Elizabeth Fortescue facts for kids

Her portrait by Reynolds.

Portrait by Angelica Kauffman

Elizabeth, Marchioness of Lothian (born Fortescue; 3 April 1745 – 30 September 1780) was an important woman from a noble family in Great Britain and Ireland. She was the daughter of Chichester Fortescue (1718–1757). Her father held a special role as the High Sheriff of County Down in what is now Northern Ireland. A famous artist named Joshua Reynolds painted her portrait around 1769.

On 15 July 1762, Elizabeth married William John Kerr. At that time, William was known by titles like Lord Newbottle or Earl of Ancram. When William's father passed away in 1775, William became the Marquess of Lothian. This made Elizabeth the Marchioness of Lothian through her marriage. Elizabeth and William had nine children together. Their last child, Lord Robert Kerr, was born on 14 September 1780. Elizabeth sadly passed away in Marylebone just 16 days later.

Her Changing Titles

Elizabeth's title changed several times throughout her life as she grew up and got married. Here is how her official titles changed over the years:

• 1745–1762: Miss Elizabeth Fortescue (This was her name before she was married.)
• 1762–1767: Elizabeth, Lady Newbattle (She gained this title after marrying William Kerr, who was then Lord Newbattle.)
• 1767–1775: Elizabeth, Countess of Ancrum (Her husband's title changed to Earl of Ancram, so she became a Countess.)
• 1775–1780: Elizabeth, Marchioness of Lothian (When her husband became the Marquess of Lothian, she became the Marchioness.)