Bess Of Hardwicke
"There is no lady in this land that I better love and like."
​Queen Elizabeth I
Bess of Hardwicke Chapter was founded in 2009 and covers the Lawrence and Topeka, Kansas area. Our group has nearly doubled since then. ​We meet in the afternoon of the third Sunday of the month, usually at a member's home.
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Named in honor of one of the most remarkable women in British history, this chapter embodies the strength, resilience, and leadership that defined Elizabeth Talbot, Countess of Shrewsbury, more commonly known as Bess of Hardwicke. Born in 1527, Bess rose from modest beginnings to become a formidable figure in English society through her intelligence, ambition, and strategic alliances. She was a close associate of Queen Elizabeth I, an astute estate manager, and the visionary behind the construction of Hardwicke Hall, one of England’s architectural treasures. Her legacy of resilience, leadership, and philanthropy continues to inspire our members today.
Our chapter members come together not only to celebrate our shared British and Commonwealth heritage but also to make a meaningful impact in our communities.
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With a welcoming spirit, the Bess of Hardwicke Chapter encourages fellowship, volunteerism, and cultural connection. Whether you are a recent arrival from the UK or the Commonwealth or a descendant of British or Commonwealth ancestry, you will find camaraderie and purpose among our members.
