Elizabeth Stuart, 2nd Countess of Moray facts for kids
Elizabeth Stewart, 2nd Countess of Moray (born in late 1565 – died 18 November 1591), was an important Scottish noblewoman. She held the title of Countess of Moray in her own right, meaning she inherited it directly, not through her husband. Her parents were James Stewart, 1st Earl of Moray and Agnes Keith.
Elizabeth was born in St Andrews, Scotland. At the time, her father was living in England because he had been exiled. This happened after a rebellion against Mary, Queen of Scots, known as the Chaseabout Raid.
On 23 January 1581, Elizabeth married James Stewart. He was the son of James Stewart, 1st Lord Doune. Their wedding celebration was a big event held on 31 January in Fife. It included a special tournament called "running at the ring", where riders tried to spear a small ring while on horseback. Even James VI of Scotland, the King, took part in the fun! Two days later, the party moved to Leith. There, a water show took place on the water of Leith. It ended with a mock attack on a large cardboard model of the Papal Castel Sant'Angelo, which was built on boats. Some of Elizabeth's father's friends and family felt that James Stewart was not important enough to marry her.
Elizabeth Stewart passed away in November 1591. She died during childbirth.
Who Was Elizabeth Stewart?
Elizabeth Stewart was a very important figure in Scottish history. As the 2nd Countess of Moray, she held a high rank in society. Her father, James Stewart, was a powerful nobleman and a half-brother to Mary, Queen of Scots. This made Elizabeth part of a very influential family in Scotland.
Her Marriage and Family Life
Elizabeth and James Stewart had five children together. Their marriage was a significant event, bringing together two important Scottish families. The celebrations were grand, showing the importance of their union. The tournament and the water pageant were examples of the elaborate entertainment enjoyed by royalty and nobles in the 16th century.
Elizabeth's Children
Elizabeth and James Stewart's children continued their family's legacy. They included:
- Grizel Stewart, who married Robert Innes, 1st Baronet Innes. They had children.
- Margaret Stewart (1591 – 4 August 1639). She married twice. Her first husband was Charles Howard, 1st Earl of Nottingham. Her second husband was William Monson, Viscount Monson.
- James Stewart, 3rd Earl of Moray (born before 1591 – died 6 August 1638). He inherited his mother's title and became the 3rd Earl of Moray. He married Lady Anne Gordon and they had children, including James Stewart, 4th Earl of Moray.
- Elizabeth Stewart, who married John Abernethy, 8th Lord Abernethy of Saltoun.
- Francis Stewart. He was a Knight of the Order of the Bath. Francis was well-known in London's literary society and often visited the famous Mermaid tavern, a popular meeting place for writers.
