Elizabeth Pakenham, 1st Countess of Longford facts for kids

Elizabeth Pakenham, 1st Countess of Longford (born in 1719, died in 1794), was an important Irish noblewoman. She was born Elizabeth Cuffe. She married Thomas Pakenham, who became the 1st Baron Longford. Elizabeth was also the mother of Edward Michael Pakenham, 2nd Baron Longford, and the grandmother of Thomas Pakenham, 2nd Earl of Longford.

Early Life and Family Connections

Elizabeth was the only child of Michael Cuffe, who was a Member of Parliament (MP). Her mother was Frances Sandford. Elizabeth's family had a long history, connected to important figures like George FitzGerald, the 16th Earl of Kildare.

On March 5, 1740, Elizabeth Cuffe married Thomas Pakenham. He later became known as Lord Longford.

Elizabeth's Children

Elizabeth and Thomas Pakenham had several children. Their family grew to include many notable people.

• Edward Pakenham (1743-1792) became the 2nd Baron Longford. He married Catherine Rowley and had children.
• Frances Pakenham (1744-1779) married John Ormsby Vandeleur. They had one child.
• Robert Pakenham died in 1775. He was also a Member of Parliament in Ireland.
• Helena Pakenham (1745-1777) married William Sherlock. They had children together.
• Mary Pakenham (1749-1775) married Thomas Fortescue. They also had children.
• William Pakenham (1756-1769) sadly passed away when he was a child.
• Admiral Sir Thomas Pakenham (1757-1836) was a naval officer. He married Louisa Staples and had children.

How Elizabeth Gained Her Titles

In 1756, a special title called the Longford barony was brought back. This title had been held by Elizabeth's great-great-uncles before. Her husband, Thomas Pakenham, was given the title of Baron Longford in Ireland.

Later, in 1785, another important title was brought back. This was the earldom. Lady Longford, Elizabeth herself, was made the Countess of Longford. This was a special honor given to her in her own right.

Family Homes

The Pakenham family had two main homes. One was Pakenham Hall, which is now known as Tullynally Castle, located in County Westmeath. Their other home was Longford Castle in County Longford. Longford Castle was taken down in 1972.

Later Life and Legacy

Elizabeth, the Countess of Longford, lived longer than her husband. Thomas Pakenham passed away in April 1766 at the age of 52. Their oldest son, Edward, inherited his father's title.

When Countess Elizabeth died in January 1794, she was 74 years old. Her oldest son, Edward, had passed away before her. So, her grandson, Thomas Pakenham, 2nd Earl of Longford, inherited her title as Countess.