Elizabeth Petty, Baroness Shelburne facts for kids
Elizabeth Waller, Baroness Shelburne (born around 1636 – died February 1708) was an important woman from Ireland and England. She held a special noble title in her own right.
Elizabeth Waller was born in Castleton, County Limerick, Ireland. She was one of four daughters of Elizabeth Dowdall and Sir Hardress Waller. Her mother, Elizabeth Dowdall, was known for bravely defending their family home, Kilfinny Castle, during the Irish Rebellion of 1641. Her father, Sir Hardress Waller, was involved in the trial of King Charles I. After King Charles II returned to the throne, Sir Hardress faced serious consequences for his actions. He was sentenced to death but was later spared, though he died in prison.
Her First Marriage
In 1653, Elizabeth Waller married Sir Maurice Fenton, 1st Baronet. They had two children: a daughter named Margaret and a son named William. Sadly, Margaret passed away in 1667 without marrying. William also passed away in 1670.
Her Second Marriage
In 1667, Elizabeth married again to Sir William Petty. They had four children together:
- Anne Petty (died November 1737)
- John (born around 1669 – died around 1670)
- Charles Petty, 1st Baron Shelburne (1672–1696)
- Henry Petty, 1st Earl of Shelburne (1675–1751)
Becoming a Baroness
On December 13, 1688, Elizabeth Petty was given the special title of Baroness Shelburne. This title was given to her by King James II. What was special about this was that she received the title suo jure, which means "in her own right." This means she became a baroness because of her own importance, not just because she was married to a baron. On the very same day, her eldest son with Sir William Petty, Charles Petty, also became Baron Shelburne.
