Ishbel Maria Gordon, Marchioness of Aberdeen and Temair
- Born:
- March 15, 1857, London, England
- Died:
- April 18, 1939, Aberdeen, Scotland
- Nationality:
- British
- Profession(s):
- Philanthropist, Author, Advocate for Women's Rights, President of the International Council of Women
Early Life and Education
- Daughter of Dudley Coutts Marjoribanks, 1st Baron Tweedmouth, and Isabella Weir Hogg.
- Educated privately, receiving a broad education typical for women of her social standing.
Career and Major Achievements
- Married John Campbell Gordon, 7th Earl of Aberdeen (later 1st Marquess of Aberdeen and Temair) in 1877.
- Served as Viceregal Consort of Canada twice (1893-1898 and 1911-1916) during her husband's terms as Governor General.
- President of the International Council of Women (ICW) from 1893 to 1899 and again from 1904 to 1909, significantly expanding its reach and influence.
- Founded the Victorian Order of Nurses for Canada (VON) in 1897.
- Instrumental in establishing hospital care facilities in Ireland.
- Active in promoting rural nursing and public health initiatives in Scotland.
- Played a key role in the development of the Aberdeen Ladies' Union.
- This Ishbel Maria Gordon biography highlights her relentless pursuit of social reform and betterment.
Notable Works
- Author of "Through Canada with a Kodak" (1893), a travelogue documenting her experiences in Canada.
- Authored "The Canadian Journal, 1893-1898" detailing her time in Canada as Viceregal Consort.
- Published "More Cracks with 'We Twa'" (1929), a biographical account co-authored with her husband.
Legacy and Impact
Ishbel Maria Gordon, Marchioness of Aberdeen and Temair, left a lasting legacy as a tireless advocate for social reform, women's rights, and improved healthcare. Her leadership of the International Council of Women and her philanthropic endeavors in Canada, Ireland, and Scotland significantly improved the lives of countless individuals.