Waldegrave, Frances (1821–1879)

views updated

Waldegrave, Frances (1821–1879)

English countess and society leader . Name variations: Countess Waldegrave. Born Frances Elizabeth Anne Braham in 1821; died in 1879; daughter of well-known singer John Braham; married John Walde-grave, in 1839; married Lord George Edward, 7th earl Waldegrave, in 1840 (died 1846); married George Granville Harcourt, in 1847 (died 1861); married Chichester (later Lord) Fortescue, in 1863.

Frances Waldegrave was born in 1821 into English society as the daughter of famed Jewish singer John Braham. Following her third marriage, the witty and radiant Frances, Countess Waldegrave, established herself as a London society leader, and is also known for her restoration of Strawberry Hill. In addition to throwing frequent "galas" in her Carlton Gardens home, she was skilled at politics and often hosted more serious gatherings of the influential Whigs and Liberals of her day.

Jacquie Maurice , freelance writer, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

About this article

Waldegrave, Frances (1821–1879)

Updated About encyclopedia.com content Print Article