Margaretta Foster, 1st Viscountess Ferrard facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Viscountess Ferrand
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| Born |
Margaretta Amelia Burgh
1737 |
| Died | 20 January 1824 (aged 86–87) |
| Nationality | British Irish |
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Margaretta Amelia Foster, also known as the 1st Viscountess Ferrard, was born around 1737 and passed away on January 20, 1824. She was an important woman in Irish history. Margaretta was married to John Foster, 1st Baron Oriel, who was the very last Speaker of the Irish House of Commons. The Speaker was the person in charge of the main law-making assembly in Ireland at that time.
Margaretta Amelia was the daughter of Thomas Burgh, a Member of Parliament, and Anne Downes. Her mother's father was Dive Downes, who was a Bishop. On December 14, 1764, Margaretta married the politician John Foster.
Becoming a Peeress
On June 5, 1790, Margaretta received a special honor. She was given the title of Baroness Oriel in her own right. This meant she became a peeress, a member of the nobility. This title was created to honor her husband, John Foster. However, it was given to her so that he could continue his important job as the Speaker of the Irish House of Commons. If he had received the title himself, he would have had to leave his role as Speaker.
Later, on November 22, 1797, she received an even higher honor. She was made Viscountess Ferrard. Her husband, John Foster, later received his own title, becoming Baron Oriel, in 1821.
Her Family and Legacy
Viscountess Ferrard had three children with John Foster. Her eldest son who survived, named Thomas, inherited her titles after her death. He also inherited his father's title, Baron Oriel, when his father passed away in 1828.
