Elizabeth Wellesley, Duchess of Wellington facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Duchess of Wellington
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| Born | 27 September 1820 |
| Died | 13 August 1904 (aged 83) |
| Spouse | Arthur Wellesley, 2nd Duke of Wellington |
| Parents | George Hay, 8th Marquess of Tweeddale Lady Susan Montagu |
| Occupation | Mistress of the Robes to Queen Victoria |
Elizabeth Wellesley, Duchess of Wellington (born Hay; 27 September 1820 – 13 August 1904), was an important figure in British society. She was the daughter of the 8th Marquess of Tweeddale. Her husband, Lord Douro, later became the Duke of Wellington in 1852. Elizabeth also served as Mistress of the Robes to Queen Victoria for several years.
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Meet Elizabeth Wellesley, Duchess of Wellington
Elizabeth Wellesley was born Lady Elizabeth Hay on 27 September 1820. Her father was George Hay, 8th Marquess of Tweeddale. He was a Scottish nobleman. Elizabeth grew up in a prominent family.
Her Early Life and Family
Elizabeth had several notable brothers. One brother was Viscount Walden. He was a famous ornithologist, someone who studies birds. Another brother was Lord John Hay. He became an Admiral of the Fleet in the Royal Navy.
Marriage and Royal Service
On 18 April 1839, Elizabeth married Lord Douro. He was the eldest son of the famous general, the first Duke of Wellington. This first Duke was also a former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
In 1852, Lord Douro became the second Duke of Wellington. This happened after his father passed away. Elizabeth then became the Duchess of Wellington. Later, in 1863, she also gained the title of Countess of Mornington. Her husband inherited this title from a cousin.
Serving Queen Victoria
The Duchess of Wellington had a special role at the royal court. She was appointed Mistress of the Robes to Queen Victoria in 1861. This important position meant she was the Queen's chief lady-in-waiting. She was in charge of the Queen's clothes and jewelry. She also helped organize the Queen's household.
She served in this role from 1861 to 1868. During this time, different Prime Ministers were in power. She served again from 1874 to 1880.
Later Life and Legacy
Elizabeth's husband, the Duke of Wellington, passed away on 13 August 1884. The Duchess, now known as the Dowager Duchess, lived for exactly twenty more years. She died on 13 August 1904, at Burhill Park.
The couple did not have any children. However, Elizabeth's famous father-in-law, the first Duke of Wellington, enjoyed her company very much.
The Duchess of Wellington received a special honor from Queen Victoria. She was given the Royal Order of Victoria and Albert. This award recognized her service and dedication.
