Margaret Bentinck, Duchess of Portland

Margaret Cavendish Bentinck

Margaret Bentinck, Duchess of Portland (11 February 1715 – 17 July 1785) was a prominent British aristocrat and collector. She was the daughter of the 2nd Duke of Marlborough and the wife of William Bentinck, 2nd Duke of Portland.

Early Life[edit | edit source]

Margaret Cavendish Harley was born on 11 February 1715, the only surviving child of Edward Harley, 2nd Earl of Oxford and Earl Mortimer and Lady Henrietta Cavendish Holles. She was raised in a wealthy and influential family, with her father being a notable bibliophile and collector.

Marriage and Family[edit | edit source]

On 11 June 1734, Margaret married William Bentinck, 2nd Duke of Portland. The couple had six children:

William Bentinck, 3rd Duke of Portland
Lord Edward Charles Cavendish Bentinck
Lady Henrietta Cavendish Bentinck
Lady Elizabeth Cavendish Bentinck
Lady Margaret Cavendish Bentinck
Lord George Augustus Cavendish Bentinck

The Portland Museum[edit | edit source]

Margaret Bentinck is best known for her extensive collection of natural history specimens, art, and antiquities, which she housed in her residence, known as the Portland Museum. Her collection was one of the most significant of its time and included items such as shells, fossils, and works of art. She was a patron of the arts and sciences and corresponded with many leading figures of her day.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

The Duchess of Portland's collection was sold at auction after her death in 1785, and many of the items were dispersed. However, her legacy as a collector and patron of the arts remains significant. Her contributions to the fields of natural history and art collection are still recognized today.