Elizabeth Russell, Duchess of Bedford facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Elizabeth Russell
VA
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|---|---|
| Duchess of Bedford | |
| Tenure | 1872–1891 |
| Born | Lady Elizabeth Sackville-West 23 September 1818 Bourn Hall, Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland |
| Died | 22 April 1897 (aged 78) Latimer House, Chesham, Great Britain and Ireland |
| Buried | April 1897 St Michael's Church, Chenies, Buckinghamshire |
| Spouse(s) |
Francis Russell, 9th Duke of Bedford
(m. 1844; died 1891) |
| Issue |
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| Parents |
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| Occupation | Mistress of the Robes to Queen Victoria |
Elizabeth Russell, Duchess of Bedford (born Elizabeth Sackville-West; 23 September 1818 – 22 April 1897) was an important lady in Victorian England. She was married to Francis Russell, who became the 9th Duke of Bedford. This made her the Duchess of Bedford. She also served Queen Victoria as her Mistress of the Robes.
Contents
Early Life and Family
Elizabeth Sackville-West was born on 23 September 1818. Her parents were George Sackville-West, the 5th Earl De La Warr, and Lady Elizabeth Sackville. She was baptised on 18 October 1818 at Bourn, Cambridgeshire. Her family home was a place called Bourn Hall.
Marriage and Royal Connections
When she was a young woman, Lady Elizabeth Sackville-West had a special role. She was a bridesmaid at the wedding of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert on 10 February 1840. This was a very important event in British history.
On 18 January 1844, Elizabeth married Francis Russell. He was a grandson of the 6th Duke of Bedford. His uncle, Lord John Russell, was a famous politician who later became the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. In 1872, Francis Russell became the 9th Duke of Bedford. This meant Elizabeth became the Duchess of Bedford.
Serving Queen Victoria
The Duchess of Bedford had a significant role in the royal court. In 1880, she was chosen by William Ewart Gladstone, who was the Prime Minister, to be the Mistress of the Robes to Queen Victoria. This was a very important position. The Mistress of the Robes was the highest-ranking lady in the Queen's household. She was in charge of the Queen's clothes and jewels. She also attended the Queen at important events.
Elizabeth served in this role until 1883. She was also given the Royal Order of Victoria and Albert. This special award was given by Queen Victoria to women who had served her well.
In 1886, Mr. Gladstone became Prime Minister again. He wanted the Duchess of Bedford to serve as Mistress of the Robes once more. However, at that time, many important people disagreed with Gladstone's political ideas. So, no other duchess was willing to take the job. The Duchess of Bedford stepped in and performed the duties of the office. She helped the Queen during this time, even though she was not officially appointed to the post again.
Later Life and Passing
The Duchess of Bedford lived to be 78 years old. She passed away on 22 April 1897 at Latimer House, near Chesham, Buckinghamshire. After her passing, her ashes were buried in the 'Bedford Chapel' at St. Michael's Church in Chenies, Buckinghamshire.
