Margaret Godolphin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Margaret Godolphin
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Margaret Godolphin by Matthew Dixon, 1673
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Margaret Blagge
2 August 1652 |
| Died | 9 September 1678 (aged 26) |
| Burial place | Breage Parish Church, Cornwall |
| Nationality | British |
| Spouse(s) | |
| Children | Francis Godolphin, 2nd Earl of Godolphin |
| Parent(s) | Thomas Blagge |
Margaret Godolphin (born Margaret Blagge; August 2, 1652 – September 9, 1678) was a British courtier. She lived during the time of King Charles II. Margaret was known for her strong character and her close friendship with the writer John Evelyn, who was her mentor. She passed away after giving birth, and Evelyn later wrote a book about her life. This book was finally published many years later, in 1847.
Contents
Margaret Godolphin's Story
Margaret Blagge was likely born in London on August 2, 1652. Her father, Colonel Thomas Blagge, was a Royalist, meaning he supported the King during the English Civil War. Sadly, her father died in 1660.
Life at Court
Around 1666, when Margaret was about 14, she became a Maid of Honour. This was an important role for a young woman in the royal court. She served Anne Hyde, who was the Duchess of York. After the Duchess died in 1671, Margaret continued her role. She then served the Queen herself.
Her Mentor, John Evelyn
In 1672, Margaret chose John Evelyn to be her mentor. She called him her "spiritual father." Margaret was 20 years old, and Evelyn was 52. He guided her in religious studies and worship. Evelyn was so impressed by her life that he decided to write a book about her.
Marriage and Family
Margaret married Sidney Godolphin on May 16, 1676. At the time of their marriage, she was still a maid of court. Sidney Godolphin later became a very important politician in England. He held high positions in the government.
Margaret gave birth to her son, Francis Godolphin, on September 3, 1678. Sadly, she experienced complications from the birth. She passed away in Whitehall, London, just six days later, on September 9.
A Life Remembered
Margaret Godolphin was buried at Breage Parish Church in Cornwall. This happened a few days after her death. The book about her life, written by John Evelyn, was kept by his family for many years.
Eventually, the book was passed down to Edward Venables-Vernon-Harcourt. He was the Archbishop of York. He arranged for the book to be published in 1847. The Bishop of Oxford also helped with its publication. This book helped to share Margaret's story with the world.
