Elizabeth Ferrers facts for kids

Elizabeth Ferrers (born around 1250 – died around 1300) was an important lady from a noble family in England. She was the daughter of William de Ferrers, 5th Earl of Derby, who was a powerful Earl, and his second wife, Margaret de Quincy. Her grandparents on her mother's side were Roger de Quincy, 2nd Earl of Winchester, another important Earl, and Helen of Galloway.

Who Was Elizabeth Ferrers?

Elizabeth Ferrers lived during a time when England and Wales were often in conflict. Her life was connected to some very important people and events of the 13th century. She was known for her two marriages, especially her second one to a Welsh prince.

Her Family Background

Elizabeth came from a very well-known and wealthy family. Her father, William de Ferrers, was the 5th Earl of Derby. An Earl was a very high-ranking noble, like a count, who owned a lot of land and had great influence. Her mother, Margaret de Quincy, also came from a noble family with strong connections. This meant Elizabeth grew up in a world of power and privilege.

Marriages and Royal Connections

Elizabeth Ferrers was married twice, and both her marriages connected her to important families and even royalty.

Life with William Marshal

Elizabeth's first husband was William Marshal, 2nd Baron Marshal. A Baron was another type of noble, though a bit lower in rank than an Earl. The Marshal family was very famous in England, known for their bravery and loyalty to the King. This marriage would have been a significant alliance for Elizabeth's family.

Marriage to Prince Dafydd

After William Marshal passed away, Elizabeth married Dafydd ap Gruffydd. This was a very important marriage because Dafydd was a prince of Gwynedd, a powerful kingdom in north Wales. He was also the brother of Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, who was known as the last independent Prince of Wales.

At first, Prince Dafydd was on good terms with King Edward I of England. However, later on, Dafydd decided to rebel against King Edward. This rebellion led to a major conflict. Sadly, Prince Dafydd was captured and died in 1283.

What Happened to Her Children?

Elizabeth and Dafydd had children, but their lives were greatly affected by the conflict between Wales and England.

• Their daughter, Gwladys ferch Dafydd, was sent to live at Sixhills convent. A convent was a religious community for women, often a place where noble daughters might be sent for their education or safety.
• Their sons, Llywelyn ap Dafydd and Owain ap Dafydd, faced a difficult fate. They were imprisoned and never released from captivity.

Where is She Buried?

We don't know for sure what happened to Elizabeth Ferrers after her husband's death. However, it is believed that she was buried in a church in Caerwys, a town in north Wales. In that church, there is a stone statue, called an effigy, that local people believe is of Elizabeth Ferrers.