Henrietta Louisa Fermor facts for kids
Henrietta Louisa Fermor, Countess of Pomfret (born Jeffreys; November 15, 1698 – December 15, 1761) was an English writer known for her letters. She was an important figure in the high society of her time.
Early Life and Marriage
Henrietta Louisa Jeffreys was born in 1698 in Leicester Square, London. She was the only child of John Jeffreys, 2nd Baron Jeffreys, and Lady Charlotte Herbert. Her family had connections to important figures, including the sister of King Charles II of England's mistress.
On July 14, 1720, Henrietta Louisa married Thomas Fermor, 2nd Baron Leominster. The next year, he was given the title of Earl of Pomfret. He later became a Knight of the Bath (K.B.). In 1727, he was made master of the horse for Queen Caroline. This meant he was in charge of the queen's horses and stables. Lady Pomfret also served the queen as one of her ladies of the bedchamber. This was an important role, helping the queen with her daily life.
In 1730, Lady Pomfret created a special album. It was filled with prints of famous people, both English and foreign. This collection is now kept at Queen's University at Kingston.
Travels and Contributions
After Queen Caroline passed away in 1737, Lady Pomfret and her friend, Frances, Countess of Hertford, left the royal court. In 1738, Lady Pomfret and her husband began a three-year trip. This was called a Grand Tour, a long journey through Europe that was popular for wealthy people. They traveled through France and Italy.
While in Florence, Italy, they met famous writers like Horace Walpole and Lady Mary Wortley Montagu. They returned to England in 1741.
In 1753, Lord Pomfret passed away. His oldest son, George, inherited his titles. However, George spent a lot of money. He had to sell the furniture from their family home, Easton Neston house. Lady Pomfret bought back many of the family's valuable statues. These statues were part of the famous Arundel marbles collection. She then gave them to the University of Oxford. The university was very grateful. They sent her a letter of thanks in a silver box in 1755. A poem was also written in her honor the next year.
Later Life and Legacy
Lady Pomfret passed away on December 15, 1761, while traveling to Bath. She had four sons and six daughters. She was buried at Easton Neston. A special monument, called a cenotaph, was later built for her in St. Mary's Church, Oxford.
Lady Pomfret was known for her letters. Three volumes of her letters were published in 1805 and 1806. These books showed her conversations with Frances, Countess of Hertford, between 1738 and 1741.
Images for kids
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Sophia and Charlotte Fermor, two of Henrietta's daughters.
