Mary, Duchess of Beaufort
(1630-1715), Horticulturist; wife of 1st Duke of Beaufort; daughter of 1st Baron CapelSitter in 2 portraits
Mary Capel married Henry Somerset in 1657; he was created the Duke of Beaufort in 1682. In around 1660, Somerset inherited the Badminton estate and embarked on a major building project there. Mary focused her attention on the gardens and by 1678 had started a new fashion by installing conservatories. She also built almshouses and Badminton School. In 1681, the Somersets bought a home in Chelsea, which they remodelled, and Mary once again redesigned the gardens.
by Joseph Nutting, after Robert Walker
line engraving, circa 1690-1722
NPG D30510
Related People
- Henry Somerset, 1st Duke of Beaufort (husband)
- Arthur Capel, 1st Baron Capel (father)
- Henry Capel, Baron Capel of Tewkesbury (brother)
- Elizabeth, Lady Capel (mother)
- Charles Capel (brother)
- Elizabeth Dormer (née Capel), Countess of Carnarvon (sister)
- Arthur Capel, 1st Earl of Essex (brother)
- Mary Butler (née Somerset), Duchess of Ormonde (daughter)
- Charles Somerset, Marquess of Worcester (son)
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