Margaret Harington facts for kids
Margaret Harington (died 1601) was an English woman who lived in Spain during the 16th century. She was known for her connections to important families and her life at the Spanish court.
Margaret Harington was the third daughter of Sir James Harington and Lucy Sidney. Her mother, Lucy, was the daughter of Sir William Sidney from Penshurst, Kent.
Journey to Spain
In July 1559, Margaret Harington left England. She traveled with her cousin, Jane Dormer, who was married to Gómez Suárez de Figueroa y Córdoba, 1st Duke of Feria. Their journey first took them to Amboise in France. There, Mary, Queen of Scots gave a special jewel to Jane Dormer. After this, Margaret stayed with the Feria family in Madrid, Spain.
Other people who worked for the Feria family included a sister of Sir Edward Stradling and a sister of Sir William Pickering. There was also Mistress Paston, who later married Sir Henry Newton. Another important person was Susanna White, who was married to Thomas Tonge, an important officer called Clarenceux King of Arms. Susanna White had also been a lifelong helper to Mary I of England.
Life and Family in Spain
In 1588, Margaret Harington married don Benito de Cisneros. Her cousin, the Countess of Feria, gave her a large gift of money for the marriage, which was 20,000 ducats.
Margaret had two children, named Francisco and Maria. Sadly, both of her children passed away before she did.
Her family in England remained important. For example, in 1600, a special visitor from the Spanish Netherlands, Louis Verreycken, met with Queen Elizabeth I. During this meeting, Margaret's sisters were present. They were Mabel, Lady Noel, Sarah, Lady Hastings, and Theodosia, Lady Dudley. This shows the high status of the Harington family.
Later Life and Legacy
Margaret Harington helped to start a monastery in Zafra, Spain. She passed away in Madrid in 1601. She was buried in the church of Santa Marina in Zafra. The Countess of Feria, her cousin, had a monument built there to remember her.
