- Time Period: Pre-WW1
- Institution: 18 October 1766
- Country: Germany (Kingdom of Bavaria)
The first Consort of the Elector Charles Theodore of the Palatinate, Elizabeth Augusta, daughter of the Palatine Joseph Charles Emanuel of Schultzbach, founded this Order for ladies in honor of her sainted patroness and namesake on the 18th October 1766, as a purely charitable institution for the poor. It was confirmed on the 31st of January 1767, by Pope Clement XII.
The Catholic religion and the Seize Quartiers (the proof of noble descent running through sixteen generations of their own or their husband’s ancestors) were indispensable conditions for candidates.
The nomination took place either on Easter or on Saint Elizabeth’s Day (19th November). There are five classes to the order: Grand Mistress Dame, Dame, Special Class Dame, 1st Class Dame and 2nd Class Dame.
The Order of Saint Elizabeth Design
The badge is a white enameled cross, representing on the obverse Saint Elizabeth dispensing charity to the poor, and on the reverse, the initials of the founder.
It is worn on the left breast by a blue ribbon with a red border. No Member can appear in public without it, except by fine of one ducat. The King appoints the Grand Mistress.
