Elsie Hughes is the housekeeper at Downton and the female staff all report to her. Though unmarried, she is referred to as Mrs. Hughes in keeping with the traditional titles for servants at the time. While strict and prim in her manner as a housekeeper, Mrs. Hughes is a warm and kind-hearted woman who is quick to help someone in need, even if it means bending the rules. Mrs. Hughes is best friends with Mrs. Patmore and a great friend and confidant of Mr. Carson. Together, they run a tight ship.While never seeming surprised or unnerved by any of the staff's shenanigans, Mrs. Hughes metes out disciplinary action when warranted and doesn't seem interested in the personal feuds and backstabbing.Background: She is originally from Argyll, Scotland, where her father was a farmer. She has one sibling, a sister who lives in Lytham St. Annes. Before she came to Downton as head housemaid, she was courted by a farmer, Joe Burns.