Frances Hyde, Countess of Clarendon facts for kids

Frances Hyde, Countess of Clarendon, was an important English noblewoman. She was born Frances Aylesbury on August 25, 1617. She was the mother of Anne Hyde. This made her the mother-in-law of King James II. She was also the grandmother of two future queens: Mary II and Queen Anne.

Her Life and Family

Frances Aylesbury was the daughter of Sir Thomas Aylesbury. He was a Baronet, which is a special title of honor. Her mother was Anne Denman. Frances was their only child to inherit everything. Her brother was William Aylesbury, who was a translator.

On July 10, 1634, Frances married Edward Hyde. This was his second marriage. Edward Hyde later became a very important person. He was given the title Baron Hyde in 1660. Then, in 1661, he became the Earl of Clarendon. He served as the Lord Chancellor of England from 1658 to 1667. This was a top government job, like a chief minister.

Frances and Edward had six children:

• Lady Anne (1637–1671): She married King James II/VII in 1659. They had several children. Two of their daughters became queens of England:
  • Mary II of England (1662–1694)
  • Anne, Queen of Great Britain (1664/65–1714)
• Hon. Henry (1638–1709): He later became the 2nd Earl of Clarendon.
• Hon. Laurence (1641–1711): He later became the 1st Earl of Rochester.
• Hon. Edward (1645–1665)
• Hon. James (died young)
• Lady Frances: She married Thomas Keightley.

Her Personality

Frances Hyde was known for her strong character. Her husband, Edward Hyde, wrote about her in his memories. Their letters show they had a very close and loving marriage. Their bond was so strong it lasted even when they were apart for four years. This was during the time of the English Civil War.

Frances's death was a very sad event for her husband. She died after a short illness when she was 49 years old. At this time, her husband was facing big challenges in his political life. In his will, Edward Hyde wrote about Frances. He called her "my dearly beloved wife." He said she had supported him through all his difficulties. He also wrote that she showed great strength and courage.

Another person who admired Frances was Henry Coventry. He was a diplomat, working on peace talks. When he heard Frances was very ill, he said he was "very unfit for the business." After she died, he wrote to her husband. He told him how sorry he was for his loss.

Burial Place

Frances died at the age of 49. She was buried in the Hyde Vault. This special burial place is located in Westminster Abbey. The records from 1661 describe her burial. They state she was the daughter and only heir of Sir Thomas Aylesbury. They also mention she was the second wife of Sir Edward Hyde, the first Earl of Clarendon. Her husband was buried with her 13 years later. Her mother, Anne Denman, is also buried in the Hyde vault.

In Books

Frances Hyde appears as a character in a mystery novel. It is called The Piccadilly Plot by Susanna Gregory. This book is the seventh in the Thomas Chaloner series. She is also mentioned in The King's Evil by Andrew Taylor. This book was published in 2019.