Worldwide Guide to Women in Leadership
Germany Substates
After the Treaty of Westphalia (1648) the Holy
Roman Empire was little more than a loose confederation of about 300 independent
principalities and 1,500 or more semi-sovereign bodies or individuals. Threats
from the Ottoman Empire or from Louis XIV of France occasionally stimulated
imperial cooperation, but usually each state considered only its own welfare.
The Austrian-Prussian wars, Hanover's acquisition of the English throne, and
Saxony's holding of the Polish crown exemplify the particularism that prevailed.
Napoleon I finally destroyed the empire. After defeating Austria and its
imperial allies in 1797 and 1801, he annexed some German land and suggested that
the larger territories compensate themselves by confiscating the free cities and
ecclesiastical states. By the Diet's Recess (1803), 112 small states were thus
seized by their neighbours. Three years later Napoleon compelled 16 German
states to form the Confederation of the Rhine and to secede from the empire. On
March 6, 1806, Francis II, who had previously assumed the title of Emperor of
Austria, abdicated as Holy Roman Emperor and declared the old empire dissolved,
but a new German Regime was established with the king of Preussia as Emperor,
which lasted until 1918.
Apart from
the thusands of more or less sovereign states, the country was devided into
countless lordships, that were in charge of the local government. A few are
included in this list.
Also see
Germany_Heads
and Germany Ecclesiastical
Territories
Go to: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T V W
1738-54 Lady of the Free Lordship of Knyphausen and Noble Lady of Varel, Lady of
Sengwarden, Fedderwarden and Accum
She succeeded her father, Anton II as head of the Reichsfreie Herrlichkeit
Knyphausen (semi-independent territory) and to the titles Frau of the Freie
Herrlichkeit of Knyphausen and the Noble Lordship of Varel, and reigned jointly
with her husband, the Dutch Count Wilhelm van Bentnick und Aldenburg (1704-74).
Since the age of 14 she had been love with Count Albrecht Wolfgang zu
Schaumburg-Lippe, and they maintained their connection, which ended in a major
scandal. She lived (1715-1800).
1738-... Dowager
Countess Wilhelmine Maria von Hessen-Homburg
The year after Count Anton III (1681-1738) died, Count Albrecht Wolfgang von
Schaumburg-Lipe-Bückeburg was confirmed as co-guardian on her request. She was
daughter of Freiderich von Hessen-Homburg and Luise Elisabeth von Kurland,
mother of one daughter, and lived (1678-1770).
1255-70 Hereditary Countess
Margaretha von Hohenstaufen of Altenburg, Zwickau, Chemnitz etc.
Daughter of Emperor Friedrich II Hohenstaufen and Isabella of England. She
married Albrecht II von Thüringen, who committed adultery with Kunigunde von
Eisenberg. Margaretha escaped to Frankfurt where she died after 6 weeks. She
lived (1241-70).
Anhalt
1586-1618 Reigning Dowager
Lady Dowager Princess Eleonore von Württemberg of Lichtenberg in Anhalt
Widow of Joachim Ernst, Fürst von Anhalt (1536-86) who
reigned Anhalt-Köthen from 1551 and all of the parts of the Principality of
Anhalt from 1570. With his first wife Agnes von Barby (1540-69) he had 3 sons
and 4 daughters and they had 5 sons and 3 daughters together. She lived
(1552-1618).
A
1275-circa 1295/98
Abbess of Gernrode and Frose
Before his death her husband, Heinrich II the Fat von Anhalt-Aschersleben had
named her regent in the event of his death. In the beginning she used the name "Mechtild,
comitissa Ascharie et princeps in Anehalt" in the documents, the title of "princeps"
soon went to her sons, Otto I and Heinrich III, and thereafter she did not issue
decrees, she only accepted the decisions of her sons. In 1275 she became Abbess
of Gernrode and Frose, and continued as a mild and just ruler. She lived
(ca.1230-ca.1295/98).
A
Her son 6th and first surviving son, Viktor Amadeus, was almost 20 when he took
as Reigning Prince over from her husband,
1834-55
De-facto I
1855-63 Co-Regent
De-facto in-charge of the government because her husband, Alexander IV
(1815-68), was mentally instable. When he was diagnosed with
Schizophrenia
1855, she became his co-regent with the
accept of Duke Leopold Friedrich von Anhalt-Dessau. After Alexander's death the
Duchy became part of Anhalt-Dessau. Duchess Friederike was sister of Christian
IX of Denmark, and until her death she lived at Ballerstedt Castle in
Anhalt-Bernburg. Friedrike Caroline Juliane lived (1811-1902).
Anhalt-Köthen
1670-91 Regent Dowager Princess
Anna Eleonore von Stolberg-Wernigerode
Her husband, Emanuel (1631-50-70), died after only 7 months of marriage, and she
became joint regent with Johan Georg II von Anhalt-Dessau, for her posthumously
born son, Emmanuel Albrecht (1671-1704), and got Imperial
confirmation as regent in 1671. She lived (1651-91).
1704-15 Regent Dowager Duchess Gisela Agnes vom Rath
Following the death of her husband, Emmanuel Albrecht (1671-1704), she
became regent for son Leopold (1694-1704-28),
even though she was
both of lower nobility and a Lutheran. Leopold was succeeded by his
brother, August Ludwig (1697-1728-55). She lived (1670-1740).
Anhalt-Zerbst
1621-42 Guardian Dowager Duchess Magdalena von Oldenburg of Anhalt-Zerbst
(Germany)
1621-57 Reigning Dowager Lady of the Administrative Office and Castle of Coswig
Her husband, Rudolf (1576-1603-21), died shortly after the birth of her son,
Johan, and her brother-in-law, August von Anhalt-Köthen-Plötzkau (1575-1653),
was named regent. Because of the upheavels during the Thirty Years War she had
to leave Zerbst and seek refuge with her children in Wittenberg until she moved
to Oldenburg with her children in 1633 and lived by her brother, Anton Günther,
and they did not move back until Zerbst until 1642. In 1646 she and her son were
named heirs of the Lordships Jever and Knyphausen after her childless brother.
Her son inherited the title in 1667. The mother of 2 daughters and a son, she
was daughter of Graf Johann XVI. von Oldenburg (1540-1603) and Elisabeth von
Schwarzburg (1541-1612), and lived (1585-1657).
1667-74 Regent Dowager Duchess Sophie Auguste von Holstein-Gottorp of
Anhalt-Zerbst (Germany)
1778-80 Reigning Dowager Lady of the Castle and Administrative Unit of Coswig
She and her daughter, Sophia Augusta, survied the smallpox but her husband,
Johann, died. She was named regent for their son, Carl Wilhelm, who was Duke of
Anhalt-Zerbst, Duke of Sachsen, Angaria and Westphalia, Count of Ascania, Lord
of Bernburg, Zerbst, Jever and Knyphausen. After her son came of age, she
withdrew to her dorwy, but the following year she suffered a number of strokes
and fevers and had to endure months of suffering before she died. The mother of
14 children of whom 5 survied into adulthod, she lived (1630-80).
Widow of Carl Wilhelm (1652-1718) and
mother of Johann August von Anhalt-Zerbst. She lived (1654-1724)
1742-52
Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Princess Hedwig Friederike von Württemberg-Weiltingen
of the Administrative Offices and Castles of Roßlau and Coswig in Anhalt-Zerbst
During her
childhood she spend
1693-95 by her mother's
sister in Oels because
her family had to flee
for the French troops. 1703 the family fled to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the next year they stayed in Windsbach near Ansbach. 1705 her father
died and since her
mother had already
been mentally unstable since 1696, she was placed under the guardianship
of an uncle, but still
lived at the large castle of Weiltingen an der Wörnitz
until she again fled for the French in
1707. In 1715 she met
Fürst Johann August von
Anhalt-Zerbst and her sister, Juliana Sibylla Charlotte (1690-1735),
who had been married to Karl Friedrich von Württemberg-Öls (1690-1761) since
1709, gave the permission to the marriage in the
name of their mother.
1747-52 Regent Dowager Duchess Johanna Elisabeth von Holstein-Gottorp
After the death of her husband, Christian August (160-42-47), she was regent for
son, Friedrich-August, who was Duke of Anhalt-Zerbst, Duke of Sachsen, Angaria
and Westphalia, Count of Ascania, Lord of Bernburg, Zerbst, Jever and Knyphausen.
Her daughter later became Catharina II of Russia, and inherited Jever after the
death of her brother in 1793. Johanna Elisabeth lived (1712-60).
The Duchy of
Arenberg had a seat on the Secular Bench of the Imperial Diet and was
Member of the College
of the Counts of Westphalia, which had one joint vote in the Council of Princes
of the Imperial Diet. Also member of the
Electoral
Rhenish Circle Estate (Regional Assembly)
1537-99 Sovereign Countess Margarete von der Marck
1576-99 Sovereign Princess-Countess (By
the Grace of God, Princess and Countess of Arenberg)
Also known as Marguerite de La Marck d'Arenberg, she succeeded her brother,
Robert III, as the sole heir of the Dutch Hause van der Marck. She was married to
Jean de Ligne, Baron de Barbancon, who was named Reichsgraf von Arenberg in 1549
- he died in battle in 1568, and Margaretha vigorously defended her territory
from invading forces. In 1571 emperor Maximillian II confirmed the "Reichsunmittelbarkeit"
- or semi-independence - of the realm and in 1576 both she and her son were
granted the title of Reichsfürst/in. She was given the right to mint her own
money, and though she was of Dutch birth, she was very preoccupied with the
governing of her German realm. Among others she fought against witch-hunts and
backed industry and education. She lived (1527-99).
1691-1711
Possible Regent Dowager Duchess Donna Maria Enrietta del Caretto de Savona y
Grana of Arenberg
1728-42 Guardian and Administrator of Bergen op Zoom and Walhain (The
Netherlands)
After the death of Philippe Charles François de Ligne, 3rd Herzog von Arenberg,
Duc d'Aerschot, (1663-91) she might have been the person who was regent for son
Leopold Philippe, Duke of Arenberg, Duc d'Aerschot (1691-54), who married Donna
Maria Francesca Pignatelli, Duchessa di Bisaccia, Countess van Egmond
(1696-1766). Apparently she acted as regent for her great-grandson Karel Philip
Theodoor van Sulzbach (b.1724) after the death of her grand-daughter, Maria
Henriëtte de la Tour d'Auvergne and was known as "the Dowager van Arenberg"
during this period. Karl Philip became elector of Bavaria in 1777. He died in
1799 as the last Marquis of Bergen op Zoom. She was also known as Maria
Enrichetta, and was Daughter of Ottone Enrico, Field Marshal of the Empire,
Governor and General Captain of the Netherlands from 1682, and succeeded him to
the titles of Titluar Marchesa di Savona y Grana, Countess of Millesimo, Lady
and Co-Lady of Roccavignale, Co-Lady of Cosseria, Dame di Casaleggi in 1685,
and lived (1671-1744).
Aspel
1013-85
Sovereign Countess Irmgard
Also
known as Saint Irmgard von Köln, the documents show her as Reigning Countess,
and after her parents died, she distributed her wealth among hospitals, churches
and social institutions. She lived a simple life in solitude and went on three
pilgrimages to Rome. She spend her last years in Köln, where she supported
Chapters and Convents. She lived (1000-85).
1852-1918 Politically Influential Grand Duchess Luise von Preussen
She became very influential through her involvement in the social reforms of the
Grand duchy, where the wars and upheavals of the 19th century had caused
extended poverty and hardship. She founded schools, hospitals and asylums, and
she was engaged in the women's associations, the welfare of war veterans and her
name became closely connected to the newly established Red Cross. Her husband,
Friedrich I, was also very liberal and introduced vide ranging political
reforms (for men). In 1870 she was given her own Secretariat in the Geheime
Kabinet (Secret Cabinet) of the Granducal administration. She continued her
activities after her son, Friedrich II, succeeded to the throne in 1907. After
his abdication in 1918 the family had to flee Karlsruhe and moved to Neue
Schloss in Baden-Baden, which had remained a private property of the family, but
she continued her charitable activities even though she had turned blind because
of an illness. Daughter of Prince Wilhlem of Preußen and Augusta of
Sachsen-Weimar, and mother of three children, she lived (1838-1913).
The Margravate
1475-93 Reigning Dowager Lady Katharina von Österreich of the Administrative
Office and Castle of Hohenbaden
Widow of Margrave Karl I von Baden (1453-75), who was succeeded by their oldest
son, Christoph I, who build the "New Castle" and left the old one for his mother
as her residence and dowry. Among her other 5 children was Margareta, Abbess in
Lichtenthal, who lived (1452-95). Katharina lived (1423-93).
1570-79 Regent and Guardian Maria Jacobäa von Baden
Together with her son, Duke Albrecht V von Bayern (1528-79), she was guardian
for her grandson, Margrave Philipp II von Baden-Baden (1559-69-99) after the
death of both his parents, Philibert (1536-54-69) and Mechtild von Bayern
(1532-65) (Her daughter). Philbert, had inherited Baden-Baden from his father,
Bernhard III who was her uncle, and who had inherited his share of the state
when her father died as she was his only child. The other share was inherited by
her other uncle Ernst I, and their decendants;
Christoph, Philipp and Karl von Baden-Durlach claimed the regency, but she had
already received the homage by the Estates and inhabitants of the margravate ("die Erbhuldigung eingenommen") and
was confirmed as regent by the Emperor. She lived (1507-80).
1707-27 Regent
Dowager Margravine Sibylla Augusta von Sachsen-Lauenburg
1728-33 Reigning Dowager Lady of the City and Castle of Ettlingen
She was barely 15 as she became the wife of "Türkenlouis", Margrave Ludwig
Wilhelm von Baden-Baden (1655-1707). She brought large Bohemian possessions to
the marriage and she was extremely appreciative of art. During the minority of
her son she was joint Ruler with two others. She lived (1675-1733).
Baden-Durlach
1577-84 Head of the Regency
Government Dowager Margravine Anna von der Pfalz-Veldenz
After the death of her husband, Karl II (1553-77) she was regent for her sons
together with Elector Ludwig VI. von der Pfalz and Duke Ludwig von Württemberg.
The 2 oldest sons were Markgraf Ernst Friedrich von Baden-Durlach and, Markgraf
Jakob von Baden-Hachberg. The third son, Georg Friedrich inherited the whole
territory in 1604. She was daughter of Pfalzgraf Ruprecht von Veldenz and
Ursula, Wild- und Rheingräfin von Daun-Kyrburg und Salm and mother of 8 children,
and lived (1540-77)
Baden-Hocberg
zu Durlach
1738-42 Regent Dowager Margravine Magdalene Wilhelmine von Württemberg
After the death of her husband, Margrave Karl II Wilhelm (1679-38) she became
regent for her grandson, Karl Friedrich (1728-1811), together with another
regent. Karl Friedrich who later became Elector of Baden and then Grand Duke
was son of her second son, Friedrich (1703-32) and Anna Charlotte Amalie von
Nassau-Dietz (1710-77). Magdalene Wilhelmine lived (1677-1742).
After 1575-86 Regent Dowager Margravine Cecilia Vasa
Also known as Cäcilia Wasa was allowed totake
over the regency after many years of processes against the stipulation in the
the will of her husband, Christoph II of Baden (1537-75). Her son, Eduard
Fortunatus von Baden (1565-1600) was Margrave of Baden-Baden (1588-96). She
lived a stormy life and travled a lot. She spend a year in London, where her
oldest son was born, and became a friend of Queen Elizabeth I. At some point she
lived at her dowry Arboga in Sweden where she started an iron-mine and was
behind piracy at the Baltic sea. When Eduard
Fortunatus died, his oldest son Wilhelm was only 7. He did not become Margrave
of Baden-Baden until 1621 and it is not clear if either Cecilia or her
daughter-in-law, Marie von Eichen (d. 1636), played any role during his
minority. Apart from her oldest son she was mother of 5
sons who all were unmarried or died young. The daughter of King Gustav I Vasa of
Sweden and his second wife Margareta Eriksdotter Leijonhufvud, and lived
(1540-1627).
Ecclesiastical Territory of Baindt
(gefürstete
Damenstift Baindt - Princely Ladies Chapter) (In
Baden-Württemberg) (See
Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Bautzen-Oberlausitz
1243-90 Hereditary Countess
Beatrix von Böhmen
Oldest daughter of King Wenzel I of Bohemia and Kunigunde von Schwabien, she was
given the rich dowries of Bautzen and Oberlausitz around Görlitz and Bautzen for
her marriage to Margrave Otto III of Brandenburg (1215-67). She was mother of
two daughters and four sons, and lived (1225-90).
Bayern (Bavaria)
748-54 Regent Dowager Princess Hiltrude
For Tassilo. She was daughter of Karl Martel
955-66 Regent Dowager Duchess Judith von Bayern
She was the daughter of Duke Arnulf of Bavaria. Married to Heinrich, a
son of Heinrich I of Germany, who
became duke of Bavaria in 948. After his death, she was regent for their
son, Heinrich II with the title Dux et
domina. 966-74 she was on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, and afterwards she retired to
the
Chapter of
Niedermünster in Regensburg.
(d.
after 985).
1055-61 Hereditary Duchess Agnes de Pointou of Bavaria
1056-62 Regent Dowager Empress of the Holy Roman Empire
She was descended from the royal houses of Burgundy and Italy, the daughter of
William V of Aquitaine and Poitou, she became the second wife of the German king
Henry III in 1043. They were crowned Holy Roman Emperor and Empress by Clement
II in 1046. After her husband's death she acted as Regent for her son, Heinrich
IV (1050-?) She was not an experienced politician and was influenced by the
nobility to part with the duchies of Bavaria and Carinthia, and entered into
unwise alliances against the dominant reforming party in the Papacy. By 1062
discontent led to an uprising in which Anno, Archbishop of Köln, took over the
regency. Agnes retired to a convent where she remained until her death. She
lived (1024-77).
First wife of Friedrich II Hohestaufen, Duke of Schwaben und Franken
1183-92 Regent Dowager Princess Agnes van Loon
1294-1304 Lady of Vohberg, Neuburg, Burglengenfeld, Reidenburg, Ingolstadt,
Aichach, Landsberg and the other Bavarian Cities in the Schwäbische Land
After the death of her husband, Duke Ludwig II von Bayern (1229-94) her oldest
19 year old son, Rudolf, claimed the right to be guardian and regent for the
youngest son, Ludwig of Upper-Bavaria - later king of the German Realm under the
name of Ludwig IV - but Mechtild did not accept this, and she continued to
intervene in the affairs of state, and contemporary sources states that "her
rule was good and masculine". Mother and oldest son continued to be at odds and
in 1302 she was arrested by Rudolf and brought to München, where she signed an
agreement promising never to interfere in the government again, but as soon as
she was outside the boarders of Bavaria she declared the agreement null and
void, and got the support of her brother, Albrecht von Habsburg, her younger son
and many others. She was daughter of the German King Rudolf I von Habsburg and
Gertrud Anna von Hohenberg, was mother of five children, and lived (1253-1304).
1417-36 Duchess Jacqueline
zu Holland
In Holland known as Jacobäa.
After she took up residence at the castle, the city of Friedberg became the center of the court life and in the next years it experienced a major boom until it was devestated by the plauge in 1599 and it was destroyed twice during the Thirty Years War. She was former Regent of Lorraine,
Princess of Denmark and mother-in-law of Wilhelm V, married to Renata von Lothringen.
1651-54/58 Regent Dowager
Electress Maria Anna von Habsburg of Bavaria
1654-65
After the death of her husband, of Kurfürst Maximillian I, she was regent for
their son Kurfürst Ferdinand Maria (1636-51-79). She lived (1610-65).
1658-76 Politically
Influential Electress
She had a strong influence over her husband Ferdinand Maria (
1704-05 Regent Dowager Princess Palatine (Kurfürstin) Therese Kunigunde Sobieska
For Maximilian II. She lived (1676-1730)
1722-45 Politically Influential Electress Maria
Amalia von Habsburg
1743-45 Influential in the Holy Roman Empire
She was married to elector Karl Albrecht of Bavaria, and was a passionate
hunter, loved parties and politics. She was daughter of Emperor Josef I and
Amalie Wilhelmine von Braunschweig-Lüneburg and even though she had accepted the
Pragmatic Solution, she did claim parts Habsburg Inheritance after the death of
her uncle in 1740, but her cousin, Maria Theresia refused this. Maria Amalia's
husband was elected emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, though, in 1742, as Karl
VII. Maria Amalia supported her husband in the Austrian Succession-war, but
after his death, she advised her son, Maximilian III Josef to make peace and
compromise with Vienna. Her sister, Maria Josepha, was very influential as Queen
of Poland from 1733. Maria Amalia lived (1701-56).
1745-90 Politically influential
Duchess Maria Anna von der
Pfalz-Sulzbach
As a leading member of the Anti-Austrian Patriotic Group at the Court of Munich,
she played a leading role in the continued existence of the Electorate Bavaria
as an unified state. Her husband, Herzog Clemens Franz de Paula, was the nephew
of Elector and Emperor Karl Albrecht VII. After the death of the emperor in 1745
Maria Anna entered the political scene. She managed to persuade the new Elector,
Maximillian III Joseph, to adopt a policy of neutrality. During the 7 year war,
(1756–1763), during which Bavaria sided with France-Austria, she took up contact
with Friedrich II von Preußen, and they engaged in a heavy correspondence. After
Elector Max III Joseph died in 1777, the Bavarian throne was inherited by
Elector Karl Theodor von der Pfalz. He seemed to be inclined to accept Emperor
Joseph IIs claims on parts of the state, but Maria Anna advocated for a
continued united Bavaria, and found an ally in Friedrich II, who took part in
the succession-war in 1778-79. She was also one of the leading forces of a the
Bavarian-Dutch movement for exchange of lands in 1784/85, and she therefore
supported Friedrich IIs "Prince-Union Project" of 1785 and was able to secure
the continued existence of the united Electorate of Bavaria. She lived
(1722-90).
1886-1912 Politically Influential Dowager Duchess Adelgunde von Bayern
di Modena
From 1875, After the death of her husband Archduke Francesco V of Austria-Este,
who had abdicated as reigning Duke of Modena in 1859 due to the Italian
Unification, she mainly lived in Munich. From 1886 onwards she came to
prominence when her brother Luitpold took over the Regency of Bavaria. They were
referred to as 'Aunt Modena' and 'Poldi', and were an inseparable couple.
Adelgunde had a great influence on her brother; together with Luitpold's
daughter, Therese, she performed many social duties at Luitpold's side. Although
regarded as plain and old-fashioned, she was nevertheless feared. Both the
Bavarian ministers and the government in Berlin distrusted her as she was
regarded to be the Habsburg influence in Munich. Mother of one child, Anna
Beatrice, who lived (1848-49). Adelgunde lived (1823-1914).
After the death of her husband, Duke Ludwig VIII of Bayern-Inglofstadt (1403-45) she kept her father-in-law, Ludwig VII (1365-1447) imprisoned at the Neuburg in order to use him as exchange for the damage payment demanded by her brother,
Bayern-Landshut/Niederbayern
1393-1404 Regent Dowager Duchess Maddalena Visconti of Lower Bavaria
After the death of her husband, Friedrich, Duke of Bayern-Landshut (1375-1393),
she was regent for their son Heinrich XVI the Rich (1386-93-1450). She was
daughter of Lord Barnabas Visconti of Milano and Beatrix della Scala di Verona,
and lived (circa 1366-1404).
1503-04 Duchess Regnant Elisabeth
Succeeded father, lived (1478-1504).
Bayern-München
1508-10 Regent Dowager Duchess Kunigunde von Habsburg of Bavaria-Munich
She married Albrecht IV of Bayern-München (1467-1508) against the will of her
own father, Emperor Friedrich III, and joint regent for son Wilhelm IV
(1493-1508-50). She later joined the Pütrich-Convent which she favoured. In
spite of the resignation from the court she tried to influence the politics of
the state as she acted in favour of the rights of her younger sons. She was in
close contact with her brother, Emperor Maximilian I von Habsburg, and with
other rulers and relatives in Europe. She was a political player in her own
right and not only a "instrument" of her family. She lived (1465-1520).
Beichlingen
1078-...
Hereditary Countess Kunigunde von Meissen
Around 1100 Hereditary Countess Mechtild of Kiev
Bedburg
1459-79 Margarethe von
Limburg, Heiress of Bedbur and Hakenbroich
Daughter of Wilhelm I, Count von Limburg (d. 1459) and Metza von Reifferscheid
(d. 1437) , and married to Gumprecht II von Neuenahr (d, 1484).
Bentheim-Steinfurt
The County
was Member of the College of the Counts of Westphalia, which had one joint vote
in the Council of Princes of the Imperial Diet. Also the County of Hoya had a
vote in the College.
1149-65 Administrator Gertrud
von Nordheim
of Bentheim and Rheineck
Politically influential in
in the Pfalzgrafschaft of the Rhine from 1113. After her first husband, Count Siegfred von
Ballenstedt, Pfalzgraf bei Rhein was killed in battle, she fought for the
inheritance of their sons Count Siegfried zu Orlamünde (d. 1124) and Wilhelm,
Pfalzgraf bei Rhein (d. 1140), aided by her second husband, Count Otto von
Rheineck (d. 1150). Her third son Otto II von Rheineck was killed in 1149, and
therefore she administered his inheritance as her own fiefs until her death, and
had nothing more to do with the County Palantine by the Rhine. She managed to
have her daughter Sophie named Heiress of the County of Bentheim. Gertrud was
daughter of Heinrich the Fat of Northeim and Gertrud von Braunschweig, sister of
Empress Richenza, and lived (circa 11190-before 1165).
Circa 1165-76
Countess Regnant Sofia
von Rheineck
Succeeded mother and married to Dirk VI of Holland. Her second son, Otto,
succeeded her around 1166. (d. 1176)
1466-80 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager
Countess Katharina von Gemen of the Office and Castle of Gronau
She was widow of
Arnold I. von Bentheim-Steinfurt, but resigned in 1480. She lived (after
1439-1502).
1533-53 Regent
Dowager Countess Walburga von Brederode of Bentheim and Steinfurt (Germany)
1553-68 Reigning Dowager Lad of the Office and Castle of Gronau in
Bentheim-Steinfurt
Her husband, Arnold II von Bentheim-Steinfurt died after 3 years of marriage and
left her in charge of the government in the name of her son. She took over the
castle of Gronau as her personal income in 1537. After her death, her daughter
Agnes was in dispute with Anna von Bentheim-Steinfurt (Regent of
Bentheim-Tecklenburg-Rheda)were in dispute over the posession until 1571. She
lived (1512-68).
1562-73 Regent
Dowager Countess
Anna von
Tecklenburg-Schwerin of Bentheim
1566-72 Regent of Steinfurt-Wevelinghoven and Granau
Succeeded father, Konrad von Tecklenburg-Ibbenbüren as
Sovereign Countess of Tecklenburg und Rheda in
1557, and
married to Everwin III von Götterswich, Graf von Bentheim-Steinfurt (1536-62).
After his death, she was regent in Bentheim and after the death Arnold III, also
regent in Steinfurt. In 1580 she handed over Tecklenburg and Rheda to her son,
Arnold IV, and lived (1532-82).
1603-1605 Reigning Dowager Lady Walburga von
Bentheim-Steinfurt of Gronau in Bentheim
After the death of her husband, Count Hermann I zu Wied, she was regent for
their son, Johann Wilhelm (circa 1580-1633) in Wied 1591-1603. After he came of
age, she took over her dowry in her "native" Bentheim. Mother of 3 sons and 3
daughters and lived (1555-1628).
1610-12 Regent
Dowager Countess Magdalena von
Neuenahr-Alpen of Bentheim-Steinfurt
In her own right Sovereign Countess of Neuenahr und
Limburg, Hereditary Marshall of the Diocese of Köln, Lady of Alpen, Helpenstein
and Lennep 1602-27. She inherited Neuenahr und Limburg
from her half-sister, Amelia who had inherited it from her half brother in 1575.
The territory of her husband was occupied by troops from Köln, and it was not
until four years after the death of her husband, Arnold III, that she was able
to take over the regency for her son, Konrad Gumprect von Bentheim-Steinfurt
(1585-1618). She remained influential to her death. Magdelena lived (1551-1627).
1618-54 Regent Dowager Countess Johannetta Elisabeth von Nassau-Katzenelnbogen
of Bentheim- Limburg und Burg
Widow of Count Conrad Gumprecht, she was regent for son Wilhelm, who died in
1626, and then for his successor - a nephew - Count Moritz von
Bentheim-Tecklenburg-Rheda. She was in charge of in Limburg and Burg during the
Thirty Years War, which left the county devastated. In 1633 she had to flee to her
sister's residence in Fürstenau, and the same year the county was hit by plague.
She returned in 1637 and managed to keep the county within the Bentheim family.
She lived (1592-1654).
1632-1660 Reigning Dowager Lady Anna Elisabeth von Anhalt-Dessau
of Gronau
Widow of Wilhelm
Heinrich von Bentheim-Steinfurt, and lived (1598-1660)
1674-95 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager
Countess Johanna Dorothea von Anhalt-Dessau of Gronau
She was widow of Moritz zu Bentheim-Tecklenburg (1615-74), and she lived
(1612-95).
1710-18 Regent Dowager Countess Christiane Marie Hedwig zur Lippe zu Brake of
Bentheim-Tecklenburg Steinfurt and Limpurg, Lady of Linge, Rheda, Wefflinghoffen,
Hoya Alpen und Helffenstein, Hereditary Guardian of Cöllin
Second wife of Friedrich Moritz zu Bentheim-Tecklenburg (1653-1710) and regent
for son her only son Moritz Kasimir I (1701-68). In official documents she used
the title "wittiben Grafin zu Bentheim, Tecklenburg, Steinfurt und Limburg, Frau
zu Linge, Rheda, Wefflinghoffen, Hoya Alpen und Helffenstein, Erb Voigtin Zu
Cölln, gebohren Gräfin und Edle Fraue Zur Lippe, Confirmirte Vormünderin und
Regentin pp." She lived (1669-1738).
1713-24 Regent Dowager Countess Isabella Justina van Hoorn of Bentheim und
Steinfurt
The widow of Count Ernst (1661-93-1713), she was regent for Friedrich Belgicus
Karl (1703-13-33), and lived (1661-1734).
1733-38
(†)
Regent
Dowager Countess Franziska Charlotte zur Lippe-Detmold
After the death of her husband,
Friedrich Belgicus Karl (1703-13-33),
she was regent for son Karl von
Bentheim-Steinfurt, Count of Steinfurt and Alpen. After her
death the regency was taken over by some of her late husband's relatives. She
lived (1703-38)
Berg und Kleve
Until it was incorporated in other Principalities, it had a vote in the
Imperial Diet and was Member of the Imperial Circle Estate of
Niederrheinisch-Westfälischer Reichskreis
1218-48 Hereditary Countess
Irmgard
She was daughter of Adolf V and Bertha von Sayn. After her father's death
Archbishop Engelbert II of Köln took over as regent. In 1217 she married Count
Heinrich von Luxembourg-Limburg and they clamed the county in 1225, and her they
were recognized as her father's rightful successors, something which curtailed
the power of the bishop. She lived (circa 1200-48).
1260-1314 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Countess Margarete von von Are-Hostaden
of the County of Hückeswagen
Wife of Adolf IV. von Berg (1246-59). Daughter of Count
Lothar I von Are-Hochstaden and Mathilde von Vianden, mother of 5 sons
and 1 daughter, and lived (1214-1314).
1305-18 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Countess Margaretha von Kiburg of the
Linner Land (Burg Linn bei Krefeld) in Berg
Widow of Dietrich VIII von Kleve and resigned the lordship in favour of her
younger son, Johann, when she joined the Convent of Bedburg in Kleve.
1348-84 Countess Regnant Margarta
Succeeded father, ruled with several co-regents
1368-84
Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Countess Mechtild von Geldern of the
Linner Land (Burg Linn bei Krefeld) in Berg
First married to Godert von Leon, Herr von Millen und Eyck and
secondly to Johann I Graf von Kleve, and appointed Amtmann Heinrich
von Stünkede to take care of her interests. She lived (circa 1325-84)
1806-08 Co-Duchess Regnant
Caroline Bonaparte
Her brother, Napoleon I appointed her Duchess of Berg together with husband
Joachim Murat, who became king of Napoli and The Two Sicilies (1808-15). She
lived (1782-1839).
Blankenheim
Blankenstein
and Gerolstein was Member of the Imperial Circle Estate (Regional Assembly) of
Westphalia
1415 Hereditary
Countess Elisabeth von Blankenheim-Gerolstein und
Kasselburg
Her father, Gerhard VII died in 1406 and the territory was administered by her
uncle, Prince-Bishop Friedrich von Utrecht until his death in 1415. Her husband
Wilhelm I. von Loon of the house of Heinsberg, then came in possession of the
County.
1468-69 De Facto
Reigning Dowager Countess Marie von Croÿ
She managed to keep control of the territory for a period after her husband,
Wilhelm von Blankenheim, had been killed in battle, but in the end had to give
in to her in-laws. At first she pretended to be pregnant, and then petitioned
Duke Charles von Burgund for aid and assistance. In 1471 her marriage to Wilhelm
von Vierneburg ended the feud.
1468-70 Claimant Elisabeth von Schleiden of the County of Blankenheim
The daughter of Johanna von Blankenheim and Johann von Scheiden, she claimed the
County after her cousin, Wilhelm von Blankenheim, had been killed in battle,
without leaving any heirs. Elisabeth's son Dietrich von Manderscheid came in
possession of the territories Blankenheim and Gerolstein in 1470, but the
disagreements with other branches of the family continued for many years.
Until 1794 Countess August von Sternberg-Blankenheim
In 1794 she fled the county for attacking French forces.
Blieskastel
1775-93 Regent
Dowager Countess
Maria Anna
von Dalberg
Generally known as Marianne von der Leyen she became regent for son after
the death of her husband, Reichsgraf Franz Karl von der Leyden
und zu
Hohengeroldseck. Her son came of age in 1791, but she continued
to be in charge of the government. She supported the economic development and
introduced social reforms, reformed the schools and in 1786 she abolished the
serfdom. In 1793 she had to flee the French troops after having initially
managed to keep a neutral position. She died in exile in
Frankfurt am
Main, and lived (1745-1804).
Bogen-Windberg
1197-1204 Regent Dowager Countess Ludmilla of Bohemia
When her first husband, Adalbert
IV died of the
wounds received in the a crusade, their three sons;
Berthold III (circa 1190-1218), Liutpold, Provost in Regensburg
(d. 1221) and Adalbert V. (d. 1242), were still minors and she was in charge of
the county. Six years later he married Duke Ludwig I. von Bayern (1174-1231),
the former enemy of her husband, who took great care of her sons, and secured
their inheritance. In her second marriage she was mother of Duke Otto II. of
Bayern (1206-53). She
was daughter of
Duke Friederich of Bohemia and Elisabeth of Hungary, and lived (circa 1170-1240).
Brandenburg
1220-25 Regent Dowager
Margravine
Mechtild von der Lausitz
1319-20 Regent Dowager Margravine Agnes von Bayern
She was widow of Heinrich I, who reigned after 1293 until 1308/09 and died 1318.
Regent for son Heinrich II the Child (1319-20), who succeeded his cousin
Waldemar. In 1322 the Margravate was inherited by Ludwig V of Bavaria.
1649-67 Politically
Influential Louise Henriette von Oranje-Nassau
1650-67 In charge of the Administrative Unito of Bötzow (Oranienburg)
She was given the Amt of Bötzow for life by her husband, Kurfürst Friederich
Wilhelm and renamed it Oranienburg in 1652. She was strongly interested in
politics and her influence cannot be underestimated. In spte of her bad health,
she joined him on his journeies, sometimes even in warfare. During the
Swedish-Polish war, she advocated a truce with Polen and Habsburgers. She was
daughter of Frederik Hendrik van Oranje -Nassau (1584-1647) and Amalia von Solms
(1602-72) and heir to the title of Princess of Oranje and the Prince of Preussen
still uses this title today. She died one year after the death of the birth of
her 6th child, after having lived (1627-67).
1668-88 Political
Advisor Dorothea von Holstein-Glücksburg
1688-89 Reigning Dowager Lady of the Administrative Unit of Potsdam
Her first husband Duke hristian Ludwig von Lüneburg Celle died after 12 years
not very happy and child-less marriage and she lived at her dowry of Herzberg am
Harz until her marriage to Elector Friedrich Wilhelm von Brandenburg 3 years
later. She took over the care of his 3 minor sons and had 7 children from 1669
to 1677, and all but one reached adulthood. She also became his close political
advisor. She was given the Amt Potsdam and the Calstle of Potsdam became her
favourite residence and later her dowry. From 1671 she also owned Caputh and she
later bought the Lordship of Schwedt, which became the basis for the Margravate
of her son Philipp Wilhelm, who founded the line of Brandenburg-Schwedt. She
lived (1636-89).
1684-1700
Politically Active Electress Sophie Charlotte von Hannover
During most of her marriage she sought to influence her husband, Electoral
Prince Friedrich III (King of Preussen in 1701), even though the couple grew
apart over the years. She was a vivacious woman, who loved the court life,
entertaining, parties, music, acting, philosophical and cultural salons where as
her husband was strongly pietistic and did not enjoy the court life. She is
thought to have been instrumental in the downfall of the Oberpräsident (Head
President) Eberhard von Danckelmann in 1697. After her husband became King of
Preussen and she was crowned as Queen in 1701 she did not seek political
influence any more but continued her splendid life at court until her death. The
daughter of Ernst August von Braunschweig-Lüneburg, who later became Elector of
Hannover and Sophie von der Pfalz, who was named heir to the British throne in
1701, she was mother of two sons, and lived (1668-1705).
Brandenburg-Ansbach
1410-40 Temporary Regent Margravine Elisabeth von Bayern-Landshut
She often acted as regent during the reign of her husband, Margrave and Elector
Friedrich Hohenzollern I von Brandenburg-Ansbach und Kumblach. He was Burgrave
of Nürnberg 1397-1409 and Elector from 1410. She was a very effective ruler and
aide to her husband, mother of 11 children, and lived (1383-1442).
1458-86 Temporary Regent Margravine Anna von Sachsen
1486-1512 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Electress Anna von Sachsen of the
Administrative Office and Castle of Neustadt an der Aisch
After their marriage in 1458, she acted as regent during the many absences from
the state of her husband, Margrave and Elector Albrecht Achilles (1414-86),
Margrave of Ansbach after the death of his father in 1440, Margrave of
Brandenburg-Kulmbach after the death of his brother in 1464 and Elector of
Brandenburg in 1470 after the abdication of his oldest brother and at the same
time he inherited all the possessions of the House of Hohenzollern. After his
death, she retired to her dorwy. The mother of 13 children, she lived (1437-1512).
1543-56 Politically Active Guardian Dowager Duchess Emilia von Sachsen
After the death of her husband, Georg the Pious, she was guardian of their son,
Georg Friedrich (1539-1603), who reigned under the regency of some male
relatives until 1556. She lived (1516-91).
1558-78 Politically Active Margravine Elisabeth von Brandenburg-Küstrin
She was the most important aide of her husband, Georg Friedrich (1539-1603)
until her death. She lived (1540-78).
1578-1603 Politically Active Margravine Sophia von Braunschweig-Lüneburg of
Brandenburg-Ansbach
After the death of his first wife, Elisabeth von Brandenburg-Küstrin, she took
over her role, as the most important aide of her husband, Georg Friedrich
(1539-1603), who had no children in any of his marriages. Sophia lived
(1563-1639).
1625-39 Regent Dowager Margravine Sophia zu Solms-Laubach
She had been very influential during the reign of her husband, Joachim Ernst,
since their marriage in 1612. After his death, she became joint regent for their
son, Albrecht V. She was overpowered by the ordeals of the 30th year war, its
devastation, famine and other problems and at one occasion she had to flee from
Ansbach. She lived (1594-1651).
1645-67 Politically Influential
Electress Luise Henriette van Oranje-Nassau of Brandenburg (Germany) Heiress of
the Counties of Lingen and Moers (The Netherlands)
She was involved in politics during the reign of her husband, Kurfürst Friedrich
Wilhelm (1620-40-88), and enhanced the relationship between Brandenburg-Prussia
and the Netherlands. She initiated commercial and economic reforms and helped
revive the state after the devastations of the Thirty Years War. She was also a
patron of culture and learning. Her father, Stadtholder Frederik Hendrik van
Oranje had stipulated in his will that she was to inherit the Counties of Lingen
and Moers in the case that her brother, Willem III, should die with out issue.
When this happened in 1702, her son, King Friedrich I. von Prussia, too over the
regency and in 1707 it was united with Tecklenburg. She lived (1627-1667).
1723-29 Chief Guardian and Regent of the Realm Dowager Princess-Margravine
Christiane Charlotte of Württemberg-Winnental
1723-29 Reigning Dowager Lady of Crailsheim
Since their marriage in 1709 she was an energetic aide of her cousin and
husband, Margrave Wilhelm Friedrich, and after his death, she became "Obervormünderin
und Landsesregentin" for son Fürst Karl Wilhelm Friedrich, Margrave von Ansbach
(1712-23-57). She introduced administrative and social reforms, promoted trade
and industry, and planned to found an university in her Dowry, but because of
her early death this plan was abandoned. She lived (1694-1729).
Crailsheim functioned as Dowry on a number
of occations.
1723-24 Politically Influential Dowager Duchess Eleonore Juliana von
Hohenzollern of Württemberg-Winnental
After the death of her husband, Duke Friedrich Carl of Württemberg-Winnental in
1698 she moved back home to Ansbach, where her daughter, Christiane Charlotte
von Württemberg, had married her cousin, Margrave Willem Friedrich and was
politically influential especially during the regency of Christiane Charlotte
until her own death in 1724.
Brandenburg-Bayreuth
1620-28 Reigning Dowager Lady Elisabeth Sophie von
Brandenburg-Bayreuth in Lichtenberg.
When she married the Polish Prince Janusz Radziwill (1579-1620) in 1617 they
were granted the Castle, Office and City , and after his death, she ruled and
was known as a charitable and just ruler. They had a son and 2 daughters. When
she married Julius Heinrich zu Sachsen-Lauenburg (1586-1665),
her brother Christian von Brandenburg-Bayreuth, bought the
Lordship. Mother of 1 son and 2 daughters by her first husband, and she gave
birth to Franz Erdmann in February 1629 and died on Christmas Eve the same year.
She lived (1589-1629).
1712-14 Reigning Dowager Lady
Elisabeth
Sophie von Brandenburg of
Neustadt Erlangen
She had been given the domain by her husband, Margrave
Christian Ernst in
1703 and was very influential in the
design of the castle, the garden and the
Orangerie, until
she married a second time in 1714, and lived (1674-1748).
1726-34 Reigning Dowager Lady
Sophia von Sachsen-Weißenfels
of
Neustadt Erlangen
After the death of her husband,
Georg Wilhelms,
she caused a number of scandals during her 8 years at her dowry
until she married the Count Hoditz vermählte
and moved to
Slesia. Of her 4 children only one daughter, Christiane Sophie Wilhelmina
survied into aldulthood (1701-49), but she was unmarried. Sophia lived
(1684-1752).
1735-58 Co-Reigning Margravine
Wilhelmine zu Preussen of Brandenburg-Bayreuth
The sister of Friedrich the Great of Prussia she was de-facto joint regent with
her husband, Friedrich von Hohenzollern of Brandenburg-Bayreuth. She emulated
the musical and cultural standards Frederick had acheived at the Prussian Court.
The most lasting monument from her time there is the superb Baroque opera house.
It's not clear how much Wilhelmine wrote, as most of it is lost; however her
compositions include the opera Argenore and several arias.She lived (1709-58).
1764-1817
Reigning Dowager Lady Sophie Caroline von Braunschweig-Lüneburg of
Neustadt Erlangen
She was the second wife of Margrave
Markgraf Friedrich
and after his death she moved to the Castle of erlngen, and funded a baroque
court, and gave the small University Town the air of a Residential City for more
than half a century. She did not have any children, and lived (1737-1817)
Brandenburg-Küstrin
1571-74 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Margravine Katharine von Braunschweig of Crossen
After the death of her husband, Markgraf Johann von Küstrin, she took up residence at her dorwy. Mother of 2 daughters, and lived (1518-74).
Braunschweig-Beveren
For Ferdinand Albrecht II.
Braunschweig-Gifhorn
1549-76 Reigning Dowager
Lady Dowager Duchess Clara zu Sachsen-Lauenburg of the Administrative Office and
Castle of
Fallersleben
Her husband, Franz von Braunschweig-Gifhorn, died at his 41th birthday from the
effects of an infected foot. She was mother of 2 daughters, and her husband's
Duchy returned to the main line in Celle, but she was given Fallersleben as her
dorwy, and was responsible for an economical boom.
Braunschweig-Göttingen
1394-1442 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess
Margarete von Jülich of
Hardegsen
Widow of Otto I of Braunschweig-Göttingen (circa 1340-94). She was mother of 4
children, and lived (circa 1364-1442).
The estate functioned as dowry on later occations also.
Braunschweig-Grubenhagen
1427-39 Regent Dowager Duchess Elisabeth von Braunschweig-Göttingen.
Braunschweig-Lüneburg
1471-1514
Reigning Dowager Lady Anna von Nassau-Dillenburg of Lüchow in Braunschweig
1479-86 Member of the Council of Regency of
Braunschweig-Lüneburg
1479-1514 Reigning Dowager Lady of Ziegenhain and Nidda in Katzenelnbogen
1495-1510 Head of the Governing Council of
Braunschweig-Lüneburg
After the death of her husband Duke Otto (1438-64-71), she withdrew to
her dowry in Lüchow. In 1474 she married Count Philipp von Katzenelnbogen and
leased her dowry out, and left her children behind in Celle as costmary for
princely widows at the time. After Philipp's death in 1479, she returned to
Braunschweig, where her son Heinrich had succeeded his grandfather Friederich II
(reigned 1451-57, d. 1578) as Duke a few months before. She was given a large
sum to give up claims to the County of Katzenelnbogen (her step-daughter Anna
(1443-94) was among the claimants of the county). In 1481 she is mentioned in
the sources as her as part of the regency council, even though no official
sources of her installation as regent has survived. She reformed the economy of
the country, spend money on religious institutions and charity. Her son prowed
to be a totally irresponsible ruler, and with the with the held of the Estates,
became head of a council that virtually empowered him. She put much energy in
reforming the economy but many depths remained when she again withdrew to her
dorwy. 1495 was also the year that Celle was hit by the plague and she therefore
reformed the hospitals. During her last years she travelled a lot visiting
family, and lived (1440-1515).
1479-86 Possible Member of
the Regency Council
Margarethe
von
Braunschweig-Lüneburg
Known as Margarethe von Stargard, it appears that she sometimes stood in for her
sister-in-law, Anna, when she was absent from Celle.
She was the third wife of
Heinrich von
Mecklenburg-Stargard (1417-38-66),
and
mother of 2 daughters Magdalene (1454-1532), who was married to Duke Wartislaw
V of Pomerania (d. 1478) and Count Burkard von Barby-Mülingen (d. 1505) and
Anna, who was a nun at Ribnitz (1465-98). After her husband's death she resided
at her dorwys at Plau, but she moved back to Brauncshweig around 1473. The
dispute over her dowries between the duchal houses of Mecklenburg and Lüneburg
continued after the Stargard line dies out and was never settled. In 1498 she
entered the Convent of Wienhausen and lived there for the rest of her life.
She
(d. 1512).
1592-1600 Regent Dowager Duchess
Dorothea af Danmark
1592 Reigning Dowager Lady of the Administrative Office and Castle of Winsen (Schloss und Amt)
and of Gross Rhode
1665-68 Reigning
Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Dorothea von Schleswig-Holstein-Sønderborg-Glücksburg of
the Castle and and Administrative Unit of Herzberg in Braunschweig-Lüneburg
1671-89 Lady of the Lordship of Schwedt and the Castle of Caputh
1688-89 Reigning Dowager Lady of the Office and Castle of Potsdam
After the death of her first husband Christian Ludwig Herzog von Braunschweig-Lüneburg, she took up residence at her dowry. Two years later she
married Elector Friedrich Wilhelm von Brandenburg (1620-88) and became his close advisor
and companion. He gave her the Amt Potsdam and they spend a lot of time at the
castle there. From 1673 she built the Neustadt/Dorotheenstadt in Berlin
which were given city rights in 1674. The daughter of Daughter of Duke Philipp von Holstein-Sonderburg-Glücksburg (1584-1663) and Sophie Hedwig von
Sachsen-Lauenburg (1601-1660), she was mother mother of 4 sons and 3 daughters by her
second husband, one of whom, Philipp Wilhelm became Margrave of
Brandenburg-Schwedt. She lived (1636-89)
1914-18 De Facto
In-Charge of the Government Duchess Viktoria Luise von Prussen
(August-8.11)
She was acting in the place of her husband Ernst August (1887-1913-18-53), the
son of the exiled king of Hannover, Ernst August, Duke of Cumberland and Thyra
of Denmark. Her husband was given the title of duke of Braunschweig by her
father, Emperor Wilhelm III. After the death of her husband she feuded with her
children, Ernst August, Queen Frederika of Greece and two others over the
inheritance and other financial matters and even took them to court. Viktoria
Luise lived (1892-1980).
Braunschewig-Lüneburg-Calenberg
1643-51 Regent Dowager Duchess
Anna
Eleonora von Hessen-Darmstadt in Calenberg
Widow of Duke Georg of Braunschweig-Lüneburg-Calenberg and Celle (1582-1636-41),
she was regent for oldest son Duke Christian Ludwig (1624-65), who was Duke of
Calenberg (1641-48), Duke of Celle (1648-65) of Harburg (1651-65). Her second
son, Georg II Wilhelm was Duke of Calenberg (1648-1703), of Celle (1665-1703),
of Dannenberg (1773-1703), her third son, Johann Friedrich of Braunchweig-Lüneburg zu Hannover (1665-79), the fourth Ernst August of
Braunschweig-Lüneburg in Hannover (1679-92) and Elector from 1698. His wife,
Sophie von Simmen became Heir to the Throne of United Kindom in 1702. One of
Leonora's daughters, Sofie Amalie, married Frederik III of Denmark. Anna Leonora
lived (1601-59).
Braunschewig-Lüneburg-Celle
1665-68 Reigning Dowager Lady Dorothea von
Holstein-Glücksburg of Herzberg am Harz
1668-88 Political Advisor in Brandenburg
1688-89 Reigning Dowager Lady of the Administrative Unit of Potsdam
Her first husband Duke hristian Ludwig von Lüneburg Celle died after 12 years
not very happy and child-less marriage and she lived at her dowry until her
marriage to Elector Friedrich Wilhelm von Brandenburg 3 years later. She took
over the care of his 3 minor sons and had 7 children from 1669 to 1677, and all
but one reached adulthood. She also became his close political advisor. She was
given the Amt Potsdam and the Calstle of Potsdam became her favourite residence
and later her dowry. From 1671 she also owned Caputh and she later bought the
Lordship of Schwedt, which became the basis for the Margravate of her son
Philipp Wilhelm, who founded the line of Brandenburg-Schwedt. She lived
(1636-89).
Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel and Calenberg
1495-1522
Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Elisabeth
zu Stolberg-Wernigerode of the Administrative
Office and Castle of Stauffenburg in Harz
Her husband, Wilhelm II zu Braunschweig-Lüneburg-Wolfenbüttel was deposed in 1595
after he had deposed and imprisoned his brother,
Friederich. Their sons inherited the dukedom. She promoted mining and the area
propored economically. (d. 1522)
1540-46 Regent Dowager Duchess Elisabeth von Brandenburg
Second wife of Duke Erich I (1470-1550). After a few years she converted to
Protestantism, promoted the calvinist faith, and forced her husband to have his
mistress, Anna Rumschottle burned as a witch. As regent for son Erich II, she
introduced Protestantism to the state. She lived (1510-58).
1556-68 Politically
Influential Duchess Sophie die Jagiellonin of Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel
1568-75 Sovereign Lady of Schöning and the Amt Jerxneim
During the reign of her husband, Heinrich the Younger, she was engaged in
diplomatic activities both with her native Poland and the rest of Europe, was
active in Politics, and an outstanding intellectual capacity and cultural
personality. After her husband's death, and the accession to the throne of her
stepson, she retired to her dowry, which she reigned as a sovereign with rights
over administration, juridical matters, trade and a small army. She became
extremely rich, and her sisters and her husband's relatives and later their
descendants fought over the inheritance, which was not settled for another 100
years. The daughter of King Zygysmund I of Poland and Bona Sforza, she had no
children, and lived (1522-75).
1569-80
Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Margarete von Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel
of the Administrative Office and Castle of Staufenburg in Harz
Her husband, Johann von Münsterberg zu Oels in Slesia, died 1565, and her
brother, Duke Julius von Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel in Calenberg und
Göttingen, granted her
the
Castle as her dowry and transformed it into a hosptal, and lived (circa 1516-80).
1589-1602 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Hedwig
von Brandenburg of the Castle and Administrative Unit of Hessen
Widow of Herzog Julius von Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel-Calenberg und Göttingen
(1528-89), she lived (1540-1602)
1613-26 Reigning
Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Elisabeth af Danmark of the Castle and
Administrative Unit of Hessen in Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel
1616-22 De-facto in charge of the Government
After the death of her husband, Duke Heinrich Julius von
Braunschweig-Lüneburg she reigned in her dowry. After 3 years she removed
her son, Friederich Ulrich, from the government together with her brother,
Christian 4 of Denmark, and she remained in charge for the next 6 years. In
1617 she founded the Retreat for the Poor with a chapel (Elisabeth Stift)
During the Thirty Years War (1618-48) the castle was raided and was not
repaired until 1654. Elisabeth lived (1573-1626).
1628-59 Reigning Lady Duchess
Anna-Sophie von Brandenburg of Schöning in Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel
1634-59 Reigning Dowager Lady of the Castle and Administrative Unit of Hessen Hessen
After her seperation from her husband, Duke Friederich Ulrich (1591-1634) she
lived at the castle and reigned the territory almost as a sovereign lady. She
opened a latin school. She had no children, and lived (1598-1959).
1735-47 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Christine Luise von
Oettingen-Oettingen of Blankenburg in Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel
During her
first years of marriage she resided together with her husband, Duke Ludwig
Rudolf von Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel, in Blankenburg, which he had been given to
him by his father as apanage and 1707 Emperor Joseph I elevated the Lordship to
a Principality. They held an elaborate court and she was influential with
regards to political affairs and appointments to state offices. Afater his death
she returned to Blankenburg where she promoted culture and art and expanded the
castle. She was daughter of Albrecht Ernst I. zu Oettingen-Oettingen (1642–1683)
and Christine Friederike von Württemberg (1644–1674), mother of 4 daughters, of
whom 3 survived, and lived (1671-1747).
Breitenburg
See
Rantzau
below
Breitenegg (Breiteneck)
The
county was Member of the Secular Bench of the Imperial Circle Estate (Regional
Assembly) of Bavaria
1534... Joint Sovereign Lady
Rosina von Wildenstein
The daughter of Alexanders II von Wildenstein inherited half of the Lordship.
Succeeded by husband, Karl von Welden.
1583... Joint Sovereign Lady Susanne von Wildenstein
The daughter of Alexanders III von Wildenstein, she inherited a fourth of the
lordship. Married to Georgs von Rindersbach.
1583...
Joint Sovereign Lady Agnes von
Wildenstein
The daughter of Alexanders III von Wildenstein, she inherited a fourth of the
lordship from her brother, Friedrich Karl I von Wildenstein. Married to a Lord
von Haslang.
1675-87 Regent and Guardian
Dowager Countess Maria Anna Theresia von Haslang
She was in charge of the government in the Tillyschen Reichsgrafschaft
Breitenegg during the minority of her son, Ferdinand Lorenz Franz Xaver,
Reichsgraf von Tilly und Breitenegg (d. 1724). The County of the Realm had
received a seat and vote in the Imperial Diet in 1654.
1724-44
Countess of the Realm Maria Anna Katharina Theresia von Tilly
After the death of the last male of the family,
Ferdinand Lorenz Franz Xaver, Reichsgraf von Tilly und Breitenegg, she
inherited the County and Lordship. She promoted trade and crafts and brought
prosperity to the area. Her husband, Duke Anton Sebastian von Montfort, had died
in 1706 and since she had no children, she was succeeded by her cousin, Ignaz
Joseph Freiherrn von Gumppenberg of the immediate Reichsgrafschaft Breitenegg.
Brunckhorst and Borckelo
1553-79 De-facto Reigning Dowager
Countess Maria von der Hoya
After her husband, Jobsten Grafen zu Bronkhorst und Herrn zu Borculo, was killed
in an accident the fief reverted to the Diocese of Münster, but she continued to
be in charge of the administration until her own death.
Broich (or Bruch) (also see Limurg und Broich)
1682-85 Sovereign Lady Anna
Elisabeth von Daun-Falkenstein
As her brother, Da
sein einziger Erbsohn Carl Alexander had been shot by Moritz von Limburg-Styrum,
in 1659, she succeeded her father, Wilhelm Wirich
von Daun-Falkenstein. She was widow of Count Georg
Wilhelm von Leiningen-Dagsburg (1636-72),
and was succeeded by son,
Count Johann Karl August von
Leiningen-Dagsburg-Falkenstein (1662-98). Also
mother of a son who
died in infancy and a
daughter.
She lived (1636-85)
1698-1715 Regent Dowager
Countess Johanna Magdalena von Hanau-Lichtenberg
von Leiningen-Dagsburg-Falkenstein and
Broich
After the death of her husband, she was in
charge of the government for their son, Christian Karl Reinhard, (1695-1766).
She lived (1660-1715).
1766-1806 Sovereign Lady Luise von
Leiningen-Dagsburg-Falkenberg of Broich
1806-15 Lady of Broich
Unlike her father, she was interested in her posession in Broich, in and often
stayed there. She was marrried to Georg-Wilhelm zu Hessen-Darmstadt(d. 1782),
the brother of the Reigning Landgrave, Ludwig IX, and as he spend most of his
time, she was in charge of the representation of the state in Darmstadt after
the death of his wife in 1774. Her possessions were mediatized and she lost the
sovreignty and immidiate status, but kept some politcial and juridical rights,
until the territories were finally annexed by Preussen in 1815. The daughter of
Count Christian Karl Reinhard zu Leiningen-Dagsburg-Falkenberg und Hildesheim
(169-1766) and Katharina Polyxena zu Solms-Rödelheim (1702-65), Maria Luise
Albertine was mother of 9 children, and lived (1729-1818).
Ecclesiastical Territory of Buchau
(Weltliche gefürstete Damenstift Buchau - Worldly Princely Ladies
Chapter)
in Baden-Württemberg).
See
Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Reichsabtei Burtscheid (Imperial Abbey) (In Nordhrein-Westphalen/North Rhine-Westphalia) See Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Castell-Castell
1736-51 Regent Dowager Countess Friederike zu Ortenburg
After the death of her husband, Wolfgang Georg II (1694-1736) she was regent for
only child, Count Christian Friederich Karl von Castell-Castell (1730-73), and
lived (1712-58).
Castell-Remlingen
The county of Castell was Member of the College of The
Counts of Franconia, which held one
collective vote in the Council of Princes in the Imperial Diet
1668-82 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Countess Sophie
Juliana zu Hohenlohe-Waldenburg-Pfedelbach
of
After the death of her husband, Count Wolfgang Georg I von Castell-Remlingen
(1610-68). Mother of 2 daughters and a son, and lived (1620-98).
1710-25 Joint Guardian Dowager Countess Dorothea Renata von Zinzendorf
After the death of her husband, Graf
Wolfgang Dietrich zu Castell-Remlingen, she was joint guardian for son, Ludwig
Friedrich Graf und Herr zu Castell-Remlingen (1707-10-72). She was the aunt of
the founder and leader of the Herrnhuts Count Nikolaus Ludwig
von Zinzendorf (1700-1760). His guardian was Graf Friedrich Eberhard zu Hohenlohe-Kirchberg,
and lived (1669-1743).
Criechingen
(Also see
Qstfrielsland
and
Rietberg)
1665-1705 Sovereign Countess Anna Dorothea von Criechingen
Succeeded her brother, Ernst Kasimir (1640- 65) and married to Count Edzard
Ferdinand von Ostfriesland-Rietberg. She was succeeded by two sons, Edzard
Eberhard Wilhelm, who died two years later, and Friedrich Ulrich, who were
succeeded by his infant daughter, Christiane Luise, in 1710. She was daughter of
Albrecht Ludwig von Criechingen (1610-51) and Altgräfin Agathe zu Salm-Kyburg,
and lived (circa 1645-1705)
1710-32 Sovereign Countess Christiane Luise von Ostfriesland-Rietberg-Cirsena of
Criechingen, Lady of Rollingen etc.
Only little more than one month old when her father, Count
Friedrich Ulrich of Rietberg, died. He had succeeded his brother three
years earlier, who again had succeeded their mother, Countess Anna Dorothea
von Criechingen in 1705. Christine Louise's mother was Marie Charlotte
von Ostfriesland (1689-1761). She later married Johann Ludwig von Wied
zu Runkel (1705-1762) and died after giving birth to her second child, and first
son, Christian Ludwig, who survived and had children with his wife, Charlotte
Sophie Auguste von Sayn-Wittegenstein. She lived (1710-32).
1710-26 Regent Dowager Countess
Marie Charlotte von Ostfriesland
Regent for her daughter Christiane Louise (1710-32) until her marriage to Johann Ludwig von Wied-Runkel.
She was 3rd of the 10 children of Christian Eberhard I von Ostfriesland and
Eberdine Sofie von Oettingen-Oettingen, she lived (1689-1761)
Coburg
1347-53 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager
Duchess Jutta von Brandenburg of Coburg-Henneberg
Inherited the landscapes of Coburg-Henneberg after her husband Heinrich VIII von
Henneberg-Schleusingen's death. Her son-in-law - the husband of her daughter,
Katharina von Henneberg, then inherited the territories and they became parts of
Meissen and Thüringen, of which she was regent from 1381.
1381-90 Regent Dowager
Countess Katharina von Henneberg of the Osterland, Landsberg, Pleißnerland,
Orlamünde, Kahla, Jena und Naumburg (Saale)
1381-97 Reigning Dowager Lady of Coburg and Weißenfels
Ruled in the name of sons Friedrich, Wilhelm and Georg, who divieded the
margravates of Thüringen and Meissen with their uncles after the death of her
husband Margrave Friederich, who had named her as the regent in his will. Her
father Heinrich VIII von Henneberg-Schleusingen (d. 1347) named her heir of
Coburg together with her mother Jutta von Brandenburg (d. 1453) and 3 sisters,
while the rest of the Henneberg territory went to his brother Johann. The
surviving sons, Friedrich IV (1370-1428), Wilhelm II (1371-1425) and Georg
(1380-1402) later inherited Thüringen and Meissen from their uncles. She lived
(1334-97)
D
Dagsburg-Colmar (Elsass)
-
Egisheim, Dagsburg, Metz and Moha
1211/12-25 Hereditary Countess Gertrud von Egisheim-Dagsburg
Only daughter and sole heiress of Count Albrecht II von Egisheim-Dagsburg and
Gertrud von Baden. After the death of her first husband, Theobald I of
Upper-Lorraine in 1220, she married the son of Countess Blance de Champagne -the
later Count Theobald IV - and after their divorce in 1222 she married Count
Simon of Saarbrücken-Leiningen, Count of Dagsburg, who inherited her fiefs after
her death in 1225. She had no children and lived (1205-25).
Delmenhorst
Member
of the
Lower
Rhenish-Westphalian Circle Estate (Regional Assembly)
1619-30 (†) Regent Dowager
Countess
Sibylle Elisabeth von
Braunschweig-Dannenberg
After the death of her husband,
Anton II,
Count von Oldenburg-Delmenhorst
(1573-77)
and Count von Delmenhorst (1577-1619),
she was first regent for her oldest son,
Anton Heinrich
von Delmenhorst who died at the age of 18 in 1622, and then for
the second son, Christian
IX von Delmenhorst,
(1612-1647), who
was unmarried. She had nine daughters, among others, Catharine Elisabeth,
Princess-Abbess of Gandersheim and
Sibylle Marie, Dechaness in Herford. The
other daughters inherited the possessions of their brother, but the county
reverted to the Counts of Oldenburg and thereby to the Danish King. She lived (1576-1630)
Dhaun
Circa 1306-61 Heiress Hedwig of the Wildgrafschaft Dhaun and Grumbach
She was first married to Rheingraf Johann I vom Stein,
and secondly to Gerlach von Brunshorn.
Until after 1361 Heiress Hedwig of the Wildgrafschaft Dhaun und Grimace
Married to Rheingraf Johann I vom Stein and Gerlach von Brunsholm and Gerlach
von Brunshorn - and the foremother of the Salm-Dhaun family.
Diepholz
1560-76 Member of
the Regency Council Margarethe von Hoya
1560- Reigning Dowager Lady ofthe Office of Auburg
1585- Regent of Diepholz
After the death of her husband, Rudolf IX, a regency council took power under
the leadership of Duke Wilhelm von Braunschweig-Lüneburg-Celle in the name of
her son Freiderich II, and managed to become part of the council, even though
she had not been desinated a seat from the beginning. She was also given the
whole of the County as her dowry. In 1582 the Hoya-line died out and she tried
to secure her inheritance without succes, The same year her only grandson died
and 3 years later her son followed. Nominally the county fell to
Braunschweig-Lüneburg but in effect she managed to act as regent for her
grand-daughter, Anna Margarethe (1580-), possibly because Duke Wilhelm had
become mentally ill. She reorganised and modernised the administration. The
daughter of Jobst II von Hoya and Anna von Gleichen, she had been elected as
Abbess of the Noble Chapter of Bassum in 1541, but remained at the court of her
parents, and lived (1527-93).
Diez
1388-97 Hereditary Countess Jutta von Diez
Daughter and heiress of Count Gernard VII von Diez and married to Adolf Graf von
Nassau-Dillenburg (1362-1420) and mother of one daughter, Jutta (d. 1424).
1500-23 Hereditary Countess Elisabeth
von Hessen-Marburg
of
¼ of the County of Diez
and of
Katzenelnbogen
After her mother, Anna von Katzenelnbogen died in 1494 the County was in dispute
among her and her sister, Duchess Mathilda of Jülich-Berg (d. 1505), and a
compromise was not reached until 1520. Elisabeth was married to Johann V Count
of Nassau, Vianden, Katzenelnbogen and Diez, Baron of Breda, Stadtholder of
Gelre and Zutphen 1504-1505. She lived (1466-1523).
E
The Free Worldly Chapter for Noble Ladies of Elsey
(Das freiweltliche adelige
Damenstift Elsey)
(See Germany Ecclesiastical Territories).
Ecclesiastical Territory of Essen (Kaiserliche Freiweltlichen
Stift Essen - Imperial Free Worldly Chapter) (In Nordhrein-Westphalen/North
Rhine-Westphalia).
(See
Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Falkenstein and Hernstein
1155 Hereditary Countess Judith
von Hernstein
After the death of her father, Count Herrand II von Falkenstein, she delegated
her rights to Falkenstein and Hernstein to Duke Otto. She was first married to
Nizo von Raitenbach (d. circa 1183) and Albero Wolf von bocksberg (d. circa 1230)
and mother of Konrad von Hohenfels (d. 1233) and Albero Wolf von Bocksberg (b.
circa 1230). Neither the date of her birth or death is known.
1537-circa 54 Lady Regnant Anna
von Haracourt of Bettingen, Dollendorf, Fischbach, Falkenstein and Everlingen
She was already old when she inherited the "Haracourt Inheritance" from the last
male of the family, Count Wilhelm von Haracourt-Dollendorf-Brandenburg. Her
daughter Anna von Solm, Heiress of Dollendorf (d. 1557) married as his second
wife, Count Jakob von Manderscheid-Kail and, Anna von Haracourt declared that
her granddaughter, Anna von Manderscheid (1630-61) should be her sole heir, but
in the end the inheritance was divided among the Manderscheid-Kail and Solm
families.
Formabach
1059-90 Hereditary Countess Helwig von Formabach
1090-91
Hereditary Countess
Agnes von Rheinfelden
Royal Chapter of Frauenchiemsee (Benediktinerinnen-Abtei Frauenwörth im Chiemsee ) (Abbey of the Realm (782-1201)
(See
Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Friaul
Until 1040 Hereditary Countess
Hademut of Friaul
Oldest daughter and sole heir of Weigand von Fraul and Willbirg von Ebersberg.
She married Poppo I Count von Weimar-Orlamunde.
Freiburg, Lichteneck und Nimburg
1356-58
Sovereign Countess Clara von Freiburg
She was the only daughter and heir of Count
Friedrich von
Freiburg and Anna von Baden. She
succeeded her father, but resigned the county after two years of succession-war
with her uncle, Egino IV.
Married to
Gottfried II von Tübingen
Count
Palantine of Böblingen.
She lived (circa 1320-68).
Friesland
1077/86-1117 Sovereign Countess
Gertrude Braunchweig of The Frisian Margravate and Ooster- en Westergo (Germany
and the Netherlands)
1085 Regent of Katlenburg
1001 Regent of Northeim
1103-1117 Regent of
Meissen und der
Lausitz
1006-1117 Administrator of Katlenburg
Fürstenberg
Member of the Secular Bench of the Council of Princes of
the Diet of the Realm (Reichstag) and through the
Gundelfingen
also member of the
Bench of the
The Bench of Counts and
Lords of the
Swabian Circle
Estate (Regional Assembly)
1804-06 Regent Dowager Princess Elisabetha Alexandrina von Thurn und Taxis
1806-circa 14 Guardian of Fürstenberg
The widow of Prince Karl Joseph Aloys (1760-99), she was regent for son Karl
Egon II (1796-1804-54), who succeeded his cousin as Reichsfürst of Fürstenberg.
In 1806 the principality was incorporated into Württemberg but the family kept
it's title and possessions. She lived (1767-1822).
G
Ecclesiastical Territory of
Gandersheim (Kaiserlich
gefürsteten freiweltlichen Stiftes zu Gandersheim - The Imperial Royal Free
Worldly Chapter) (Das freie weltilche Stift
Gandersheim - The Free Worldly Chapter) (In Bad
Gandersheim in Niedersachsen) (See
Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Gemen (Gehmen)
The Lordship was
Member of the Imperial Circle Estate (Regional Assembly) of Westphalia
The daughter of Heinrich IV von Gemen and Anna von Wevelinghoven, she married
Count Johann IV von Holstein-Schaumburg as her second husband and they founded
the line of Holstein-Schaumburg-Gemen. The Lordship had been "reichsunmittelbar
und reichsstündisch" - that is placed directly under the Realm of the Empire -
since 1431.
1581-... Regent
Reigning Dowager Lady Elisabeth Gräfin von
Palandt-Culemborg
Widow of Jobst II von Schaumburg-Gemen, who had participated in the
freedom-fights of the Dutch against the Spanish and as a result the lorship had
been raided by the Duke of Alba in 1568.
1597-1611
Regent
Dowager
Lady
Metta van Limburg-Bronckhorst
When her husband, Heinrich V von
Holstein-Schaumburg-Gemen died, their only son, Jobst Herman, was four years old and he became
regent.
1640 Heiress
Agnes von Limburg-Styrum
In 1635 her sister's son; Jobst-Hermann von Holstein-Schaumburg-Gemen, Count of
Bückeburg, died unmarried. He was first
succeeded by his cousin, Otto, but he died after four years, and she managed to
secure the inheritance of Gemen against the claims of the Holstein-Schaumburg-family. She ceeded the
lordship to her nephew, Count Hermann-Otto I von Limburg-Styrum. Agnes was
Abbess of Vreden.
Ecclesiastical Territory of Gernrode
(Damenstift Gernrode) (Das
Freie weltliche Stift Gernrode - The Free Worldly Chapter) (Reichsabtei Sankt Cyrakius in
Gernrode) (In Sachsen-Anhalt)
(See
Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Geroldseck und Sulz
1634-49 Hereditary Sovereign Lady Anna Maria von Sulz
She was heir to the large territory from her father, Jakob von Geroldseck und
Sulz, who was the last male of the family. But conflict broke out between the
Overlord, the Emperor of Austria, and the Margrave of Baden-Durlach. Austria
occupied the territory and appointed Hermann von Cronberg as Lord, who had
already been promised the post in 1620. Anna Maria's mother was Elisabeth
Schenkin vom Limburg and married Friedrich von Solms, and she lived
(1593-1649).
1687-98 Sovereign Countess Maria Anna von Sulz of Sulz and Klettgau and the
Administrative Units of Tiengen and Jestetten
1694-98 Princely Landgavine of
Klettgau
As the only daughter of Johann Ludwig von Sulz, she succeeded to
the County and reigned alone for the first years, but the county was gradually
incorporated into the lands of her husband, Ferdinand von Schwarzenberg (1652 -
1703), who was Chancellor of the Holy Roman Empire and in 1694 Emperor Leopold
elevated the county to a Princely Landgravate (gefürsteten Landgrafschaft). She
was mother of 2 sons and 4 daughters lived (1652-98).
Chapter of Gerresheim (Weltlichen Damenstift Gerresheim - Worldly Ladies' Chapter) (In Nordrhein-Westfalen) During the middle ages the convent - noble chapter Canonesses (Kanonissenstift) was one of the most important in the Holy Roman Realm, but never became an Imperial Immediacy (Reichsfrei) and the Abbess did never become Princess of the Realm (Reichsfürstin) (See Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Görz
1323-28 Regent Dowager Countess Beatrix von Nieder-Bayern of Görz
1323-26 and 1335-38 Regent of Treviso (Italy)
1332-34 Captain General of Aquileia and Administrator of Friuli (Italy)
After the death of her second husband, Heinrich III. Graf von Görz, she was
regent for son Johann Heinrich IV. Graf von Görz (1322-23-38). She was daughter
of Duke Stephan I of Nieder-Bayern and Jutta von Schweidnitz, and lived
(1302-60).
Groitzsch
1124-44 Hereditary Countess Bertha
Ecclesiastical Territory of Gutenzell
(In
Haldersleben
1056-1116 Countess Gertrud
Her daughter Hedwig II von Stade died 1078.
Hallermund
1167 Sovereign Countess Adelheid von Loccum
She was daughter of Count Wilbrand I von Loccum-Hallermund and Beatrix on
Rheineck, and first married Count Konrad von Wasse, Vizthum von Hildesheim and
secondly Count Günther von Käfernburg und Hallermund. Mother of two sons and two
daughters.
Hanau
1452-58 Joint Regent Dowager Countess Katharina von Nassau-Beilstein of Hanau
When her son, Reinhard III von Hanau (1412-52) died one year after his father,
Reinhard II, she became part of the regency for his son, Philipp I the Younger,
together with his maternal grandfather, Pfalzgraf Otto I. von Pfalz-Mosbach and
her youngest son, Philipp I the Older, until the country was devided in 1458,
when the latter became sole regent. Mother of 6 children, and (d. 1459).
Hanau-Lichtenberg
The county
was member
of the Bench of
Counts and Lords of the
Upper Rhenish Circle
(Regional Assembly) (Oberrheinischer Reischskreis) (The Office and Castle of
Schwarzenfels was dowry during the 1500s and 1600s)
Her husband, Reinhard IV, died after only one year reign, her oldest son, the 3
year old Philipp IV the Younger, was given half the county and her brother-in-law
Philipp the Older reigned in the south of the Mains with the Lordship
Babenhausen and at the same time he was guardian for her son. Born as
Pfalzgräfin von Mosbach, and lived (1432-57)
1512-14 Regent Dowager Countess Katharina von
Schwarzburg-Blankenburg
After the death of her husband, she was regent for her 11 year old son, Philipp
II, together with his grand-uncle Johann V von Nassau-Dillenburg, who was sole
regent until his own death 2 years later and then other relatives took over the
government. She had secured the support of the nobility of the county and had it
confirmed by the Court of the Empire (Reichskammergericht). She lived (after
1470-1514).
1553-70
Reigning Dowager Lady Elena von Pfalz-Simmern of Schwarzenfels
Widow of Count Philipp II von Hanau. It served as the dowry for other dowager
countesses of Hanau as well.
1612-26 Regent Dowager Countess
Catharina-Belgica van Oranje-Nassau
1626-48 Reigning Dowager Lady of Windecken
Also known as Katharina-Belgica, she took over the reins of government after the
death of her husband, Philipp Ludwig II, for their son, Philipp Moritz. In 1619
when the Emperor Ferdinand II was on his way to Frankfurt for his coronation, he
wanted to pass through with 1.500 soldiers but Catharina Belgica refused him
entry into the city of Hanau. In 1621 Spanish and Imperial armies ravaged her
territories but her complaints to Spanish and Imperial officials were of no
avail. In 1626 her son took over the rule from her; however, in 1634 the family
had to flee to Holland and was able to return only in 1637. Her sisters were
regents in Sedan and The Rhine. She lived (1578-1648).
1712-36 Reigning Dowager
Lady Dowager Countess Charlotte Wilhelmine von Sachsen-Coburg-Saalfeld of in of
the Castle and Administrative Unit of Babenhausen in Hanau-Münzenberg
When her husband, Count Philipp Reinhard von Hanau-Münzenberg
(1664−1712) died she took over her dowry, and when the last Count of Hanau died
in 1736 and the territory was devided among Hessen-Kassel and Hessen-Darmstadt,
she was given a Palai in Hanau, the Salzhaus, where she lived until her death.
Daughter of Duke Johann Ernst von
Sachsen-Coburg-Saalfeld and Sophie Hedwig von
Sachsen-Merseburg, did not have any children, and
lived lived (1685-1767).
Until 1726 (†)
Erbgräfin Charlotte Christine
She died 10 years before her father, Johann Reinhard II, zu
Lichtenberg, Ochsenstein,
Hanau
and Münzenberg, and the country was
therefore inherited by her widower, Landgrave Ludwig VIII von Hesse-Darmstadt
(1691-1768), who
never remarried. Mother of 5 children, and lived (1700-26).
Hanau-Münzenberg
1529-31 Joint Guardian Juliana zu Stolberg-Wernigerode
When her first husband, Philipp II von Hanau-Münzenberg (1501-29), died she was
one of the guardians for her son, Philipp III (1526-61). The youngest daughter
was born 2 days after her husband died. 2 years later she married one of the
other guardians, Count Wilhelm von Nassau-Dillenburg, and moved with her
children to Dillenburg. When her sons joined the Dutch battle against the
Spanish from 1566, she was engaged and gave advice to all of them. She had 5
children with her first husband and 12 with the second. The daughter of Count
Botho zu Stolberg and Anna von Eppstein-Königstein, she lived (1506-80).
1638-41 Regent Dowager
Countess Sibylle Christine von Anhalt-Dessau
1641-47 and 1585-86 Reigning Dowager Lady of the Castle of Steinau in Steinau an
der Straße
In charge of the government from the time of death of her husband, Philipp
Moritz, until the death of her only surviving child Philipp Ludwig III,
afterwhich she took charge of her dowry. The county was first inherited by
Johann Ernst von Hanau-Münzenberg-Schwarzenfels, who died the following year. As
widow she had substantial finacial claims to the county, which was in economic
difficulties because of the 30 Year War, and therefore she was married off to
the next heir, Friedrich Casimir von Hanau-Lichtenberg (1623-85) in 1647 after
he had come of age. The couple was in various disputes during their marriage,
one of the reason was that she was Reformed - like the inhabitants in Münzenberg
- and he belonged to the Lutheran Faith. She lived (1603-86 ).
1712-36 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Countess Charlotte Wilhelmine von Sachsen-Coburg-Saalfeld
of the Office and Caste of Babenhausen in Hanau-Münzenberg
Administered her dowey after the death of her husband, Count Philipp Reinhard
von Hanau-Münzenberg (1664−1712), but after the death of the last Count of Hanau
and the the incorporation of the County into Hessen-Kassel and Hessen-Darmstadt,
she took up residence in a palais in the Old City of Hanau. She did not have any
children, and lived (1685-1767).
1754-60 Reigning Lady Maria of Great
Britain
1760-64 Regent of Hanau
When her husband, Friedrich II von Hessen-Kassel, converted to Catholism, she
and her 3 sons were granted the County of Hanau, which had been part of
Hessen-Kassel since the death of the last count Johann Reinhard III von
Hanau-Lichtenberg-Münzenberg in 1736, by her father-in-law, Wilhelm VIII, who
passed over his son for this part of the inheritance. After his death,
Friederich became Landgrave of Hessen-Kassel and made several attempts to
reclaim Hanau, but did not succeed because of opposition from Great Britain and
the protestant Estates of Hanau. She spend her last years in the Castle of
Rupenheim, and lived (1722-72).
Ecclesiastical Territory of Heggbach (Reichsabtei
Heggbach - Chapter of the Realm) (In
(See
Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Heinsberg and
Geilenkirchen
1448-69 Lady Johanna von Loon zu Heinsberg of Heinsberg,
Geilenkirchen, Dalenbroich, Diest, Sichem and Zeelhem
Daughter of Johann IV von Loon, Herr zu Heinsberg and Johanna von Diest and
married to Johann II von Nassau-Saarbrücken (1423-72) and lived (1443-69).
Eccleastical Territory of Herford (Reichsabtei Herford - Chapter of the Realm) (Das kaiserlich freiweltliche Stift Herford - The Imperial Free Worldly Chpater) (In Nordrhein-Westphalen) (See Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Hessen
1247-65 Lady Sofia von Thüringen
of Hessen
1248 Regent Dowager Duchess of Brabant
1250-60 Regent of Hessen
Daughter of Ludwig of Thüringen and Hessen and Erzbet the Holy of Hungary (d.
1231). After her brother's death her uncle inherited the lands of Thüringen and
Hessen. After his death in 1247, she clamed the lands in Hessen and Thüringen in
the name of her son, Heinrich (b. 1244). The next year her husband, Heinrich,
died and she proclaimed that the German Order was under her protection and
confirmed her family's donations to the order. As she also had widespread
support of the nobility of Hessen, she managed to secure her position as Lady of
the two territories, and her son's later seizure of power. In 1250 she made
peace with her cousin, Heinrich, who had been appointed Landgrave in 1247. She
was granted the regency of Hessen during her son's minority. In 1259 the
succession-war started again, she and her allies lost in Thüringen but she was
able to hold on to power in Hessen, where her son was appointed Landgrave in
1292. Sophie lived (1224-75).
1471-94 Reigning
Dowager Lady Dowager Landgravine Mechthild von Württemberg of the City and
Administrative Unit of Rotenburg an der Fulda and the Castle and Administrative
Unit of Gudensberg
Even though she had been asked to take the regency, she transferred the regency
for her two sons Wilhelm the Older and Wilhelm the Middle in Niederhessen, to
her brother-in-law Heinrich III in Oberhessen. three days after the death of her
husband, Ludwig II. Instead she was given a rich dorwy and she was possibly in
charge of the upbringing of her sons, and she remained influential in the
government of the county.She lived (circa 1444-94).
1483-94 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Landgravine Anna von Katzenelnbogen of the
City and Administrative Unit of Grissen and the City of Grünberg
A few days after the death of her husband, Heinrich III von Oberhessen, she
relinguished all claims of the regency for her son, probably because she was
only 20 years old herself, and the age of majority was 25. A source shows how
she and her Councillors mends various feuds between the Council and inhabitants
of Grünberg. She
was daughter and heir of Philipp I.
(circa 1402-79), who was married to Anna von Württemberg, and Count
of
Katzenelnbogen and parts of the County of Diez,
and after her death the County was in dispute between her two daughters; Hereditary Countess Elisabeth
von Hessen-Marburg, who inherited one part in 1500 and Duchess Mathilda of Jülich-Berg (d. 1505).
A
compromise was not reached until 1520.
1508-09 and 1514-18 Regent Dowager Landgravine Anna von Mecklenburg-Schwerin of
Hessen
1510-25 Reigning Dowager Lady of Geissen, Grünberg, Borken, Felsberg, Wildeck
and Rotenburg (from 1511)
Took over the regency for her Wilhelm II, who was unable to govern because of
syphilis, but after his death she was removed, as regent by the Estates in spite
of his will, which named her guardian and regent. The Estates named their own
regents, on the pretext that she was below the age of 25, but the real reason
was the fight for power among the different groups in the society. She continued
her fight to become regent for Philipp (1504-25). She spoke her case before the
Estates; in 1510 she claimed her right to a seat and vote at the Diet of the
Realm as the rightful guardian. The emperor sympathised with her, but did not
back her, but she also presented her case here. Later that year she withdrew to
her dowry, but because of internal disputes in the regency college, she managed
to be named regent and named her own regency government, she promised to report
to the Estates once a year, but reigned independently. In 1518 she had emperor
Maximilian I declare her 13 year old son of age, but the nobility continued the
fight for power until it was finally defeated in 1523. She was daughter of
Magnus II von Mecklenburg-Schwerin and Sophie von Pommern, also mother of a
daughter, and lived (1485-1525).
Hessen-Darmstad
1678-88 Regent
Dowager Landgravine Elisabeth Dorothea von Sachsen-Gotha-Altenburg
1688-1709 Reigning Dowager Lady of the Castle and Administrative Unit of
Butzback
Took over as regent for son, Ernst Ludwig (1667-78-1739) after the death of her
stepson Ludwig V, who died 18 weeks and 4 days after succeeding her husband,
Ludwig IV (1630-61-78). The Imperial Court (Reichskammergericht) demanded that
she should reign jointly with a College of Councillors, but she prevented that
they could take their oath and they therefore remained subordinate "advisors" to
her. During her term in office she only called the Estates (Landtag) 2 times.
She worked hard on consolidating the economic and industrial situation of the
Landgrave and after she took over the government in her dowry, she advised her
son to do the same, but he refused her interference. She also promoted music and
culture, and lived (1640-1709).
1743-74 In charge of the Government Landgravine Henriette Karoline von
der Pfalz-Zweibrücken-Birkenfeld
She was in charge of the government during her husband, Ludwig IXs involvement
in various wars. After their marriage in 1741 she spend a couple of years with
her husband at the Prussian Garnison Prenzlau, and of the 32 years of marriage
they only spend 14 together. She was an efficient administrator and made
Darmstadt the cultural center of the time. Henriette Caroline Christiane Louise
lived (1721-74).
Hessen-Eschwege
1655-92 Regent Dower Landgravine Eleonora Katharina bei Rhein
Her husband, Friedrich von Hessen-Eschwege, Landgraf zu Hessen, Fürst zu
Hersfeld, Graf zu Katzenelnbogen, Dietz, Ziegenhayn, Nidda und Schaumburg etc..
(1617-55) fell during the first year of the war between Sweden and Poland, and
after his death, she administered the lands given to him by the Swedes. She was
born as Pfalzgräfin bei Rhein, and her brother became King Karl X Gustaf of
Sweden, after the abdication of Queen Kristina.
Hessen-Homburg
1638-48 Regent Dowager Landgravine Margaretha Elisabetha
von Leiningen-Westerburg-Schaumburg
After the death of her husband,
Friedrich I
(1585-1622-38), she was regent for son, Wilhelm Christoph Landgraf
Hessen-Bingenheim
and Hessen-Homburg.
She asked her brother-in-law, Philipp von Hessen-Butzbach (1581-1661) to act as
joint regent, but he refused with reference to his high age, and the fact that
he had already acted as regent for his nephew, Georg II von Hessen-Darmstadt
from 1621. She was mother of 6 children, and lived (1604-67).
1650-63 Lady Sophia Eleonora von Hessen-Darmstadt of the
Administrative Unit
and Fief of the Castle
Bingenheim
When she married Prince
Wilhelm Christoph von Hessen-Homburg (1625-81)
in 1650, her father transferred the and Administrative Unit and Fief of
Schloss Bingenheim,
and as her husband preferred Bingenheim
for Homburg
he was mainly known as the Landgrave zu Bingenheim,
since his younger brother, Friederich II succeeded their father, Friederich I as
Landgrave of Homburg. Wilhelm Cristoph and Sofie Eleonore had 8 sons and 4 daughters, who all died before their father,
who married in a second childless marriage Anna Elisabeth von Sachsen-Lauenburg.
She lived (1634-63).
After 1665-88 Lady
Anna-Elisabetha
von Sachsen-Lauenburg of
Philippseck bei Butzbach
After her Wilhelm Christoph von Hessen-Homburg's first
wife Sophia Eleonora von Hessen-Darmstadt died giving
birth to their 12th child, they got married, but their marriage soon failed. Her husband
tried unsuccessfully to divorce her, but she was "exiled" to the Castle of
Philippseck bei Butzbach, where she became a loved "mother
of the realm" (Landsesmutter) who cared for the young and the poor and among
others founded several schools. She lived (1624-88).
1670
Designated as Possible Regent Landgravine Louise Elisabeth von
Kurland
It was
mentioned in her marriage-contract, that she were to take over as guardian
regent in the event that her husband, Friederich II (1633-1708) should die when
their children were minors. But she predeceased him, and lived (1646-90).
1722 Designated as
Possible Regent
Landgravine Christiane Charlotte von Nassau-Ottweiler
It was
mentioned in her marriage-contract, that she were to take over as guardian
regent in the event that her husband, Friederich III
(1673-1746)
should die when their children were minors.
She was named co-guardian with Anton von Altenburg.
(1685-1751).
1751-66 Regent Dowager
Landgravine Ulrike Louise von Solms-Braunfels
She was widow of Friedrich IV (1724-46-51) and regent for son Friedrich V (b.
1848). She was engaged in legal battles over the regency with Landgraf Ludwig
VIII of Hessen-Darmstadt, and lived (1731-92).
Hessen-Kassel
1629-43 Reigning Lady Juliane von Nassau-Dillenburg of the
Office and Castle of Rotenburg in Rotenburg an der Fulda in Hessen-Kassel
Took over her dowry after the abdication of her husband, Landgrave Moritz von
Hessen-Kassel. Her oldest son, Wilhelm V, took over the landgravate, and the
rest of her 14 children moved with her to Rotenburg. Her younger sons were given
the Landgravates of Rhinfels, Eschwege etc. She lived (1587-1643).
1637-50 Regent
Dowager Landgravine Amalie Elisabeth von Hanau-Münzenberg of Hessen-Kassel
1643-51 Lady of the Administrative Office of Schwarzenfels in Hanau
Even though she was with her husband, Wilhelm V, in Ostfriesland when he died,
she was immediately named regent for their son Wilhelm VI and was in control in
spite of the fact that she did not return to the Landgravate until 1640 because
of the upheavals during the Thirty Years War. She was an able ruler and managed
add new territory to the state. She made a truce with the emperor but formed an
alliance with France and became a leading force in the Protestant Group during
the warfare. As regent she chaired the Councils of Regency almost daily, she
chaired various Local Diets (Landtags), which she called when she felt the need
for it.
She was daughter of Count
Philipp
Ludwig II von Hanau–Münzenberg, and after the death of the last of
Münzenberg line she claimed her rights on the basis of a inheritance-treaty from
1643, and received the Office of Schwarzenfels as security and handed over the
territory as her own property. She was mother of
several children and lived (1602-51).
1663-77 Regent Dowager Landgravine Hedwig
Sophie von Brandenburg of Hessen-Kassel
1677-83 Reigning Dowager Lady of Schmalkalden etc.
After the death of her husband, Landgrave Wilhelm VI von Hessen-Kassel
(1629-63), she first became regent for their firstborn son, Wilhelm VII
(1663-70) and after his death shortly before he was about to come age, she
automatically continued as regent for the second son; Karl (1670-1730). She saw
herself as the sole Head of Government Affairs (alleinige Leiterin der
Regierungsgeschäfte) even though she ruled together with a Regency College,
whose meetings she chaired almost daily. During her time in office she also
called and chaired 6 Meetings of the Estates (Landrat). She managed to remain
more or less neutral during the disputes between Protestants and Catholics in
the aftermath of the Thirty Years War. She did not abdicate the regency until
her son was 23, even though decrees, laws and coins were issued in his name from
the time he turned 18, but he seems to have been happy with the arrangement and
even after she took over the government in her dowry, she remained influential
in the Landgravate. Her third surviving son, Philipp, became Landgrave of
Hessen-Philippsthal. Mother of another son who died as an infant and three
daughters, and lived (1623-83).
1786-1800 Reigning Dowager Lady
Philippine von Brandenburg-Schwedt of
Hainau
1788 Owner of a fifth of Schwedt
After her marriage to Landgrave Friedrich II von Hessen-Kassel (1720-1785) as his second wife, she established a seperate court with philosophers and other later statemen. In 1777 she secretly gave birth to a son by her sister and named him Georg Philippson,
she travlled widely in Germany and France. After her husband's death, she engaged in hard disputes with her stepson , Landgrave Wilhelm IX, which led to diplomatic problems between Hessen-Kassel, Preußen und Russland. In 1788 the last male of the Brandenburg-Schwedt line died out and
she and her sisters, two sisters were Friederike Sophie Dorothea, married to Friedrich Eugen von Württemberg (1736-1797) and Anna Elisabeth Luise, married to Ferdinand von Preußen (1738-1820), were allodial heirs together with two cousins of the family possessions. In 1792 she moved to
Berlin after the French had occupied Mainz, two years later she married her Oberhofmeister Georg Ernst Levin von Wintzingerode, whom she managed to have named Count of the Realm. In Berlin she first lived with her sister and in 1795 she was given a big Palais by her cousin, King
Friedrich Wilhelm II. She made her husband her sole heir, and he inherited 1/5 of the Brandenburg-Schwedt possessions. The daughter of Friedrich Wilhelm, Markgraf von Brandenburg-Schwedt, Prinz in Preußen (1700-1771) and Sophie, Prinzessin in Preußen (1719-1765) she lived
(1745-1800).
Hessen-Marburg
(Also see
Katzenelnbogen)
1483-94 Reigning
Dowager Lady Anna von
Katzenelnbogen
of the Lordship and Willage of Biedenkopf
After the death of her husband, Landgrave Heinrich III von Hessen-Marburg (Oberhessen)
(1440-58-83) she resided in her dowry. She was heir of
Katzenelnbogen from 1479, and
lived (1443-94).
Hessen-Philippsthal-Barchfeld
1803 Dowager
Landgravine Wilhelmine Louise Christine von Sachsen-Meiningen
After the death of her husband, Adolf von Hessen-Philippsthal-Barchfeld
(1743-61-1803), she claimed the regency for their son, Karl (1782-1803-54), on the basis of their
marriage contract. She lived (1752-1805).
1868 De-facto
Guardian Dowager Landgravine
Marie von Württemberg
Her husband, Landgraf Carl II (1803-68), died shortly after Hessen was occupied
by Prussia and Kurhessen became a Prussian province. Her husband had named her
as guardian of their sons. The oldest, Landgraf Ernst (1846-1925) did not have
either the political experience or the economic capability to enable him to
stand up to the consequences of the annexation. In Philippsthal, she promoted
trade, agriculture and artisans and thereby managed to create economic growth.
During her husband's lifetime she had already started schools, kindergartens and
asylums. She spend much of her time negotiating the financial settlements for
her sons and other relatives of the Hessen-Philippsthal and Barchfeld-lines with
the Prussian authorities who had confiscated the fortunes of the family and
introduced heavy taxes on their remaining possessions. Not until 1883 a final
arrangement was reached. She was daughter of Duke Eugen II. von Württemberg
(1788-1857) and his wife Mathilde von Waldeck-Pyrmont, and lived (1818-88).
Hessen-Rheinfels
1583-1609
Reigning Dowager Lady
Anna Elisabeth von
Pfalz-Simmern of
the County and Castel of
Philippsburg
Her husband Philipp II of Hessen-Rheinfels (1541-67-83) had apparently recived the county from his father,
Philipp of Hessen-Kassel (d.1567). They did not have any
children,and she lived (1549-1609).
Succeeded her brother, Wilhelm-Ernst-Gottfried, Reichsgraf von Hillesheim
und Herr zu Reipoltskirchen and was also
The county of Harrach was member of the College of Counts of Swabia,
which held one joint vote in the Council of Princes in the Imperial Diet and
also
1806-13 Maria Walburga, Erbgräfin Harrach-Lustenau-Hohenems-Kunewald
1590 Reigning Dowager Lady N.N. of Kirchberg
Mother of Graf Wolfgang II von Hohenlohe-Weikersheim.
1611-43 Reigning Dowager Lady Magdalena von
Nassau-Dillenburg of Öhringer Schloss
After the death of her husband, Wolfgang von Hohenlohe-Langenburg und Neuenstein
(1546-1610), she took over her dowry. During her tenure, the socalled Lange Bau (Long Building) was constructed.
She was mother of 16 children, and lived (1547-1643).
1618-38 In charge of the Government Countess Anna Amalia
zu Solms-Sonnenwalde of Hohenlohe-Neuenstein
1628-34 Reigning Dowager Lady im Ort Döttingen (Germany)
Amid the turmoil of the Thirty Years' War, the widow Anna
Maria and took over the reins of government during the absence of her husband,
Count Philipp Ernst von Hohenlohe-Langenburg-Neuenstein (1584-1628). In
September 1634, she fled just in time with her mother and her children and an
escort of 200 cavalry provided by the Count Palatine of the Rhine. She fled to
Saarbrücken and then to Ottweiler, her mother's home town. As a widow she build
a hospital and other charitable institutions in her dowry land in the "Place of
Döttingen. She was mother of 10 of which most died in infancy, and lived
(1585-1634).
1652 Regent Dowager Countess Sophie von
der Pfalz-Zweibrücken und Birkenfeld
She was widow of Kraft VII zu Hohenlohe-Neuenstein (1582-1615-41) and
regent for Count Johann Friedrich I von Hohenlohe in Öhringen etc.
the oldest son of her 14 children. She
lived (1593-1676).
Circa 1738 Reigning Dowager Lady Maria Anna
Felicitas zu Hohenlohe-Bartenstein of Pfedelbach
Mother of Count Graf Wolfgang II von Hohenlohe-Weikersheim
1852-63 Guardian Dowager Princess Henriette von Auersperg
of Hohenlohe-Bartenstein and Hohenlohe-Jagstberg
After the death of her husband, Ludwig von Hohenlohe-Bartenstein-Jagstberg
in Pfedelbach, Meinhardt und Sindringen, she was guardian in one of the
mediatized principalities, which had lost their immediate status in 1806, but
instead came under the overlordship of one of the members of the Confederation
of the Rhine, still possessing a number of important political privileges. She
ruled in the name of her sons, Fürst Karl Ludwig Bartenstein (1837-77) and
Albert von Hohnenlohe-Jagstberg (1842-1969), who was created Prince in 1906. She
lived (1815-1910)
1877-84 Guardian Dowager Princess Leopoldine von Stermberg
of Hohenlohe-Bartenstein
In charge of the principality in the name of her son, Johannes (1863-1921),
after the death of her husband, Karl (1837-77). She lived (1836-1918).
Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen
Member of the
Bench of the Secular Princes
of the Swabian Circle
Estate (Regional Assembly) (The same was the case with
Hohenzollern-Hechingen)
1689-98
Regent Dowager Princess Marie Clara van Berg
1712-15 Hereditary Countess of Berg-s'Heerenberg, Lady of
Boxmeer, Bergh, Diksmuide, Gendringen, Etten, Wisch, Pannerden and Millingen
(Netherlands)
After the death of
her husband, Maximilian von Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen, she was regent for their
son Prince and Count Meinrad II Karl Anton von Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen
(1673-1715) together with her brother-in-law and 1695 she made the agreement
with Elector Friederich III von Brandenburg on the succession in the
Principality of Hohenzollern. When her brother died her second grandson, Franz
Wilhelm Nikolaus, was created Count zum Bergh und Hohenzollern in 1712 af, with
his mother, Johanna Katharina von Montfort as regent until 1722. Marie Clara
lived (1635-1715).
1785-87 Possible Regent
Johanna von
Hohenzollern-Berg
Succeeded
her father Count Franz von Hohenzollern-Bergh as Sovereign Countess of Berg-s'Heerenberg,
Lady of Boxmeer, Bergh, Diksmuide, Gendringen, Etten, Wisch, Pannerden and
Millingen in the Netherlands 1737-87, and mainly leved at her possessions in the
Netherlands. After the death of her husband, Karl Friedrich von Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen,
she might have been the person who was regent for Prince and Count Anton von
Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen, (1762-85-1805-31), her 8th and first surviving son,
until her own death. The regency continued for one more year. Also mother of 4
daughters of whom only one survived into adulthood. She lived (1727-87).
1798-1806 Politically Influential Princess Amalie
Zephyrine von Salm-Kyrburg in France, Germany and Sigmaringen
She left her husband, Hereditary Prince Anton Aloys of Sigmaringen, after the
birth of her son, Karl in 1785, and returned to Paris, where she was born. Here
she started an affair with Vicomte de Beauharnais, but she also came close to
his wife and children during the French Revolution. 1798 she resumed contact
with her Sigmaringen and her son became the center of her interest. In order to
be able to return to Germany and meet him, she became politically active and
used her connections to the French government - the Foreign Minister Talleyrand
or the Emperor himself. At the Peace-congress she acted with great
self-confidence and together with her husband she negotiated the terms for the
survival of Hohenzollern-Hechingen and Hohenzollern-Sigmarinen as sovereign
states, at a time when most minor territories were merged, For instance
Württemberg had to hand back the City of Sigmaringen in 1806 which it had been
promised as part of the agreements. Her son came to Paris and married Antoinette
Murat and in 1808 she returned to Sigmaringen with her son and daughter-in-law.
Her husband refused her entrance to the Castle and she build a new residence
close by and for the rest of her life she travelled a lot and had many social
connections all over Europe. She lived (1760-1841).
Holstein-Wagrien
1164-76 Regent Dowager Countess Mechtild von Schwarzburg-Käfernburg
1648-56 Regent Dowager Countess Agnes von Effern of
Holzappel
1656 Reigning Lady of Schaumburg, Bibrich, Cramberg, Steinsberg and the County
of Holzappel included Esten, Holzappel, Dörnberg, Eppenrod, Geilnau, Giershausen,
Horhausen, Isselbach, Kalkofen, Langenscheid, Laurenburg, Ruppenrod and Scheidt
After the death of her husband, Count Peter Melander von Holzappel, who had
gained the position of Imperial Immidiate in 1643 from Emperor Ferdiand III (Freien
Reichsunmittelbaren Grafschaft Holzappel), she was able to expand the territory
in 1656 by aquireing the Castle and Lordship of Schaumburg bei Balduinstein.
After her death, her daughter, The castle of Schaumburg was inherited by her
daughter, Elisabeth Charlotte Melander von Holzapfel-Schaumburg, took over the
reign. She (d. 1656.).
1648-1707 Reigning Lady Elisabeth Charlotte Melander von Holzapfel-Schaumburg of
Schaumburg, Countess of Holzappel and Lady of Bibrich, Cramberg, Steinsberg and
the County of Holzappel included Esten, Holzappel, Dörnberg, Eppenrod, Geilnau,
Giershausen, Horhausen, Isselbach, Kalkofen, Langenscheid, Laurenburg, Ruppenrod
and Scheidt
Another version of her title is Gräfin von Holzapfel, in Schaumburg, Holzapfel
und Laurenburg. After the death of her mother, Agnes von Effert, gennant Hall,
who had been in charge of the government since the death of her father, Count
Peter Melander von Holzappel, she took over the reigns, with great vigour and
intelligence. She allowed Hugenots and Waldenses from France to settle in her
territory, abolished the serfdom, gave city and trade-rights to Holzappel and
founded the village of Charlottenburg. She married Prince Adolf Nassau-Dillenburg
(1629-76), who added Schaumburg to his princely title. After her death, her
son-in-law, Lebrecht von Anhalt-Bernburg-Hoym added Schaumburg to his title. He
was the widower of her youngest daughter Charlotte von Nassau-Schaumburg (d.
1700), and their son, Victor Amadeus Adolf became Prince of Anhalt-Bernburg-Schaumburg-Hoym, the son of her youngest daughter, and in 1812
his great-granddaughter, Hermine, inherited the Counties of Schaumburg and
Holzappel. She was married to Joseph Anton Johann von Habsburg-Lothringen
(1776–1847), and died giving birth to twins in 1817, one of whom was Hermine von
Habsburg-Lothringen, who was Princess-Abbess of the Theressian Royal and
Imperial Chapter for Noble Ladies at the Hradschin in Prague (1835-42). Elisabeth Charlotte lived
(1640-1707).
1812-17 Titular Countess Hermine zu
Anhalt-Bernburg-Schaumburg-Hoym of the former Sovereign Counties of Schaumburg
and Holzappel
Inherited the territory after the death of her father, Viktor II Karl Friederich.
1815 she married Archduke Joseph Anton Johann von Habsburg-Lothringen
(1776–1847), the brother of Emperor Franz, as his second wife, but died giving
birth to twins, Hermine von Habsburg-Lothringen, who was Princess-Abbess of the
Theressian Royal and Imperial Chapter for Noble Ladies at the Hradschin in
Prague (1817-35-42) and Stefan Franz Viktor (1817-67), who was Governor of
Bohemia and Platine of Hungary until he withdrew to his possessions in Nassau
(The counties of Holzappel and Schaumburg) in 1850 because of political
disagreements with the Austrian government. Here he died unmarried. She lived
(1797-1817).
1812-41 Reigning Dowager Countess Amalie Charlotte von Nassau-Weilburg of the
former Sovereign Counties of Schaumburg and Holzappel
After the death of her husband, Viktor II Karl Friederich von
Anhalt-Bernburg-Schaumburg-Hoym (1767-1806-12), the former sovereign territories
were first inherited by their daughter, Hermine (1797-1817) and then by her son,
Stefan Franz Viktor von Habsburg-Lothringen. Amaile's three younger daughters
also died young: Adelheid (1800-20), married to Hereditary Prince August von
Oldenburg, Emma (1802-45) married to Georg von Waldeck-Pyrmont and Ida
(1804-28), also married to August von Oldenburg. She lived (1778-1841).
Hövel
Circa 1059-after 60 Hereditary Countess Ida von Werl-Hövel of Hövel
After 1060-... Hereditary
Countess Adelheid von Lauffen of
Hövel, Unna, Telgte and Warendorf.
She was married to Cunt Salentin VII of Isenburg in Salm und Hohenstein (d. circa
1534). Her son, Anton zu Sankt-Johannisberg died 1536.
1690/1727
Reigning (Dowager) Lady of the Lordship NN. of Hüttersdorf
Member of the College of the The Counts of the Wetterau,
who held a joint vote in the Council of the Princes in the Imperial Diet
She was the last of her line and married Dietrich IV von Runkel. Their son,
Friedrich IV, was created Count zu Wied in 1454.
Jever
1517 Miss Dorothea
1517-36 Miss Anna
1517-75 Miss Maria
1793-96
Countess Katharina
Princess of Anhalt-Zerbst and Empress Katharina II the Great of Russia
from 1762.
1793-1807 Imperial Russian Governor Dowager Duchess Friederike Auguste Sophie
von Anhalt-Bernburg
After the death of her husband, Friedrich-August of Anhalt-Zerbst, who had no
children, her sister-in-law, Catherine II of Russia, inherited the land of Jever
and created a Personal Union with Russia, which gave her a vote in the Imperial
German Diet. Catherine appointed Friederike as administrator - kaiserlich
russische Statthalterin. She also continued as administrator for her nephew,
Czar Paul of Russia. She lived (1744-1827).
Jülich-Kleve-Berg-Mark
Until it was incorporated in other Principalities,
it had a vote in the Imperial Diet and was Member of the Imperial Circle Estate
of Niederrheinisch-Westfälischer Reichskreis
1423-27 Lady
Maria
d'Harcourt
of Brüggen,
Grevenbroich,
Arschot
and Brebeke
(in Germany and the
Netherlands)
Daughter of
Count Jean VI d'Harcourt et Aumale and Catherine de Bourbon, Princess of France.
After the death of her husband Duke Rainald IV, Duke of Jülich and Geldern,
Count of Zutphen, she remained Lady of a number of possessions of Jülich. In
1424, she granted freedom to her serfs. Two years she married Duke Ruprecht von
Jülich-Berg, Bishop of Passau and Paderborn. She lived (circa 1389-1427)
1511-39 Sovereign Duchess
Maria of Jülich-Berg-Ravensberg-Heinsberg
Succeeded her father, Wilhelm IV. She married Johann III von Marck-Kleve and
their duchies were united. She was a very devout catholic and was sceptic
towards the liberal reforms of both her father and husband. One of her
daughters, Anne of Kleve, married Henry the VIII of England. Maria lived
(1491-1543).
1511-54 Reigning Dowager Lady Sybilla von Brandenburg of Bensberg in Jülich-Berg
Widow of Duke Wilhelm III von Jülich and Berg (1475-1511), who had one daughter,
Marie von Jülich und Berg (1491-1543), by his first wife, who married Johan III
von Kleves (1490-1539). Sibylla did not have any children, and lived (1490-1524)
1585-97 Politically Influential Duchess Jakobäa von Baden of
Jülich-Kleve-Berg-Mark
Also known as Jakobea or Jakobe, she married to Johann Wilhelm (1592-1609), and
since her father-in-law, Wilhelm IV, was mentally deficient and her husband
mentally ill and both were unable to rule, she took the reigns after her
marriage in 1585. She managed to get some councillors on her side. She stood
between the catholic party around the powerful Marshal Wilhelm von Waldenburg,
supported by the Spanish Low Countries and the protestant lead by the Counts von
Broich and Valckenstein and Lords von Rheydt who tried to remove the catholic
regentess with the help of the Dutch General States. Because of the intrigues of
her sister-in-law, Sybille, she thought about moving back to Bavaria, but the
responsibly towards her husband, made her stay in Düsseldorf. She became more
and more powerful, but Sybille spread rumours about her unmoral way of life and
in 1595 Von Waldenburg held her prisoner, she was accused and convicted of
infidelity and kept in the castle for two years. With the help of her
brother-in-law Count Leuchtenberg, she wrote a document of defence and managed
to have a trial arranged, but died before the trial was called. After her death,
her husband married Antionia of Lorraine (d. 1610), but did not have any
children. She lived (1558-97).
1592-1609 Politically Influential Princess Sibylla of Jülich-Kleve-Berg-Mark
Contemporary sources described her as power-mad, stupid and
vendictive. She supported Marshal Wilhelm von Waldenburg, who became more
and more powerful. In 1595 she handed over a petition against her sister-in-law,
Jakobäa von Baden, to the Landtag in Grevenbroich, where she accused her of
among others infidelity. She and von Waldenburg claimed to working for the
healing of the insane Duke, and in this way they managed to keep power. They
were rumoured to have caused the sudden and mysterious death of Jakobäa, and the
rumours continued for centuries. After the death of her brother, Johann Wilhelm,
she engaged in a war of succession together with her husband, Archduke Karl of
Austria (d. 1618) with the husbands and children of her sisters; Marie Eleonora
(1550-1608), Anne (1552-1632) and her husband, Pfalzgraf Philipp Ludwig von
Pfalz-Neuburg (d. 1614), Magdalena (1553-33) and Pfalzgraf Johann von
Pfalz-Zweibrücken (d. 1604). It was the oldest daughter of Marie Eleonora, Anna
von Preussen, who inherited the duchies. Sibylle lived (1557-1627).
1609-25 Joint Hereditary Countess Anna zu Hohenzollern-Preussen und
Jülich-Kleve-Berg of Kleve, Mark, Ravensberg and Ravenstein
1618-25 Hereditary Duchess of Prussia
Also known as Duchess Anna von Preussen und Jülich-Kleve-Berg, she was daughter
of Marie Eleonore von Jülich-Kleve-Berg, the heiress of the three duchies and
some counties, and Albrecht II Friedrich von Preussen. 1594 she married her
distant relative, Elector Johann Sigismund zu Hohenzollern of Brandenburg
(1572-1619), and was the dominant force during his reign. He was regent for her
father from 1609, and in 1611 he was given Prussia as a personal fief. After the
death of her uncle, Johann Wilhelm zu Jülich in 1609, a succession-dispute
followed with the Pfalz-Newburg's until a division was agreed upon in 1614, and
the counties of Kleve, Mark, Ravensberg and Ravenstein went to Brandenburg,
though she primarily considered it as her personal possessions. After her
father's death in 1618 she and her son, the kurprinz Georg-Wilhelm, took over
the government, since her husband had been hit by a stroke two years earlier,
and she remained in charge until her death. She lived (1575-1625).
1609-32 Joint
Hereditary Duchess Anna von Jülich-Kleve-Berg
1615-32 Reigning Dowager Lady of the Castle and Administrative Office of
Höchstädt in Pfalz-Neuburg
The death of her brother Johann Wilhelm in 1609 resulted in the Jülich-Kleve
Succession War where the families of her own and her 3 sisters fought over the
inheritance. She transferred the rights of inheritance to the areas of the Low
Rhine (niederrheinischen) she possessed as the oldest surviving daughter to her
oldest son Wolfgang Wilhelm. She was chocked and kept her own Evangelical faith
when he converted to the Catholic Faith in order to marry the daughter of
Maximilian I of Bavaria to gain the support of the Catholic League in 1613, but
in the end it helped him secure his mother's inheritance as Duke of Jülich and
Berg in 1614. Her husband, Count Palatine Philipp Ludwig, died the same year,
and she moved to her dowry the following year, she moved to her dowry. She was
daughter of Duke Wilhelm IV. of Jülich, Kleve und Berg and Maria von Österreich,
mother of 4 sons and 4 daughters, and lived (1552-1632).
For almost 500 years, the Administrative Office and Castle of Kaster functioned
as Dowry for the Countesses and Duchesses of Jülich
K
Katzenelnbogen (Also see Hessen-Marburg)
1375 Reigning Dowager Lady Else von Katzenelnbogen of the Lordship and Willage of Biedenkopf
in Darmstadt
She resided at the Wasserburg (Water Castle) after the death of her husband.
1479-94 Hereditary
Countess Anna
von Katzenelnbogen
Daughter of Philipp von Kazenelnbogen and married to Heinrich III von Hessen-Marburg
(1440-58-83), with whom she had three sons; Friederich who died young, Ludwig
III (d. 1478) and Wilhelm III (d. 1500) who had no legitimate issue and the two
daughters Elizabet von Nassau-Dillenburg and Mathilda von Jüllich-Kleve who
inherited her claism to the County. She
lived (1443-94).
1500-23 Hereditary Countess Elisabeth von Hessen-Marburg of Katzenelnbogen and ¼
of the County of Diez
After her mother, Anna von Katzenelnbogen died in 1494, the County was in
dispute among her and her sister, Duchess Mathilda of Jülich-Berg (d. 1505), and
a compromise was not reached until 1520 among their decendants. Elisabeth was
married to Johann V Count of Nassau, Vianden, Katzenelnbogen and Diez, Baron of
Breda, Stadtholder of Gelre and Zutphen 1504-1505. She lived (1466-1523).
Eccleastical Territory of
Kaufingen (Ritterschaftliche Stift Kaufingen - Noble Chapter) (In Hessen)
1521 mentioned as Imperial Prelate in an inventory of the Reichsstände.
Abolished 1527/32 and
incorporated into Hessen-Kassel (See also
Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Eccleastical Territory of
Keppel (Käppel) (Freiweltliche
Damenstift Keppel/Damenstift
zu Geseke-Keppel (Ladies Chapter)
(See also
Germany Ecclesiastical
Territories)
Kirchenberg
1799-1827 Sovereign Burgravine Luise of Kirchberg and Sovereign Countess of
Sayn-Hachenburg, Lady of Farnrode
In 1788 she married
Duke Friedrich-Wilhelm von Nassau-Weilburg and her territory was
incorporated into his lands after their marriage.
Luise Isabella
von Sayn-Hachenburg-Kirchberg was daughter of Wilhelm-Georg
and succeeded Johann-August (1714-77-99), and lived (1772-1827).
Knyphausen or Kniphausen and Varel
It was a sovereign "Herrlichkeit" (including Sengwarden, Fedderwarden and Accum)
which was ruled by the Grafen
von
Aldenburg
(1667-1733) and the Grafen von
Bentinck (1733 - 1806/1818), respectively. From 1825 to 1854, the "Herrlichkeit"
Knyphausen was a semi-sovereign "Herrlichkeit" under Oldenburg rule, from 1854
on it was under undivided Oldenburg rule.
1680-1701 Regent Dowager Baroness Charlotte Amélie de la Trémoïlle of Knyphausen
After her husband's death at 27th of October 1680 she became regent for her
unborn child. Her son, Anton II was born 8 months later at 26th of June 1681. He
was Baron of the Reichsfreie Herrlichkeit Knyphausen (semi-independent
territory) until his death in 1738, when he was succeeded by daughter,
Charlotte-Sophie von Aldenburg. Charlotte Amélie lived (1681-1738).
1738-1800
Sovereign
Countess
Charlotte-Sophie of
Aldenburg
1738-54
Lady of the Free Lordship of Knyphausen and Noble Lady of Varel, Lady of
Sengwarden, Fedderwarden and Accum
She married Hon. William Bentnick, Created Count Bentinck in 1732. She was
daugter of Anton II von Aldenburg, Lord von Knyphausen and Varel and
Wilhelmina Maria of Hesse-Homburg
1768-83 Regent Dowager Baroness Marie Katharina von Tuyll van Serooskerken of
Knyphausen
After the death of her husband, Count Christian Frederik Bentinck (1734-1768)
(Son of Charlotte-Sophie von Aldenburg und Knyphausen and Willem Bentinck, Count
Bentinck from 1732), she was regent for their son, Wilhelm II Gustav van Betnick
(1762-35), who reigned 1768-1810, 1813 and 1818-35. The territory was annexed to
the Netherlands in 1810 and occupied by Russia 1813-18. Marie Katharina lived
(1743-98).
1795-98 In Charge of the Government Countess Ottoline van Reede-Lynden of Kniphausen and Varel
Her husband - and second cousin - the British-Dutch-German Wilhelm Gustav Bentinck-Rhoon,
Count Bentinck, Sovereign Lord of
Kniphausen and Varel (1762-1835),
was in the service of
the Stadhouder of Holland etc, was imprisoned in the Netherlands, and
she was in charge of the government until he was released and settled in his
German possessions. Mother of one son, who died 1813 and 2 daughters, and lived (1773-99).
Stewardship
of the
Archbishopric of Collogne (Erzbishoftum von
Köln)
Until 1474 Hereditary Marshall
Irmgard von Wevelinghoven of the Archbishopric of
Köln and Heiress of Alfter
She was married to Count Johann VI von Reifferscheid, Count zu Salm (d. 1475).
1602-27 Sovereign Countess Magdalena von Neuenahr-Alpen of Neuenahr und Limburg,
Hereditary Marshall of the Diocese of Köln, Lady of Alpen, Helpenstein and
Lennep
1610-12 Regent of Bentheim-Steinfurt
She inherited Neuenahr und Limburg from her half-sister, Amelia who had
inherited it from her half brother in 1575. The territory of her husband was
occupied by troops from Köln, and it was not until four years after the death of
her husband, Arnold III, that she was able to take over the regency for her son,
Konrad Gumprect von Bentheim-Steinfurt (1585-1618). She remained influential to
her death. Magdelena lived (1551-1627).
Ecclesiastical Territory of Kraichgau - Kayserliche Reichsfreye Adeliche
Creichgauerischen Fräulein-Stifft (Kaiserliche Reichsfreie Adeliche
Kraichgauer Fräulein-Stift) and later Kraichgauer Adeliges Damenstift
(See also
Germany Ecclesiastical
Territories)
Leiningen
The county was Member of the
Imperial Circle Estate (Regional Assembly) of Upper Rhine
Succeeded father, Emich IV von Leiningen and married to Count Simon II von
Saarbrücken. Mother of three sons - of whom one was count of Saarbrücken, one
count of Leiningen and the third became bishop of Worms.
From 1467 Sovereign Countess Margarete of Leiningen-Westerburg
After the death of her brother Hesso, the last male of the family, she took
possession of the lands. She was the widow of Richard zu Westerburg and became
the founder of the lines of Alt-Leiningen-Westerburg and
Neu-Leiningen-Westerburg.
1815-18 Regent Dowager Princess Viktoria of Sachsen-Saafeld-Coburg
1830 Named Possible Regent in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland
After the death of her first husband, Fürst Emich Carl zu Leiningen (1763-1814),
she was regent for her son, Carl Friedrich Wilhelm Emich zu Leiningen (1804-56)
until her marriage to Prince Edward of Great Britain and Ireland, Duke of Kent
and Strathearn (1767-1820). After his death, she became guardian to the heir to
the throne, Victoria. In 1830, the Regency Act named the Duchess of Kent as
regent in the case that Victoria should be a minor when called to the throne,
but Victoria ascended to the throne shortly after her 18th birthday. For a
number of years mother and daughter were at odds, but they became reconciled in
the end. Her brother, Leopold, was first married to the heiress, Charlotte, who
died in childbed in 1819 and then became king of Belgium. Viktoria also had a
daughter, Feodora zu Leiningen (1807–1872), who was married to Fürst Ernst I. zu
Hohenlohe-Langenburg (1794–1860). She lived (1786-1861).
Leuchtenberg
1646-65 Reigning Dowager Lady Landgräfin
Maria Johanna von Helfenstein of
Wernberg in Leuchtenberg
After the death of her husband, Maximilian Adam von Leuchtenberg (1607-46).
Lichtenberg
1473-74 Anna von Lichtenberg
Daughter and heir of Lord Ludwigs V. of Liechtenberg, a large lordship in Alsass.
She was married to Philipp I the Older, who created the County of
Hanau-Liechtenberg, she lived (1442-74).
Limburg and Broich
1458-79 Sovereign Countess Margaretha von Limburg
She succeeded her father, Wilhelm and was married to Wilhelm von Buren and
Gumprecht II von Neuenahr, and lived (1406-79).
Co-Heiresses of the
Counties of Limpurg-Sontheim, Limpurg-Speckfeld and Limpurg-Gaildorf
The lordship of Limpurg-Gaildorf-Gaildorf
included half of the Town of Gaildorf and a part of the Office (Amt) Gaildorf (Schönberg, Unterrot, Reippersberg, Michelbächle,
Kleinaltdorf, Hägenau, Spöck, Ottendorf, Niederndorf) as well as the Offices of Oberrot,
Fichtenberg, Seelach, Gschwend, Gröningen (Untergröningen), Eschach und
die Waibelhube.
The lordship of Limpurg-Gaildorf-Schmiedelfeld included the other half of the
Town and Office of Gaildorf (Bröckingen, Kieselberg, Münster,
Eutendorf, Großaltdorf), the Office of Schmiedelfeld with Sulzbach, the Office Welzheim
and a number of smaller Limpurgian possessions.
1655-63
and 1673-75
Joint Regent and Guardian Dowager Countess
Maria Juliana von Hohenlohe-Neuenstein-Langenburg of Limpurg-Schmiedelfeld and
Gaildorf
After the death of her her first husband, Schenk
Johann Wilhelm Limpurg
zu Schmiedelfeld, she
was in charge of the affairs of state in the name of her children, Wilhelm
Heinrich von Limpurg-Gaildorf (1652-90) and Sophia Eleonora (1655-1722) together
with the counts, Wolfgang Friedrich von Hohenlohe-Waldenburg-Waldenburg and
Heinrich Friedrich von Hohenlohe-Neuenstein-Langenburg. 1658 she signed an
agreement with Barbara Dorothea von Öttingen-Öttingen after the death of Schenk
Wilhelm Ludwig von Limpurg-Gaildorf, and 1663 she
married Franz von
Limpurg zu Speckfeld, who took over her membership in the Regency Council, until
he died 10 years later.
She lived (1623-95).
1690-1734 Joint Sovereign Countess Juliana Dorothea I von Limpurg-Gaildorf
of 24/48th of Limpurg-Gaildorf (Wurmbradische Antheil)
According to the will of her father, Count Wilhelm Heinrich von Limpurg-Gaildorf
, she inherited parts of the county jointly with her sisters, 1707 she and her
surviving sister Wilhelmina Christina decided to divide their half of the Town
of Gaildorf and other possessions. But it was not until after the death of the last male member of the
family that they were able to take up their inheritance in 1713. They
also managed to protect their claims from the King of Prussia who had been named
heir to by the brother of the last Schenk Vollrat, after a long court case
before the Reichshofrat. No one disputed the right of the King to the Imperial
Fiefs (Reichslehen) of Limpurg or those of the two sisters in the other fiefs,
lands, estates and rights, the dispute was about the right to a seat and vote in
the Imperial Diet and Circles (Reichs- and Kreistagen) as well as the "Reichsstandschaft"
and sovereignty (Landesherrschaft). The two sisters were not content with just
administering the estates and lands; from the beginning they saw themselves as
"Reigning Countesses of the Realm in Limpurg (Regierende Reichsgräfinnen) with
all the attached rights, including the right to be present at the Imperial Diet
and the Frankish Circle. Prussia disputed this and had the vote of Limpurg
suspended. Both the Countesses and Emperor protested and in 1721 a settlement
was reached which granted them the right to sit in the two assemblies. She
married Eucharius Kasimir von Löwenstein-Wertheim (d. 1698) and Johann-Wilhelm
von Würmbrand-Stuppach, the President of the Council of the Court of the Realm (Reichshofratspräsident)
and Advisor of the Austrian Emperor. She was succeeded by her daughters, Juliana
Dorothea II von Löwenstein (1794-1734) and Maria Margaretha Leopoldine von
Wurmbrand (1702-56), who married her cousin, Wilhelm Karl Ludwig von
Solms-Assenheim. Juliana Dorothea lived (1677-1734).
1690-1757 Joint Sovereign Countess Wilhelmina Christina von Limpurg-Gaildorf
of 24/48th of Limpurg-Gaildorf (Solms-Assenheimische Antheil)
Second daughter of Count Wilhelm Heinrich von Limpurg-Gaildorf, she was only
able to take full possession of her inheritance after a lengthly battle with
some male members of the family. 1700 she transferred the government of her
Gaildorf Lands to her husband, Ludwig Heinrich, who from then on named himself
Count Solms-Assenheim und Limpurg-Gaildorf. But she named a number of
conditions, among others that she was to have full rights to the incomes of the
Estate of Augustusburg and that her lands were to revert to her in the event of
his death - and not be incorporated into the lands of Solms. In this way she
took over the reigns again in 1728, at the same time as she became guardian for
the two youngest sons Johann Ernst Karl von Solms-Assenheim (1714-90) and Karl
Christian Heinrich (1716-45), which led to many years of dispute over the rights
to the territories with the oldest Wilhelm Karl Ludwig zu Solms-Rödelheim
(1699-1778) which resulted in a number of court-cases. In 1732 her heirs
received a provisorial homage for the Lordship of
Limpurg-Gaildorf-Solms-Assenheim, and after her death, her children, Wilhelm
Karl Ludwig von Solms-Rödelheim, Gräfin Dorothea Sophia Wilhelmina von
Waldeck-Pyrmont, Gräfin Eleonora Friderica Juliana von
Isenburg-Büdingen-Meerholz and Gräfin Sophia Christiana Louisa von
, took the necessary steps to secure their
inheritance. She gave birth to a total of 15 children and lived (1679-1757).
1690-99 Joint Sovereign Countess Juliane Charlotte von
Limpurg-Gaildorf of a portion of Limpurg-Gaildorf
Also known as Juliana Charlotta, she was youngest daughter of Count Wilhelm
Heinrich von Limpurg-Gaildorf and Elisabeth Dorothea von Limburg-Gaildorf.
Unmarried and never able to fully take up her inheritance as it was disputed by
the last male member of the family until 1713. She lived (1685-99).
1690-1705 Joint Sovereign Countess Sophia Elisabeth von Limpurg-Gaildorf of a
portion of Limpurg-Gaildorf
Youngest daughter of Count Wilhelm Heinrich von Limpurg-Gaildorf. A source
decribes homage of the condomial lordship of Wurmbrand and Solm-Assenheim after
the death of her sister, Juliane Charlotte and herself (Erbhuldigung auf die
Kondominalherrschaften von Wurmbrand und von Solms-Assenheim nach dem Tode der
Gräfinnen Juliana Charlotta und Sophia Elisabetha von Limpurg-Gaildorf ). She
lived (1688-1705).
1705-17 Joint
Sovereign Countess Albertine Susanne zu Limpurg-Speckfeld of 1/3rd of
Limpurg-Speckfeld
She was daughter of Georg-Eberhard Lord zu Limpurg-Speckfeld, whose brother of
Volrath zu Limpurg-Sponheim left five daughters and co-heirs. Albertine was
married to Friedrich von Welz, and succeeded by son, Friedrich Ernst.
1705-65 Joint Sovereign Countess Christiane Caroline
Henriette zu Limpurg-Speckfeld of 1/3rd of Limpurg-Speckfeld
When the last male member of the family died in 1713, she and 9 other female
heiresses (erbtöchter) took over the reign. She was second daughter of Georg-Eberhard Lord zu Limpurg-Speckfeld. She had no children
with her husband Victor-Sigismund von Grävenitz.
1705-54
Joint Sovereign Countess
Amalia
Alexandra Friederike zu Limpurg-Speckfeld of 1/3rd of Limpurg-Speckfeld
In dispute over the inheritance until 1713. She was third daughter of daughter of Georg-Eberhard Lord zu Limpurg-Speckfeld, she was
first married to Johann Georg von Wolframsdorf and secondly to Count Joachim von
Rechteren (d. 1715) and succeeded first by oldest son Count Friedrich-Ludwig
von Rechteren-Limburg, who was succeeded by his son Adolf Friedrich who reigned
until 1819, until he was succeeded by Amalia's youngest son, Friedrich-Reinhald.
Amalia, whose daughter, Josine-Elisabeth (d. 1738) and granddaughter by the same
name were also co-heiresses, lived (1689-1754).
1713-35 Joint Sovereign Countess Wilhelmina Sofia zu
Limpurg-Sontheim of a Portion of Limpurg-Sontheim (Amt Schmiedefeld)
The oldest daughter of Vollrath, Lord zu Limpurg-Sontheim, she was married to
Graf Rudolf von Prösing (d. 1718), and succeeded by daughter, Juliane Franziska.
Second daughter of Vollrath, Lord zu Limpurg-Sontheim, she was married to
Ludwig-Georg von Hessen-Homburg, and succeeded by daughter, Maria.
1713-38
Joint Sovereign Countess
Sophia Eleonora zu Limpurg-Sontheim of a Portion of Limpurg-Sontheim (Amt
Michelbach)
Third daughter of Vollrath, Lord zu Limpurg-Sontheim, she was married to
Friedrich-Karl von Erbach (d. 1731) and succeeded by two daughters Sophia
Christine and Friederike.
1713-46
Joint Sovereign Countess
Amöne
Sophia I zu Limpurg-Sontheim of a Portion of Limpurg-Sontheim (Amt Obersontheim)
Fourth daughter of daughter of Vollrath, Lord zu Limpurg-Sontheim, she was
married to Heinrich-Friedrich zu Löwenstein-Wertheim. She was succeeded by a
number of sons among others Johann-Ludwig-Vollrath Friedrich-Ludwig, who
married the daughters of her sister Sophia Eleonora: Friederike and
Sophia-Christine. Her two daughters, Amoene Sophia II and Karoline Christiane
also shared the inheritance. Amöne Sophia I lived (1684-1746).
1713-57
Joint Sovereign Countess
Friederike Auguste zu Limpurg-Sontheim of a Portion of Limpurg-Sontheim [-Schmeidenfeld-Speckfeld]
(½ of Amt Sontheim-Gaildorf)
Fifth daughter of daughter of Vollrath, Lord zu Limpurg-Sontheim, she was
married to Christian-Heinrich von Schönburg-Waldenburg (d. 1753) and succeeded
by daughter, Sophie Henriette Freiderike. She lived (1682-1757)
1734 Joint Sovereign Countess Juliana Dorothea II von
Löwenstein-Wertheim of 12/48th of Limpurg-Gaildorf (Wurmbrandische Antheil)
Succeeded her mother, Juliana Dorothea I von Limpurg-Gaildorf, and married to
Heinrich I von Reuss zu Schleitz (d. 1744), and succeeded by daughter, Luise.
She lived (1694-1734).
1734-73 Joint Sovereign Countess Luise von Reuss zu Schleitz
of 12/48th of Limpurg-Gaildorf
Second daughter of Juliana Dorothea I, she was married to Christian-Wilhelm von
Sachsen-Gotha (d. 1748) and Johann August von Sachsen-Gotha (d. 1767), and
succeeded by a daughter from each marriage, and lived (1726-73).
1734-56 Joint Sovereign Countess Maria Anna Margaretha von Wurmbrand-Stuppach
of 12/48th of Limpurg-Gaildorf [-Wurmbrand]
Third daughter of Juliana Dorothea I (1677-1734), and also known as Mariana
gebohrne Gräfin von Wurmbrand regierende Gräfin zu Limpurg-Gaildorf (Née
Countess von Wurmbrand, reigning Countess of of Limpurg-Gaildrof), she married
her cousin Wilhelm Karl Ludwig von Solms-Assenheim, the son of her maternal
aunt, Wilhelmine Christine, who inherited a fifth of his mother's half of
Limpurg in 1758. They were succeeded by their daughter Christiane Wilhelmina,
and lived (1702-56).
1735-75
Joint Sovereign Countess
Juliana Franziska von Prösing of a Portion of Limpurg-Sontheim
(Amt Schmiedefeld)
Also known as Countess Von Prösing von Limburg, she was daughter of
Wilhelmina-Sofia zu Limpurg-Sontheim, she was married to Rheingraf Karl-Vollrath
zu Solm-Grumbach (d. 1768), and succeeded by son, Karl-Ludwig, who married
Elisabeth-Christine von Leningen, Co-Heiress von Gaildorf and then to Friederike
von Sayn-Wittgenstein-Hohenstein, co-heiress von Sontheim (1767-1849). Juliana-Franziska
lived (1709-75).
1738-41
Joint Sovereign Countess Sophia
Christine zu Erbach-Erbach of a Portion of Limpurg-Sontheim ( Amt of Michelbach)
Daughter of Sophia-Eleonora zu Limpurg-Sontheim, she married Friedrich Ludwig
von Löwenstein, joint heir of Spontheim, trough his mother Amoene Sofie I. They
had one daughter, Sophie Charlotte, who lived (1739-42). Friedrich-Ludwig
remarried with Sophie Luise zu Solms Assenheim, who lived (1709-73). Sophia
Christine lived (1716-41).
1738-86
Joint Sovereign Countess
Friederike zu Erbach-Erbach of a Portion of Limpurg-Sontheim
(Amt of Michelbach)
Inherited the whole Amt of Michelbach. Sophia-Eleonora zu Limpurg-Sontheim, she was married to Johann-Ludwig-Vollrath
von Löwenstein-Wertheim, brother of Friedrich Ludwig. They were succeeded by
son, Johann Karl, who had two sons. Friederike lived (1722-86).
1746-77
Joint Sovereign Countess
Maria Friederike Sophia Charlotte von Hessen-Homburg of a Portion of
Limpurg-Sontheim [Limpurg-Gröningen]
The daughter of Christiane-Magdalena zu Limpurg-Sontheim, she was married to
Karl-Philipp von Hohenlohe-Waldenburg-Barstein, inherited the castle of
Untergröningen, and was succeeded by son, Ludwig Leopold (1777-98-99).
1746-79
Joint Sovereign Countess
Amöne
Sophia II zu Löwenstein-Wertheim of 2/6th of Obersontheim within the County of
Limpurg-Sontheim
She was daughter of Amöne Sophia I zu Limpurg-Sontheim, and married to Bertrand-Philipp
von Gronsfeld-Diepenbroick, and was succeeded by son, Johann Bertrand.
She lived (1718-79).
1746-93
Joint Sovereign Countess
Karoline Christiane zu Löwenstein-Wertheim of a Part
Obersontheim within the County of Limpurg-Sontheim
Youngest daughter of Amöne Sophia I zu Limpurg-Sontheim, and married to
Karl-Christian-Wilhelm von Pückler (d. 1786) and succeeded by daughter,
Wilhelmine Henriette Karoline and two sons. Karoline Christiane lived (1719-93).
1746-57 Joint Sovereign
Countess Sophie Henriette Frederike von Schönburg-Waldenburg of Amt
Sontheim-Gaildorf within the Country of Limpurg-Sontheim-Schmiedenfeld-Speckfeld
Known as Countess von Rechteren Limpurg, she was the daughter of Friederike
Auguste zu Limpurg-Sontheim, she was first married to her cousin Johann Philipp
von Löwenstein-Wertheim, who was son of her mother, Friederike Auguste's sister,
Amoene Sophia I. Secondly married to her relative Friedrich Ernst von Weltz,
the son of Albertine von Limburg-Speckfeld. Sophie was succeeded by daughter,
Friederike-Amoene, and lived (1718-57).
1754-1804
Joint Sovereign Countess Josine-Elisabeth
von Rechteren of a Portion of Limpurg-Speckfeld
Also known as Countess von Rechteren Limpurg, she succeeded her mother, Amalia
zu Limpurg-Speckfeld, had no children with her husband, August Friedrich von Hohenlohe, and lived (1738-1804/5).
1756-1803
Joint Sovereign Countess
Christiane Wilhelmina von Solms-Rödelheim und
Assenheim of Limpurg-Gaildorf-Wurmbrand
First inherited the parts of her mother, Marina Margarethe von Wurmbrand-Stuppach,
the daughter fo Juliana Dorothea I. received the customary
homage by the inhabitants of the Lordship after the death of her father,
1757-65
Joint Sovereign Countess
Friederike Amöne von Löwenstein-Wertheim of Limpurg-Sontheim-Schmedenfeld-Speckfeld
(Part of the Amt of Obersontheim)
Succeeded her mother, Sophia von Schönburg-Waldenburg and married her cousin
Friedrich von Pückler, who was son of her father's sister Karoline Christiane.
Friederike Amöne was succeeded in the standesherrschaft (State County) by her daughter, Karoline, and lived (1739-67).
1757-74 Joint Sovereign
Countess Dorothea Sophie Wilhelmine von Solms-Assenheim of 6/48th of
Limpurg-Gaildorf (Solms-Assenheimeische Antheil)
Second daughter of Wilhelmina Christina von Limpurg-Gaildorf, she was married to
Josias von Waldeck-Bergheim (d. 1763), and succeeded by son and daughter,
Karoline. Her decendants bought parts of the County Limpurg-Gaildorf and parts
of Limpurg-Solms-Assenheim in 1806 and created a standesherrschaft (lordship) in
Württemberg. She lived (1698-1774).
1
The daughter of Wilhelmina Christina von Limpurg-Gaildorf, she was married to
Karl-Friedrich von Isenburg und Büdinge in Meerholtz, was succeeded by son and
daughter, Christine, and lived (1703-62).
1757-78
Joint Sovereign Countess
Sophie
Luise Christiana von Solms-Assenheim of 6/48th of Limpurg-Gaildorf
Third daughter of Wilhelmina Christina von Limpurg-Gaildorf, she was married to
Friedrich Ludwig von , co-heir of Sontheim. They
had no children.
Youngest daughter of Second daughter of Wilhelmina Christina von
Limpurg-Gaildorf, she was unmarried.
1762-1802
Joint Sovereign Countess
Christine von Isenburg-Meerholtz of a portion of Limpurg-Gaildorf
Daughter of Eleonora Friederika von Solms-Assenheim, she married Georg-Friedrich-Ludwig
von Waldeck (d. 1771). She sold her part to her cousin Karl Ludwig, and died
(1808).
1765-87
Joint Sovereign Countess
Karoline Sophie Luise Maria Henriette Leopolde von Pückler of a Portion of
the Amt of Obersontheim within the County of Limpurg-Sontheim
The unmarried daughter and successor of Friederike Amöne
von Löwenstein-Wertheim (-Welz) (1739-65).
After her death, her half-brother, Friedrich (son of her father in his second
marriage), inherited her part of the possessions.
1773-89
Joint Sovereign Countess
Auguste Luise Friederike von Sachsen-Coburg of 6/48 of
Limpurg-Gaildorf (Wurmbrandische Antheil)
Daughter of Luise von Reuss zu Schleitz and her first husband Christian Wilhelm
von Sachsen-Gotha, she was married to Friedrich-Karl von Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt,
and lived (1752-1805).
1773-80
Joint Sovereign Countess
Luise
von Sachsen-Coburg of 6/48 of Limpurg-Gaildorf (Wurmbrandische Antheil)
Second daughter of Luise von Reuss zu Schleitz with her second husband, Johann
August von Gotha-Gotha, she was married to Grand Duke Friedrich-Franz I von
Mecklenburg-Schwerin (1756-1837), and lived (1756-1808).
1774-1801
Joint Sovereign Countess
Karoline von Waldeck-Pyrmont of a portion of Limpurg-Gaildorf
Unmarried daughter and successor of Dorothea von Solms-Assenheim. Her brother
Josias (1774-88) was succeeded by son, Karl who died in 1849, and first was
succeeded by son Richard (1835-49-63) and then by daughter Mathilde (b. 1826),
who was married to Karl von Aldenburg-Betnick.
1783-85
Joint Sovereign Countess
Charlotte
Luise Polixena zu Leiningen-Dagsburg of a portion of
of Limpurg-Gaildorf-Solm-Assenheim
received the customary homage by the inhabitants of the lordship jointly with
her husband, Franz II, Graf
von Erbach-Erbach, after her mother,
1787 Joint Hereditary Countess
Elisabeth Christiane Mariana zu
Leiningen of a portion of
of Limpurg-Gaildorf-Solm-Assenheim
received a "pre-hereditary homage" as joint heir of her mother,
1788-99 Regent and Guardian
Dowager Countess Christine
Wilhelmine von Isenburg-Büdingen of a portion Limpurg-Gaildorf-Solms-Assenheim
(And Waldeck-Bergheim)
After the
death of her husband, Josias Wilhelm Leopold von Waldeck-Bergheim, joint heir of Dorothea zu Solms-Rödelheim
und Assenheim, she took possession of the lordship and was hailed as, regent for
their 4 surviving children, of whom Josias Wilhelm
Karl, Graf zu Waldeck-Bergheim (1774-1802) did not have any chidlren, and the
second, Karl, who was Count of Waldeck und Pyrmont and later also of Berghaim
(1778-1849), and later bought the remaining parts of his brother and sister's
parts of the portion of the lordship in their hand. Christine Wilhelmine was
daughter of the Danish Countess Dorothea Reventlow and Gustav Friederich von
Isenburg, and lived (1756-1826)
1793-1800
Joint Sovereign Countess
Wilhelmine Henriette Karoline von Pückler of a Portion of
the Amt Obersontheim within the County of Limpurg-Sontheim
Successor of her mother, Karoline Christiane zu Löwenstein-Wertheim, she married
Johann-Ludwig von Sayn-Wittgenstein-Hohenstein (d. 1796), who had previously
been married to her older sister, Friederike Luise, who died 1772. She was
succeeded by two sons and three daughters; Karoline, Friederike and Luise, and
lived (1746-1800).
1800-33
Joint Sovereign Countess
Karoline Wilhelmine zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Hohenstein of a Portion of the Amt
Obersontheim within the County of
Limpurg-Sontheim
Daughter of Wilhelmine Henriette von Pückler, and married to Karl-Ludwig von
Isenburg und Büdingen in Meerholtz (d. 1832). She sold her part to her relative
Alexander von Pückler, and lived (1764-1833).
1800-49
Joint Sovereign Countess
Friederike Wilhelmine zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Hohenstein of a Portion of the Amt
Obersontheim within the County of Limpurg-Sontheim
The daughter of Wilhelmine Henriette von Pückler, she married Karl-Ludwig von
Salm, Wild- und Rheingraf von Grumbach and Co-heir von Sontheim (d. 1799) and
succeeded by son, Friedrich. She lived (1767-1849).
1800-28
Joint Sovereign Countess Luise
zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Hohenstein of a Portion of the Amt Obersontheim within the
County of Limpurg-Sontheim
Daughter of Wilhelmine Henriette von Pückler, she was married to Emil von
Bentheim-Tecklenburg (d. 1837) and succeeded by three sons, and lived
(1768-1828).
1800-49
Joint Sovereign Countess
Wilhelmine Elisabeth Karoline von Sayn-Wittgenstein-Hohenstein of a Portion of
the Amt Obersontheim within the County of Limpurg-Sontheim
The daughter of Wilhelmine Henriette von Pückler, she married Friedrich zu
Bentheim-Tecklenburg, and lived (1773-1856).
1802-06 Sovereign Countess Luise zu
Isenburg-Büdingen-Meerholz of a portion of the Amt of Obersontheim within the
County of Limpurg-Gaildorf
Also Countess of Waldeck-Bergheim and succeeded
mother Christina von Isenburg-Büdingen-Meerholz as co-heir and co-regent in
Limpurg until it was incorporated into Württemberg in 1806. Married to Alexander
Graf von Pückler. She lived (1770-1826).
1803-32
Joint Sovereign Countess
Karoline Sophia von Leningen of a portion of Limpurg-Gaildorf [-Wormbrand]
Succeeded mother, Christiane Wilhelmina von Solms-Assenheim, and married
Friedrich Magnus von Solms-Wildenfels.
1803-26
Joint Sovereign Countess Luise
zu Erbach-Erbach of a portion of Limpurg-Gaildorf
Daughter of Christiane Wilhelmina von Solms-Assenheim's daughter Luise Charlotte
and Franz von Erbach, married to Alexander von Pückler, who bought part of the
Limbourg-Possessions of their relative, Karoline Wilhelmine von
Sayn-Wittgenstein-Hohenstein. Luise was succeeded by daughter, Luise von Pückler.
1803-10
Joint Sovereign Countess
Franziska Auguste von Salm-Grumbach of 12/48th of Limpurg-Gaildorf
Daughter of Christiane Wilhelmina von Solms-Assenheim's daughter Elisabeth
Christine, who died 1792, and Karl-Ludwig von Salm-Grumbach. She was married to
Wilhelm von Solms-Braunfels, and succeeded by son,
Wilhelmine Caroline
1808-19
Joint Sovereign Countess
Luise
von Pückler of a portion of Limpurg-Gaildorf
Daughter of Louise Christiane Eleonore zu Isenburg-Büdingen in Meerholz
(1770-1808) and Carl Alexander August von Pückler (1751-). 1819 she sold 1/48 to
her relative and co-heir to the counties, Georg Friedrich Graf von Waldeck.
She was married to Freiherr August von Röder and
1810-65 Titular Countess Wilhelmine Caroline von
Salm-Grumbach of 12/48th of Limpurg-Gaildorf
She inherited the part of her
mother, Franziska Auguste (or Franciske), though the soverign rights had been
incorporated into Württemberg. She was married to Alexus zu Bentheim und
Steinfurt and her parts were inherited by her decendants.
Non noble daughter of a civil servant, her husband Georg Friedrich
Karl von Waldeck-Pyrmont und Limpurg-Gaildorf, resigned his Princely Title upon their
marriage and became Count von Waldeck-Limpurg (1785-1826).
Since they had no children, she inherited his
standesherrliche (State Countly) possessions, and after her death, they were inherited by her
husband's nephew, Richard
Kasimir Alexander Graf von Waldeck in Bergheim, who handed Waldeck-Limpurg over to her sister, Mechthilde. She lived (1785-1852)
1852-88 Reigning Lady
Mechthilde Emma Charlotte von Waldeck-Bergheim of Waldeck-Limpurg (13/48th of
Limpurg-Gaildorf)
Her brother, Richard Kasimir Alexander Graf von Waldeck und Pyrmunt, handed the
standesherrschaft (State County) over to her after he inherited it from their
aunt, Amalie zu Waldeck-Gaildorf. 1888 she handed it over to her second son,
William Charles
Philipp Otto Count Aldenburg-Bentinck, who used the Castle Middachten by Arnheim
in the Netherlands and used Gaildorf
as summer-residence.
She lived (1826-99).
1958- Isabelle
von Bentinck und Waldeck-Limpurg of Waldeck-Limpurg
Daughter of
William Bentinck, Count Bentinck and
Waldeck-Limpurg Count Aldenburg Bentinck (1880-1924-58), she married
Graf
Aurel Ladislaus Franz Heirich Ernst zu Ortenburg.
Her one year older sister Sophie married an italian
Count. She is (b. 1925-).
Ecclesiastical Territory of Lindau
(Gefürstete
Damenstift Lindau am Bodensee (Royal Ladies Chapter) (In Bavaria)
(See also
Germany Ecclesiastical
Territories)
Lippe
Member
of the College of the Counts of Westphalia, which shared a vote in the Council
of Princes in the Imperial Diet. Also
When her husband, Simon IV, died, her oldest
son, Bernhard VII, was hardly one year old and
she was pregnant with the second. She was in
serious disputes with her brother-in-law, Otto,
Dean of the
Cathedral of Köln, who was named
Guardian. In 1433 gave
part of the Lordship
as security for lones he took out
in order to secure her dowry
at the Castle Brake,
where she moved - without her
sons. Otto died the
same year and Archbishop Dietrich von Moers of
Köln, the brother of her
mother-in-law Elisabeth, was named regent. She lived (Ca 1411-56).
After the death of her husband, Simon V,
she became guardian for her 8 year old son, Bernhard VIII, the 15. Noble Lord to
Lippe and 2. Count to Lippe (Edler Herr und Graf zur Lippe), and Count Adolf von Schaumburg, Koadjutors von Köln,
Count Jobst von Hoya were regents until 1438. She lived (1509-40).
After the death of her husband, Bernhard
VIII (1527-36-63), she was in disputes with the regents for her son Simon VI,
mainly Count Hermann Simon zu Pyrmont (d. 1576).
Her son was appointed Imperial
Commissioner and was in charge of mediating heredtiary disputes and gained more
and more importance as the years went by. She lived (1524-83).
1627-31
Guardian Dowager Countess Maria Magdalena von Waldeck-Wildungen
Her son Simon Ludwig (1610-27-36) succeeded his half-brother, Simon VII.
(1587-1613-27) under the regency of her father, count Christian zu Waldeck. She
lived (1606-71).
After the death of her husband, Simons Ludwig, she claimed the regency for her
Simon Philipp (1632-36-50), but since she was only 24 and therefore not fully of
age - at the time one reached the age of majority at the age of 25 - she aspired
to have her father, Christian von Waldeck named Co-Guardian or Contutor - he had
already been regent for Simon Ludwig. Her claims were supported by the courts
and Imperial decrees, but her brothers-in-law ignored her rights and were
de-facto in charge of the regency. As she feared that her sons were in danger of
being taken away from her, she made contact with some troops from Hessen-Darmstadt,
who secured the children and placed them under the protection of Landgrave
1734-47 Regent Dowager Princess
Johanette Wilhelmine von Nassau-Idstein-Wiesbaden of Lippe-Detmold
Widow of Simon Henrich Adolf, she was regent for son, Simon August (1727-34-82).
She was daughter of Duke Georg August Samuel and Dorothera von Öttingen.
The son of her husband Simon August from
his second marriage, Leopold I.(1767-82-1802) was under
guardiahship before beling placed under Quratorship 1790-95
by his realtive, Count Ludwig
Heinrich Adolf zur Lippe. In 1789 Leopold
was named Prince zur
Lippe. His wife, Pauline von Anhalt became regent for their son in 1802.
Christine Charlotte was the
fourth wife
of
1802-20 Regent Dowager Princess Pauline von Anhalt-Bernburg
Widow of Leopold II, Count 1782-89 and Prince 1789-1802. Regent for Leopold III
(1800-1802-51) She lived (1769-1820).
1691 Regent Dowager Countess Susanna Sophia von Hohenlohe-Waldenburg
During the process of her confirmation as regent, the city of Speyer was
destroyed and the next agnate (male member of the family), Count Eucharius
Casimir von Löwenstein asked to become co-guardian
The
When her 17 year old
son, Adolf Friedrich von Schleswig-Holstein-Gottorp succeeded his brother as
Prince-Bishop of Lübeck one year after the death of her husband Christian August
von Schleswig-Holstein-Gottorf (1673- 1726), she acted as his “supporter and
guide”, according to the National Swedish Biography, because he was still a
minor, and she also gave him her estates Stendorf, Mönch-Neversdorf and Lenzahn
to provide him with an income. In 1751 he became king of Sweden. Her oldest
daughter, Hedwig Sophie von Hostein-Gottorf (1705–1764), was Princess-Abbess of
Herford, another Joanna Elisabeth von Hostein-Gottorf (1712- 1760), was regent
of Anhalt-Zerbst (And mother of Catherine the Great of Russia). She had a total
of 10 children and lived (1682-1755)
Magdeburg
9?? Metropolitana Edith of
Germany
She was Emperor Otto I's first wife. (Date of tenure of office to be determined)
Manderscheid
Inherited the seat in the Imperial Circle Estate of Westphalia (Regional
Assembly) from Blankenheim-Gerolstein
1548-53 De facto Regent Dowager Countess Margarethe von Wied-Runckel of
Manderscheid-Blankenheim
After the death of Arnold of Manderscheid-Blankenheim, two male relatives are
appointed guardians of her children, but they does not seem to have taken much
part in the governing of the county, and she was in fact the regent until her
oldest son, Hermann, came of age. Two of her daughters became Princess-Abbesses
of Essen - Elisabeth VI and VII and another, Margarethe was Abbess of Elten and
Vreden. A son, Johann, was Prince-Bishop of Strassburg. Margarethe von Wied
later married a Count of Bentheim, and (d. 1571).
1780-1811 Countess Augusta
Married to Christian Phillip von Sternberg - their son became Franz-Joseph von
Sternberg-Manderscheid.
1486-1503 Regent Margaretha von Mansfeld of Mansfeld zu Hinter-Ort
After the death of her husband, Ernst I, she became regent for one year old son,
Albrecht VII. She lived (1450-1531).
1546-60 (†) Regent Dowager Countess Amalie von
Leising of Mansfeld-Vorderort zu Bornstädt, Dame de Penig
After the death of her husband, Philipp II (1502-46), she was regent for son,
Bruno II (1545-1615). Their three other children died young. She was daughter of
Hugo von Leisnig and Dorothea Schenkin von Landsberg, and lived (1508-60).
1567-79 Regent Dowager Countess Margarethe von Braunschweig-Lüneburg of Mansfeld
zu Hinter-Ort
After the death of her husband, Count Johann von Mansfeld, she became regent for
son Ernst VI (1561-1609). She was daughter of Duke Ernst I von
Braunschweig-Lüneburg and Sofie von Mecklenburg, and lived (1534-96).
1632-37 Regent Dowager Countess Agnes Reuss zu Gera of Mansfeld zu Heldrugen,
After the death of her husband, Ernst Ludwig von Mansfeld, (1605-32) she became
regent for son, Christoph Heinrich (1628-37) until his death. She was daughter
of Heinrich II Reuss zu Plauen, Lord zu Lobenstein, Gera, Herr zu
Ober-Kranichfeld and his second wife n Magdalene von Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt, and
lived (1600-42).
1647-58 Regent Dowager Countess Barbara Magdalena
von Mansfeld-Hinterort of Mansfeld-Eisleben
After the death of her husband, Johann Georg II von Mansfeld-Eisleben, she
was regent by his oldest son Hoyer Christoph II von Mansfeld-Eisleben, (1636-53)
from his marriage to Barbara Maria zu Stolberg in Schwarza (1596-1636). Barbara
Magdalena became regent for her own son, Johann Georg III, when he succeeded
older half-brother at the age of 13.She was daughter of Count David von Mansfeld
zu Schraplau (1573-1628) and his second wife, Juliane Marie Reuss zu Gera
(1598-1650). She later married Anton von Werthern, Georg Andreas Schwab von
Lichtenberg and Georg Albert von Mansfeld-Vorderort (1642-96/97), and
lived (1618-96).
1780-94 Countess Regnant Marie Isabella von Mansfeld-Vorderort-Bornstedt of
Mansfeld, Princess of Fondi
The oldest daughter of Heinrich Paul Franz II, Count von Mansfeld-Vorderort,
Fürst von Fondi and his second wife Marie Josefa Czerninova z Chudenicz, she was
the sole heiress of the Mansfeld-Querfurt Line of the Conts of Mandsfeld. She
had married the Bohemian Prince Franz Gundackar von Colloredo, and 1789 the
Emperor of Austria granted them the right to merge their name and shields, and
they founded the new line of Colloredo-Mansfeld. Anna
Maria Isabella Ludmilla Johanna Adalberta Michaela Franziska was mother of nine
children, and lived (1750-94).
1773 Sovereign Countess Louise-Marguerite von der Marck of Marck and Schleiden,
Baroness of Lummen, Seraing-le-Château and Schaffenburg (Germany and France)
She succeeded her father, Ludwig-Peter de La Marck van Schleiden (1701-50-73),
and married to Charles Marie Raymond de Ligne, Duc d'Arenberg et d'Aerschot
(1721-78). Mother of eight children, and lived (1730-1820).
Mecklenburg-Güstrow
1720-56 Reigning Lady Duchess Augusta zu Mecklenburg-Güstrow of the
Administrative Unit of Dargun
After the death of her mother, Dowager Grand
Duchess Magdalene Sibylle von Holstein-Gottorp with whom she had lived at the
Castle of Güstrow after the death of her father Gustav Adolf zu Mecklenburg, she
was given the Amt as her appanage, and she set up a court with 150 employees
became known as The Princess of Dargun. She introduced a number of reforms in
her area, which consisted of 45 villages, especially within education and health
and she founded schools in villages which had hitherto not had any. She was
strongly influenced by the Pietist movement and gradually became more and more
religious. She was in close contact with her relatives at various courts,
especially the Danish and that of Sachen-Wernigerode, and lived (1674-1756)
Member of the Secular Bench of the Council of
Princes in the Imperial Diet. Also member of the Regional Assembly of the
1521-47
Reigning Lady Anna von Brandenburg of the Cities and Administrative Offices of
1547-67 Reigning Dowager Lady
She also resided at Eldenburg after the death of her husband, Johann-Albrecht I
of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. She was mother of 3 sons, and lived (1527-91)
1592 Reigning Dowager Lady of the Administrative Offices of Rehna, Wittenburg
and Lübz
1603-08 Administrator of Schwerin
After her husband, Duke Johann VII of (1558-76-92) committed suicide at
Stargard, she became guardian for her sons, Duke Adolf Friedrich I of
Mecklenburg-Schwerin (1588-92-1628) and Johann Albrecht II of
Mecklenburg-Güstrow (1590-92-1610-36) and yielded substantial influence over the
government in Schwerin. After the death of her brother-in-law Sigismund August
was Duke (1576-1603) and his uncle, Ulrich III (1603) she signed a treaty with
the new Duke Karl which left her with the administration of Schwerin until her
sons came of age. She was engaged in heavy disputes with the Treasurer Andreas
Meier, whom she accused of fraud and she demeaned to have the financial control
transferred to her at the Assemblies of 1604 and 1606, but it was denied. She
was active in trade and commerce and modernised her residence in her dowries
where she possessed full sovereignty over her dowries except the role as
fief-overlord over the nobility. But her territories were occupied several times
during the Thirty Years War. Her sons accused her of mismanagement and their
relationship was never good. She lived (1569-1634).
1636-37
Designate Regent and Guardian Dowager Duchess Eleonora Maria von Anhalt-Bernburg
of Mecklenburg-Güstrow
She
was
the third wife
of her husband, Johann Albrecht
II von
Mecklenburg-Güstrow,
and gave birth to his first
surviving son, Gustav Adolf, in 1633. He named her, as regent and guardian in
his will, jointly with the reformed Elector Kurfürst Georg Wilhelm von
Brandenburg. Johann Albrecht wanted his son to be raised in the Calvinist faith,
but the Lutheran duke Adolf Friedrich von Mecklenburg-Schwerin protested. He
demanded that she withdrew to her dowry in Strelitz and left the child with him.
At the funeral the present princes tried to mediate but failed, she refused to
close her Calvinist chapel. Her opponents tried to oust her from the castle with
all means. Adolf Friedrich kidnapped his nephew from the Castle of Güstrow and
raised him with his own children in the Lutheran faith in Bützow, and he also
took over the guardianship of Güstrow. She appealed at the Emperor
and was confirmed as regent in 1639 (got reichshofrätliche Bestätigung), and tried to find
support in Sweden. Even though Adolf Friedrich harassed her, she did not move
to her dowry until 1644, and from then on her 11-year-old son lived at Güstrow
Castle. At the same time the Swedish, Imperial and Prussian troops crossed
through Mecklenburg several times, causing much looting and hardship. Also
mother of three daughters, she lived (1600-57).
1658/1661-65 Joint Regent and Guardian Dowager Duchess Maria Catharina von
Braunschweig-Danneberg
When her husband, Adolf-Friederich I von Mecklenburg-Schwerin
1673 Regent Duchess Isabelle Angélique de Montmorency
Her husband, Christian Ludwig I, appointed her regent during his absence in the
war against the Netherlands. They had married in 1664 but she had remained in
France where she was deeply involved in the political affairs, but her
pro-French and her relationship with Kammerjunker Bernstorff and she soon
returned to France. She had been married to the Hugenot Gaspard IV. de Coligny,
Duke de Châtillon, who was killed in a duel after a few years. Her posthumously
born son, Gaspard, died in 1657. During the Fronde she supported the Prince de
Condé, who was finally defeated by Cardinal Mazarin, which ended the independent
position of the nobility. King Louis XIV considered her as expert in German
Affairs and sent her at a diplomatic mission to Braunschweig where she managed
to recruit Hannover as French allied. She was daughter of François III de
Montmorency-Boutteville, Count de Luxé and Elisabeth Angélique de Vienne and
lived (1627-95).
After the death of her husband, Duke Friederich Wilhelm zu Mecklenburg in
Schwerin, she took over her dorwy, the Amt Bützow-Land, where
1709-51 Reging Dowager Lady
Christiane
Emilie
Antonie zu Schwarzburg-Sondershausen
of Mirow
After After the death of her husband Duke Adolf Friedrich II von
Mecklenburg-Strelitz. She was mother of 2 children
Sophie Christine Louise von Mecklenburg-Strelitz
(1706-08) and
Karl Friedrich Ludwig Herzog zu Mecklenburg, Prinz zu Mirow (1708-52). She lived
(1681-1751)
1752-53 Regent Dowager Duchess Elisabeth Albertine von Sachsen-Hildburghausen
1753-62 Reigning Dowager Lady of Mirow
Her son, Adolf Friederich IV (1738-94), succeeded his uncle Adolf Friederich III
in December 1752 since her husband, Karl Ludwig Friederich zu Mecklenburg-Strelitz
zu Mirow had died in June the same year, and she acted as regent for a year. As
guardian for her younger children, she signed the "Successionagreement" (andesgrundgesetzlichen
Erbvergleich (LGGEV)) in 1755, which resulted in a new consitution in the Duchy
which consolidated the powers of the nobility (Ritterschaft) and conserved the
backward position of the area wich lasted until the end of the monarchy in 1918.
Her only daughter, Sophie Charlotte, was married to King Georges III of Great
Britain. She lived (1713-61).
Mecklenburg-Wismar
1222-27 Regent Dowager Duchess Katarina von Lauenburg
Meissen
1221-30 Regent
Dowager Margravine Jutta von Thüringen of Meissen
After the death of her husband, Markgraf Dietrich von Meißen, she was regent for
her 5 year old son, Heinrich, jointly with her brother, Landgrave Landgraf
Ludwig IV von Thüringen who tried to incorporate the Margravate in his
territories, but she fought back. In 1223 she married Count Poppo VII von
Henneberg and together they fought off her brother. She was daughter of Landgave
Heinrich I, Count Palatine of Sachsen and Heiress Presumptive (Eventualerbin)
to Thüringen and Sachsen, and her son eventually became Landgave and Count
Palatine of the two territories in 1247. She was mother of 5 children by her
first husband and 3 by her second, and lived (circa 1183-1235).
1381-90 Regent Dowager Countess Katharina von Henneberg of the Osterland,
Landsberg, Pleißnerland, Orlamünde, Kahla, Jena und Naumburg (Saale)
1381-97 Reigning Dowager Lady of Coburg and Weißenfels
Ruled in the name of sons Friedrich, Wilhelm and Georg, who divieded the
margravates of Thüringen and Meissen with their uncles after the death of her
husband Margrave Friederich, who had named her as the regent in his will. Her
father Heinrich VIII von Henneberg-Schleusingen (d. 1347) named her heir of
Coburg together with her mother Jutta von Brandenburg (d. 1453) and 3 sisters,
while the rest of the Henneberg territory went to his brother Johann. The
surviving sons, Friedrich IV (1370-1428), Wilhelm II (1371-1425) and Georg
(1380-1402) later inherited Thüringen and Meissen from their uncles. She lived
(1334-97)
1323-29 Regent Dowager Margravine Elisabeth von Lobdeburg-Arnshaugk of Meissen
1329-59 Reigning Dowager Lady of Gotha
When her husband, Friedrich I. von Meißen (1257 -1323) died, she became regent
for their son, Friedrich II. Landgraf von
Thüringen und Markgraf von Meißen (1310-49). She was daughter of Elisabeth von
Orlamünde and Lord Otto zu Lobdeburg-Arnshaugk, who died when she was 4 and
after whom she inherited castles of Arnshaugk bei Neustadt an der Orla, Triptis,
and Oppurg and lands in the area around Schleiz, and also mother of one
daughter, Elisabeth (1306 -1367), who married Heinrich II. von Hessen. Elisabeth
von Arnshaugk lived (circa 1284-1359).
1381 Regent
Dowager Countess Katharina von Henneberg
Regent for Sons
1520-25 City Regent Dowager Countess Magdalena von
Öttingen
After the death of her husband Count Ulrich VII, she was named regent of the
city (Stadtregentin). In 1521 Emperor Karl V gave her Blutbann as a fief and in
1525 she was faced with a peasant uprising. Her second husband was Count Johann
I von Montfort-Rothenfels-Wasserburg (d. 1529). After her death, Emperor Karl V
gave the county as a fief to her nephew, Hugo XVI von Montfort-Rothenfels-Wasserburg,
Count of Montfort-Tettnag, who was first married to her granddaughter, Maria
Magdalena von Schwarzenberg zu Hohenlandsberg (1510-43), the oldest of the 14
children of her daughter, Eva von Montfort-Tettnang (1494-27). Another of Eva's
daughters, Maria Jakobe (1515-94) was Princess-Abbess of Buchau. Magdalena lived
(1473-1525).
Muskau
1625-74 Sovereign Lady Ursula Catharina zu Donha
Succeeded her father, Burggraf and Graf Karl Christoph zu Dohna, Herr zu Muskau
(1595-1625), initially under the regency of her mother, Ursula von der
Schulenburg-Lieberose. Married to Curt Reincke von Callenberg. She lived
(1622-74).
1625- Ursula von der Schulenburg-Lieberose
After the death of her husband, Karl Christoph, she was regent for their 2 year
old daughter.
1709-14 Regent Doager Sovereign Lady Ursula Regine Marie von Friesen von Muskau
After the death of her husband, Count Curt Reinicke von Callenberg (165-1709)
she was in charge of the government in the name of her son, Johann Alexander
Graf von Callenberg. She lived (1658-1714).
1785-99 Sovereign Lady Clementine Cunigunde von Callenberg
Her father Georg Alexander Heinrich Hermann Graf von Callenberg, transferred the
Standesherschaft to her and her husband, Ludwig von Pückler auf Branitz, they
divorced 1799, when she married Curt Friedrich August von Seydewitz. After her
first husband's death, her son, Ludwig Heinrich Hermann, Count and later Prince
von Pückler took over as Standesherr von Muskau. She lived (1770-1850)
Nassau
Widow of Count Gerlach
Nassau
in
Diez
1632-42 Regent Dowager Countess Sophia Hedwig of Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel
Also Countess Regnant of Spigelberg 1631-42.
Widow of
Ernst Kasimir, Count of Nassau, Katzenelnbogen, Vianden and Diez, Baron of
Dillenburg, Governor of Rhineberk, Lieutenant-governor of Gelderland and of
Utrecht, Stadtholder of Friesland 1620 and of Groningen and Drenthe in 1625. She
was regent for Hendrik Casimir I and lived (1592-1642)
1664-79 Regent Dowager Princess Albertina Agnes van Oranje-Nassau
1679-96 Reigning Dowager Lady of Oranienburg
Born as Countess of Nassau-Katzenelnbogen-Viaden-Diez-Buren-Leerdam-Lingen and
Moers, and was also regent for son
Hendrik Casimir II in
1696-1708 Regent Dowager Princess Henriëtte Amalia Maria von Anhalt-Dessau
Also Governess-General of Friesland, Groningen and Drente and 1702-07 Regent in
Oranje/Orange. She lived (1666-1726).
Widow of Count Albrecht
Nassau-Saarbrücken (Also see Saarbrücken)
See Nassau-Usingen
Nassau-Siegen
1638-45 Regent
Dowager Countess Ernestine de Ligne
After the
death of her husband, Johann VIII of Nassau-Siegen, Marchese di Monte Caballo,
(1583-1638) regent for their son, Johann Franz Desideratus, who was created
Fürst of Nassau-Siegen, in 1652. He lived (1627-99). In 1650 she signed the
treaty re-establishing the Stift of Keppel, which was ruled by a Princess-Abbess
but under the sovereignty of Nassau with the titulature "ihre fürstliche
Gnaden, die fraw Princessin Ernestine de Ligne und des Reichs verwittibte grävin
zu Nassau Siegen".
She lived (1594-1663).
Nassau-Usingen
Member of the
Bench of the Secular Princes
Upper Rhenish Circle
(Regional Assembly) (Oberrheinischer Reischskreis)
1718-34 Regent Dowager Princess Charlotte Amalia von Nassau-Dillenburg of
Nassau-Usingen (Germany)
1735-38 Reigning Dowager Lady of Saarbrücken
After the death of her husband, Fürst Wilhelm Heinrich (1684-1702-18) she was
regent for son sons, Karl (1712-18-75) and Wilhelm Heinrich (1718-68). She
turned the principality into a "modern" state. She reformed the administration
was reformed and eparated it from the court. She created a national archive in
the Castle of Idstein, which founded the basis of the Archives of Hessen and she
created a library which founds the basis for the National Library of Hessen
today. She also introduced schools, but she limited the rights of the Jewish
community. But she was not able to give the Principality a "suitable" place in
the Empire, and even allowed her sons to split up the country, which weakened
the state a lot. 1734 Karl was declared to be of age by Emperor Karl VI but she
continued as regent for Wilhelm Heinrich, who became Duke of Saarbrücken,
Ottweiler, Jugenhein and Wöllstein in 1735/42. She lived (1680-1738).
Nassau-Weilburg
1597-1628 Reigning
Dowager Lady Erika von Isenburg-Birstein of the Castle and Administrative Office
of Burgschwalbach
Widow of Count Wilhelm von Nassau-Weilburg, she died in Berleburg
where her the youngest of her 2 daughters,
Elisabeth Juliane (1598-1647) was married to Count Ludwig Kasimir von
Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg (d. 1643) and Count Georg von
Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg (d. 1680). The oldest, Anna (1597-1645) was married
to Count Friedrich X von Leiningen-Dagsburg. She lived (1569-1628).
1593-1616
Reigning Dowager Lady
Dowager Countess
Anna von Nassau-Dillenburg
of the Lordship of Wehen
The lordship was poor and she managed to revitalise the economy and build a
school in the area. She was widow of
Albrecht von Nassau-Weilburg in
Ottweiler, Hohenburg, Kirchheim, Lahr and Mahlberg (1559-74-93), and lived
(1541-1616).
1602-55
Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Countess
Elisabeth of Hessen-Darmstad
of Wehen
The first years, she resided at the Castle of Wehen together with her
mother-in-law, Anna von Nassau-Dillenburg, and after her death, she took over
the reign of the lordship. She was widow of a younger son, Count Johann Kasimir
von Nassau-Gleiberg (1593-1602), who died the year after their marriage.
Her only daughter, Anna Eleonore was born 6 months after her father's death, and
later married
Duke Ludwig Friedrich of Württemberg-Mömpelgard (1586
+26.1.1631). Elisabeth lived (1579-1655)
1675-78 Joint Gardian Dowager Countess Christiane Elisabeth von
Sayn-Wittgenstein of Nassau-Weilburg
When her husband, Friedrich von Nassau-Weilburg (1640-75), died after a fall
from a horse, her sons, Johann Ernst and Friedrich Ludwig (1665-84), were placed
under guardianship with her and Johann von Nassau-Idstein and after his death in
1679 Johann Ludwig von Nassau-Ottweiler, and her sons lived with him in
Ottweiler until they came of age. She lived (1646-78).
Neuburg
1248-63
Hereditary Countess Agnes von Andechs-Meranien of the Counties of Neuburg and
Schärding am unteren Inn in Krain and Ried
She was daughter of Duke Otto VII von Meran and Beatrix von Bourgogne, and after
her brother Otto VIII, she was the last of the dynasty of Andechs. First married
to Freiederich II of Österreich and after their divorce in 1243 to Duke Ulrich
von Kärnten. She did not have any children, and lived (circa 1215-63).
Neuenahr and Limburg
1578-1600 Sovereign Lady Anna Walburga von Neuenahr-Bedburg of Moers, Bedburg,
Garsforf, Rosberg (Germany)
She succeeded her brother Hermann. Moers was occupied to
by the Archbishopcy of Köln 1584-88, by Maurits van Oranje 1588-94, Bedburg and
Garsdorf was claimed by Adolf Bentheim-Steinfurt and Roesberg was held by the
Ketler family 1578-circa 1595 until she sold the lordship to this family. She was
first married to Philipp von Hoorn and in 1575 to Adolf von Neuenahr. In 1594
she transferred Moers to Maurits
and installed Adolf as
heir in Bedburg. She lived (1522-1600)
1589-1602 Sovereign Countess Amelie von Neuenahr-Alpen of Neuenahr und Limburg,
Acting Hereditary Marshal of the Diocese of Köln, Acting Lady of Alpen, Helpenstein and Lennep
(The Netherlands and Germany)
She was in charge of Vianden and a number of
attatched possessions
1579-87
as an inheritance from her first husband, Heinrich von Brederode (1531-68). She
married Friedrich
II von der Pfalz in 1569, but he died in 1576. In
1589 she inherited Limburg
from her halfbrother, Anton. The county had been
occupied by the Diocise of
Köln since
1584. In 1590 she was was given the rights
of use of Alpen, Helpenstein, Lennep and Erbvogtei of Köln
by
her half-sitster, Magdalena, who was the owner of the
territories after the death of their brother. Alpen was occupied by the
Republic of the Netherlands in 1597 and the following year by
the Spanish Low Countries wich also occopied. Helpenstein and
the Stewardship of Köln.
1600 she
took possession of Alpen and, she still held the right of
Linnep and Limburg, and was succeeded by sister, Magdalena,
the basis of the
inheritance-settlement (erbvertrag)
from 1575. Also known as Amalia, she was daughter
of Gumprecht II. von Neuenahr-Alpen,
Count of Limburg (1505-1552/1556) and
Carda von
Schaumburg (d. 1540) in her second marriage, and lived
(1539-1602)
1602-27 Sovereign Countess Magdalena von
Neuenahr-Alpen of Neuenahr und
Limburg, Hereditary Marshall of the Diocese of Köln, Lady of Alpen, Helpenstein
and Linnep
1610-12 Regent of Bentheim-Steinfurt
She inherited Helpenstein, Linnep, Erbvogtei Köln, Alpen and Hackenbroich
from her brother, Anton, in 1589 and the following year
she gave her half-sister, Amalia, the right
of
use to the lordsphis. On the basis of the
inheritance-settlement (erbvertrag) from 1575 she
inherited Limburg after the death of Amalia in 1602. The Archbischopcy Köln had occupied Limburg since 1584, but gave
it back to her in 1610. She installed her son Konrad Gumprecht as Commissioner
and resigned Limburg and Linnep in his favour in 1616.
The territory of her husband was
also occupied by troops from Köln, and it was not until four years after the death of
her husband, Arnold III, that she was able to take over the regency for her son, Konrad Gumprect von Bentheim-Steinfurt
(1585-1618) After Konrad Gumprecht's
death she
installed his widow, Johanette Elisabeth as regent in Limburg and transfers
Linnep to her as dowry.
Magdalena
was daughter of Gumbrecht II von Neuenahr-Alpen of
Limburg and
Amöna von Dhaun,
and remained influential to her death, and lived (1551-1627).
1618-54 Regent Dowager Countess Johannetta Elisabeth von Nassau-Katzenelnbogen
of Bentheim- Limburg und Burg
Widow of Count Konrad Gumprecht, she was regent for son Wilhelm, who died in
1626, and then for his successor - a nephew - Count Moritz von
Bentheim-Tecklenburg-Rheda. She was in charge of in Limburg and Burg during the
Thirty Years War, which left the county devastated. In 1633 she had to flee to her
sister's residence in Fürstenau, and the same year the county was hit by plague.
She returned in 1637 and managed to keep the county within the Bentheim family.
She lived (1592-1654).
Neu-Leiningen
The county was Member of the
Imperial Circle Estate (Regional Assembly) of Upper Rhine
1726-39 Regent Countess Dowager Margrethe Christiane Augusta
Danneskiold-Laurvig
Widow of Karl-Ludwig of Neu-Leiningen-Westerburg and regent for her two sons
Georg Karl I August Ludwig (1717-26-87) and Georg Ernst Ludwig (1718-26-59-65)
who were joint rulers. She was daughter of Count Ulrik Frederik Gyldenløve (natural son of king Frederik III of Denmark), and Countess Antoniette Augusta von
Altenburg (natural line of the Counts of Oldenburg). Margareta lived (1694-1761).
Ecclesiastical Territory of Niedermünster in Regensburg (Reichsstift Niedermünster in Regensburg - Chapter of the Realm) (In Bavaria) Also see Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Nisangau
1086-1108 Heiress Judith von Böhmen of Nisangau and the Land Bautzen and the
Area Around Dresden
Nordamark
1003-07 Regent Dowager Countess
Godila von Rothenburg of… and Guardian of Nordmark
Ecclesiastical State of Obermünster in Regensburg (Reichsunmittelbaren adeligen Damenstift Obermünster - The Free Noble Ladies Chapter) (In Bavaria)
(See Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Oettingen-Oettingen und Oettingen-Wallerstein and the Lordships of Ober- and Unterwallbach and Eberstall
1802-18 Regent Dowager Princess Wilhelmine
Friederike von Württemberg
After the death of her husband, Kraft Ernst (1748-1802), she was regent for son, Ludwig
Kraft until the principality was mediatized, which changed
its position as sovereign houses, but it kept important political privileges and
juridical rights, and she reigned the territory until her death. Mother of 12
children: Ludwig Kraft (1791-1870), Karl Kraft Ludwig (1792-95), Friederich
Kraft (1793-1842), Franz Ludwig Kraft (1795-1813), Karl Anselm (1796-1842),
Sophie (1797-1880), Marie Charlotte Therese (1798-1804), Franz Joseph Karl
(1799-1800) and Marie Therese (1799-1859), Louise (1801), Charlotte Wilhelmine
Sophie (1802-93) and Marie Ernestine (1803-72) (born 9 months after the death of
her father) and a step-daughter Friederike Sophie Therese Antonie (1776-1831).
She lived (1764-1817)
Lordship of
Oberschloss zu Kranichfeld and its Villages
1630-52 Reigning Lady Anna Sophia von Anhalt zu Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt
She was widow of Count Carl Günther zu Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt, who acquired the
Oberschloss zu Kranichfeld in 1620, and she reigned there after his death. They
had no children and the county of Schwarzburg was inherited by her
brother-in-law, Anthon. Kranichfeld was divided in the Oberschloss and
Niederburg and it meant that many streets, houses and even rooms were divided
between the different overlords. Anna Sophia had the village given city rights
in 1651. She was preoccupied with youth and education and she founded an Academy
for women, she was a poet, philosopher, and lived (1584-1652).
Oldenburg
Member of the Secular Bench of the Council of Princes in the Imperial Diet and member
of the
Lower
Rhenish-Westphalian Circle Estate (Regional Assembly).
1667-96 Dowager Countess Sophia
Katharina von Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg
After her husband, Anton Gunther von Oldenburg (1583-1667)
died, his inheritance was split up because they had no children
and his natural son, Reichsgraf Anton I zu Aldenburg did not have any rights of
inheritance. The county was inherited by the King of Denmark, she remained in
charge of parts of it as her dowry and resided at the Castle of
Neuenburg.
She was daughter of Duke Alexander of Slesvig-Holsten-Sønderborg and Dorothea
von Schwarzburg-Sondershausen and lived (1617-96).
Ortenburg
Member of the College of the Counts of Wetterau which held a joint vote in the
Council of the Princes in the Imperial Diet and
member of the
Secular Bench
of the Bavarian Circle Estate
(Regional Assembly)
1702-04 Regent Dowager
Countess Amalia Regina von Zinzendorf
After the death of her husband, Georg Philipp von
Ortenburg (1655-1702)
she became regent for their son, Johan George
(1686-1725).
She reformed the school-system and introduced compulsory primary education.
She lived (1663-1709).
1725-35 Regent Dowager Countess Marie Albertine von
Nassau-Saarbrücken in Usingen
After the death of her husband, Johann Georg she
took over thet government in the name of her 10 year old son, Karl III.
(1715-76). She tried to strenghten the position of the inhabitants of the county,
which was isolated between the Electorate of Bavaria and the Immediate Abbey of
Passau, and asked for the right of citizenship first by the Elector and then by
the government of Landshut, which was positive, but it was never realized. Of
her 3 sons 1 survived into adulthood and so did 5 of her 6 daughters. She lived
(1686-1768).
1787-91 Regent Dowager Countess Christiane Luise von Salm zu
Gaugrehweiler
After the death of her husband, Count Karl Albrecht zu
Ortenburg (1743-87)
she became regent for son, Joseph Karl, Count and Lord zu Tambach, Lord zu
Birkenfeld etc. (1780-1831). She was in charge of the government during the
second Napolian war, and she used all of her authority to limit the suffering of
her people caused by the troops that marched through the county, and because of
her intervention the county was recognized as neutral. She was born as
Wild- und Rheingräfin
zu Gaugrehweiler, and lived
(1754-1826).
Ostfriesland
Member of the
Lower Rhenish-Westphalian Circle Estate (Regional
Assembly), and possibly also of the Imperial Diet
1391-1409 Regent Dowager Chiefess Foelkeldis
After her husband Ocko fell in battle in 1391, she was regent for sons Widzelt
(d. 1399) and Keno II (1391-1417).
1466-94 Regent Dowager Countess Theda Ukena
She was granddaughter of the Friesian chief Fokko Ukena and married Ulrich
Cirksena who was created count of Ostfriesland in 1454 one year after their
marriage. After his death she was first regent for son Enno I, who drowned in
1491 and then for Edzard I. She successfully led her troops in warfare against
other major chiefs and counts in the Friesland area.
1540-65 Regent Dowager Countess Anna von Oldenburg
She lived (1501-75)
1561-99 Politically Influential
Countess Katharina Vasa av Sverige of Ostfriesland (Germany)
1565-1610
Reigning Lady of Pewsum including the Manningaburg and the Mill of Pewsum
1599-1610 Dowager Lady of the Amt Norden and Berum, Woquard Loquard and Campen
Katharin Wasa was influential during the reign of her husband, Edzard II von
Ostfriesland and was an active participants with her brother-in-law, the joint
ruler with her husband. She used her dowry to buy the Lordship of Pewsum and she
extended the castle of Manningaburg. She was very active with charity work. When
her husband died, she demanded the soverignty of the administrative offices she
was given as her dowry, but her son, Enno III, maintained that she would only
recieve the incomes from the lands as stipulated in her marriage contract, but
she only accepted this after he sent 200 soldiers to the area.
She was daughter of king Gustav I Vasaother of 6 sons and 5
daughters and lived (1539-1610)
1648-51 Regent Dowager Countess Juliane von Hessen of Ostfriesland
She was widow of Count Ulrich II and was regent for Enno Ludwig, 1st Prince of
Ostfriesland. Her reign was marked by the 30th War and plague, but she managed
to bring the territory trough the worst ordeals. She lived (1606-59).
1656-77 Reiging Dowager Lady Juliana Sophia
von Barby-Mühlingen of the Administrative Office of Pewsum
Her husband, Enno Ludwig I, Graf and Fürst von Ostfriesland transferred the
Office to her as her dowry. She was daughter of Count Albrecht Friedrich and
Sophia Ursula of Oldenburg in Delmenhorst, and mother of 2 daughters. (1636-77)
1665-90 Regent Dowager Princess
Christine Charlotte von Württemberg-Stuttgart
1690-99 Reiging Dowager of the Administrative Office of Pewsum
She was regent for Christian Eberhard, who was born after his father, Georg
Christian's death. She held Pewsum as her dowry, and lived (1645-1699).
Öttingen-Baldern und Dahstuhl
1798 Sovereign Countess Philippine Karoline
She succeeded Friedrich-Wilhelm-Notger-Joseph (1725-78-98) and married Rudolf
Count and Prince de Colloredo-Mansfeld (1776-1843). The county was occupied by
French forces in 1798. She lived (1776-1842).
Parkstein
As Lady of Reitpolskirchen, she had a seat in the Imperial Circle Estate
(Regional Assembly) of Upper Rhine
1777-... Sovereign
Countess Karolina Franziska Dorothea zu Pfalz-Zweibrücken
She was a natural daughter of Karl-Theodor, Elector and Count-Palatine and
married to Prince Friedrich-Wilhelm zu Isenburg-Birstein. It is not clear when
the county was incorporated into one of the other German states.
Also Lady of Reitpolskirchen etc.
She lived
(1762-1816).
Pfalz
(The Palantine)
1535-38 Regent Dowager Electress
Mechtild von Savoien-Achaien
From 1430 the progressing blindness of her husband Ludwig III von Wittelsbach,
Elector of the Palatine, forced him to transfer more and more of his powers to
his brother, Otto, and in 1435 she was appointed joint regent together with
brother-in-law and a Council of 25. The following year she became regent for her
son, Ludwig IV after his death, but died before he came of age. She lived
(1390-1438)
1556-80 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Electress Dorothea af
Danmark og Norge of Neumarkt in Pfalz
After the death of her brother, Hans,
in 1532, she was considered a serious contender to the Danish and Norwegian
Throne by her Habsburg relatives, who still supported her father, Christian 2,
who had been imprisoned and died in prison in 1559. Her mother, Elisabeth von
Habsburg (Isabel of Spain), died 1526 and together with her brother and sister,
she grew up at the court of her grat-aunt and aunt, the Governor Generals of the
Netherlands, Margaret I and Maria. She was married to Friedrich II von Pfalz
(1482-1556). After his death, she transferred her claims to the Danish throne to
her sister, Christine, Regent of Lorraine from 1545. In spite of her Catholic
relatives and the new Calvinist Elector of the Palitinate, she kept her Lutheran
faith in her dowry where she lead a lavish life and remained in close contact
with her Habsburg relatives for the rest of her life. She did not have any
children, and lived (1520-80).
1610-14 Dowager Countess Luisa Juliana van Oranje
For son king Friedrich V (The "Winther-King" of Bohemia). Her sisters Catharina
Belgica van Oranje was regent in Hannau and the Dowager Landgravine zu
Hessen-Kassel, Amalia van Oranje, had a major role in the Thirty Years War, and
leader of the Evangelican States at the Westphalian Congress (1637-after 1647)
1618-19 Joint Administrator
Elizabeth Stuart
Already as a child she was involved in intrigue as part of the intent of the
Gunpowder Plot of 1605 was to put her onto the throne of England (and,
presumably, Scotland) as a Catholic monarch, after assassinating her father and
the Protestant English aristocracy. In 1613 she married Elector Palatine
Friedrich V. (1596-1632) and soon became a dominating force at her husband's
court because of her energy and strong personality. In
her husband
appointed xxx as administrator and it seems that she was given a joint role in
the government during his absence. in 1610. In 1619 the Protestant estates of
Bohemia rebelled against the Roman Catholic Holy Roman Emperor Ferdinand II and
offered the crown of Bohemia to
her husband
as an influential member of the Evangelical Union..
After he
accepted the crown his allies in the Union abandoned him, and his brief reign as
the King of Bohemia ended with his defeat at the Battle of White Mountain only
two months after
their
coronation - and earned him the derisive nickname of 'the Winter King'. After
this battle Imperial forces invaded
the
Palatinate lands and
they
had flee to Holland in 1622. An Imperial edict formally deprived
him of the Palatinate in 1623. He lived the rest of his life in exile with his
wife and family at the Hague,
where she remained for another 28 years until the
Restoration of the British monarchy,
when she travelled to
London to visit her nephew, King Charles II, and died while there.
Among their 13 children was Karl
Ludwig (1617-1680), who regained the Palatinate at the Peace of Westphalia in
1648, Elizabeth, Princess-Abbess of Herford (1618-1680) and the later Electress
Sophie of Hannover and Heir to the English throne (1630-1714).
She
was the eldest daughter of James of Scotland and Great Britain and Anne of
Denmark,
and lived
(1596-1662).
1690-1709 Reigning
Dowager Lady Dowager Electress Elisabeth Amalie Magdalene von Hessen-Darmstadt
of Neuburg an der Donau in Pfalz
Her marriage to Elector Philipp Wilhelm von
der Pfalz was a happy one. She had secretly converted to the Catholic faith
before the marriage and the couple promoted culture and art in Düsseldof before
they withdrew to Neuburg, where she remained in charge after her husband's death.
Her 23 pregnancies resulted in 9 sons and 8 daughters who made important
marriages to the Emperor of Austria, Kings of Spain, Portugal and Poland and the
Duke of Parma. She lived (1635-1709).
1742-60 Politically Influential Princess Palatine Elisabeth Auguste of Pfalz
1761-93 "Reigning"
Lady of Oggersheim
The oldest daughter and heir of Pfalzgraf Joseph Karl
Emanuel when married cousin Carl Theodor in a double-marriage with her sister,
Maria Anna, who married Duke Klemens von Bayern. Since her brother's had died,
she was the prime heiress to the lines of Sulzbach and Neuburg, and after their
marriage her husband was elected Kurfürst von Pfalz. She is described as a
lively and happy person who engaged in various erotic adventures, and on the
political arena she was able to promote her political ideas in the Kurpfalz.
Especially in the first years of the Seven Year War she was the center of the
court and was able to promote her interests in the duchies of Jülich and Berg.
In the first years of their marriage her husband was described as weak, ill,
melancholic and unable to stand up to her, but in 1760 he started to take the
affairs of state into his own hands. Her only son died the day after his birth
in June 1761, and because of her husband's numerous affairs, she withdrew to the
Schloss Oggersheim in 1768, where she
founded her
own court and pursued artistic interests and also became well
loved among the population as a benefactress.
Her husband inherited Bayern in 1777 but they only
saw each other for a few times for the rest of their lives. After her husband
had moved to München she became Landesmutter (Mother of the Real) in Kurpfalz,
and he concentrated on the upbringing of children of her sister, Maria Franziska
and Friedrich Michael von Pfalz-Zweibrücken. The Pfalz remained neutral in the
revolutionary wars, but later it was drawn into the fightings and she escaped to
Mannheim, her castle was looted and burned down. She lived (1721-94).
Pfalz-Birkenfeld-Zweibrücken
1733-35 Regent Dowager Duchess Karoline von Nassau-Saarbrücken of
Pfalz-Birkenfeld-Zweibrücken
After the death of her husband, Herzog Christian III, Count Palatine of
Birkenfeld, Bischweiler und Rappoltstein from 1717 and Duke of Zweibrücken 1731,
she became regent for their son, Christian IV (1722-35-75). One of her
daughters, Karoline Henriette Christine, became known as the Grand Countess of
Hessen-Darmstadt (die große Landgräfin) during her marriage to Ludwig IX. Her
mother-in-law was Catharina Agathe, Sovereign Countess von Rappoltstein from
1676. Caroline was mother of 2 daughters and another son, and lived (1704-74).
Pfalz-Lautern
1655-74 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Countess Palatine Maria Eleonores von
Brandenburg of the Wadgasserhof in Kaiserslautern
After the death of her husband Count Palatine Ludwig-Philipp zu
Pfalz-Simmern-Kaiserslautern, she took over the government in her dowry, her 4
oldest sons died as infants, the 5th, Ludwig Heinrich Moritz, survived to
succeed his father and also her oldest daughter, Elisabeth Marie Charlotte
(1638-64), survived and married Georg III of Liegnitz (1611-64), and she lived
(1607-75).
Pfalz-Neuburg
1615-32
Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Countess Palatine Anna von Jülich-Kleve-Berg of
the Castle and Administrative Office of Höchstädt
The death
of her brother
Johann
Wilhelm in 1609 resulted in the Jülich-Kleve Succession War where the families
of her own and her 3 sisters fought over the inheritance. She transferred the
rights of inheritance to the areas of the Low Rhine (niederrheinischen) she
possessed as the oldest surviving daughter to her oldest son
Wolfgang
Wilhelm. She was chocked and kept her own Evangelical faith when he converted to
the Catholic Faith in order to marry the daughter of Maximilian I of Bavaria to
gain the support of the Catholic League in 1613, but in the end it helped him
secure his mother's inheritance. Her husband, Count Palatine Philipp Ludwig,
died the following year, and she moved to her dowry after yet another year, she
moved to her dowry. She was daughter of Duke
Wilhelm IV.
of Jülich, Kleve und Berg and Maria von Österreich, mother of 4 sons and 4
daughters, and
lived (1552-1632).
Pfalz-Zweibrücken-Neuburg
Member of the
Bench of the Secular Princes
Upper Rhenish Circle
(Regional Assembly) (Oberrheinischer Reischskreis) and also
member
and
member
of the Secular Bench
of the Bavarian Circle Estate
(Regional Assembly)
1532-43 Guardian Dowager Duchess Elisabeth von
Hessen
1541-43 Regent of the Duchy
After the death of her husband, Duke Ludwig II, she was regent for son,
Wolfgang, jointly with her brother-in-law Ruprecht. In 1541 her son was granted
the fief of the realm (reichslehn) and two years later he officially took over
the government. In 1557 his childless relative, Pfalzgraf Ottheinrich of
Pfalz-Neuburg, abdicated in his favour.
(1502-1532)
1606-39
Reigning Dowager Lady
Countess Palatine Dorothea Maria von Württemberg
of
Hilpoltstein
As the Protestant line of Duchy of Duchy of
Pfalz-Neuburg
place their "surplus
sons" in the Church, they began to secure them an income through samll parts of
lands, which they held for life and reverted to the Duchy of Pfalz-Neuburg.
1606-39 Reigning Dowager Lady Countess Palatine Dorothea Maria von
Württemberg of Hilpoltstein in Pfalz-Neuburg
As the Protestant line of Duchy of Duchy of Pfalz-Neuburg place their "surplus
sons" in the Church, they began to secure them an income through samll parts of
lands, which they held for life and reverted to the Duchy of Pfalz-Neuburg. The
widow of Duke Otto Heinrich II von Pfaz-Neuburg of Hilpoltstein, Heideck,
Allersberg and Sulzbach.
Pfalz-Zweibrücken-Landsberg
1692-97 Administrator Dowager Hereditary Princess Charlotte Friedrike von
der Pfalz-Zweibrücken in Landsberg
Charlotte Friedericke was the widow of Herditary Prince (Erbprinz) Wilhelm
Ludwig of Pfalz-Zweibrücken-Landsberg (1648-75), whose father, Friederich Ludwig
died in 1681, and she became the administrator of the territory of Landsberg in
the name of Christian II of the line of Pfalz-Birkenfeld-Bischweiler, who died
in 1692, and King Karl XI of Sweden, who was of the line of Pfalz-Kleeburg. She
was mother of 2 sons and a daughter who all died in infancy, and lived
(1653-1712).
Pfalz-Zweibrücken-Veldenz-Parkstein
and Pfalz-Birkenfeld-Zweibrücken
Member of the
Bench of the Secular Princes
Upper Rhenish Circle
(Regional Assembly) (Oberrheinischer Reischskreis) and also member
of the Secular Bench
of the Bavarian Circle Estate
(Regional Assembly)
1569-84 Joint Guardian Dowager Duchess Anna von
Hessen
After the death of her husband Duke Wolfgang von
der Pfalz-Zweibrücken
(1526-69), she became joint guardian for their fourth and fifth sons, Friedrich von
der Pfalz-Zweibrücken-Veldenz-Parkstein (1557-97)
and Karl (1560-) together with her brother Onkels Landgraf Wilhelm IV. von Hessen-Kassel, Kurprinz Ludwigs VI. von der Pfalz
and her two older sons Philipp Ludwig von Pfalz-Neuburg und Johann I. von
der Paflz-Zweibrücken. She was mainly engaged with her
sons upbringing and education - in the orthodox Lutheran faith.
She lived (1529-91).
1597-1608 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess
Katharina Sophia von Leignitz of the Administrative Offices of Flossenbürg and
Vohenstrauß
and
parts of Parkstein-Weiden
Widow of Pfalzgraf Friedrich II. von Pfalz-Zweibrücken-Veldenz-Parkestin,
who had been given the Offices of
Parkstein, Weiden und Flossenbürg, when his father died. Since both their sons
and their daughter died as infants the
seigneurial rights returned to the Principality of Pfalz-Neuburg, but she
remained in charge of her dowry and resided at the Castel of Friedrichsburg
bei Vohenstrauß, that her husband had buildt. She was daughter of Heinrich
XI. von Liegnitz, Brieg und Goldberg., and lived (1561-1608).
1635-40 Regent
Dowager Duchess Luisa Juliana von der Pfalz-Simmern-Sponheim of
Pfalz-Zweibrücken-Veldenz
After the death of her husband, Herzog Johann II (1591-1604-35), she reigned the
Duchy in the name of her son, Friedrich. Her oldest daughter, Elisabeth Louise
Juliana, Pfalzgräfin v.d.Pfalz-Zweibrücken, was Äbtissin zu Herford 1649-67. She
lived (1594-1640).
Pommern
See Poland Substates
Preussen
Member of the Secular Bench of the Council of Princes in the Imperial Diet
1618-25 Hereditary Duchess Anna zu Hohenzollern of
Prussia
She inherited
Kleve, Mark, Ravensberg and
Ravenstein in 1609, and was also known as Duchess Anna
von Preussen und Jülich-Kleve-Berg, she was daughter of Marie Eleonore von
Jülich-Kleve-Berg, the heiress of the three duchies and some counties, and
Albrecht II Friedrich von Preussen. 1594 she married her distant relative,
Elector Johann Sigismund zu Hohenzollern of Brandenburg (1572-1619), and was the
dominant force during his reign. He was regent for her father from 1609, and in
1611 he was given Prussia as a personal fief. After the death of her uncle,
Johann Wilhelm zu Jülich in 1609, a succession-dispute followed with the Pfalz-Newburg's
until a division was agreed upon in 1614, and the counties of Kleve, Mark,
Ravensberg and Ravenstein went to Brandenburg, though she primarily considered
it as her personal possessions. After her father's death in 1618 she and her
son, the kurprinz Georg-Wilhelm, took over the government, since her husband had
been hit by a stroke two years earlier, and she remained in charge until her
death. She lived (1575-1625).
1806-1810 Politically Active Queen Luise von Mecklenburg-Strelitz
She was married to the rather weak and hesitant king Friedrich Wilhelm III, and
she showed both courage and intelligence in a difficult situation for the
country. In 1806 she and a group of followers realized that reforms were needed
in order to revitalize the kingdom, and she used the crisis for a new start. As
the politicians and military leaders did not know what to do, she personally met
Napoleon I in Tilsit in 1807, and tried to limit the consequences of the
Prussian defeat to the Napoleonic forces. She became a European myth of female
beauty, charisma and warmth of her heart. Mother of 7 children, she died of a
pneumonia, and lived (1776-1810).
1848-61 Politically Influential Queen Elisabeth von Bayern
After the revolution of March 1848 her husband, king Friedrich Wilhelm IV, never
really recovered, and she became his closest advisor. After he suffered several
strokes, she arranged that her brother-in-law, Prince Wilhelm, became regent. He
was a liberal and reformist polititian and the party around General Leopold von
Gerlach got the idea to name the Queen regent, but she refused. They had no
children and when her husband died in 1861, Wilhelm became king. She spend the
rest of her life traveling through Europe, and lived (1801-73).
Pustertal
Until circa 1072 Hereditary Countess
Richardis in Pustertal
Putbus (A (non reigning) County and later Principality at the Island of Rügen in Northern Germany)
Circa 1789-91
Regent Dowager Countess Sophia Wilhelmina von der Schulenberg
In a proclamation she freed a number of her
serfs with the following titulature:"Ick
Sophia Wilhelmina,
Verwittwete Gräfin und Herrin zu
Putbus, geborene Gräfin von der Schulenberg, als ... Vormünderin meiner beyden
... Söhne Wilhelm Malte
und Moritz Carl Grafen und Herren
zu Putbus Uhrkunde und bekenne hiermit für mich, meine Erben und nachfolgender
Herrschaft, ..... So geschehen zu Putbus den 4. Juni
1789. Gräfin und Herrin zu Putbus.
Her son, Wilhelm Malte (1783-1854), was created a Prince by the Swedish in 1807
and a Prussian Prince in 1817.
1907-30 Princess and Lady
Marie
von
Wylich und
Lottum
She inherited the possessions of the family and was recognized as Princess and
Lady to Putbus at the Island of Rügen in Mecklenburg after the death of her
father, Wilhelm von Wylich und Lottum, who had succeeded a relative. She was
married to Franz von Veltheim (d.1927)
and had no
children and was succeeded by sister. She lived (1858-1930).
1930-34 Princess
and Lady Asta Eugenia von
Wylich und
Lottum
After the death of her sister,
The Council of Nobility recognized her as
Fürstin und
Herrin zu Putbus,
Fideikommißherrin auf Lossa
in Neumarkt in Schlesien and
Fideikommißherrin auf
Putbus.
She was married to
Karl von Riepenhausen (d.1929)
and had no children. Her younger sister,
Victoria died in 1933 and insted her son, Malte von
Veltheim inherited the title and estate. She lived (1860-1934).
Pyrmont
(Also see
Waldeck)
The county
was Member of the Imperial Circle Estate (Regional Assembly) of Westphalia from
1495
Daughter of Heinrich VI, Reichsherr zu Pyrmont and Metza Waldbott von Bassenheim
and married to Philipp von und zu Elz. Succeeded by son, Friederich, whose
daughters devided the inheritance. Margarete was heiress of Dreiborn, Elisabeth, heiress of Erenberg and Dreiborn
and Irmgard Felizitas was heiress of Pyrmont (d. before 1586), who
married Franz von
und zu Eltz (d. after 1609). Their grandaughter, Irmgard Felizitas succeeded her
father, Franz von und zu Eltz, Herr zu Pirmont, Uttingen und Wulmeringen. Her
mother was Margareta von Eltz and she first married Kaspar von und zu Eltz (d.
1649) and then Johann von Saffenberg (1585-1649)
1560-86 Hereditary Free Lady Elisabeth Irmgard Felizitas von und zu Eltz of
Pyrmont
She married Franz von
und zu Eltz (d. after 1609). Their grandaughter, Irmgard Felizitas succeeded her
father, Franz von und zu Eltz, Herr zu Pirmont, Uttingen und Wulmeringen. (d. 1586),
Until 1649 Hereditary Free Lady Elisabeth Irmgard Felizitas von und zu Eltz of
Pyrmont
The daughter of Franz von und zu Eltz, Herr zu Pirmont, Uttingen und Wulmeringen
Margareta von Eltz, it is not known when she succeeded her father. She was first
married Kaspar von und zu Eltz (d. 1649) and then Johann von Saffenberg.
In 1652 the Freiherren Waldbott von Bassenheum inherited parts of Pyrmont. She
lived (1585-1649).
Ecclesiastical Territory of Quedlinburg (Reichsäbtissin zu Quedlinburg - Abbess of the Realm) (Das kaierlich freie weltliche Reichsstift Quedlinburg - The Imperial Free Worldly Chapter of the Realm) (In Sachsen-Anhalt) (See Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Raabs zu Nürenberg
1192-1200 Hereditary Burgravine
Sophie von Raabs of Raabs zu Nürnberg, Lady of Cadolzburg, Raabs and Abensberg
She was heiress of Nürnberg, Cadolzburg, Raabs and Abensberg, and after the
death of her father of Konrad II, Graf von Raabs, Burggraf von Nürnberg, her
husband, Count Friedrich I von Zollern was appointed Burgrave zu Nürnberg by
Emperor Heinrich VI. After her husband's death in 1200 she sold the Market of
Raabs and the countly rights to Duke Leopold of Austria, but the western part,
with the main city of Litschau, was inherited by her sister Agnes and her
husband, Count Gebhart Hirschberg-Tollenstein (Oberpfalz-Nordgau), whose son,
Gebhart the Younger, sold the counties of Litschau and Heidenreichstein to Duke
Albrecht I of Austria in 1297. Sophie was mother of two sons, who became
ancestors of the two lines of the Hohenzollern-family, and a daughter. She lived
(1170/75-1218).
Rantzau with Breitenburg and
Parts of Pinneberg
(The Reichsgrafschaft existed 1650-1734)
The county was member of the Lower Saxon Circle
Estate (Niedersächsischer Kreis)
1721-22/26
In charge of the government Countess Charlotta Luisa von Sayn-Wittgenstein-Homburg
of Rantzau
In 1721 her husband, Reichsgraf
Wilhelm Adolf
von Rantzau-Breitenberg, was accused of being responsible for the murder of his
brother Christian Detlev, who had been
arrested,
perhaps on charges of "sodmoy" (homosexuality) in 1715. Wilhelm
Adolf took over the government and even paid king Friedrich Wilhelm I.
of Preussen to keep Christian Detlev in prison, but he returned in 1720 and was
killed the following year.
Wilhelm Adolf travelled to
Copenhagen to ask King Frederik VI of Denmark, Duke of Holstein, to confirm him
as holder as the fief, he suggested that he would accuse him of the murder of
his brother. Wilhelm Adolf escaped but caught in 1722, the
county was occupied by troops from Holstein, and in 1726 he was
conviected as an acomplice of the murder of his brother, conviced to life
imprisonment and a fine of 20.000 reichstalern. He died in 1734 without heirs,
and the County reverted to the Duke of Holstein - the king of Denmark.
Charlotte Luise was daughter of Count Christian and Christine
Christiane Magdalena von Leiningen-Dagsburg-Hartenburg
1726 Claimenant Catharina Hedwig von
Rantzau-Breitenberg of the Reichsgafschaft Rantzau Breitenburg and Parts of
Pinneberg
1726-32 Lady of Breitenburg, Løvenholm etc.
After the life
imprisonment of her brother, she claimed the county, but had to give up her
claims. Anyhow, after a lengthly process afgainst the king of Denmark, she was
allowed to keep 3 fiefly estates, but had to pay the 230.000 reichstalern costs
of the process, an enormous ammounth. She was married to Johann Freiderich,
Count and Lord zu Castell-Ruedenhausen, she was the mother of one daughter,
Countess Friederike Eleonore zu Castell-Rüdenhausen, Heiress of Breitenburg
(1701-60), who married Carl Friederich Count zu Castell-Remlingen and through
her, Breitenburg came back to the line of Rantzau auf Ahrensburg. She lived
(1683-1732)
1732-60 Lady Friederike Eleonore von Castell-Rüdenhausen of
Breitenburg
Inherited the estate after her mother, Catharina Hedwig von
Rantzau. Her brother and 3 sisters all died as infants. Married to Karl
Friederik Gottileb Graf von Castell-Remligen, was succeeded first by son and
after his death in 1762 by daughter. She lived (1701-60)
1762-1802 Lady
Frederike Louise Amone von Castell-Remlingen of Breitenburg
Succeeded her
brother, Christian Adolf Friederich Gottlieb (1736-62), who inherited the
estates after their mother Friderieke Eleonore in 1760. She married Frederik
Graf von Rantzau (1729-1806) and was succeeded by her son August Wilhelm Frantz
von Rantzau-Breitenburg. She lived (1736-1802)
Rappolstein
Around 1147-56
Herrin Emma von Rappoltstein
Succeeded by Engeolf I von Urslingen,
Lord of Rappolstin 1156-88.
1377-1400 Herzlaude, Herrin von
Gross-Rappoltstein und Hohenach
Married to Heinrich
III Graf von Saarwerden.
She kept her paternal inheritance but transferred the lordships of her husband
to his brother, the Archbiship of Köln, Friederich III von Saarwerden. She lived (1372-1400).
1676-83 Sovereign Countess Catharina Agathe of
Rappoltstein und Hohenach, Lady zu
Geroldseck am Wasichin
Succeeded aunt, Countess Anna-Elisabeth. Her husband Christian II, Pfalzgraf bei
Rehin, Duke von der Pfalz-Birkenfeld und Bischweiler also became Graf von
Rappoltstein etc.
She lived (1648-83).
Rechteren-Limpurg
Held a seat and vote in the College of Frankish Counts of the Realm (Fränkischen
Reichsgrafencollegium)
1754-1804 Joint Sovereign Countess Josine Elisabeth
Also known as Countess von Rechteren Limpurg, she was joint Countess with her
brother Friedrich-Ludwig (1748-45-1806-14), Their mother was Countess Amalia
Alexandrina Friederike, Countess of Limpurg-Speckfeld, co-heir to a portion of
the county, who lived (1689-1754) and was daughter of the last count of the
whole county, Volllrath, who died 1712. Josine Elisabeth was married to Prince
August Wilhelm zu Hohenlohe-Ingelfingen (1720-60), and lived (1738-1804). In
1806 Rechteren was incorporated into Bavaria.
Reinheim
B.C. 300 Celtic Chiefess of an area near Reinsheim, close to Saarbrücken
Born as Gräfin zu Falkenstein she inherited the Lordship after the death of her
relative, Count Johann III von Honhenfels-Reipoltskirchen. According to her will,
the sons of her sister Sydonia zu Falkenstein; Casimir and Steino von Löwenhaupt
inherited the Lordship. Steino's daughter, Elisabeth Amalia, married Count
Philipp von Manderscheid and the family thereby inherited parts of the lordship.
Amalia lived (1546-1608).
1645-47 Sovereign Lady of the Realm Elisabeth Amalia von
Löwenhaupt of Reipoltskirchen, Countess of Falkenstein (Part of Johan Casimir)
After the death of her father, Steino, she was joint heiress to the lordship,
which became a co-lordship (Erbgemeinschaft or Ganerbschaft) when the male line
had died out. She was daughter of the Swedish Count Steno von Löwenhaupt, Graf
zu Rasburg and Falkenstein (1586-1645), who was the son of Axel Lewenhaupt af
Raseborg and Sidonia von Daun, Gräfin von Falkenstein, and Magdalena von
Manderscheid-Schleiden (1574-1639). She was married to Count Philipp Dietrich
von Manderscheid-Kail and they united the Manderscheid-lines. She lived
(1607-47).
1767-77
1767-1803 Lady of
Ober- und Niederbronn
Her husband Philipp Andreas von Ellroth, died after 18 months of marriage. He
had bought part of the Lordship by the von Löwenhaupt-owners. But the Elector of
Pfalz-Zweibrücken took possession of the territory. In 1777 she sold her part of
the lordship to the Princess Karoline von Isenburg, the natural daughter of
Elector Karl Theodor. In she,
the verwittweten Gräfin von Löwenhaupt,
was granted 11,300 Gulden for her share in the Lordships
of Ober- und Niederbronn at the
1777-93
1779-1803 Lady of Berzweiler, Seelen, Rudolphkirchen und Niederkirchen
Also known as Fürstin Karoline von Isenburg, Gräfin von Parkstein, she
bought the Ellrodtian part of the lordship and reached an agreement with the the
co-owner, the Countess of Hillesheim, and the documents was approved by her
father, Elector Karl Theodor von der Pfalz in 1779.
In 1803 she was granted an
eternal grant for her share in Reipoltskirchen and the other Lordship on the
Left Side of the Rhine (Herrschaft Reipoltskirchen und anderen
Herrschaften am linken Rheinufer), which had been seeded to
France, and she was also compensated for her income from the shipping tax on the
river.
She succeeded her brother, Wilhelm-Ernst-Gottfried, Reichsgraf von Hillesheim
und Herr zu Reipoltskirchen. The county was occupied by France from 1793. In
1801 Germany had to seed its territories in Alsace to France.
1785-1806
Held the Lordship jointly with her sister and the Princess Karoline von Isenburg.
Unmarried.
Reuss zu Ebersdorf
Member of the College of the Counts of Wetterau which held a joint vote in the
Council of the Princes in the Imperial Diet and member
of the Upper Saxon Circle
Estate (Regional Assembly)
1710-17 Guardian Countess Erdmuthe Benigna zu Solms-Laubach
She was guardian for son, Heinrich XXIIX after the death of her husband,
Heinrich X. Some male relatives were regents. She lived (1670-1732).
Reuss zu Gera
Member of the College of the Counts of Wetterau which held a joint vote in the
Council of the Princes in the Imperial Diet and member
of the Upper Saxon Circle
Estate (Regional Assembly)
1572-90
Guardian
Dowager Lady Dorothea von Solms-Sonnenwalde of Reuss zu Gera und
Lobstein
Her son Heinrich II Posthumous, was born two months after her husband, Heinrich
XVI Reuss zu Plauen, Gera and Krainchfeld, died in April. Her son was also Lord
of 1/6 of Lobstein from 1577 and 1/3 of Ober-Kranichfeld from 1596 until he
inherited all the estates of Ober-Kranichfeld and Lobenstein in 1616. She lived
(1547-95).
1686-98 Regent Dowager Duchess Anna Dorothea von
Schwarzburg-Sondershausen
The widow of Heinrich IV she was joint regent with another relative, Heinrich I
of Reuss zu Schleiz, during the minority of Heinrich XVIII. She
was mother of 8 sons, all naimed Heinrich as all males in the Reuss-family:
Heinrich XIII, (1673-74), Heinrich XIV (1674) Heinrich XVI (1676-77), Heinrich
XVIII, Graf Reuss von Gera (1686-1735) (167-1735), Heinrich XX (1678-89),
Heinrich (1680-1731) (whose son, Heinrich XXIV, succeeded Heinrich XVIII in
1735) and finally of Heinrich XXVII (1683-1706), and she lived (1645-1716).
Reuss
zu Greiz
(Senior Line)
1859-67 Regent Dowager Princess Karoline zu Hessen-Homburg
For Heinrich XXII (1846-59-1902). She lived (1819-72) .
Reuss zu
Obergreiz
Member of the College of the Counts of Wetterau which held a joint vote in the
Council of the Princes in the Imperial Diet and member
of the Upper Saxon Circle
Estate (Regional Assembly)
1629-47 Guardian Dowager Countess Juliane
Elisabeth zu Salm-Neufville
After the death of her husband, Heinrich IV Reuss zu Obergreiz (1597-1629) she
was guardian for son, Heinrich I, who was raised to the status of Counts in
1673. His relatives, Heinrich II von Reuss zu Schleiz was regent until 1637 and
Heinrich III zu Schleiz until 1647. She lived (1602-53).
1697-1717 Regent Dowager Countess Henriette Amalie von Friesen of
Reuss-Obergreiz and Reuss-Dölau
Regent for Heinrich I (1697-1714) and Heinrich II (1697-1722) who also became
joint counts of Reuss-Dölau in 1698.
1722-43 Regent Dowager Princess Sofie Charlotte von Bothmer
She was born as Countess von Bothmer. Acted as regent for two sons Heinrich X
(1718-22-23) and Heinrich XI (1722-23-1800).
Reuss zu Schleiz
Member of the College of the Counts of Wetterau which held a joint vote in the
Council of the Princes in the Imperial Diet
1640-53 Guardian Dowager Countess Juliana Elisabeth zu
Salm-Newville
After the death of her husband, Heinrich III, she was guardian for son, Count
Heinrich (1639-92). Some male members of the family were regents. She was born
as Wild- und Rheingraf zu Salm, and lived (1602-53).
Reuss zu Untergreiss
Member of the College of the Counts of Wetterau which held a joint vote in the
Council of the Princes in the Imperial Diet and member
of the Upper Saxon Circle
Estate (Regional Assembly)
1678-98 Guardian Dowager Countess Anna Dorothea von Ruppa
After the death of her husband, Heinrich IV, she was guardian for son, Heinrich
XIII (1672-1733). She lived 1651-98).
Rhein
1195-1204 Hereditary Pfalzgräfin Agnes Hohenstaufen
The Countess Palatine by the Rhine was married to Heinrich IX der Welf.
of Bavaria. Her son was the later Heinrich X of Bavaria and Sachsen. She was
daughter of Duke Magnus von Sachsen and married to Heinrich.
[1214 Otto II, Pfalzgraf bei Rhein
Married to Agnes who was daughter and Heinrich I, Pfalzgraf and heiress to the
ancient Duchy of Franconia. She lived (1201-67).
1619-20 Regent Dowager Electress
Louise-Juliana van Nassau
For son, the Kurfürst.
Rheinfelden
1090-91 Hereditary Countess
Agnes von Rheinfelden
Rheineck
Member of the
Electoral Rhenish Circle
Estate (Regional Assembly)
1431-34 Regent Dowager Countess Katharina von Hanau of
Rieneck
1434-60 Reigning Lady of the Office and Castle of Mainberg bei Schweinfurt in
Henneberg
After the death of her husband, Thomas II (1408-31),
she was regent for their two sons Philipp the Older, Lord of Grünsfeld, Lauda
und Wildenstein (d, 1488) and Philipp the Younger, Lord of Lohr, Gemünden,
Brückenau und Schildeck (d. 1497), until her marriage to Count Wilhelm II von
Henneberg-Schleusingen (1415-44). Instead her brother took over as regent. She
declined any rights of the county of Rieneck but received her dowry of 8.000
Guilders and Mainberg from her new husband. Mother of another 5 children. She
was oldest daughter of Reinhard II and Katharina von Nassau-Beilstein, and lived
(1408-60).
1500-01
Administrator of the Fief Dowager Burggravine-Johanetta
von Salm
After the death of her husband, Burgrave Jakob von Rheineck, she
administred the fief for the remainder of the year. Her son
Jakob
II, reached his age of majority in 1508 and Archbispho Hermann of Köln
granted him the fief
of Rheineck. As he died without male
heirs in 1539, Köln withdrew the fief, but his niece,
Mezza claimed the inheritance, it was not until 1571 after a
court process, that her sons Johann
and Wilhelm
von Warsberg were declared as rightful heirs. Concequently
Archbishop Salentin von Isenburg of Köln granted the
Burgravate as a hereditary fief. Johnanette married
Philipp Beissel von Gymnich in 1501, she was daughter of
Wild- und Rheingrafen Johann V. and Johanna von Salm, and
lived (circa 1465-after 1516).
Rietberg
(Also
see
Criechingen
and Ostfriesland)
The county was member
1565-circa 76 Regent Dowager Countess Agnes von Bentheim-Steinfurt of Rietberg
After the death of her husband Count Johann II of Rietberg, and Lord auf Esens,
Stedesdorf und Wittmund (1541-1562) she acted as regent for her daughters,
Armbard and Waldburgis. The county was occupied by the Landgrave of Hessen, and
in 1565 the daughters were granted the fief (des Lehens erneut belehnt). In 1567
she granted Wittmund City Rights.
1565-76 Hereditary Countess Armgard of Rietberg
1576-84 Sovereign Countess of Rietberg
She was daughter Johann II and Agnes von Bentheim-Steinfurt. After her father's
death, the county was occupied by the Landgrave of Hessen, but her mother
protested and in 1565 she and her sister, Walburgis, were given the firef again.
In the inheritance was desided. Armgard received Rietberg and Walburgis the
Harlingerlands. Armgard or Irmgard was first married to Erich Count von Hoya
(from 1568) and from 1578 with Simon VI. von der Lippe. She did not have any
children and was succeeded as Countess by her sister, Walburgis.
1565-84 Lady Walburgis of the Harlingerland
1584-86 Sovereign Countess of Rietberg
The two sisters were granted the territory three years after their fathers
death, and in 1576 the inheritance was settled. She was married to Count Enno
III von Ostfriesland. After having given birth to two daughters she died two
months after the birth of her only son, who only lived a few days. Her two
daughters seems to have been taken in the care of EnnoIIIs mother, Anna of
Sweden. Walburgis was succeeded by daughter, Sabine Catharina von Ostfriesland
(b. 1582) with her father as regent for a number of years. The younger daughter,
Agnes, married Lord Gundacar zu Liechtenstein and Nicolsburg in 1603. The
marriage-treaties resulted in various law-suits - the last ended in 1835 - where
the Princes of Liechtenstein claimed the County of Rietberg and they still use
the weapon and title for side-lines of the family. Walburg was the last of the
house of Werl-Arnsberg, and lived (1555/56-86)
1586-1618 Sovereign Countess Sabine Katharina
Cirksena von Ostfriesland of Rietberg
She was four years old when her mother and predecessor, Walburgaof Rietberg,
died, and her father, Enno III Cirksena von Ostfriesland, acted as regent. She
was married to her uncle, Count Johann von Ostfriesland - who had converted to
catholism - with papal dispention because they were too closely related. She
also converted and introduced the catholic faith to her county. She died giving
birth to her 11th child, and lived (1582-1618).
1586-1616 Hereditary Lady Agnes Cirksena von Ostfrisland und Rietberg of
Dietrichstein-Wichelstädt, Esens Stedesdorf and Wittmund
The sister of Countess Sabine Katharina of Rietberg, Agnes was the first wife of
Gundacker von Liechtenstein, Lord of Wilffersdorf and Riegelsdorf, Governor of
Austria (1614-17) and 1st Prince of Liechtenstein (1623-58). Mother of two sons.
Her husband's second wife was Sovereign Duchess Elisaberh Lukretia of Teschen
(1599-1653). Agnes lived (1586-1616).
1660-68 Regent Dowager Countess Anna
Catharina zu Salm-Reiffenscheidt of
Rietberg
After having been
Princess-Abbess of Thorn 1646-47,
she resigned
in order to marry Count Johann IV von Rietberg, and after his death she was
regent for son Friedrich Wilhelm (1650-77) who fell by Straßburg, and was
succeeded by his brothers Franz Adolph Wilhelm, (1677-80) and ( 1687-88) and
Ferdinand Maximilian (1680-1687), who were both Diachons and Domherrs of the
Cathedral Straßburg, and Anna Catharina remained the virtual ruler of the
territory. Ferdinand Maximilian was succeeded by his niece, Maria Ernestine
Franziska. Anna Catharina's older sister, Maria Sophie (1620-74) was Abbess in
Elten and the other Anna Salome (1622-88) in Elten. They were daughters of
Altgraf Ernst Friedrich, (1583-1639) and Countess Maria Ursula zu Leiningen
(†1649). Anna Catharina's daughter, Bernhardine Sophia was Princess-Abbess of
Essen 1691-1726. Anna Katharina lived (1624-91).
1690-1758 Sovereign Countess Maria Ernestine Franziska von Ostfriesland
of Rietberg
Her father Count Ferdinand Maximillian died in July 1687 and she was born one
month later. Firstly her father's older brother, Franz Adolf Wilhelm took over
the government. He had resigned in 1690 after three years of regency, having
willed the county to his niece. Emperor Leopold I appointed the Prince-Bishops
of Münster and Paderborn as her guardians. 1692 Her mother, Joannette Franziska
von Manderscheid-Blankenheim, received the renewal of the fief in her name, but
the same year Johanette married Count Arnold Moritz Wilhelm von
Bentheim-Steinfurt, and Maria Ernestine Franziska grew up in Düsseldorf. She
married Count Maximilian Ulrich von Kaunitz, and lived most of her life in
Austria. She left the government in the hands of her husband and after his death
in the hands of her son, Wenzel Anton Graf von Kaunitz (1711-94), who later
succeeded her as Count of Riedberg. Mother of 13 children and lived (1687-1758).
Rothenburg
1003-07 Regent Dowager Countess Godila von Rothenburg of Rothenburg and Guardian
of Nordmark
She was related to Bishop Wigfried von Verdun (959-83) who secured the paternal
fief for her sons, after the death of her first husband Lothar III, Count von
Walbeck. Her oldest son, Werner, born in 990 when she was 13 years old. She had
two more sons and a daughter in the first marriage, and two children with her
second husband, Hermann II, count von Werl (circa 980-after 1024), whom she
married in 1007. She lived (circa 977-1015).
Ecclesiastical Territory of Rottenmünster
(Rotenmünster/Rothenmünster)
(Zisterzienserinnen-Reichsabtei
Rottenmünster - Chapter of the Realm) (In Baden-Württemberg). (Also
see Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Saarbrücken
Around 1130-after 1147 Sovereign Countess Agnes of Saarbrücken
She married Frederick II Hohenstaufen, Duke of Schwaben und Franken, who lived
(circa 1090-1147) as his second wife. Apparently mother of Judith (1135-91), who
married Ludwig II of Thüringen (1128-72). Agnes (d. after 1147).
1233-71 Countess Regnant Lauretta zu Saabrücken-Linange
Succeeded father
1271-74 Countess Regnant Mathilde
Sachsen
1106-26 Hereditary Countess
Wulfhild
Daughter of Duke Magnus von Sachsen and married to Heinrich IX of Bavaria.
Her son became Henrich X of Bavaria and Sachsen
1106-42 Countess Elike Bilika
von Kriechen-Burgwerben und der Pfalzgrafschaft in Sachsen
Sister of Wulfild. Married to Otto von Askanien, Graf von Stallusstadt.
Their son was Margraf Albrecht I der Bär von Sachsen-Brandenburg
1142-43 Regent Dowager Duchess
Gertrud von Suppilenburg of Sachsen
1190 Heiress Jutta von Thüringen of Altenwied, Bilstein und Neu-Windeck and the
Pfalzgrafschaft Sachsen
Only child of Landgrave Ludwig III of Thüringen and Margrete von Kleve, she
married Dietrich, Count of Wettin Groitzsch (1159-1207). Their second daughter,
Mathilde was Heiress of Altenwied and married Heinrich II von Sayn. Jutta lived
(circa 1175-after 1208/16).
Until 1195 Hereditary
Kurgräfin Sophia
1481-1501 Dowager
Lady Anna von Sachsen von Bayern-Landshut of the Administrative Office of
Rochlitz in Sachen (Germany)
After the death of her husband, Duke Ludwig she returned back to Saxony and
exchanged her Bavarian dowries with Rochlitz, where she lived with a large
court. The reason for the exchange seems that she wanted to be close to her
mother, Margarethe von Österreich, who mainly lived at Altenburg and Colditz.
Anna lived (1536-1501).
1537-57 Reigning
Dowager Lady Elisabeth zu Hessen of the Castle, City and Administrative Unit of
Rochlitz, the Castle and Administrative Unit of Kriebstein with the cities of
Waldheim and Hartha in Sachsen
Also known as Elisabeth von Rochlitz she recived the lordships as dowry after
the death of her husband, Johann zu Sachsen (1498-1537). She was the first
territorial ruler in Germany to give her citizen freedom of confession and
conscience, but her father-in-law, Duke Georg of Sachsen, "makes sure" that she
is excommunicated, which meant that all citizen were declared free and she was
no longer under princely protection. But she accepted the Evangelican preacher
Magister Schütz aus Kassel, who was send to her lordship by her brother,
Landgrave Philipp von Hessen, who had already introduced the reformation in her
lands. She lived (1502-57).
1541-61 Reigning
Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Katharina von Mecklenburg of the Castle and
Administrative Unit of Wolkenstein
An early supporter of Martin Luther, she was in opposition to her
brother-in-law, Duke Georg of Mecklenburg, who tried to bribe her to remain
Catholic. Her husband, Heinrich von Sachsen-Freiberg, at first suppressed
Lutheranism, but Freiberg became Lutheran. After Gerorg's death in 1539 they
moved to Dresden and introduced the reformation here. Heinrich died in 1551, and
she spend the rest of her life in her dorwy, the Castle and Administrative Unit of Wolkenstein. She was mother of six children, and lived (1477-1561)
1546-53 In-charge of the
Government Electress Agnes von Hessen
1553-55 Reigning Dowager Lady of Weissenfels and Weissensee
She was in charge of
the government as her husband, Moritz was away in various
wars. 1547 she was awarded with the title of Kurfürst (Elector) and Duke of
Sachsen-Wittenberg. In 1553 he was wounded in the battle
of Sievershausen
and died shortly after. Their only
surviving child was a daughter, Anna von Sachsen (later married to and divorced
from Willem of Oranje) and therefore he was succeeded by his brother
August. Agnes lived (1527-55).
1553-85 Politically
Influential Electress Anna af Danmark
Reigned at the side of her husband, Kurfürst August von Sachsen (1626-86), with
whom she lived a very harmonious marriage. She was especially when it came to
the fights over religion from 1574, her opponents blamed her of „Gynaecocracy“,
and she always took the side of the Lutherans in the fights with the Calvinists.
In 1563 she intertwined in the negotiations between Denmark of Sweden together
with her mother, Dorothea von Sachsen-Lauenburg, and managed to end the long war
between the two countries, she initiated that her husband took the side of her
brother, Frederik II, and had Emperor Maximilian II. act as mediator in the
conflict. She was also a very able trader and industrialist, and in 1578 her
husband transferred the administration of all the Electoral Domains to her and
she was a pioneer within modern agriculture. She was also knowable with medical
plants, and even the Queen of Portugal asked for her help. In 1548 she was
handed over the administation of her dowries in Weissenfels, Freyburg (or
Sangerhausen). The daughter of
Christian III of Denmark and Norway, she signed her letters, 'Anna, born as Royal
Danish Stock, Electress of Sachsen.' She was mother of 15 children, and lived
(1532-85).
1591-1604 Guardian
Dowager Electress Sophie von Brandenburg of Sachsen (Germany)
1591-1622 Reigning Dowager Lady of the Offices and Castles of Rochlitz, Colditz
and Borna, the Office and Castle of Leisnig with the Cities of Leisnig and
Döbeln in Sachsen
After the death of her husband, Christian I (1560-86-91) she was guardian for
their son, Christian II (1583-91-1611) and other children. She was very much
involved in the religous fights during her lifetime and on her demand the
Kalvinist Chancellor Nikolaus Crell and a big part of the Saxon nobility were
arrested and after a lenghtly process executed in 1611. A very able
administrator, she extended her dorwy over the years, held a large court with
many civil servants, and Colditz expereinced a time of cultural and commercial
growth. The castle remained the dowry of Saxonian Dowager Electresses until
1753. She lived (1568-1622).
1611-41
Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Electress Hedwig af Danmark of the Calstle and
Administrative Unit of Lichtenberg bei Prettin and the and Administrative Units of Schlieben, Schweinitz und
Seyda
The first to reside at the castle, which had been, build between 1574-82. As
reigning dowager lady she was in charge of the police and courts, she shared her
authority with the Elector but her subjects considered her as their lady. She
founded churches, aided the poor, the sick and the weak. As the sister of the
Danish king and the sister-in-law of the British king she became an important
figure for her brother-in-law, Elector Johann Georg I, and she was involved in
arranging the marriages of five of his seven children. Because of her positions
her territories were hardly attacked during the Thirty Years War, and she acted
independently granting letters of free passage etc., something that was normally
the prerogative of the Elector, and she maintains her independence against her
brother-in-law also when it came to trade and commerce. She did not have any
children with her husband, Kurfürst Christian II. (1583-91-1611). She was the
7th and youngest child of Frederik II of Denmark and Norway (1534-59-88) Sofie
von Mecklenburg-Wismar and lived (1581-1641).
1656-59 Reigning Dowager Lady
Dowager Electress Magdalena Sibylla I von Preussen of the and Administrative Unit of
Colditz, The Estate of Krakau in the and
Administrative Unit of
Grossenhain, the and Administrative Unit of Lichtenwalde and the foreworks of Frankenberg,
Sachsenburg, Neusorge, Zadel and Baselitz as well as Eilenburg
After the death of her husband Johann Georg I. von Sachsen (1585-1656) she took
over her dorwy of Colditz - the other possessions she already aquired during
their marriage, but she resided in Dresden. She was mother of 10 children and
lived (1586-1659).
1680-87 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Electress
Magdalena Sibylle II. von Brandenburg of
the and Administrative Unit
ofmFreiberg-Colditz and the Vorwerk
zu Fischersdorf
Widow of the Elector Johann Georg II as his second wife, daughter of Christian
zu Brandenburg-Kulmbach (1581-1655) Ermuth Sophie von Brandenburg-Bayreuth,
mother of 3 children, and lived (1612-87).
1691-1717 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Electress Anna Sophie af Danmark of
Castle and Administrative Unit of Lichtenberg auf bei Prettin
She was a very staunch protestant and supported her daugther-in-law
Christiane Eberhardine von
Brandenburg-Bayreuth in her decition not to convert to catholisim and join her
son, Friederich August, who had converted in order to become King of Poland. She
been given castle at the time of her marriage in 1666, and her sister Wilhelmina Ernestina (1650-1706), the widow
of kurfürst Karl II of Hannover (1651-85), lived here from 1685. Anna Sophie
lived (-1717)
1695-96 In
charge of the Government Electress Christiane Eberhardine von
Brandenburg-Bayreuth
1697-1727 Lady
of the Castle and Administrative Unit of Pretzsch
The year after her marriage to Friederich August II he succeeded his brother as
Kurfürst. From 1695 he spend two years in Hungary fighting the Turks as
Imperial Commander-in-Chief. She remained a Protestant after the court became
Catholic and refused to join her husband for his coronation as King August II of
Poland, but withdrew to her dowry Pretzsch. She did return to Desden for a
number of official occations during the years. August was engaged in war with
Sweden and in 1704 he resigned as King of Poland. Never the less the Swedes
occupied Sachsen in 1706. He was king again 1709-33. The Protestants gave her the
honorary name of the Praying-Pillar. Her husband had at least 13 known
maitresses and a substaitial number of children. She lived (1671-1727).
1733-57 Politically
influential Queen Maria Josefa von Habsburg of Poland and Sachsen
When her husband, Elector Friederich August II von Sachsen or King August II of
Poland (16961733-63) was in Poland she functioned as his representative, if not
as an official regent in Sachsen. Ministers and ambassadors reported to her and
she maintained a large network of corrresponce. She was a powerful personality,
who exerciesed great influence over her husband, and whose authority was
recognised by all members of the court. She also participated actively in the
negotiations in the Reichstag (Assembly). All of her surviving 11 children made
good marriages, but this alignment with Austria and the rest of Catholic Europe
provoked the aggression of Prussia, and led to the Seven Years War, which began
in 1756, when Sachsen was occoupied by King Friederich II. Her husband escaped
to Poland, but she chose to stay back and organised the defence together with
her son, Friederich Christian and his wife, Maria Antonia, and she used her big
international network to do her best to save the electorate from total
destruction. As there were no male Habsburg Heirs to the Austrian Empire she and
her sister Maria Amalia (influential in Bavaria since 1722), had been given
precedence in the succession in the secret "Pactum Mutuae Successionis", but
later her uncle, Karl VI, paved the way for the succession of his daughter,
Maria-Theresia in 1740 through the Pragmatic Sanction. Instead she tried to have
her husband Holy Roman Emperor after the death of Karl VI and his successor,
Karl VII, in 1744. five years later. She lived (1699-1757).
1763-68 Regent Dowager Electress Maria Antonia of Bavaria of Sachsen
Her husband, Elector Friedrich Christian died 10 weeks after ascending to the
throne and she became regent for their son, Kurfürst and later king
Friedrich-August. She was in charge of the treasury and took
part in the most important government
decisions, and her brother-in-law was only
regent concerning the "electoral affairs" (jura electoralia). She
was a composer, poet and painter under the the pseudonym ETPA (Ermelinda Talea Pastorella Arkadia- which was her secret name as member of
the Roman Academy of the Arcadians. After her brother, Maximillian II Joseph
died in 1777 she claimed the Bavarian Palatinate, but the title was inherited by
a very remote relative. She was daughter of Elector Karl of Bayern who later
became Emperor Karl VII. She lived (1724-80).
1763 De facto Acting Premierminister Maria Amalia von Brühl Mniszchowa in
Sachsen
Her father, Heinrich Graf von Brühl, intrusted her with the running of the
government during his illness, which lead to his death on 28 October 1763. She
was politically influential from 1752 and as the wife of the Polish Court
Marshall Jerzy August Mniszech she also became an influential opponent of King
Stanisław August Poniatowski of Poland from 1764. She was well educated and
known as a good politician and a good intriguer. In 1770 she created with Teresa
Ossolińska a union called "quintumvirate". The members were their husbands and
other very powerful polish aristocrates: Wessel, Radziwiłł and Zamoyski and they
initiated the declaration of the act of interregnum in Poland. She lived
(1736-1772).
Sachsen-Altenburg
Member of the
Upper Saxon Circle
Estate (Regional Assembly)
1602-43 Reigning Dowager
Lady Dowager Duchess Anna Marie von Pfalz-Neuburg of Dornburg an der Saale
Widow of Duke Friedrich Wilhelm I. von Sachsen–Altenburg (1562–1602) and mother
of the next four Dukes of Altenburg: Johann Philipp (1597–1639), Friedrich
(1599–1625), Johann Wilhelm (1600–1632) and Friedrich Wilhelm II. (1603–1669).
The daughter of Pfalzgraf Philipp Ludwig von Neuburg (1547–1614) and Anna von
Jülich–Cleve–Berg (1552–1632), she lived (1575-1643).
1672-75 Hereditary Duchess Elisabeth Sofie von Sachsen-Altenburg of Altenburg
1675-80 Reigning Dowager Lady of the towns of Kapellendorf and Berka, with
Gartenhaus in Weimar
In 1672 her unmarried cousin Duke Friedrich Wilhelm III, died, and she
inherited Altenburg - and her husband, Duke Ernst I of Sachsen-Gotha added
Altenburg to his title. He was already in charge of Tenneberg, Waltershausen,
Wachsenburg, Ichtershausen, Königsberg, Tonndorf, Heldburg, Eisfeld, Salzungen,
Frauenbreitungen, Wasungen, Kranichfeld, and from 1672 also of Leuchtenburg,
Orlamünde, Krainburg, Eisenberg, Stadtroda, Ronneburg, Saalfeld, Grafenthal,
Probstzella, Coburg, Sonneberg, Haldburghausen, Themar, Untermassfeld, Meiningen,
Behringen and Römhild. When he died in 1675, their oldest son Friedrich I
became Duke of Sachsen-Gotha-Altenburg etc. Elisabeth Sofie had already
inherited the Saxon claim to Jerusalem when her father, Johann Philipp, died in
1629. She was mother of 18 children, and lived (1619-80).
Sachsen-Coburg und Gotha
1566-84
Co-Guardian Duchess Elisabeth von Pfalz-Simmern
Her husband,
Johann
Friedrich II, was Elector of Saxony (1554-56) and Duke of
Sachsen-Coburg-Eisenach, (1529-95),
had attempted to win back the dignity of Elector through taking up arms.
He was defeated and
imprisoned for life by the Emperor and Imperial Diet. She then lived with her
brother-in-law, Johann Wilhelm von Sachsen-Weimar, together with her two sons,
Johann Casimir von Sachsen-Coburg (1564-1633) and Johann Ernst von
Sachsen-Eisenach and after his brother's death also in Coburg (1566-1638), but
later she set up her own court in the Zollhof zu Eisenach, in 1571 at the Castle
of Wartburg and finally at the Castle of Eisenberg. In 1570 the Imperial Diet
had reinstated her sons and named three electors; Friedrich III. von der Pfalz,
August von Sachsen as Johann Georg von Brandenburg as their guardians and in
1572 the duchy was divided in a part for each son. 1578-81 they both studied at
the University of Leipzig, and in 1586 they assumed the reigns in their duchies.
Johann Friederich II was still imprisoned and died one year after her. Her two
oldest sons died in infancy, and she lived (1540-94).
1681-87 Politically Influential Duchess Marie Elisabeth von
Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel of Sachen-Coburg
Her 5th and only surviving son, Wilhelm August,, was born 3 months after the
death of her first husband, Adolf Wilhelm in 1668, and her brother-in-law,
Johann Georg I, became regent with her as guardian, and took over the whole
Duchy when her son died at the age of 3. She was influential during the reign of
her second husband, Duke Albrecht III (1648-81-99). Their only son died within
the first year of his life in 1678. Her sister, Clara Augusta, Reigned Weisshof
as Dowager Duchess of Württemberg from 1682. Marie Elisabeth lived (1638-87).
1900-05 Guardian Dowager Duchess Helene
zu Waldeck und Pyrmont of Albany
Her son, Karl Eduard, succeeded his uncle as Duke of Sachsen-Coburg und Gotha.
Her husband, Prince Leopold of the United Kingdom and Great Britain, Duke of
Albany etc., had died already in 1884. Ernst von Hohenlohe-Langenburg acted as
regent. Helene's sister was Dowager Queen Regent Emma of the Netherlands, and
her second child Alice, married Prince Alexander von Teck, Earl of Athlone, the
parents of the later Queen Mary of United Kingdom. Helene lived (1861-1922).
[Sachsen-]Coburg-Henneberg
Later the Princely County was diveded among the
various branches of the house of Sachsen, including the Elector of Sachsen, Duke
of Sachsen-Weimar-Eisenach, the Duke of Sachsen-Coburg-Saalfeld,
Sachsen-Coburg-Gotha and Sachsen-Altenburg.
1347-53 Regent Dowager Duchess Jutta von Brandenburg
Sachsen-Gotha-Altenburg
1691-1705
Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Christine Friederike Baden-Durlach of
Altenburg in Sachsen-Gotha-Altenburg
Married Duke Friedrich I
(1646-1691) as his 2nd wife in 1681. She had been married to Albrecht V Margrave
of Brandenburg-Ansbach (1634-67) as his 3rd wife and might have reigned a dowry
1667-81, possibly Crailsheim. She did not have any children and lived
(1645-1705).
1693-1702 "Joint Administrator"
Princess Friederike von Sachsen-Gotha-Altenburg in Sachsen-Gotha
After the death of her father, Duke Friedrich
I. (1646-91), she moved to the Castle of Altenburg, where her step-mother,
Christine Friederike Baden-Durlach, had her dowry. But when her brother,
Friedrich II. von Sachsen-Gotha (1676-1732) took over the government in 1693,
she moved back to Friedenstein to assist him with the government affairs. 1702
she married Hereditary Prince Johann August of Anhalt-Zerbst. Her mother was
Magdalena Sibylla von Sachsen-Weißenfels (1648-81), did not have any children
and lived (1675-1709)
1732-40
Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Magdalena Augusta von
Anhalt-Zerbst of Altenburg in
Sachsen-Gotha-Altenburg
Widow of Friedrich II. von
Sachsen-Gotha (1676-1732), of their 18 children 7 sons and 2 daughters survived.
She lived (1679-1740).
1732-67 Political Advisor Duchess Luise Dorothea zu Sachsen-Meiningen
Very influential during the reign of her husband, Friedrich III (1699-1732-72).
She was a friend of Friedrich the Great, was in close contact with Diderot,
Rousseau and Voltaire, who visited her in 1753. Luise Dorothea lived (1710-67).
Sachsen-Coburg-Saalfeld
1828-31
Regining Lady Dorothea Luise von Sachsen-Gotha-Altenburg of the Principality of
Lichtenberg
After her divorce from Herzog Ernst I von Sachsen-Coburg-Saalfeld she was
granted the principalty, which was an enclave in Sachsen, and the inhabitants
saw her as their "landesmutter" - mother of the state. She newer saw her two
sons, Duke Ernst II von Sachsen-Coburg und Gotha and Prince Albert, the husband
of Queen Victoria of United Kingdom. 1826 she married Maximilian Graf von Pölzig
und Beiersdorf. As the only daughter of Duke August, she was the heir of
Altenburg, died of cancer in Paris, and lived (1800-31).
Sachsen-Eisenach
1668-71 Joint Guardian Dowager Duchess Marie Elisabeth von
Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel of Sachsen-Eisenach
1681-87 Politically Influential of Sachen-Coburg
Her 5th and only surviving son, Wilhelm August,, was born 3 months after the
death of her first husband, Adolf Wilhelm, and her brother-in-law, Johann Georg
I, became regent and took over the whole Duchy when her son died at the age of
3. She was influential during the reign of her second husband, Duke Albrecht III
(1648-81-99). Their only son died within the first year of his life in 1678. Her
sister, Clara Augusta, Reigned Weisshof as Dowager Duchess of Württemberg from
1682. Marie Elisabeth lived (1638-87).
1741-51 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Anna Sophie
Charlotte von Brandenburg-Schwedt of Sangerhausen
Second wife of Duke Wilhelm Heinrich von Sachsen-Eisenach–Jena (1691–1741) who
did not have any children with either of his wifes. She was daughter of Margrave
Albrecht Friedrich von Brandenburg–Schwedt (1672–1731) and Marie Dorothea von
Kurland (1684–1743). She lived (1706-51).
Sachsen-Hildburghausen
1724-28 Regent Dowager
Duchess Sophie Albertine von Erbach-Erbach
Regent for Ernst Friedrich II (1707-24-45). She lived (1683-1742).
1745-48 Regent Dowager Duchess Karoline von Erbach-Fürstenau
After the death of her husband, Ernst Friedrich II (1707-45), she was regent
for son Ernst Friedrich III (1727-45-80). She lived (1700-58).
Sachsen-Meiningen und Hildburghausen
1763-75 Regent Dowager Duchess Charlotte Amalie von Hessen-Philippstahl
After the death of her husband, Anton Ulrich (1687-1743-63), she became regent
of her son, For August Friedrich (1754-63-82). The relatives in Gotha had hoped
to get part of the Meissen-inheritance but the emperor installed her as Sole
Regent and Chief Guardian of her children (Regentin und Obervormünderin). The
duchy was totally bankrupt as she took over the regency. Both failed harvests,
the 7 years war and the many warfares of her husband's family had ruined the
state. She began financial reforms, reorganised the army, humanised the
juridical system, introduced religious tolerance, created a modern school
system, and promoted the cultural life. She appointed young and able ministers
and also reformed the administration. She also took care of her husband's 10 and
her own 8 children, though most of them died in infancy. She lived (1730-1801).
1803-1821 Regent Dowager Duchess Luise Eleonore von Hohenlohe-Langenburg
After the death of her huband, Duke Georg I (1761-63-1803) she
was regent for son, Bernhard II. (1763-1803-82). She lived (1763-1837)
Sachsen-Merseburg
1692-1701
Reigning Dowager Lady Christiane von Schleswig-Holstein-Sønderborg-Glücksborg of the Castles
and Administrative Units of Delitzsch and Sangerhausen
Also known as Holstein-Glücksborg she administrated the castle as her dowry
after the death of her husband, Christian I von Sachsen-Merseburg
(1615-57-91). When she moved to the castle with her court, she initiated the
creation of a modern baroque-garden. She lived (1634-1701)
1694-1709 Guardian Dowager Duchess
Erdmuthe Dorothea of Sachsen-Zeitz of Sachsen-Merseburg
1709-20 Reigning Dowager Lady of (Delitzsch?)
After the death of her husband, Christian II von
Sachsen-Merseburg (1653-94) Her four oldest sons died in infancy, the fifth,
Moritz Wilhelm (1688-1731) succeeded his father, and the youngest, Friedrich Erdmann
lived (1691-.1714), was married to Eleonore Wilhelmine von Anhalt-Köthen
(1696-1726) Erdmuthe Dorothea lived (1661-1720)
1704-36 Reigning Dowager
Lady Luise Elisabeth von Württemberg-Bernstadt of the Castle of Jahnschen in Forst
Her husband, Philipp Sachsen-Merseburg zu Lauchsätt (1657-90), was killed at
Fleurus. During her residence, the city of Forst experienced its last feudal peiod of economic
growht. All her 3 children died in infancy, and she lived (1673-1736).
1731-34
Reigning Dowager Lady Henrietta Charlotte von Nassau-Idstein
of the Castle and Administrative Office of Delitzsch
The widow of Moritz Wilhelm (1688-1731) she held the
castle as her dowry. (1688-1734).
Sachsen-Lauenburg
1619-26 Dowager Reigning
Lady Maria von Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel of Franzhagen
Already in 1608 she
built a court church in her future dowry where she took up residence after the
death of her husband, Duke Franz II. von Sachsen-Lauenburg (1547–1619). The
daughter of Duke Julius von Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel and mother of 13 children.
She lived (1566–1626).
Sachsen-Weimar
1605-17 Joint Guardian Dowager
Duchess Dorothea Maria von Anhalt af Sachsen-Weimar und Jena
Was Princess-Abbess of Gernrode 1586-93.
After the death of her husband, Duke Johann, the Duchy and her sons came under
the guardianship of the unpopular Electors of Sachsen-Albertine (Albertinischen Kurfürsten). She concentrated
on the education of her 8 surviving sons who shared and expanded the
inheritance: Duke Johann Ernst von Sachsen-Weimar (1594-1626), Friederich
(1596-1622), Duke Wilhelm von Sachsen-Weimar, zu Remda, in Eisenach, Creuzburg,
Gerstungen, Salzungen, Gotha, Heldburg, Eisfeld, Weimar, Jena, Burgau, Berka,
Buttsadt, Lobeda, Eisenach, Ilmenau, Kaltennordheim, etc, (1598-1662), Duke
Albrecht of Sachsen-Eisenach, (1599-1644), Duke Ernst I the Pious von
Sachsen-Gotha, in Tenneberg, Waltershausen, Wachsenburg, Ichtershausen,
Königsberg und Tonndorf, Heldburg, Eisfeld und Salzungen, Frauenbreitungen und
Wasungen , Kranichfeld, Altenburg, Leuchtenburg, Orlamünde, Krainburg,
Eisenberg, Stadtroda, Ronneburg, Saalfeld, Grafenthal, Probstzella, Coburg,
Sonneberg, Haldburghausen, Themar, Untermassfeld, Meiningen, Behringen und
Römhild (1601-75), Friedrich Wilhelm, (1603-19) and Bernhard (1604-39), who
became Duke of Franken in 1633, and the posthumously born daughter, Johanna
(1606-09). Dorothea Maria lived (1574-1617).
Sachsen-Weimar-Eisenach
Guardian for son Karl August (1757-58-1828) - she was a very learned person, a
well known intellectual, composer and musician. She
was a
promoter and supporter of Johann Wolfgang
Goethe, and lived (1739-1807).
1805-06
In charge of the Government Luise von Hessen-Darmstadt
While her husband, Karl August (Sachsen-Weimar-Eisenach (1757-1828), was in
Preussian war service during the Napoleonic Wars,
she handled the affairs of state, and after the
twin battles of Jena and Auerstedt, the victorious
French troops assembled in the residential city of Weimar and met with Napoleon
Bonarparte and persuaded him to stop the plunderings of the city, which gave her the posititon as "saviour of the nation" (Retterin
des Vaterlandes). After the end of the wars, her
husband was raised to the position of Grand-Duke. Of her 7 children, 3 survived
into adulthood. She lived (1757-1830).
1680-87 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Johanna
Walpurgis von Leiningen-Westerburg of the Administrative Office and Castle of
Dahme in Sachsen-Weissenfels-Querfurt
Second wife of August von Sachsen-Weißenfels-Querfurt
who died in 1680, who had 8 surviving children by his first wife, Anna Maria von
Ostfriesland, and 3 who died as infants. She herself had 1 son who died at the
age of 19, one stillborn son and a surviving son, Duke Friedrich von Sachsen-Weissenfels-Dahme
(1673-1715), who was given the Office of Dahme as his Dukedom when he reached
adulthood. She lived (1647-87).
1712-30 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Friederike Elisabeth von
Sachsen-Eisenach of the Castle and Office of Dryburg in Langensalza
Secured strong social accents to the reforms of her husband, Johann Georg
(1677-1712). Her only son and 3 oldest daughters died as infants. Only Johanna
Magdalene (1708-60), survived into adulthood and married Ferdinand Kettler, Duke
of Kurland and Semgallen, but they did not have any children. The youngest
daughter, Friederike Amalia, was born 2 weeks before her father passed, died at
the age of 2. She was Daughter of Duke Johann Georg I von Sachsen-Eisenach and
Countess Johanetta von Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn, and lived (1669-1730).
1715-29 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Emilie
Agnes Reuß zu Schleiz of the Administrative Office and Castle of Dahme in
Sachsen-Weissenfels and Fürstlich Drehna and Vetschau in Brandenburg (Germany)
After the death of her second husband, Duke
Friedrich von Sachsen-Weissenfels-Dahme (1673-1715), she took up residence at
the Castle of Dahme - that had been given to her husband as a younger son in the
Weissenfels-family - it had previously been held as dorwy of his mother,
Johanna Walpurgis of Leiningen-Westerburg. Later she also used the Lordships of
Drehna and Vetschau from her first marriage to Count Balthasar Erdmann von
Promnitz (1656-1703). She did not have any children in her second marriage. She
was daughter of Heinrich I Reuss von Schleiz and Countess Esther von Hardegg auf
Glatz und im Machlande, and lived (1667-1729).
Widow of Johann Adolf II. von Sachsen-Weißenfels (1685-1746). Mother of 4 sons
who died as infants and one daughter who died at the age of 10 in 1751. The
daughter of Duke Friedrich II von Sachsen-Gotha-Altenburg and Magdalena Augusta
von Anhalt-Zerbst, she lived (1715-74).
After the death of her husband, Duke Albrecht II, she was regent for their son
Duke and Prince Palantine Rudolf I. (circa 1285-98-1356) She was daughter of
Emperor Rudolf, and lived (circa 1257-1322).
Sachsen-Zeitz
1718-39 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Maria
Amalia von Brandenburg of the Administrative Office and Castle of Bertholdsburg
in Schleusingen
When her second husband, Moritz Wilhelm von Sachsen-Zeitz,
von Sachsen-Zeitz died, she moved to her dowry. 1 son and 2 daughters died as
infants, the Hereditary Prince at the age of 10 and only Dorothea Wilhelmine
survived and married Wilhelm VIII von Hessen-Kassel. Maria Amalia had first been
married to Herditary Princes Karl von Mecklenburg-Güstrow, who died the same day
their only child was born and died. She lived (1670-1739).
Sachsen-Zeitz-Pegau-Neustadt
1713-48 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Anna
Friederike Philippine von Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Wiesenburg of Neustadt
an der Orla
Widow of Friedrich Heinrich von Sachsen-Zeitz-Pegau-Neustadt and joint guardian
for her son Moritz Adolf Karl (1702-59), who chose to become a catholic cleric
and was first bishop of Königgrätz and then of Leitmeritz, and he resigned from
the Duchy. It seems that she continued to be in charge of the City and Office of
Neustadt. She was daughter of Duke Philipp Ludwig von Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Wiesenburg
and Anna Margaretha von Hessen-Homburg. (1665-1748).
Ecclesiastical Territory of Säckingen
(Seggingen
or Seckingen) (Damenstift
Säckingen - Ladies Chapter)) (In Baden-Württemberg)
(See
Germany Ecclesiastical Territories)
Sagan (in
Schlesia)
1800-39 Sovereign Duchess Wilhelmine Biron von
Kurland of Sagan, Representative of the Sovereign Dukes of
Courland
The Duchy of Sagan was a fief of the Crown of Prussia, acquired from the Lobkowicz
in 1786 by Duke Peter of Courland and confirmed for male line with succession to
the nearest female on the death of the last male. The Biron von Courland line
continued with Peter's brother, but on Peter's death in 1800 Sagan passed to
the eldest daughter Princess Katharina Friederike Wilhelmine. She was first
married to Prince Jules de Rohan-Guéméné until they divorced in 1805. Her second
husband was Prince Vassili Trubetzkoi (d.1841) whom she divorced in 1806. In
1818 she married Carl Rudolf Graf von der Schulenburg, but had no children and
was succeeded by sister, Pauline. Wilhelmine lived (1781-1839).
1839-44 Sovereign Duchess Pauline Biron von Kurland of Sagan and Representative
of the Sovereign Dukes of Courland
Succeeded sister, Wilhelmine to the Duchy in Schlesia. Married to Prince
Friedrich von Hohenzollern-Hechingen, who died 1838. She ceded the title to her
son Constantin, Fürst von und zu Hohenzollern-Hechingen (1801-1869) in 1842.
Since she had no children with his wife Princess Eugènie de Beauharnais von
Leuchtenberg, she sold to her sister Dorothea all her portion of the allodial
estates of the Duchy. Constantin continued negotiations with his aunt, which
concluded on 16 Oct 1843 with the sale of the title and all claims, subject to
actual possession by Dorothea being delayed until 1844. Pauline lived
(1782-1845).
1844-62 Sovereign Duchess Dorothea Biron von Kurland of Sagan and Representative
of the Sovereign Dukes of Courland
She succeeded after her sister Pauline renounced the title in her favour. The
third sister, Johanna Catharine (1783-1876), who was divorced from Francesco
Pignatelli Duca di Acerenza also renounced her rights in favour of the youngest
sister. Dorothea was married to Edmund de Talleyrand-Périgord, Duc de Dino et de
Talleyrand, French Foreign Minister, and her sons got the title of Duke of Sagan
in 1844, again the succession was conferred to males, and following their
extinction to the nearest female was confirmed by the King of Prussia in
1845 and in 1846. Dorothea lived (1793-1862).
Salm-Daun (Dhaun)
Daun was
was member of the
Member of the
Bench of
Counts and Lords of the
Upper Rhenish Circle
(Regional Assembly) (Oberrheinischer Reischskreis)
1693 Regent Dowager Countess Anna Katharina von Nassau-Ottweilder
For Wild- und Rheingraf Karl (1693-1733). She lived (1653-1731)
1733-38 Regent Dowager Countess Luise von Nassau-Ottweilder
For Johann Philipp. She lived U1686-1773)
1750 Regent Dowager Countess Karoline Friederike zu Salm-Grumbach
After the death of her husband, Johann Friedrich (1727-50), she was regent for
two sons Karl Leopold Ludwig (1748-50) and Friedrich Wilhelm (born and dead
1750). She was born as Wild- und Rheingräfin in Grumbach, and lived (1733-83).
Salm-Dyck
Member of the
Bench of the Secular Princes
Upper Rhenish Circle
(Regional Assembly) (Oberrheinischer Reischskreis)
1727 Regent Countess Dowager
Anna Franziska von Thurn und Taxis
Regent for August Eugen Bernhard, Altgraf von Salm Reifferscheid zu Dyck
(1706-27-67). She lived (1683-1776)
1775-76 (†) Regent Countess
Dowager Auguste von Waldburg-Zeil-Wurzach of Salm-Dyck
After the death of her husband, Johann Franz Wilhelm (1714-67-75), she was
regent for son, Altgraf Joseph Franz Maria von Salm Reifferscheid zu Dyck
(1773-75-1801). She lived (1743-76)
1776-1801 Regent N.N.
Salm-Grumbach and Salm-Hostmar
The County was member of the
Member of the
Bench of
Counts and Lords of the
Upper Rhenish Circle
(Regional Assembly) (Oberrheinischer Reischskreis)
1799-1801 Regent Dowager Countess Wilhelmine Friederike zu
Sayn-Wittgenstein-Hohenstein
1800-06 Joint Sovereign Countess of a Portion of
the Amt Obersontheim within the County of Limpurg-Sontheim
1801-06 Regent of Salm-Horstmar
She was first regent for husband Karl Ludwig Wilhelm Theodor (1720-63-99) and
then for son Wild- und Rheingraf Wilhelm Friedrich Karl August von Salm zu
Horstmar (1799-1865), who was sovereign count of Salm-Grumbach until the
territory was occupied by the French in 1801. He was then made count of
Salm-Hostmar, and she continued as his regent until the territory was
incorporated in Prussia. The counts continued as titular counts. Friederike
lived (1767-1849).
Salm-Kyrburg
Member of the
Secular Bench of the Council of Princes in the Imperial Diet
1794-1801 Regent Dowager
Princess Johanna Franziska Antonia von Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen
For Reichsfürst Friedrich
zu Salm-Kyrburg, Fürst zu Ahaus und Bocholt, Wild- und Graf von
Renneberg (1789-94-1801-59). She lived (1765-90)
Salm-Salm
Member of the
Secular Bench of the Council of Princes in the Imperial Diet
1738-51 Heiress
Princess
Dorothea
After the death of her father, Ludwig Otto of Salm (1674-1738),
her husband, Count Nicolaus Leopold of Salm, Duke of Hoogstraten
(1701-70), was named Sovereign Prince of Salm-Salm by the
Emperor. She lived (1702-51)
1773-83 Regent Princess Dowager
Marie Luise Eleonore von Hessen-Rheinfels
1794-.. Possibly Regent of Salm-Kyburg
Until 1777 she reigned alone, then she became regent for Konstantin Alexander
Joseph, Fürst und Reingraf von Salm zu Salm, Wildgraf von Daun und Kyburg,
Rheingraf von Stein etc. (1773-78-1828). In 1794 her late husband's relative,
Friedrich III von Salm-Kyburg died, and she possibly became one of the regents
for his son, Friedrich IV (1789-94-1801-59) whose mother had already died.
Marie Luise Eleonore lived (1732-1800).
Salm-Reifferscheid
Member of the
Imperial Diet
1678-93 Regent Countess Dowager
Ernestine Barbara Dorothea Sibylle zu Löwenstein-Wertheim-Rochefort
For Altgraf Franz Wilhelm I von Salm Reifferscheid zu Bedbur (1672-78-1734). She
lived (1654-98).
1755-56 Regent Countess Dowager Maria Franziska Esterházy von Galantha of
Salm-Reifferscheid zu Bedbur
Regent for Siegmund (1735-55-98). She lived (1702-78).
Sayn
Sayn was
1
1247-after 1283 Reigning Dowager Lady of Löwnstein and her other Dowry Lands
She was the second wife of Heinrich III von Sayn (1206-1246), known as "the fat"
because he was
more than
2,13 meters tall and very strong. In his will he had named her late
sister-in-law, Adelhaid's four sons; Johannes, Count von Sponheim, Lord
Heinrich zu Heinsberg, Lord Simon von Sponheim und Kreuznach and Count Eberhard
von Sayn von Eberstein, as his sole heirs, and after a year she handed over the
county and lands to them, with the right to her dowries for life. She was
daughter of Count Lamtert von Wid-Neunburg and had no children.
(D. after 1283).
1456-89 Hereditary Lady Elisabeth
von Sirck of Furbach, Monklar and Meinzberg, The Fief of Lützelburg and
other Lordships
She inherited the Lordships from her uncle, Jacob von Sirck, Churfürst
von Trier and her father. Her possessons were incorporated into
the County of Sayn. Her husband, Gerhard II., Count of Sayn, Lord of Homburg,
(1452-1493), was and influential statesman in the German Empire and was named
Stadtholder of the Westphalian Courts. She was mother of 9 sons and 7 daughters,
though most of them died as infants. She lived (1435-89).
1606-08 Hereditary/Sovereign Countess Anna Elisabeth von
Sayn of Sayn-Sayn
Heiress to her uncle, Count Heinrich IV. von Sayn, Lord Herr zu Homburg,
Montclair und Meinsberg (1539-1606), who was the last Count von Sayn-Sayn of the
male line of Sayn-Sponheim. He inherited the county jointly with her father,
Hermann after death of their uncle Sebastian II, and after her father's death in
1588, he reunited the County. In 1605 he transferred the government to her
husband, who asumed the title of Count Wilhelm III von Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn,
because of ilness, and had him make a guarantee that he would support the
Lutheran confession, but he soon replaced the Lutheran priests with Reformed.
After her death, the county was in dispute and some territories were occupied by
foreign powers. Wilhelm was succeeded by their oldest son, Ernst in 1626. She
lived (1572-1608).
Initially co-ruler with sister, Ernestine, but in 1648, they later split up the
county in 1648. Her part is normally known as Sayn-Altenkirchen for short.
Married to Johannes-Georg I von Sachsen-Eisenanch. Their daughter, Eleonore
Erdmute Louise, died 1696 in 1741 her grandson, Margrave Carl Wilhelm Friedrich
von Brandenburg-Ansbach inherited the Reichsgrafschaft from his childless uncle,
Duke Wilhelm Heinrich von Sachsen-Eisenach. Johanette zu
Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn-Altenkirchen lived (1632-1701).
Sayn-Hachenburg
The county was part of the Imperial Circle of the Lower Rhine-Westphalia and the
bank of the Counts of The Lower Rhine-Westphalia in the Imperial Diet (Niederrheinisch-Westfälischen
Reichskreis & Grafen dem Niederrheinisch-Westfälischen
Reichsgrafenkollegium) Around 1800 the territory was circa 250 square kilometres
and had about 12.000 inhabitants.
1648-52 Regent Dowager Countess Luise Juliane of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Hohenberg
and Altenkirchen
After the death of her son, the hereditary count, the county was occupied by the
Archbishop of Köln, but Luise Juliane continued to fight for her rights. In the
Peace-treaty of Westphalia in 1648 both she and her two daughter: Johanette and
Ernestine's right to rule the county was confirmed. She continued to act as
regent for her two daughters who split the County among them, until she withdrew
from Hachenburg Castle to Friedenwald Castle. She lived (1603-70).
1648-61 Sovereign Countess of the Realm Ernestine Salentine of
Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn-Hachenburg
In the beginning co-ruler with sister, Johanette, but they split up the county
in 1648, when their right to the inheritance was confirmed by the Peace of
Westphalia. Her part became known as Sayn-Hachenburg for short. She was married
to count Salentin Ernst von Manderscheid-Blankenheim, Kirchenberg and the
Nassau-Weilburg families, and is now one of the titles of the Grand Duke of
Luxembourg, Ernestine zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn-Hachenburg was succeeded by son
and in 1676 by her daughter, Magdalena-Christina. She lived (1626-62).
Succeeded brother, who had succeeded their mother, Countess Ernestine, co-ruler
of Sayn-Hachenburg. She was married to a Burggrave von Kirchberg and trough her,
the county of Hachenburg ended up with the Nassau-Weilburg family of Luxembourg.
1799-1827 Sovereign
Countess
Also Burgravine of Kirchberg she was
married to Duke
Friedrich-Wilhelm von Nassau-Weilburg and her territory was
incorporated into his lands after their marriage.
She was daughter of Wilhelm-Georg
and succeeded Johann-August (1714-77-99), and lived (1772-1827).
Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg (Ruling house until 1810)
Until 1806 members of the College of the Counts of the Wetterau, who had one
vote in the Council of the Princes in the Imperial Diet
1694-1705 Regent Dowager Countess
Hedwig Sophie zu Lippe-Brake
After the death of her husband Count Ludwig Franz (1660-1694) she acted as
regent for son, Casimir (1687-1741) and her brother, Count Rudolf zur Lippe-Brake,
was co-guardian. She was dominated by a pietistic Protestantism and the country
was still devastated by the consequences by the Thirty Years War. She lived
(1669-1738)
1944-55 Guardian
Dowager Princess Margareta Fouche d'Otrante
Guardian for Prince Richard (1934/44-) after her husband Gustaf Richard was
reported missing during WWII. The family went into exile in her Sweden, where
she was born. Prince Richard later married HRH Princess Benedikte of
Denmark. She lived (1909-2005).
Schauenburg
Until 1196/1200 Countess Regnant
Uta
Member of the College of the Counts of Westphalia in the
Council of Princes of the Imperial Diet and also
1526-33 Reigning Dowager Countess
Widow of Count Anton von Schaumburg, and she resided in the Castle at the
Moutain of Nesselberg
Took over the castle and territory as her dowry after the death of her husband,
Anton, the last count to reside in the castle.
1640-46 Sovereign Countess Elisabeth zur Lippe-Alverdissen of Schaumburg with
the Administrative Offices of Stadthagen, Bückeburg, Arensburg and Hagenburg
(Germany)
Succeeded her son, Count Otto von Holstein-Schaumburg, who died 1640 without
issue. In 1643 she transferred her rights to her brother Count Philip zur
Lippe-Alverdissen, and ruled with him as co-regent till her death three years
later. His descendants assumed the name Schaumburg-Lippe. (d. 1643).
Schaumburg-Lippe
The vote in the
1787-99 Regent Dowager Countess Juliana Wilhelmine Louise von Hessen-Philipstahl
Regent for son Georg-Wilhelm (1784-1860, Count 1787-1807 and thereafter Prince).
With the help of English troops she forced the Hanoverians out of the county.
She lived (1761-99).
Schleswig-Holstein (Slesvig-Holsten)
The Danish King was Duke of Slesvig-Holsten until 1864.
See
Denmark Heads. Member of the
Secular Bench of the Council of Princes of the Imperial Diet (The castle of Kiel
mainly served as Dowager Seat during the 1500s)
1404-15
Regent Dowager Duchess Katharina Elisabeth von Braunschweig of
Holstein
After the murder of her husband Gerhard IV, she was regent for their son,
Heinrich IV. Gerhard was count of Holstein-Rendsburg (1382-1404) before he was
given Slesvig as a hereditary fief with the title of Duke by Queen Margrethe I
of Denmark, Sweden and Norway in 1386. She was engaged in various fights with
King Erik 6. of Pommern of Denmark, who complained, and various dukes are asked
to mediate, and in 1410 they make a truce. She was mother of 3 sons and two
daughters, including Heilwig, who married
1481-90 Regent Dowager Queen Dorothea af
Brandenburg
The "royal authority" was vested in her after the death of her first husband,
Danish king Christoffer III of Bavaria in 1488. She contrasigned and
authorized the decisions made by the Council of State which reigned the country.
Later same year she married the new king Christian I of Oldenborg and often
acted as regent during his many warfares. She also had Abrahamstrup,
Kalundborg,Lolland-Falster Slesvig and Holsten, Närke and Värmland (Sweden) as
security for lones she granted her husband. Later regent for son, Frederik,
(later king) in the Dukedoms. She lived (1430-90)
1588-94 Regent Queen Dowager Sophie von
Mecklenburg-Schwerin of Schleswig-Holstein
Widow of Frederik 2. She was regent for son Christian 4. in Slesvig-Holsten
1588-94.She was engaged in a power struggle with the Regents of Denmark, The
Council of State, which had Christian declared of age in 1593, but she did not
give up her position in the Duchies before the next year. Withdrew to Lolland-Faster,
where she managed her estates extremely well and became very rich and she lend
her son a lot of money for his warfares. She lived (1557-1631)
Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Augustenburg (Holsten-Sønderborg-Augustenborg)
1714-41 Dowager Lady Sofie Amalie
Ahlefeldt possibly of Sønderborg
After the death of her husband, Frederik Vilhelm (1668-1714), she was daughter
of Frederik Ahlefeld, Count of Langeland and Maria Elisabeth Gräfin zu
Leiningen-Daghesburg-Hardenburg, administered her dowry. She lived (1668-1741).
Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg (Holsten-Sønderborg)
1627-33 In Charge of the
Government Dowager Duchess Dorothea von Schwarzburg
Retained undivided possession of the estate after the death of her husband, Duke
Alexander of Sønderborg. She handed over the estates to her son, Hans Christian
(1627-53).
1653-62 Regent Dowager Duchess
Anna zu Oldenborg-Delmenhorst
Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Franzhage (Holstein-Franzhage) (Slesvig-Holsten-Sønderborg-Franzhage)
She married
1709 In Charge of
the Government Dowager Duchess Barbara Dorothea von Winterfeld
After the death of her mother-in-law, Eleonore Charlotte von Sachsen-Lauenburg,
she tried to continue running the estates of the small duchy, but she had to
give up and moved to Hamburg where she died in powerty. (d. 1739).
Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glücksburg (Slesvig-Holsten-Sønderborg-Glücksborg)
1766-79 In charge
of the Government Dowager Duchess Henriette Auguste von Lippe-Detmold
Her son, Frederik Henrik Vilhelm of Holsten-Glüksborg was 19 when he succeeded
his father, Frederik of Glücksborg, and continued in Danish military service.
She lived (1725-77)
1779-1824
In charge of the Government
Dowager
Duchess Anna Karoline von Nassau-Saarbrücken
After the death of her first husband, Frederik Henrik
Vilhelm/Friedrich Wilhelm,
she remained in charge of the Duchy, also after her marriage to
Duke Friedrich Karl Ferdinand of Braunschweig-Bevern (d. 1809)
in 1782. One year after her death the title of Duke of Glücksborg was
inherited by Duke Wilhelm zu Slesvig-Holsten-Sønderborg-Beck, whose son became
king Christian 9 of Denmark in 1863. She was daughter of Wilhelm Heinrich von
Nassau-Saarbrücken (1718-35-68) and Sofie von Erbach, and lived (1751-1824).
1586-1604 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Christina von Hessen-Kassel of
the Administrative Office and Castle of Kiel
1587-93
Regent of Gottorp
Her oldest son, Friederich II succeeded his father, Adolf (1526-33-86) as Duke
of Gottorp at the age of 18. He died after one year and was then succeeded by
the second, Philipp (1570-87-90) and after his death for the youngest, Johan Adolf
(1575-1590-1616).
1616-39
After the death of her husband, Johan Adolf, she was politically influential and
ruled Husum as her dowry. She was mother of Duke Friedrich, and
lived (1580-1639).
1659-60 Possible
Guardian Dowager Duchess Marie Elisabeth von Sachsen of Holstein Gottorp
1660-84 Reigning Dowager Lady of the Castle and Administrative Unit of Husum in Holstein-Gottorp
At the time of the death of her husband, Friedrich III of
Schleswig-Holstein-Sønderborg-Gottorp, her fifth and oldest surviving son Christian Albrecht of
Holstein-Gottorp was just 18 and she might have been his guardian for the first
year. At least she did not move to her dorwy, the Schoss vor Husum (The Castle
outside Husum) until 1660. She expanded her residence and promoted arts and
culture, music and gardening. Among her other 15 children was Marie Elisabeth,
who had been Princess-Abbess of Quedlinburg until her death in 1755. She lived (1610-84).
Circa 1695-1704 Politically
Influential Dowager Duchess Frederikke Amalie af Denmark of Holstein-Gottorp
1695-1704 Reigning Dowager Lady of the Administrative Office and Castle of Kiel
She must have had some kind of political influence after the death of her
husband Duke Christian Albrecht of Holstein Gottorp in 1695 and not the least
after her son, Friedrich (1671-1702) married Princess Hedvig Sofia of Sweden in
1698 and spend some time in Sweden. Federikke Amalie also visited her sister,
Queen Ulrike Eleonora in Stockholm. After her son was killed in battle, Hedvig
Sofia became regent, but stayed in Sweden. Federikke was daughter of king
Frederik 5. of Denmark, and lived (1649-1704).
1702-08 Regent Dowager Duchess Hedvig Sofia of Sweden of Holstein-Gottorp
Married to Friedrich von Holstein-Gottorp (1671-1702) in 1698. She stayed in
Gottorp for about one year and in 1700 her only child, Karl Friedrich
(1700-39), was born, and two years later her husband was killed in battle. She
was proclaimed regent while the guardianship was given to her brother, Karl.
XII. She was Hereditary Princess of Sweden until her death, and her son stayed
in Sweden until 1718, and was generally considered to be heir to the throne -
instead his aunt, Ulrika Eleonora the Younger, was chosen as reigning Queen,
after the death of her brother, Karl XII. Karl Friedrich's son Carl Peter
Ulrich later became Czar Peter of Russia. Hedvig Sofia was daughter of Karl XI
and Ulrika Eleonora the Older, and lived (1681-1708).
1763-73 Duchess Katharina of Russia
She initiated grand repairs of the castle. In 1773 she officially gave up the
Russian claims to the Duchies of Slesvig-Holsten, which her husband Peter III
had inherited from his father Carl Friederich, who was married to Anna Petrovna
of Russia, and who grew up in Russia after both his parents died in 1739. In
exchange the Danish king gave up the Counties of Oldenburg and Delmenhorst.
1658-81 Reigning
Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Eleonore von Anhalt-Zerbst of the Castle and
Administrative Unit of Osterholm
The castle of Østerholm was built by Duke Hans in 1592 and she took in
possession as her dowry after the death of her husband
Widow of
The widow of Count Adolf VII of Holstein-Plön (who reigned 1358-90), she made a
treaty on behalf of King Albrecht von Mecklenburg of Sweden and Duke Johan of
Mecklenburg, which transferred the regency of Sweden, Mecklenburg and the
Counties of Mecklenburg, Schwerin and Rostock, to king Albrecht's brother. She
signed the treaty together with Abbot Johan Doberum, 14 Mecklenburgian knights
and various Mayors.
1671-circa 73 In Charge of the
Government Dowager Duchess Dorothea Auguste von Holstein-Gottorp
Her son, Hans Adolf (1634-71-1704) participated in various wars in the service
of the German Emperor, and left the government in her hand and then in the hand
of her daughter-in-law, Dorothea Sophia von Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel. Dorothea
Auguste was widow of Joachim Ernst of Plön, the areas of Kenfeld and Ahrensbök,
during whose reign the armies of Wallenstein went through the Duchy in 1627, the
Sweeds looted in 1643 and the Danish-Swedish war 1657-60 devestated the state.
She lived (1602-82).
1673-1704 In Charge of the Government Duchess Dorothea Sophia zu
Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel
1704-06 Member of the Guardian Government
1704-22 Titular Duchess of Reinfeld and Reigning Dowager Lady of the Castle and
Administrative Office
After her marriage to Hans Adolf, Of the Grace of God
Heir of Norway, Duke to Schleswig-Holstein (1634-71-1704),
who participated in various wars in the service of the German Emperor
1704-06 Head of the
Guardian Government Dowager Duchess Elisabeth Marie Sofie von
Slesvig-Holstein-Nordburg
1706-67 Reigning Dowager Lady of Ahrensbök
As her husband, Adolf August had died 4 days before his father, Hans Adolf, she
became regent for 2 year old son, Leopold August, but he died at the age of 4
and an interregnum followed for a number of years, and she moved to her dowry in
Ahrensbök. She lived (1683-1767).
1730-62 Titular Duchess
Dorothea Christine von Aichelburg of Reinfeld and Reigning Dowager Lady of the
Administrative Office and Castle of Reinfeld in Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Nordburg
Her son Friedrich Carl (1706-61) was born 3
months after the death of her husband, Prince Christian Carl von Holstein-Nordborg
(1674-1706). The king of Denmark granted him the name of Schleswig-Holstein-Nordborg-Carlstein.
Her brother-in-law Joachim Friedrich (1668-1722), inherited the Duchy of Plön from a relative later in 1706, but since his daughters
could not inherit the title, it went to Friedrich Carl, after a decree from the
Danish king, who determined that her marriage to Christian Carl had been "equal"
and not Morganatic and occupied the territory on his behalf. The next in line,
the duke of Holstein-Rethwisch sued, her son
counter-sued, and the matter dragged on for years until the Rethwisch-line died out in 1729 and her son inherited
Rethwisch as well. 1730 her son married Christiane Irmgard Reventlow, the nice of Anne
Sofie Rventlow, the morganatic wife of King Frederik of Denmark, and finally in 1731 the Emperor
determined the case in the favour of her son, who was invested with the title
and she was then grated the Administrative office of Reinfeld as her dowry. Another version of her surname is
von Eichelberg, and she lived (1674-1762).
1761-79 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess
Christine Irmgard Reventlow von Slesvig-Holsten-Sønderborg of Nordborg and
Plön
Since there was no male heirs, the Duchies returned to the Danish king after the
death of her husband,
Schönburg
1534-52 Joint Regent
Dowager Sovereign Lady Amalie von Leißnig zu Penig of Schönburg and Hertenstein,
the Lordships of
Glauchau, Waldenburg and th Lichtenstein, and the Estates of
Hohnstein, Lohmen, Wehlen and Kriebstein
As part of the guardinship for her sons, Johann Ernst, Georg, Hugo and Wolf she
was able to expand the possessions that her husband, Ernst II, had collected:
The secularized Convent of Remse, the Lordship Klösterle in Bohmia and Rochsburg
in Sachsen. In 1542 Lutheranism was introduced in the lordships.
Schwaben (Swabia)
1015-.. Regent Dowager Duchess
Gisela von Schwaben of Swchaben
Heiress of Schwaben. 1024-39 Co-Regent of Germany, 1026-39 Co-Regent of Italy,
1027-39 Co-Regent of The Holy Roman Empire, 1032-39 Co-Regent of Bourgogne
1106-43
Hereditary Duchess Agnes of Franken
Daughter of Emperor Heinrich IV (1050-56-1106). Her husband, Friedrich I Graf Hohenstaufen became Duke of Franken and Schwaben and was succeeded by their son,
Friedrich II. Agnes' second husband was Leopold III, Markgraf of Austria who
died 1136. Agnes lived (1074-1143).
1705-06 Sovereign Lady Dowager Duchess Mauricienne Fébronie de La Tour-d'Auvergne
von Bayern
Also known as Mauritia Febronia, Princess d´Evreux , she was daughter of
Frédéric Maurice de la Tour d'Auvergne, Duke de Bouillon (d. 1652) and Eleonore
Katharina von Berg (d. 1657), she grew up under the protection of King Louis
XIV, and married Duke Maximilian Philipp of Bayern, Landgraf von Leuchtenberg
(1638-1705), who acted as regent 1679-80 for his nephew, making her the first
Lady of the electorate. After her husband's death she reined the lordship. It
was during the War of the Spanish Succession. Her husband had received Letters
of Protection from both the Habsburg Emperor and the King of France to prevent
the lordship from being looted, and she vehemently secured that the foreign
soldiers lived up to the letters. She had no children, and lived (1652-1706)
Schwarzburg-Blankenburg
1349-80 Reigning Dowager Lady Elisabeth von Hohnstein of Greifenstein
After the death of her husband, Count Günther XXI. von Schwarzburg-Blankenburg, who worked as a diplomat in the service of Emperor Ludwig IV. Mother of a son and 4 daughters. (d. 1380).
Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt
1547 Dowager Lady Dowager Countess Katharina von
Schwarzburg of Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt
Known as Katharina the Brave for her opposition against the Duke of Alba
1597-1658 Reigning
Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Clara zu Braunschweig of the Administrative Office
and Castle
of Heringen an der Helme in Schwarzburg
Due to her wise actions during the Thirty Year War, she managed to save the city
from plundering and war taxes. She was widow of
Wilhelm I. Count of
Schwarzburg, Lord of Hohenstein
1646-62
Regent Dowager Countess of the Empire Ämilie Antonia von Oldenburg-Delmenhorst
of Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt
1663-70 Reigning Dowager Lady of Könitz
Also known as Amalia Antonia, she acted as regent for son Albrecht Anton
(1641-1710), after the death of her husband, Reichsgraf Ludwig Günther. When her son came of age, she took over the administration of Könitz as the last feudal ruler. Her two
sisters, Catharina Elisabeth, was Princess-Abbess of Gandersheim (1625-49), and
Sedona Princess-Abbess of Herford (1640-49). Ämilie Antonia lived (1614-70).
1744-50 Dowager Princess
Christine Sophie von Ostfriesland
Widow of Fürst Anton Friederich von
Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt (1692-1718-44). She lived (1688-1750).
1807-14 Regent Dowager Princess Karoline-Louise von Hessen-Homburg
A
Schwarzburg-Sondershausen
1666-89 Reigning
Dowager Lady Dowager Countess
Widow of Count Anton Günther I von Schwarzburg-Sondershausen (1620-42-66).
Schweinfurt
Until 1104 Hereditary Countess Beatrix von Schweinfurt
Slawien-Stettin
1219-? Regent Dowager Duchess
Irmgardis af Danmark
After the death of her husband, Kasimir II. she became regent for son, Wartislaw
III. She cooperated closely with Miroslawa and both relied heavily on support
from Denmark, but when Count Heinrich von Schwerin attacked the area in 1223,
King Valdemar II the Victorious was unable to support his sister and her
relatives.
Ecclesiastical Territory
Söflingen
(bei Ulm) (In Baden-Württemberg)
See
Germany Ecclesiastical Territories
Solms-Rödelheim
1716-22 Regent Dowager Gräfin Charlotte Sybille von
Ahlefeld of
Solms-Rödelheim und Assenheim
As guardian (vormundschaftliche Regentin) for her son,
Lothar Wilhelm Ernsts (1703-22) she filed a case at the
Reichskammergericht
against her brother-in-law
Ludwig Heinrich over the inheritance of the territories of the Lorship of Cratz
von von Scharffenstein in 1718, 2 years after the death of her husband, Georg
Ludwig. The case closed when Lothar died in an accident and she reached a
settlement with Ludwig for her and her 2 daughters, the Countesses Catharina
Polyxena epousé zu Leiningen-Dagsburg-Falkenburg ((1702-65) and Maria Sophia
Eleonora Wilhelmina epouse
zu Wartenberg, got financial compensation, but they
did not sell their part of the Cratz-inheritance to
Rödelheim until a few years
later. She was daughter of Friederich von Ahlefeld-Rixingen and Maria-Elisabeth
zu Leiningen and lived (1672-1726).
Sponheim
1329-... Dame of Frauenberg
Sole regent for son. She managed to consolidate the family's reign of the county
and created a flourishing economy. After her son came of age, she withdrew to
her dowry, where she had full regal powers. (b. 1297).
M
She inherited Steinfurt from her maternal grandfather, Ludolf VIII von Steinfurt,
since her mother, Mechtild, had died the previous year. Luitgard ceded the
lordship to her father, Everwin I, and thus to her stepbrothers. She later
married Wilhelm von der Lecke, Lord van Berg-s'Herenberg.
Succeeded father, Konrad von Tecklenburg-Ibbenbüren as
Sovereign Countess of Tecklenburg und Rheda in 1557, and
married to Everwin III von Götterswich, Graf von Bentheim-Steinfurt (1536-62).
After his death, she was regent in Bentheim
Member of the Secular Bench of the Bavarian Circle Estate
(Regional Assembly)
1653-80 De facto Regent Princess Augusta Sophie
von der Pfalz-Sulzbach
Her father, August von der
Pfalz-Sulzbach, died in 1632, and her mother Hedwig sent
her to Sweden to live with her great-aunt, Queen Hedwig-Eleonore zu Holstein-Gottrop.
Augusta Sophie married Prince Wenzel Eusebus Lobkowitz of Neustadt, who as
Chancellor of the Emperor was away most of the time and left the administration
of the semi-independent principality to her and in 1673 he officially appointed
her regent. A few years after his death in 1677 moved to Nürnberg. Mother of
four children, and lived (1624-82).
Stolberg
1574-78 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Countess Walburga
zu Wied of the Town, Adminsitrative Office and Winery of Butzbach in Stolberg
Widow of Count Ludwig zu Stolberg, whose sister was Princess-Abbess Anna II von
Quedlinburg. He inherited Königstein from his relative
Count Eberhard IV zu
Eppstein-Königstein in 1535, Wertheim, Breuberg from his daughter Katharina, the
widow of the last count of Wertheim und Breuberg, Michael III, 1556, but it fell
to their younger daughter Anna zu Stolberg-Rochefort and her husband Ludwig III von Löwenstein
in 1598.
1710-18 Regent Dowager Countess Christine von Mecklenburg-Güstrow
of Stolberg-Wernigerode, Hohnsteinschen Forst, Gedern and Schwarza
As her husband Ludwig Christian zu Stoberg-Gedern-Schwarza und Hohnstein and
brother-in-law Ernst zu Stolberg-Wernigerode died soon after each other, her 3
surviving sons, Christian Ernst zu Stolberg-Wernigerode, Friedrich Karl zu
Stolberg-Gedern and Heinrich August zu Stolberg-Schwarza, each inherited parts
of the counties. In Wernigerode she was regent for her oldest son, Christian
Ernst, with confirmation of Emperor Joseph until 1714 and for the youngest until
1718. In spite of the fact that her duties as regent meant that she had to
travel a lot, she also collected a large library and was in close contact with
her relatives in Denmark, Brandenburg and various Saxon lines. In order to
prevent the citizen getting drunk and engaging in fights, she issued a decree
closing all inns on holidays. King Friedrich Wilhelm I. von Preußen protested
against this in 1713, but she managed to persuade him to accept her decision.
She maintained an extensive correspondence with several of the influential
Pietistic theologians of the time. She gave birth to 24 children with in 23
years: Gustav Adolf (born and dead January 1684), a daughter (born and dead in
1684), Gustav Ernst (1685-89), Friederike Charlotte zu Solms-Laubach
(1686-1739), Emilie Auguste zu Stolberg-Rossla (1687-1730), Christine Luise
(1688- August 1691), Albertine Antonie (1689-August 1691), Karl Ludwig (1689-
August 1691), Gustave Magdalene (1690-March 1691), Christian Ernst zu Stolberg-Wernigerode
(1691-1771), Christine Eleonore zu Isenburg-Büdingen in Büdingen (1692-1745),
Friedrich Karl zu Stolberg-Gedern (1693-1767), Ernestine Wilhelmine zu
Isenburg-Büdingen in Wächtersbach (1695-1759), Ludwig Adolf (1697-98), Heinrich
August zu Stolberg-Schwarza (1697-1748), Friederike Luise (1696-97), Sophie
Christiane (1698-1771), Ferdinande Henriette zu Erbach-Schönberg (1699-1750)
Rudolf Lebrecht (1701-02), Ludwig Christian (September-November 1701), Auguste
Marie (1702-68) (a Canoness in Heford, created Fürstin in 1742), Karoline
Adolfine (1704-07) and Philippine Luise zu Isenburg-Philippseich (1705-44). Her
sister, Louise married King Christian 6 of Denmark and a number of her
decendants were in Danish service. She
was the 5th daughter of Duke Gustav Adolf zu Mecklenburg-Güstrow and Magdalene
Sibylle von Schleswig-Holstein-Gottorp and lived (1663-1749).
Stotel
1326-36 Regent Dowager Countess Alburgas von Bederkesa
Together with the Deacon Giselbert von Holstein she reigned for her sons Rudolf III. and Johannes III. after the death of her husband, Johannes II. She was the only daughter and heir of Sir Dietrich von Bederkesa, gen. Scheele, and inherited numerous estates from him. Also known as Abele
van Betderkhesa, and lived (circa 1290-around 1375).
Stühlingen
1582 Hereditary Landgravine Maximiliane von Pappenheim of Stühlingen, Lady of
Hohenhöwen
She succeeded her brother, Hereditary Marshal Maximilian von Pappenheim, and was
married to Count Friedrich Rudolf von Fürstenberg.
Styrum
1809-25 Reigning Lady Maria Margaretha von Humbracht
She inherited the former
immediate lordship in the Holy Roman Empire after the death of her
brother-in-law, Count Ernst von Limburg-Styrum-Styrum, who was on journey to
Frankfurt to marry her, and had willed the Lordship her to her. He was the
widower of her sister, Sofie Charlotte von Humbracht (1762- 1805). She sold it
in 1825. She lived (1755-1827)
1134-44 Duchess Regnant Gertrud
Daughter of Emperor Lothar III, married to Heinrich V of Bavaria and Sachsen and
mother of Heinrich Lowe
973-84 Politically
Influential Duchess Hadwig of Swabia
973-94 Reigning Dowager Lady of her Dowries in Swabia
After the death of her husband Burchard III in 973, she
continued to be called "Dux" in the Imperial decrees and remained influential in
the Duchy and her dowry lands though out the reigns of the next two dukes. She
donated large sums to the neigboring convents and had close contact with her
sister, Abbess Gerberga II. of Gandersheim and her brother, Heinrich of Bavaria,
who made several attempts to take over the Duchy of Swabia until his final
defeat in 784, which also meant the end of her political influence. Daughter of
Duke Heinrich I. of Bavaria and Judith, the sister of the Frankish king Otto I,
she had no children and lived (938/939/940/945-994).
Tecklenburg
1140-44 Regent Dowager Margravine Hedwig
Countess Regnant of Gudenberg in Hessen
Regent for son Otto I von Tecklenburg after the death of her husband, Count
Simon. Otto was succeeded by daughter, Helwig.
1261-circa 64 Hereditary Countess
Heilwig von Tecklenburg Daughter of Count Grafen Otto I. von Tecklenburg and
Mechthild von Holstein-Schauenburg and married to Otto II von
Bentheim-Tecklenburg (d. circa 1279). Her oldest son was Otto III of Tecklenburg,
the second Ekbert I. of Bentheim and her daughter Gertrud was Abbess of Metelen
from 1287
130
She was the heir of her father, Otto V von Bentheim-Tecklenburg/Tecklenburg-Ibbenbüren,
and married Count Günzel VI von Schwerin-Wittenburg-Boizenburg (d. 1327). Her
daughter, Richardis, married king Valdemar V of Denmark.
1557-80 Sovereign Countess Anna von Tecklenburg-Schwerin of Tecklenburg und
Rheda
1562-73 Regent of Bentheim
1566-72 Regent of Steinfurt-Wevelinghoven and Granau
Succeeded father, Konrad von Tecklenburg-Ibbenbüren, and married to Everwin III
von Götterswich, Graf von Bentheim-Steinfurt (1536-62). After his death, she was
regent in Bentheim and after the death Arnold III, also regent in Steinfurt. In
1580 she handed over Tecklenburg and Rheda to her son, Arnold IV, and lived
(1532-82).
Teschen
(Also part of
Slesia, now Poland and
Bohemia (now Czech Republic)
1625-53 Sovereign Duchess Elisabeth Lucretia of Schlesia-Teschen-Freistadt
She succeeded brother, Friedrich Wilhelm of Cieszyn (Teschen), and was
successful in maintaining her independence against the co-regency of her husband,
Fürst Gundacar von Liechtenstein (who was first married to Countess Agnes of
Ostfriesland-Rietberg). After her death, the Duchy went to Bohemia. She lived
(1599-1653).
1704-43 Princess
of the Realm Ursula Katharina zu Altenbockum of Teschen
1705-43 Dame of the Castle and City of Hoyerswerdaer
After her divorce from Prince Georg Dominicus Lubomirski she became the
mattresses of August the Strong of Sachsen, and gave birth to a son, after which
she was named Reichsfürstin. She was involved in the fall of the Saxon
Chancellor Beichlingen. She later married Prince Friedrich Ludwig von
Württemberg, who died 1734. Shortly before her death, she sold the Lordship of
Hoyerswerda to August III. She was born in Lithuania and lived (1680-1743).
Thurn und Taxis
1628-46 Acting Imperial
Postmaster General Alexandrine de Rye in the Holy Roman Empire of the German
Nation and and Postmaster General in the Spanish Netherlands, Burgundy and
Lorraine
Shortly before his death, her husband, Count Leonhard II von Taxis, had named
her guardian for their minor son, Lamoral Claudius Franz von Thurn und Taxis,
and after his death, Emperor Ferdinand II confirmed the guardianship and
appointed her to the post of Postmaster General (Generalpostmeisterin der
Kaiserlichen Reichspost und Generalpostmeisterin in den Spanischen Niederlanden.)
in the name of her son. Also King Felipe IV of Spain appointed her as Postmaster
General in his territories. Despite the difficulties of the Thirty Years War she
showed herself as an able organzator and was able expand the area covered by the
Post of the Holy Roman Empire. In 1637 the new Emperor Ferdinand III confirmed
her temporary appointment and the following year he named her daughter, Genoveva,
as designated successor should Lamoral Claudius Franz die without heirs. When he
turned 25 she resigned. She was daughter of Philibert Bar de Balançon Comte de
Varax and Claudine de Tournon-Roussillon, and lived (1589-1666).
1871-83 and 1885-88 Guardian Dowager Hereditary Princess Helene in Bayern
The widow of Erbprinz Maximilian, who died 1867, she was guardian and
administrator of the estates of her sons, Maximilian (1862-71-85) - who
succeeded his grandfather, Maximilian Karl - and Albert (1867-1952). One of her
sisters was Empress Elisabeth of Austria-Hungaria (Sisi) another, Elisabeth,
married the King of Bavaria. Helene was born as Herzogin in Bayern and lived
(1834-90).
1990-2002 Guardian Dowager Fürstin Maria Gloria von Thurn und Taxis (Germany)
Fürstin Gloria was guardian for son Albert, who succeeded his father Johannes (1926-90) as Fürst and owner of the wast family estates and properties in 1990.
Albert is born 1983 and has two older sisters. Maria Gloria is born Gräfin von
Schönburg-Glauchau (b. 1960-).
1140-44 Regent Dowager Margravine Hedwig von Gudensberg
Also Countess Regnant of Gudensberg-Orlamünde-Arnshaugh
(1137-48), regent for son Ludwig II.
1180 Regent Landgavine Jutta Hohenstaufen von Schwaben of
Thüringen
In 1150 she married Ludwig II (1128-72)
1227 Regent Landgravine
Elisabeth of Hungary
1227-31
Reigning Dowager Lady of Maburg and Wehrda
She became regent as her husband, Ludwig IV the Holy of Thuringa, went off on a
cursaide, but he died on his way to Israel. After his death she
refused to take over the regency and left it to her brother-in-law, and instead
dedicated herself to the care of the poor and sick and was later declared
a saint. She lived (1207-31).
Hofmark Tutzing in Bayern.
The territory included
Ober- und Unterzeismering,
Traubing, Monatshausen and Diemendorf and a number of outlying areas
......Maria Anna von Haimhausen auf Tutzing
Married to Reichsfreiherr Maximilian Ernst von Gözengrien
Until 1721 Maria Anna Franziska von Götzengrien auf Tutzing
Half of the Bavarian citizen were not direct subjects of the King but of "lords
of the manor" - in either secular or clerical Hofmarks, which posessed lower
juridstiction and other privilleges. She and her sisters inherited the territory
from their mother, .Maria Anna von Haimhausen auf Tutzing.
1721-30 Maria Ursula Sabrina von Götzengrien auf Tutzing
Female "Lords of the Manor" - Hofmarksherscherinnen was not usual, but it was
not unheard of since the land was hereditary within the gentred nobility.
Among her duties was to exercise the lower civil and penal
juridisction
through a "ritter", to collect taxes in
the name of the king and to supply men to the army. She also held a trade monopoly and
managed the estate and agricultural aspects
1730-31 Maria Adelheid Maximiliana von Götzengrien auf Tutzing
Continued to live in the manor together with her sister, Maria Theresia Cäcilia
and her niece until she got married in 1738. When her husband died already 1743
she returned.
1731-47 Maria Cäcilia Theresia Violanda
von Götzengrien
auf Tutzing
Returned to her family's possessions after the death of her husband, Freiherr
Ferdinand Joseph von Vieregg, whom she had married in 1710. He was father
of 5 surviving children aged 24 to 1½ years from 2 earlier marriages. She gave
birth to 9 children between 1711 and 1723. Only the oldest daughter, Maria
Christina Adelheit
and 4 sons survived. Back in Tutzing she agreed with her 2 surviving sisters that
she would take over the administration of the Hofmark. Her sons went to
university and her daughter helped her with the duties in the territory wich had
a total of 80 inhabitants. Her pharmaceutical knowlege was of great help to the villagers. She was
deeply involved in the daily life of her subjects and the ecclesiastical life of
the territory. She experienced financial problems during the Bavarian war with Austria
during the succession-war 1742-45. During the end of her reign she left more and
more of the administration to her daughter and left the Hofmark to one of her
sons and retired to the Ladies Chapter in Moosburg. Her oldest son, Matheus Karl Anton, received the Estate of Tutzing with Starnberg
and Rösselberg and 1748 he married Maria Theresa Renata Chlotildis Baronin de Spontin,
her younger son, Maximilian Ernst von Götzengrien, married the daughter and only
heir of Hans Albrecht Viehbeck von und zu Haimbhausen
Waldeck-Pyrmont
(Also see
Pyrmont)
1118-52 Countess Richardis von
Waldeck
Married to Rudolf II von Stadet (d. 1114)
1763-66 Regent Dowager Princess
Christiane Henriette von der Pfalz-Zweibrücken-Birkenfeld
After the death of her husband, Karl August (1704-63) she was regent for son
Friedrich I, Fürst zu Waldeck and Graf von Pyrmont (1743-63-1812). She was born
as Pfalzgräfin von Birkenfeld, and lived (1725-1816).
1845-52 Regent Dowager Princess Emma von Anhalt-Bernburg-Schaumburg-Hoym
For Georg Viktor (1831-45-93). She was very popular and became known as "Fat
Emma" (Dicke Emma). Grandmother of Queen Emma who was regent of the Netherlands
1890-98. Princess Emma lived (1802-58).
Vechta und Vlotho
1248-circa 1302 Reigning Countess Jutta von Ravensberg
She was daughter of Count Otto II of Ravensberg and inherited the lands of
Vechta and Vlotho after her husband, Heinrich III, Count von Vechta und Vlotho.
She sould the possesions around Vechta and in Emsland to the bishop of Münster. (d.
after 1302)
Weimar
(Later part of Sachsen)
1067-1100 Countess Regnant Adelheid
Werl-Arnsberg
1124…. Hereditary Countess Ida von Werl
Wertheim
The
County of Wertheim had a seat of the Bench of Counts and Lords of the Imperial
Circle Estate (Regional Asssembly) of Franconia
The three daughters of Count Ludwig of Stolberg, Lord of Wertheim am Main and
Königstein am Taunus were heiresses. Their husbands: Count Dietrich VI von
Manderscheid-Schleiden, Philipp von Eberstein and Ludwig von Löwenstein
alternated in the government for one year at the time until the possessions were
divided in 1581. Elisabeth's first husband died in 1593 and the following year
she married Wilhelm von Kreichingen. She had no children.
Daughter of Ludwig zu Stolberg-Königstein. In 1532 he had inherited the
possessions of the House of Eppstein-Königstein and in 1556 he inherited the
county of Wertheim She was married to Count Ludwig zu Löwenstein-Scharffeneck
(1530-1611), who added Wertheim to his name and was Stadtholder of Styria,
Carinthia and Carnolia. She lived (1531/48-99).
Wevelinghoven
1439-92 Joint
Heiress Anna von Wevelinghoven
Daugther of Wilhelm II von Wevelinghoven and married to Heinrich IV von Gemen
and they were succeeded by their daughter, Cordula. She lived (1423-circa 92).
1439-? Joint
Heiress Irmgard
Sister of Anna, she married
Johann VI. von
Reifferscheid in 1433. She
received the
Lordship of Alfter and the
Erbmarschallamt
Köln after an agreement with her husband in 1461.
After the death of her husband, Hermann I she became regent for their minor son,
and is always portraited as Reigning Countess the many documents left over from
her. She married Count Adalbert II von Bogen in 1123. Her oldest daughter,
Beatrix von Windberg was Abbess of Quedlinburg and Neuenheerse (d. 1160), also
mother of a son who died as a child and another daughter in her first marriage.
In her second marriage she was mother of three sons and one daughter; Heilwigm
Abbess of Geisenfeld. She was daughter of Margrave Poppo III. von
Assel-Woltingerode of Istrien and Richardis von Sponheim, and lived (circa
1080-circa 1162).
Winzenburg
Married to Albrecht the Bear of Brandenburg.
The County was member of the
The widow of Joachim von Manderscheid-Schleiden (1540-82), two relatives were
appointed regents and guardians for her children, and she spend lot of energy
keeping on to her dowry Neurburg and preventing her young son from being taken
abroad for "proper catholic education" by the Spanish Duke of Alba, the governor
of the Southern Netherlands (Manderscheid was within the Luxembourgian
interestsfere). Her son Philipp Dietrich died in 1590 and her daughters and
son-in-laws were engaged in a fight over the succession, which was solved in the
way that the three son-in-laws alternated in reigning the country one year at a
time. In the end the county of Schleiden was divided among the three. She later
inherited the country of Virneburg from her brother-in-law, Count Dietrich IV
von Manderscheid-Scheleiden-Virneburg, who was the last male member of the line.
She secured the succession for her oldest, and only daughter Elisabeth, who took
over the inheritance in 1604 and transferred the county to her husband and son.
Magdalene lived (1546-1604).
1604-21 Sovereign Countess Elisabeth von Manderscheid-Schleiden of Virneburg
in the Eifel
Her mother, Magdalene von Nassau-Wiesbanden, had inherited the country from her
brother-in-law Dietrich IV von Manderscheid-Scheleiden-Virneburg in 1593.
Elisabeth took over the inheritance after her mother's death, and her husband,
Count Christoph Ludwig (1568-1618) assumed the name of
Löwenstein-Wertheim-Virenburg, and their descendants reigned as Counts
co-regnant of the immediate County of Werthem. In 1613 the emperor confirmed the
title for her son, Count Friedrich-Ludwig zu
(1598-1657), who lost his entire estates 1622 for siding with the Elector
Palatine, but was reinstated by the Treaty of Westpahlia 1648. Elisabeth lived
(1569-1621).
Wittgenstein
(Also see
Sayn)
1357-84 Sovereign
Countess Adelheid von Wittgenstein
Succeeded her brother, Werner IV., the last male of the family and together with
her husband, Salentin von Sayn-Homburg, they founded the new line, and he used
the title of Count von Sayn zu Wittgenstein from 1361.He descended from the
Counts of Sayn, who owned the Offices and Lordships of Hachenburg and
Altenkirchen, and his father inherited Homburg from his mother.
Vohnburg
....Markgravine Adela
Married to Emperor Friedrich III of the Holy Roman Empire
Noble Chapter of Vreden (Hochgräfflichen
Stift zu Vreden - High Countly Chapter)
Also see Germany Ecclesiastical Territories
Wied
1591-1603 Regent Dowager Countess Walburga von Bentheim-Steinfurt
1603-1605 Reigning Dowager Lady of Gronau in Bentheim
After the death of her husband, Count Hermann I zu Wied, she was regent for
their son, Johann Wilhelm (circa 1580-1633). After he came of age, she took over
her dowry in her "native" Bentheim. Mother of 3 sons and 3 daughters and lived
(1555-1628).
Member of the Secular Bench of the Council of Princes in the
Imperial Diet and
1419-26 Regent Dowager Duchess Henriette de Montbelliard
Sovereign Countess of Montbeliard,
which was incorporated in Württemberg as Mömpelgard,
1397-1443.
She lived (1387-1444).
1450-82
Reigning Dowager Lady Countess
Mechthild von
der Pfalz of Böblingen, Sindelfingen,
Aidlingen, Dagersheim, Darmsheim,
Dettenhausen, Döffingen, Holzgerlingen, Magstadt, Maichingen, Ostelsheim,
Schönaich and Steinenbronn
After the death of her husband
Ludwig von Württemberg
she was in a year long dispute with her brother-in-law Ulrich
and her brother Pfalzgraf Friedrich
over the guardianship of her two sons. In the end she retired to her dowry,
before she married Archduke Albrecht VI.,
the younger
brother of Emperor Friedrichs III, though they mainly
lived apart, from 1456
mainly in Rottenburg lebte,
but she remained in the possession of her main dowry
Böblingen.
Her court was an intelectual and cultural center and she
promoted convents, churches and the University of Tübingen.
She lived (1419-82)
1496-1503 Reigning Dowager Lady Duchess
Barbara Gonzaga
of
Böblingen
After the death of her husband
Eberhard V von Württemberg
(1445-57-96),
she took up residence at her dowry. Her only daughter, Barbar had died after a
few months. She was Daughter of Ludovico II, Margrave of Mantua and Barbara
of Brandenburg, and lived
(1455-1503)
1551-64
Reigning Dowager Lady Duchess
Sabina
von Bavaria
of Nürtingen
After the birth of the Crown Prince Christoph
in 1515 she fled the threaths of her husband Ulrich with
both her children to her brothers, the Bavarian Dukes Wilhelm und Ludwig,
and only after her son acended to the throe she was able to return to
Württemberg , where she took up residence in her dorwy in Nürtingen,
where she held a small court, wich became a local center of
Protestantism. She lived
(1492-1564).
1568-circa 72 Regent Dowager Duchess Anna-Maria von
Brandenburg–Ansbach
1608-14 Reigning
Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess Sybilla von Anhalt
of
Leonberg
Widow of Herzog Friedrichs I, and in spite of their apparently unhappy marriage,
they had 15 children. She was very rich and used a lot of money for the interior
of Leonberg. She lived (1564-1614).
1628 Chief Guardian
Herzogin Barbara Sophie
von Brandenburg
1628-36 Reigning Dowager Lady of
Kirchheim,
As Chief Guardian (Obervormünderin) of
her 14 year old son, she was politcally active. She had withdrawn to her dowry
after her husband's death but returned to Stuttgart in 1632. She lived
(1584-1636).
1635-59 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowger Duchess Anna Sabina von Schleswig-Holstein-Sønderborg-Plön of
Leonberg
Also known as Anne- Sabine von Holstein-Sonderburg, she was widow of Duke-Administrator Julius Friedrich
von Württemberg in Juliusburg (1588-1635) and held the castle and landscape as
her dorwy. She was daugher of Johann, Duke von
Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Plön and Agnes Hedwig von Anhalt-Zerbst, mother of 8 children, and
lived (1593-1659).
1677-93 Co-Regent Dowager Duchess Magdalena Sibylle von Hessen-Darmstadt
1677-1712 Reigning Dowager Lady of Leonberg
After the death of her husband, Duke Wilhelm Ludwig, she was regent for their
son Eberhard Ludwig (1676-77-1733) together with some co-regents, among other
her brother-in-law, Friedrich-Karl. She formed a form of alternative government
against the administrator, she initiated intrigues and changed side as she saw
her own advantages. She was daughter of the Landgrave of Hessen-Darmstadt and
grew up in Sweden, and lived (1652-1712).
1705-33 Politically Influential Wilhelmine von Grävenitz
Known as Die Grävenitz, she was the mistress and from 1706 the official
Maitresse of Duke Eberhard Ludwig and she gained control of the whole
administration and engaged a "secret police" in order to maintain her poistion.
She surrounded the Duke with her protégés and confidants, became the center of a
court party and sold offices. In 1707 she had married Eberhard Ludwig married to
the left hand, but the marriage was dissolved because of pressure from the
Emperor. She went in exile in Switzerland followed by the Duke until they both
returned in 1710 after she had been married to the Landhofmeister Graf von
Würben. When Eberhard Ludwig's only son died in 1731 he returned to his wife,
Johanna Elisabeth von Baden-Durlach with the hope of producing a new heir, but
he died of a stroke two years later.After his death she fled to Berlin and was
procecuted by his nephew and successor, but a compromise was reached. Christine
Wilhelmine Friederike lived. (1686-1744).
1735-57
Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess
Johanna Elisabetha von
Baden-Durlach of
Kirchheim
She lived alone in the
Alte Schloss
in Stuttgart after her husband,
Eberhard Ludwig,
had left her. Her only son, Friedrich Ludwig
died in 1731,
and when her husband died 4 years later, she took up residence in the Castle of
Kirchheim. She lived (1680-1757).
1737-44 Regent Dowager
Duchess Maria Augusta von Thurn und Taxis
She was widow of Carl Alexander and mother of the three dukes Carl Eugen (who
was declared to be of age before time to end her regency), Ludwig Eugen and
Friedrich Eugen. The protestant Parliament of Württemberg were against her
appointment because she was catholic, and they appointed Karl Friedrich von
Württemberg-Öts as administrator, but she was supported by
Emperor Karl VI. Daughter of Fürst Anselm Franz von Thurn und
Taxis and Maria Ludovica von Lobkowitz, Duchess of Sagan (1683-1750). She lived
(1706-56).
1770-93 Politically Influential Duchess Franziska von Hohenhem
Her
husband,
Freiherr Friedrich Wilhelm von Leutrum, was employed at the court of Duke Karl
Eugen of Würrtemberg 1728-37-93). She became his Maitresse in 1770 and divorced
her husband two years later. From then on they lived at the castle of Hohenheim.
1774 she was created Reichsgräfin von Hohenheim Karl Eugen's wife, Elisabeth
Friederike Sophie von Brandenburg-Bayreuth died in 1780 and they married
secretly three years later, but the Catholic Church did not accept that he
married a protestant until 1785. The following year, she received the rang of a
Duchess. She had a moderating influence on her husband, who developed in a less
absolutist and ruthless direction than in his first years. She also engaged in
charitable work. After her husband's death she moved to Sindlingen. Daughter of
Freiherr Ludwig Wilhelm von Bernerdin in Sindlingen and Johanna von Vohenstein
zu Adelmannsfelden, did not have any children and lived (1748-1811).
1816-19 Politically Influential
Queen Katharina
Pawlowna of Württemberg
She married her cousin,
Wilhelm von Württemberg,
shortly after he became King. In her only three years as Queen, she had
brought an unusually modern social structure to the state. She founded the first
Württemberg savings bank, created schools with modern curricula, hospitals,
children's homes and institutions for feeding the poor, which she paid for
partially from her immense Russian dowry. As the Russian Grand Duchess she was a
member of the Russian-Orthodox Church and remained so.Her first
husband, Herzog Georg von Oldenburg died in 1812. She was
daughter of Tsar Paul I and Maria Fjodorovna ( Sophie Dorothea Augusta
von Württemberg), and lived (1789-1819).
Württemberg-Neuenstadt
1682-1700 Reigning Dowager
Lady Dowager Duchess Clara Augusta von Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel of the Office
of Weißenhof bei Weinsberg
Moved to her dowry after the death of her husband,
Herzog Friedrich. They had 12 children, but only 3 sons
survived into adulthood. She lived (1632-1700)
1742-51
Lady Princess Eleonore Wilhelmine Charlotte
zu
Württemberg-Neuenstadt
After the death of their uncle,
Carl Rudolf, she and her sister,
Friederikke, lived in the Castle. They were daughters of Duke Friedrich August
and Gräfin Albertine Sophie Esther von Eberstein, the last of her family and
heir to the Castle of Gochsheim and some other possessions that were eventually
inherited by the main line of the Württemberg family. She lived (1894-1751)
1742-81 Lady Friederikke von
Württemberg-Neuenstadt
She was the first
Abbess of the Protestant Secular
Chapter of Vallø in Denmark 1738-43, and lived (1699-81).
Württemberg-Oels
1664-72 Regent Dowager Duchess Elisabeth Maria of Münsterberg-Oels
The only child and heir of the Slesian Duke Karl Friedrich of Münsterberg-Oels,
who died 1647, she was married Silvius Nimrod von Württemberg (1622-64), and
after her father's death, he was granted the Duchy by emperor Ferdinand III and
he founded the line of Württemberg-Oels , the first Slesian line, and after his
death, she was regent for two sons, Silvius Friederich (1651-97) and Christian
Ulrich (1652-1702), who were declared prematurely of age by the Emperor against
her protests. She lived (1625-86).
Württemberg-Stuttgart
1674-98 Reigning Dowager Lady Dowager Duchess
Maria Dorothea Sophie von Oettingen-Oettingen of Nürtingen and Kirchheim
After the death of her husband, Eberhard III (1617-74), she took over her dowry
and resided there until her death. She was his second wife, and had no children.
She lived (1636-98)
Last update 24.02.14