Elizabeth Hamilton, Duchess of Hamilton facts for kids

Elizabeth Hamilton (born 20 April 1757) was an important figure in British high society. She was known for her marriages to two powerful noblemen. First, she married Douglas Hamilton, the 8th Duke of Hamilton. Later, after their divorce, she became the third wife of Henry Cecil, the 1st Marquess of Exeter. She lived a long life, passing away in January 1837 at the age of 79.

Early Life and Family

Elizabeth was born to Peter Burrell, a lawyer from Beckenham. Her family was well-connected. Her brother, also named Peter, later became the 1st Baron Gwydyr, a noble title.

Elizabeth had two sisters who also married into important aristocratic families. Isabella became the Countess of Beverley, and Frances became the Duchess of Northumberland. This shows that the Burrell family had strong ties to the British nobility.

First Marriage to a Duke

Elizabeth Burrell met Douglas Hamilton, the 8th Duke of Hamilton, when he returned to London after living abroad. He was 21 years old at the time. They fell in love and were married in London on 5 April 1778.

The Duke's mother, Elizabeth Gunning, who was then the Duchess of Argyll, reportedly did not approve of the marriage. She felt that Elizabeth, even though accomplished, was not from a high enough social standing to marry her son. Despite this, the couple seemed happy at first.

Separation and Divorce

After 15 years of marriage, Elizabeth and the Duke of Hamilton separated in 1793. They had no children together. In 1794, they officially divorced through a special law passed by Parliament. This divorce was a well-known event at the time.

Records suggest that the divorce was agreed upon by both sides beforehand. The Duke did not challenge the divorce, and Elizabeth was granted it. However, she did not marry again until after the Duke of Hamilton passed away in 1799.

Second Marriage to a Marquess

In 1800, Elizabeth married Henry Cecil, who was then the Earl of Exeter. His second wife had passed away a few years earlier. The following year, in 1801, the Earl of Exeter was given an even higher title and became the 1st Marquess of Exeter.

Elizabeth became the Marchioness of Exeter. Sadly, her husband, the Marquess, died in 1804. After his death, Elizabeth did not marry again.

Later Life and Legacy

Elizabeth, who was then known as the Dowager Marchioness of Exeter, lived for many more years. She passed away in January 1837 in London, at her home in Privy Gardens, Whitehall. She was 79 years old.

A popular country dance from that era, called "Hamilton House," was said to be named after the Duke and Duchess of Hamilton. The dance involved many changes of partners, which was a playful reference to their lives.