Lucy Clementina Davies facts for kids

Lucy Clementina Davies (born Drummond de Melfort; 21 November 1795 – 27 April 1879) was a writer born in France. She had Scottish family roots linked to the Jacobite movement. She became known for her two-volume book, Recollections of Society in France and England, published in 1872.

Her book shares a lot about her family's history. It also gives interesting details about the royal courts in France during the time of the Bourbon kings and the Bonaparte family. Lucy was the only sister of George Drummond, who became the 5th Earl of Perth.

A Look at Lucy's Life

Lucy Davies was born at the Château of St. Germain in France. Her parents were Marie Elizabeth Luce de Longuemarre and Lord Leon Maurice Drummond de Melfort. Her father was the fourth son of James Drummond, who was the 3rd Duke of Melfort in France.

Lucy's family had a long history. Her father's older brother would have been the 13th Earl of Perth. However, a legal act called an attainder prevented his ancestor from holding the title. This meant the family lost their noble status for a time.

Claiming a Noble Title

In 1848, Lucy's brother George proved his right to be the heir to the Earls of Perth. The House of Lords (a part of the British Parliament) agreed with his claim. On 28 June 1853, the attainder was officially reversed for him.

Because of this, Lucy herself was given a special recognition. On 30 September 1853, she received a patent of precedence. This meant she was officially recognized as an earl's daughter.

Lucy's Education and Experiences

Lucy was educated in Scotland by Miss Playfair, who was the sister of a famous professor. She also learned a lot from her parents' many moves between France and England. She experienced many different parts of life. At times, she faced some difficult challenges.

Family Life and Later Years

On 8 September 1823, Lucy married Francis Henry Davies in London. He worked as a registrar for the Court of Chancery, which was an important legal court. They had three children: one son and two daughters. One of their daughters, Lucy Elizabeth Drummond Davies, also became a writer, especially for children.

Lucy's husband, Francis, passed away in Koblenz, Germany, on 22 October 1863. He was 72 years old. Lady Lucy Clementina Drummond Davies died later, on 27 April 1879. She passed away in Kensington, London, at the home of her son-in-law, John Sale Barker, who was a barrister-at-law (a type of lawyer).

Lucy's Published Works

Lucy Clementina Davies is remembered for her detailed writings. Her main work is a two-volume set of memoirs.

• Recollections of Society in France and England. Volume I. Published by Hurst and Blackett, London, in 1872.
• Recollections of Society in France and England. Volume II.