Jane Granville, Countess of Bath facts for kids

Jane Granville, Countess of Bath (born Jane Wyche; 1630 – 3 February 1692), was an important English noblewoman. She was the wife of John Granville, 1st Earl of Bath. She also served as a Lady of the Bedchamber to Catherine of Braganza. Catherine was the queen of King Charles II of England.

Who Was Jane Granville?

Jane Granville was born Jane Wyche in 1630. She became a countess when her husband, John Granville, received the title of Earl of Bath. This happened after the monarchy was restored in England in 1660. Jane was a close attendant to Queen Catherine of Braganza. Her role as a Lady of the Bedchamber meant she was a high-ranking lady-in-waiting. She helped the Queen with personal duties and was part of her inner circle.

Her Family and Early Life

Jane was the daughter of Sir Peter Wyche. He was an English ambassador to the Ottoman Empire. This was a very important job, representing England in another country. Her mother was Jane Meredith.

Jane had several notable siblings. Her brother, Sir Peter Wyche, also became an English ambassador. He served in countries like Russia and Poland. Another brother, Sir Cyril Wyche, was the President of the Royal Society. The Royal Society is a famous group that promotes science.

Her family had a history of important roles. Her grandfather, Richard Wyche, was a merchant. Her great-grandfather, Sir Richard Saltonstall, was once the Lord Mayor of London. This shows her family had strong connections in trade and government.

Marriage and Becoming a Countess

Her husband, John Granville, 1st Earl of Bath

Jane Wyche married John Granville in October 1652. Their wedding took place in Kilkhampton. After King Charles II returned to the throne in 1660, John Granville was given the title of Earl of Bath. This event is known as the Restoration of the monarchy. When John became an earl, Jane became a countess. This made them a very important noble family in England.

Her Children

Jane and John Granville had several children. They raised a large family together. Their children included:

• Charles Granville, 2nd Earl of Bath (1661–1701): He was their oldest son. He inherited his father's title. Charles married twice. His first wife was Lady Martha Osborne. His second wife was Isabella van Nassau.
• Lady Jane Granville (around 1653–1696): She married Sir William Leveson-Gower. They had children, including John Leveson-Gower, who later became the 1st Baron Gower.
• Lady Catherine Granville: She married Craven Peyton. He was a Member of Parliament. They did not have any children.
• Lady Grace Granville (1654–1744): She was later known as the 1st Countess Granville. She married George Carteret. Grace was given her own noble title later in life.
• John Granville, 1st Baron Granville of Potheridge (1665–1707): He married Rebecca Child. They did not have any children.

The title of Earl of Bath eventually passed to Charles's only son, William. Sadly, William died at a young age in 1711.