Martha Grey, Countess of Stamford was born Martha Solomons in Cape Town, South Africa.
Background
She was the daughter of a freed slave named Rebecca and man from Wellington named Solomon. Her mother Rebecca was a well known character at the cape, sometimes referred to as ‘Queen Rebecca’ since she claimed to be related to the British Royal family, less is known about her father.
Career
Harry Grey was sent to the Cape on a remittance as a result of habits his family thought dishonourable. In 1880 Harry and Martha were married. They lived in Wynberg, Cape Town.
Martha bore Harry three children: John, Frances and Mary Grey.
Upon the death of the 7th Earl, the Earldom of Stamford passed to Harry Grey, and Martha became Countess of Stamford. Inspired by her mother"s wish for educating her local community, she funded a school in Wynberg, Battswood School, which later became the Battswood Training College for teachers.