At the time of her death in February 1608, Elizabeth Talbot, Countess of Shrewsbury, best known by her sobriquet "Bess of Hardwick", was one of the richest and powerful women in England, her fortunes having significantly risen throughout her lifetime.

Elizabeth Hardwick, better known as 'Bess of Hardwick', was one of the most intriguing figures in Tudor history. Born to a gentleman of Hardwick in Derbyshire, through a series of marriages, Bess rose through the ranks of Elizabethan society, her fourth and final marriage elevating her to Countess of Shrewsbury, and becoming the second wealthiest woman in England, only behind Queen Elizabeth I.

On This Day (04 May) in 1608, the funeral was held for Elizabeth Talbot, Countess of Shrewsbury, also known as 'Bess of Hardwick', at All Hallow's Church, Derby.

On This Day (13 Feb) in 1608, Elizabeth Talbot, Countess of Shrewsbury, Elizabethan courtier and builder, known as 'Bess of Hardwick', died.

On 08 February 1587, Mary, Queen of Scots was executed at Fotheringhay Castle, after being found guilty of high treason.

Around Christmas Time 1560, Katherine Grey, the younger sister of the ill-fated 'Thirteen Day Queen' Lady Jane Grey...

Elizabeth Hardwick (better known to history as 'Bess of Hardwick') was born in the 1520s (estimated dates range from 1520-21 to 1527).