Frances Seymour, Duchess of Somerset (born 1699) facts for kids

Frances Seymour, Countess of Hertford, was an important British lady born in 1699. Her original name was Frances Thynne. She later became the Duchess of Somerset. Frances was well-known for her love of books and writing. She also helped other writers. She was married to Algernon Seymour, who became the 7th Duke of Somerset.

Her Early Life

Frances was the daughter of Henry Thynne. Her grandfather was Thomas Thynne, 1st Viscount Weymouth. When her father passed away in 1708, Frances and her mother moved to Leweston. This was the home of her mother's father, Sir George Strode.

Marriage and Family Life

Frances married Algernon Seymour, Earl of Hertford, when she was sixteen years old. He was thirty at the time. They had two children together:

• George Seymour, Viscount Beauchamp (born 1725), who sadly passed away when he was nineteen.
• Elizabeth Percy (born 1716), who later married Sir Hugh Smithson. They had children.

Soon after they married, Frances and her husband moved into a large house. It had a beautiful formal garden. Frances herself helped design a "grotto" in the garden. This was a popular garden feature back then. She was one of the first people to support the English Landscape Movement.

From 1724 to 1737, Frances worked for Queen Caroline. Queen Caroline was the wife of King George II of Great Britain. Frances was a Lady of the Bedchamber, which meant she was a close helper and friend to the Queen.

Her Love for Books and Helping Others

Frances Seymour was a talented writer and a great supporter of other writers. In 1725, some of her short poems were published. She also wrote letters to her friends, discussing books, religion, and daily life.

She was a kind patron to many poets, including Isaac Watts and James Thomson. She even introduced some of them to Queen Caroline. James Thomson dedicated his 1728 poem, "Spring," to her. Frances also used her influence to help Thomson's friend, the poet Richard Savage, who was in trouble with the law.

Frances was also an early supporter of Thomas Coram. He wanted to create a special hospital for children who had no homes in London. She signed his petition in 1730. She was one of many important ladies who helped get support for this charity. A special Royal Charter was given in 1739 to start the Foundling Hospital.

Later Life and Legacy

After her son George passed away in 1744, Frances became very interested in spiritual ideas. She lived her last years at Percy Lodge. She passed away on July 7, 1754. Frances was buried with her son and husband in Westminster Abbey.