Hariot Hamilton-Temple-Blackwood, Marchioness of Dufferin and Ava

Hariot Hamilton-Temple-Blackwood, Marchioness of Dufferin and Ava

Hariot Hamilton-Temple-Blackwood, Marchioness of Dufferin and Ava (5 February 1843 – 25 October 1936) was a British peeress, known for her writings and her work in the field of women's health and education in India during her tenure as Vicereine. Born Hariot Georgina Rowan-Hamilton, she married Frederick Temple Hamilton-Temple-Blackwood, 1st Marquess of Dufferin and Ava, making her the Marchioness of Dufferin and Ava. Her contributions, particularly in India, have been recognized as pioneering efforts towards improving women's healthcare and education during the British Raj.

Early Life

Hariot was born to Archibald Rowan-Hamilton of Killyleagh Castle, County Down, Ireland, and his wife, Harriet. She was educated privately and grew up in a socially and politically active family. Her marriage to Frederick Temple Hamilton-Temple-Blackwood in 1862 brought her into the limelight of British aristocracy and colonial administration.

Life in India

As Vicereine of India from 1884 to 1888, Lady Dufferin took a keen interest in the welfare of Indian women. She was instrumental in the establishment of the Dufferin Fund, later known as the National Association for Supplying Female Medical Aid to the Women of India. This initiative aimed to provide medical care and education to women, employing female doctors and midwives to cater to patients who, due to cultural norms, could not access male physicians. Her efforts led to the establishment of the Lady Dufferin Hospital in Kolkata, among other institutions across India, which are still in operation today.

Writings

Lady Dufferin was also an accomplished author, documenting her experiences and observations in India through her letters and diaries. Her publications, such as "Our Viceregal Life in India: Selections from my Journal, 1884-1888," provide valuable insights into the life of the British upper class in India, as well as the conditions of Indian society during the late 19th century.

Later Life and Legacy

After returning from India, Lady Dufferin continued her philanthropic work, focusing on women's health and education. She passed away on 25 October 1936, leaving behind a legacy of pioneering work in women's healthcare and education, particularly in India.

Her efforts have been recognized as an early form of feminism, advocating for women's rights and access to healthcare and education. The institutions she helped establish continue to serve as a testament to her work and dedication.

See Also

• Frederick Temple Hamilton-Temple-Blackwood, 1st Marquess of Dufferin and Ava
• British Raj
• Women's health in India