Louisa Berkeley, Countess of Berkeley facts for kids

Louisa Berkeley, Countess of Berkeley, after Kneller

Louisa Berkeley, Countess of Berkeley (born 24 December 1694 – died 15 January 1716), was an important figure in British society. She was known as Lady Louisa Lennox before her marriage. Louisa was the first wife of James Berkeley, 3rd Earl of Berkeley. Her father, Charles, was a son of King Charles II, which made Louisa the king's granddaughter.

Louisa was the older daughter of Charles Lennox, 1st Duke of Richmond, and his wife, Anne Brudenell.

Louisa's Marriage

Louisa Lennox married James Berkeley, 3rd Earl of Berkeley on 13 February 1711. She was 16 years old when she became the Countess of Berkeley.

Her Children

Louisa and the Earl of Berkeley had two children together:

• Augustus Berkeley, 4th Earl of Berkeley (born 18 February 1715 – died 9 January 1755). He later became the 4th Earl of Berkeley.
• Lady Elizabeth Berkeley (born 15 January 1716 – died 1745). She later married a man named Anthony Henley.

Role in the Royal Court

From 1714 until her death, Louisa had a special role in the royal court. She was a Lady of the Bedchamber to Caroline of Ansbach, who was the Princess of Wales at the time. A Lady of the Bedchamber was a lady-in-waiting who helped the queen or princess with personal duties and was a close companion.

Her Passing

Louisa Berkeley, Countess of Berkeley, passed away at the age of 21. She died from smallpox, a serious illness common at the time. She was buried at St Mary's Church, Berkeley.