Sarah, Lady Pennington facts for kids
Sarah, Lady Pennington, born Sarah Moore (around 1720 in Bath, Somerset – August 1783 in Fulmer), was an English writer. She wrote a very popular book that gave advice to young women on how to behave and live their lives.
About Sarah Lady Pennington
Sarah Moore was born around 1720. She later married Sir Joseph Pennington, who was a Baronet (a special title in England, like a knight but passed down through family). Sir Joseph also worked for the government, helping to collect taxes on goods.
After about twelve years, Sarah and Joseph had problems in their marriage. They decided to live apart. Back then, it was very hard and expensive to get a divorce in England. Even just living separately was often seen as a bad thing by society.
Lady Pennington moved to Bath. Her children stayed with their father. It seems she was not allowed to see her children after the separation.
Her Famous Book
Even though Lady Pennington did not go to school formally, she wrote a very popular book. It was called An Unfortunate Mother's Advice to Her Absent Daughters; in a Letter to Miss Pennington (published in 1761). This book was a type of guide for young women. It taught them about good manners and how to make wise choices.
Lady Pennington wrote the book because she could not talk to her daughters directly. She wanted to share her wisdom with them. The book was special because it also explained why she chose to live apart from her husband. She felt it was important for a woman to follow her own conscience, even if it meant going against what was expected in marriage.
Her book helped people understand her situation better. Many people felt sympathy for her. For example, a newspaper called the Gentleman's Magazine wrote about her "difficult and unusual troubles" when she passed away.
The book was very successful. It was printed three times in its first year! It continued to be printed and included in other collections of writings for many years, even into the 1800s.
Other Writings
Lady Pennington also wrote two other books:
- Letters on Different Subjects (published in 1766)
- The Child's Conductor (published in 1777)
