arthur Annesley, 1st Earl of Anglesey. Their wedding took place on April 24, 1638, in London.

At the time of their marriage, her husband was known as The Hon. Arthur Annesley. This was a special way to address him because of his family's noble background. As her husband gained more important titles, Elizabeth's own title changed too.

Who Was Elizabeth Annesley?

Elizabeth Annesley was a noblewoman from England. She lived during the 1600s, a time of big changes in the country. Her life was connected to important families and political events of that era.

Her Family and Early Life

Elizabeth was the daughter of Sir James Altham of Oxhey, a place in Hertfordshire. Her mother was Elizabeth Sutton. Elizabeth was one of two daughters who would inherit from their father. Her sister, Frances, also married into a noble family, becoming the Countess of Carbery.

Marriage and Noble Titles

When Elizabeth married Arthur Annesley, he was already from a respected family. As years passed, her husband received higher and higher noble titles from the King.

What is a Countess?

In 1660, Elizabeth's husband inherited the title of Viscount Valentia from his father. This made Elizabeth a Viscountess. A viscount is a noble rank, usually below an earl but above a baron.

Then, in 1661, her husband was given an even higher title: Earl of Anglesey. This important new title meant that Elizabeth became a Countess. A countess is the wife of an earl, a very high rank in the British nobility. This showed their family's growing importance and influence.

Her Many Children

Elizabeth and her husband, Arthur, had a very large family. They had seven sons and six daughters. This was common for noble families during that time, as having many children helped continue the family name and influence.

Some of their children included:

• James (1645–1690), who later became the 2nd Earl of Anglesey after his father.
• Altham, who was given the title Baron Altham in 1681.
• Richard (1655–1701), who served as a church leader and later became the 3rd Baron Altham.
• Dorothy, who married Richard Power, 1st Earl of Tyrone in 1654.
• Frances (1648-1704/5), who married twice into noble families.
• Philippa (died 1714/5), who also married twice into noble families.

Later Life and Legacy

Elizabeth Annesley, Countess of Anglesey, passed away in January of 1698. She was buried at St Anne's Church, Soho, a church in London. Her life shows how women in noble families played a role in society through their marriages and the raising of their children, who often went on to hold important positions themselves.