Elizabeth Lamb, Viscountess Melbourne

The Viscountess Melbourne
Portrait by George Romney
Born
Elizabeth Milbanke

1751
Died6 April 1818 (aged 66–67)
Spouse
Children9, including:
Parents
  • Sir Ralph Milbanke, 5th Bt.
  • Elizabeth Hedworth
Relatives

Elizabeth Lamb, Viscountess Melbourne (née Milbanke; 1751 – 1818) was one of the most influential of the political hostesses of the extended Regency period, and the wife of Whig politician Peniston Lamb, 1st Viscount Melbourne. She was the mother of William Lamb, 2nd Viscount Melbourne, who became Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, and several other influential children. Lady Melbourne was known for her political influence and her friendships and romantic relationships with other members of the English aristocracy, including Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire, Francis Russell, 5th Duke of Bedford, and George, Prince of Wales. Because of her numerous love affairs, the paternity of several of her children is a matter of dispute.