I know I promised that there would be no further Grania O'Malley posts. Earlier today, I received an email from one of Grania's nephews, a member of the O'Malley-Keyes family. He says the family is embarrassed by her lies and behavior. He confirmed that she is his aunt, and that she recently attended his wedding. One of her sons was in the bridal party.
The nephew also confirmed that Grania is Hamilton and Sadie's daughter, and is most certainly not the issue of Lady Iris Mountbatten.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
HAPPY HALLOWEEN
Today is one of my favorite days of the year. I LOVE Halloween. Absolutely, love Halloween. It is truly an American holiday. Halloween is totally secular although fundamental "Christians" and now the Bishop of Rome, have tried to make Halloween into something that it isn't. Bits and pieces of Halloween have been adopted by other countries, especially the British. This has led to further criticism and misunderstanding of our American holiday. Halloween foster community spirit. Here in America, you will neighborhoods throughout the country, having barbecues, kids' parades and parties. Parents help their kids choose costumes. Parents, too, get dressed up. One parent usually stays home to be at the door to await the trick or treaters, while the other parent takes the kids down the street.
Yes, there is worship -- worship of the Almighty Snicker Bar -- but there is not an ounce of paganism taking place. It is fun to see how creative kids can be with their costumes or ... that was the fifth pirate tonight. Pirates and princesses are the top costumes, this year, according to different sources.
The Bishop of Rome has slammed Halloween and calls it "dangerous" and "anti-Christian." Talk about macabre. Perhaps a black cat crossed his path. The celebration of Halloween has nothing to do with All Hallow's eve and All Saints' Day, which is tomorrow.
Roman Catholics pray for the dead, but this is not a custom for other Christians, including Lutherans.
The Evangelical Lutheran Church recommends "giving a gift to ELCA World Hunger Appeal comparable to (or more than) your Halloween expenses and offering it through your congregation on All Saints Sunday (November 1, 2009). Make your donation check out to your congregation and write “ELCA World Hunger Appeal” on the memo line. Encouraging children to use the ELCA World Hunger coin boxes to share with others who struggle with hunger and poverty. Perhaps connect the candy they consume with the contributions they offer."
I was at the gym this morning, and I noticed that another Lutheran church had set up a donation box to collect Halloween to send to the troops overseas.
October 31 is also a very important day in the Church Calendar. A truly scary day for the Roman Catholic Church. On October 31, 1517, a German monk Martin Luther nailed the 95 Theses to the church door at Wittenberg Castle.
The other photo shows my Halloween lights. Tomorrow I will put away all my Halloween stuff and out come the Pilgrim People!
(The window light is Snoopy and the Great Pumpkin!)
Friday, October 30, 2009
Young Victoria
I just returned from seeing An Education, a new movie, set in London in 1961. Wonderful and recommended. I was surprised by one of the coming attractions. My friend poked my arm, and said, "you are going to see that one, I bet." I looked at her and whispered: saw it in April in London and bought the DVD in August in London.
The coming attraction was for Young Victoria. The movie will have a limited release on December 18, 2009.
The coming attraction was for Young Victoria. The movie will have a limited release on December 18, 2009.
State ball at Athens
October 30, 1889
A State Ball was given tonight in Athens, and was attended by more than 3000 guests. "The royal and imperial personages present marched in procession" into the ballroom at the Palace. Kaiser Wilhelm II and Queen Olga of the Hellenes led the march. They were followed by King George of the Hellenes, Empress Augusta Viktoria of Germany, the Russian Czarevitch, the Princess of Wales, the Princess of Saxe-Meiningen, Princess Henry of Prussia, and the newly married couple, the Duke and Duchess of Sparta. The new duchess is the former Princess Sophie of Prussia.
There were only three dances.
Earlier today, the Kaiser paid a visit to the British fleet in the Piraeus. He had lunch aboard the British flagship the Dreadnought. Tomorrow the German and British fleets will escort the German Emperor from the Piraeus. The Emperor is leaving for Constantinople.
A State Ball was given tonight in Athens, and was attended by more than 3000 guests. "The royal and imperial personages present marched in procession" into the ballroom at the Palace. Kaiser Wilhelm II and Queen Olga of the Hellenes led the march. They were followed by King George of the Hellenes, Empress Augusta Viktoria of Germany, the Russian Czarevitch, the Princess of Wales, the Princess of Saxe-Meiningen, Princess Henry of Prussia, and the newly married couple, the Duke and Duchess of Sparta. The new duchess is the former Princess Sophie of Prussia.
There were only three dances.
Earlier today, the Kaiser paid a visit to the British fleet in the Piraeus. He had lunch aboard the British flagship the Dreadnought. Tomorrow the German and British fleets will escort the German Emperor from the Piraeus. The Emperor is leaving for Constantinople.
Carol and Boris meet
October 30, 1933
The Associated Press is reporting on a meeting between King Carol II and King Boris III of Bulgaria. The meeting took place at Ruse, Bulgaria, where the two kings discussed ways to "improve the already cordial relations between their two countries."
King Carol arrived in Ruse on his yacht. "Thousands of peasants cheered" when the two kings embraced. In Bucharest, there are rumors that one of the topics discussed by the two monarchs is the marriage between Carol and Boris' sister, Princess Eudoxia, who is 36.
King Carol's marriage to Princess Helen of Greece was dissolved by divorce.
The Associated Press is reporting on a meeting between King Carol II and King Boris III of Bulgaria. The meeting took place at Ruse, Bulgaria, where the two kings discussed ways to "improve the already cordial relations between their two countries."
King Carol arrived in Ruse on his yacht. "Thousands of peasants cheered" when the two kings embraced. In Bucharest, there are rumors that one of the topics discussed by the two monarchs is the marriage between Carol and Boris' sister, Princess Eudoxia, who is 36.
King Carol's marriage to Princess Helen of Greece was dissolved by divorce.
Colonel Fitzgeorge is dead at 86
October 30, 1929
Colonel Sir Augustus Fitzgeorge died today, reports the AP. The Colonel was a great-grandson of King George III and a first cousin to Queen Mary.
Fitzgeorge was a career officer in the British army. His father, the Duke of Cambridge, served as commander-in-chief for 49 years.
The Duke of Cambridge once said that "arranged marriages were doomed to failure." He was a British prince, the only son of Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge, and Princess Augusta of Hesse-Cassel, a first cousin of Queen Victoria, and, briefly, her suitor. Although the duke was a traditionalist when it came to the army, he fell in love with an actress, Louisa Fairbrother, and married her in 1847. The marriage was in contravention of the Royal Marriages Act, which meant that Louisa and her children would not have royal titles, and George's descendants would not have succession rights. The Duke once described Louisa as the "idol of my life and existence." The couple had three sons, George, Adolphus, and Augustus Fitzgeorge. The first two sons were born before the marriage.
The Duke of Cambridge had two younger sisters, Augusta, who married the Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, and Mary Adelaide, who married the Duke of Teck. Queen Mary is Mary Adelaide's daughter.
Colonel Sir Augustus Fitzgeorge was unmarried.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Queen Elizabeth in Scotland for Margaret's wedding??
Queen Elizabeth II is in Scotland this week, reports the Los Angeles Times, "to smooth the way" for her sister's marriage to Group Captain Peter Townsend, "unless the Church of England opposition becomes so strong that the wedding may have to take place abroad."
Elizabeth took the "sudden, mysterious trip so that she might drop the word very unofficially," so she would not object to Margaret's marriage in the Church of Scotland, which could take place at Glamis, Margaret's birthplace.
This newest step toward Princess Margaret's marriage to the divorced Group Captain took place after the princess rejected "a suggestion that she could still back out" of the marriage if she wished.
Princess Margaret, 25, met with Dr. Geoffrey Fisher, the Archbishop of Canterbury, on Thursday, and it is now believed that the Archbishop told the princess, who is third in line to the throne, that the Church will not permit her marriage.
The royal family has turned to the Church of Scotland, which "permits second marriages by the innocent parties in divorce."
Group Captain Peter Townsend divorced his wife, Rosemary, on the grounds of her divorce with John de Laszlo, whom she has since married.
However, Church of England officials have made it clear that if the Church of Scotland allows Margaret's marriage to take place, relations between the two churches will be imperiled. The Church of Scotland will not be able to expect Queen Elizabeth's official approval for the marriage.
Princess Margaret does not want to embarrass her sister and may discuss with Townsend the possibility of marrying abroad.
The Queen is head of the Church of England, but not the Church of Scotland. She and her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, "took off unexpectedly yesterday for a 400-mile train trip to Drumkilbo," where they are staying with the Master of Elphinstone."
Tongues started wagging because the Queen returned to London only two weeks ago after spending the summer in Scotland. The Master of Elphinstone is the brother of Mrs. John Lycett Wills, who hosted Princess Margaret and Townsend at her country home two weeks ago.
Former Prime Minister Winston Churchill is said to be a "secret ally" of the Princess and Townsend. He sent his son-in-law Christopher Soames to meet with Townsend to advise him on how to arrange the marriage, "rather than trying to dissuade him."
It has also been learned that other members of the royal family are "avoiding trying to influence Margaret's decision."
Duke Albrecht of Württemberg dead
October 29, 1939
Duke Albrecht of Württemberg, the pretender to the throne of Württemberg, died today, according to the Associated Press. He was 73 years old. The German Field Marshall commanded Germany's Fourth Army during the world war, "which fought its way across southern Belgium to the Marne. He became the chief commander of the armies on the front of Alsace-Lorraine.
Duke Albrecht, who was born on December 23, 1865, in Vienna, was the son of Duke Philipp of Württemberg and Archduchess Maria Theresa of Austria. The duke "continued the family's Austrian connections" by marrying Archduchess Margarete Sophie, who died in 1902, leaving five children. The Archduchess was a sister of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, whose assassination at Sarajevo in June 1914 led to the World War.
Duke Albrecht died at his home, Schloss Altshausen. He was succeeded as head of the family by his eldest son, Philipp, who is married to Archduchess Rosa of Austria.
Queen Marie celebrates 60th birthday
October 29, 1935
Queen Marie of Roumania celebrated her 60th birthday today with a family dinner at Sinaia, reports the Associated Press. She began the celebration with a ride through the new-fallen snow on a thoroughbred horse, a gift from the Minister of Agriculture. All the members of the royal family, with the exception of Marie's widowed daughter, Queen Marie of Yugoslavia, gathered at Sinaia for the birthday party.
The Queen also received numerous gifts of gorgeous jewelry, including a necklace from Premier Tatarescu. There were hundreds of telegrams of "felicitations from all over the world." A great number of telegrams came from Marie's American friends.
The dinner was arranged by Queen Marie's eldest son, King Carol. The guests included members of the government, the Prince and Princess of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen, and the Princess of Hohenlohe-Langenburg, who is the Queen's mother's sister.
The Queen's other children, Archduchess Ileana of Austria and Prince Nicolas, were also present. Ileana and Nicolas are supportive of their mother "in her frequent efforts to influence King Carol when crises have threatened the Balkans."
No mention was made if the Queen's eldest daughter, the former Queen Elisabeth of the Hellenes, attended the party.
Details of Ileana's elopement revealed
October 29, 1927
The New York Times is exclusively reporting on the details of Princess Ileana's elopement with a Roumanian naval lieutenant. Although the original reports of the elopement were denied by the palace in Bucharest, reports reaching Vienna from Warna, Bulgaria,a port on the Black Sea, confirm the elopement story.
Despite the denials, Princess Ileana "actually did attempt an elopement" with a naval lieutenant named Paius, who escaped to Warna.
Roumania demanded Paius' extradition, but Bulgaria refused because "there is nothing in conventions between the two nations compelling delivery of military deserters."
Queen Marie was responsible for breaking up her daughter's love affair with Paius, who is described as 35 years old and already married.
The story "told from Warna is that the queen mother had [Paius] removed from Bucharest and ordered to sea duty at the time of the motorboat incident when the Princess was caught in a storm and rescued by a German steamer."
The couple made a second attempt to elope to Constantinople and the pair made it as far as Warna, but Queen Marie succeeded in getting her daughter returned to Roumanian territory, where she was eventually taken to Sinaia, where Ileana is "now under surveillance."
The Prime Minister Bratiano first denied the episode, but then forced Queen Marie "to take Ileana in an open motor through the streets of Bucharest" to show the public "that no further scandal had been perpetrated by a member of the royal family."
Belgian sovereigns lay wreath at Mt. Vernon
October 29, 1919
King Albert and Queen Elisabeth of the Belgians paid homage today at the tomb of America's first president, George Washington, reports the New York Times
At "peaceful Mount Vernon, overlooking the placid Potomac," King Albert placed a wreath at Washington's sarcophagus. The event was done without "pomp or ceremonial, but the simple ceremony was nonetheless deeply impressive."
The Royal party, which also included the couple's eldest son, Crown Prince Leopold, arrived by the Presidential yacht, Mayflower, with Vice President Marshall and members of the Cabinet and their wives.
At Washington's tomb, King Albert lifted the "huge wreath of red and white chrysanthemums," before bowing at the entrance of the tomb. The king stepped inside and placed the flowers against the granite slab. Again, "he bowed, this time more deeply, and stepped back from the portal. Queen Elisabeth and Crown Prince Leopold "then made obeisance before the sarcophagus," but no Americans went inside the tomb.
In an address at Mount Vernon, the king said: "My visit to America would have been incomplete had I had not come to pay homage to the noble memory of the first President of the United States.
"In this house, where George Washington lived and died, my thoughts turn with emotion to that heroic epoch when your ancestors chose him for their chief and to the long line of illustrious statesmen who for more than a century have followed him.
"In all history, there are few examples of political institutions which have so well stood the test of time as the Government of the United States.
The struggling young Republic of George Washington has become one of the great powers of the world, and yet it has retained its most striking characteristic in this happy mixture and simplicity and dignity which gives so much charm to your hospitality and at the same time awakens in the stranger so great a respect for your flag."
Their Majesties were also given a tour of the mansion. Albert "stood on the wide veranda looking over the broad expanse of the Potomac." Queen Elisabeth was "entranced with the beauty of the vista and returned to the veranda again and again."
The King and Queen were the guests tonight at a dinner hosted by Secretary and Mrs. Lansing. The Belgians "wore court dress." and the "military members of the party were resplendent with medals and decorations."
Samuel Gompers, who is the president of the American Federation of Labor, called on the King and spent forty-five minutes with him. Gompers said after he left the meeting: "He's a real man, even if he is a King. I neither bow down nor look down. A man is a man. I found King Albert very interesting, and I was glad to renew the acquaintance which began at La Panne. We talked about many subjects, and I found him well-informed. The labor situation and the unrest of the workers naturally were mentioned, and I think I was able to give the King some information he did not have, but, of course, I am not at liberty to give his views upon any of the topics we touched upon."
Queen Elisabeth and Mrs. Wilson went driving this afternoon. The drive "was a feature not included in the regular program," and was arranged to allow the Queen to see the capital "without having to face constantly the eyes of thousands who line the route announced in the published program."
Before going for their ride, the First Lady and the Queen visited the headquarters of the American Red Cross. Tomorrow the King "and the men of his party" will motor to Annapolis to visit the Naval Academy. Queen Elisabeth will travel to Baltimore to tour the Johns Hopkins Hospital and the Red Cross Hospital for the Blind.
[Note about Mount Vernon: the view from the veranda that Albert and Elisabeth saw in 1919 is the same view as today. After Washington died in 1799, the house was passed to his relatives, who did not have the means to maintain the estate and property. In 1858, Ann Pamela Cunningham formed the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association, which raised the funds to buy the property and house. The Association took ownership a year later. The Association also bought the land across the Potomac in Maryland, so visitors can see the same view that Washington saw when he resided at Mount Vernon. Today, the estate and house are open every day of the year, including Christmas. The house is still owned and run by the Mount Vernon Ladies Association.}
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
King George V hosts Yugoslav regent and exiled king
October 28, 1935
King George V and Queen Mary today hosted a lunch at Buckingham Palace, and the guests included Prince Paul and Princess Paul of Yugoslavia, Princess Nicholas of Greece and the Duke of Kent.
Prince Paul is one of three regents for the minor King Peter of Yugoslavia. He is married to Princess Olga of Greece, whose sister, Marina, will marry the Duke of Kent in November.
Princess Nicholas -- the former Grand Duchess Helen of Russia - is Olga and Marina's mother.
Later today, King George of the Hellenes, who is expected to regain his throne, will arrive at Buckingham Palace for tea with King George and Queen Mary.
King George V and Queen Mary today hosted a lunch at Buckingham Palace, and the guests included Prince Paul and Princess Paul of Yugoslavia, Princess Nicholas of Greece and the Duke of Kent.
Prince Paul is one of three regents for the minor King Peter of Yugoslavia. He is married to Princess Olga of Greece, whose sister, Marina, will marry the Duke of Kent in November.
Princess Nicholas -- the former Grand Duchess Helen of Russia - is Olga and Marina's mother.
Later today, King George of the Hellenes, who is expected to regain his throne, will arrive at Buckingham Palace for tea with King George and Queen Mary.
Swedish Crown Prince arrives in London for wedding
October 28, 1923
Crown Prince Gustaf Adolf of Sweden has arrived in London for his upcoming wedding to Lady Louise Mountbatten.
The details of Lady Louise's wedding gown have been released to the media. She will be "clad in shimmering silver," a gown "fashioned from Indian silver gauze," which was given to the bride by her uncle, Grand Duke Ernst Ludwig of Hesse and By Rhine. She will be a "picture in her almost sheathed gown with a square neck and wrap over skirt, slightly low waisted and caught at the left side with a true lover's knot or orange blossoms, from which falls a trail of the same flower delicately encased in a silver thread to the hem."
Lady Louise's train will be "slung from the shoulders and fashioned from silver gauze, bordered with gold."
She will wear a honiton lace veil, "with its rose orange blossom design," and was a gift from Queen Victoria to her daughter, Alice, when she married the Grand Duke of Hesse and By Rhine. Lady Louise is Alice's granddaughter.
The veil was also worn by Louise's mother, Victoria, when she married Prince Louis of Battenberg, later the Marquess of Milford Haven.
The veil "exquisitely matches the gown and will fall from a Russian shaped diadem of orange buds." Louise will carry a bouquet of lilies of the valley, and she will wear over her gown "an old fashioned cape of talles ermine, which belonged to her grandmother.
Lady Louise's four bridesmaids will be her nieces, Princesses Margarita, Theodora, Cecilia and Sophie of Greece.
The four princesses are the daughters of Louise's older sister, Alice and her husband, Prince Andrew of Greece. The princesses will be gowned in apricot hued georgette and carry posies and violets."
Crown Prince Gustaf Adolf of Sweden has arrived in London for his upcoming wedding to Lady Louise Mountbatten.
The details of Lady Louise's wedding gown have been released to the media. She will be "clad in shimmering silver," a gown "fashioned from Indian silver gauze," which was given to the bride by her uncle, Grand Duke Ernst Ludwig of Hesse and By Rhine. She will be a "picture in her almost sheathed gown with a square neck and wrap over skirt, slightly low waisted and caught at the left side with a true lover's knot or orange blossoms, from which falls a trail of the same flower delicately encased in a silver thread to the hem."
Lady Louise's train will be "slung from the shoulders and fashioned from silver gauze, bordered with gold."
She will wear a honiton lace veil, "with its rose orange blossom design," and was a gift from Queen Victoria to her daughter, Alice, when she married the Grand Duke of Hesse and By Rhine. Lady Louise is Alice's granddaughter.
The veil was also worn by Louise's mother, Victoria, when she married Prince Louis of Battenberg, later the Marquess of Milford Haven.
The veil "exquisitely matches the gown and will fall from a Russian shaped diadem of orange buds." Louise will carry a bouquet of lilies of the valley, and she will wear over her gown "an old fashioned cape of talles ermine, which belonged to her grandmother.
Lady Louise's four bridesmaids will be her nieces, Princesses Margarita, Theodora, Cecilia and Sophie of Greece.
The four princesses are the daughters of Louise's older sister, Alice and her husband, Prince Andrew of Greece. The princesses will be gowned in apricot hued georgette and carry posies and violets."
Ten Habsburg drop titles
October 28, 1919
Ten members of the former Habsburg ruling dynasty have renounced their royal titles and "have declared themselves faithful citizens of the republic," according to the Associated Press. This renouncement is based on a law passed on April 3. Austria's national assembly has ratified their renunciations. The ten Habsburgs will be allowed to retain their properties and their fortune.
The ten Habsburgs are: Archduke Franz Salvator, son-in-law of the late Emperor Franz Joseph, his three sons and three daughters, Archduke Peter Ferdinand, Grand Duchess Alice of Tuscany and Archduchess Maria Theresa.
Ten members of the former Habsburg ruling dynasty have renounced their royal titles and "have declared themselves faithful citizens of the republic," according to the Associated Press. This renouncement is based on a law passed on April 3. Austria's national assembly has ratified their renunciations. The ten Habsburgs will be allowed to retain their properties and their fortune.
The ten Habsburgs are: Archduke Franz Salvator, son-in-law of the late Emperor Franz Joseph, his three sons and three daughters, Archduke Peter Ferdinand, Grand Duchess Alice of Tuscany and Archduchess Maria Theresa.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Grand wedding in Athens as Constantine marries Sophie
The weather was "delightful" today in Athens as Crown Prince Constantine of the Hellenes, Duke of Sparta, and Princess Sophie of Prussia were united in marriage, the New York Times reports. The wedding procession began at 11:00 a.m., "headed by a squadron of Calvary."
The first carriage was occupied by the Greek and German Court Marshals. In the second marriage were Prince George and Princesses Victoria and Maud of Wales and Princess Marie of Greece; in the third, Princess Viktoria and Margarete of Prussia, Prince Albert Victor of Wales and the Prince of Mecklenburg-Schwerin; in the fourth, the hereditary Prince and Princess of Saxe-Meiningen and Prince Henry of Prussia; in the fifth, the Princess of Wales, the Czarevitch and Prince Waldemar of Denmark; in the sixth, Empress Friedrich of Germany and the Prince of Wales; in the seventh, the Empress of Germany and the Queen of Denmark; in the eighth, Emperor Wilhelm of Germany and the King of Denmark.
This procession was followed by the "gorgeous state carriage" containing Queen Olga and the bride, "drawn by six black horses, covered with silver trimmings." On the other side of the carriage, on horseback, "were King George, the Duke of Sparta, and his brothers."
The entire route was lined with troops, "behind whom were packed solid masses of spectators."
They were special cheers for Wilhelm II and his wife, Augusta Viktoria, who wore 'magnificent diamonds" and attracted "universal admiration."
The scene in the cathedral was "a brilliant one, the uniforms of the assembled dignitaries the superb dresses and jewels of the ladies forming a splendid spectacle." The cathedral's enter aisle was strewn with roses. The Greek Orthodox service lasted for more than an hour.
Golden crowns were held over the bride and groom's heads. Prince Henry of Prussia and Prince Albert Victor and Prince George of Wales "held the bride's coronet," while the young Russian heir, Nicholas, and his cousins, Prince Waldemar of Denmark and Prince George of Greece "held the coronet of the bridegroom.
The wedding party returned to the palace by a different route at 1 p.m. The couple celebrated a second marriage ceremony, according to the rites of the Lutheran church. This wedding was solemnized in the king's private chapel. Although Queen Olga and the Greek royal children are Orthodox, King George has retained his Lutheran faith. The new Crown Princess Sophie is also a Lutheran.
It was at 4 p.m., when the Duke of Sparta "conducted his bride from the royal palace to his own palace," amid cheers from the crowd. The Duchess of Sparta, "who was very pale, smilingly bowed in response."
The newlyweds were "obliged to appear on the balcony when they were greeted with cheers."
The Prince of Wales and his two sons will leave for Egypt tomorrow. The Princess of Wales and her daughters will remain in Greece for two weeks. Empress Frederick and her younger daughters, will also stay in Greece for several weeks before traveling on to Italy.
Princess Margaret visits Archbishop
October 27, 1955
Princess Margaret visited Dr. Geoffrey Fisher, the Archbishop of Canterbury today at his residence, Lambeth Palace, according to the New York Times. The Princess "had gone to Lambeth Palace at her own request" to seek guidance in deciding to marry Group Captain Peter Townsend, a divorced man with two sons.
The Princess, who is Queen Elizabeth II's younger sister, and is third in line to the throne, spent about hour in private with the Archbishop.
The Archbishop's chaplain said later: "I cannot give any information about it."
Group Captain Townsend called on the Princess before lunch at Clarence House. He returned after the Princess' visit to Lambeth Palace, and left two hours later.
Group Captain Townsend divorced his wife, Rosemary, on the grounds of adultery in 1952. She is now married to John de Laszlo, a British national.
The Church Times, which reflects the views of the Church of England, has an editorial regarding Princess Margaret's situation. "Until such time as an official statement may be issued on the Princess' future, we regard the comment as unwarranted."
Princess Margaret visited Dr. Geoffrey Fisher, the Archbishop of Canterbury today at his residence, Lambeth Palace, according to the New York Times. The Princess "had gone to Lambeth Palace at her own request" to seek guidance in deciding to marry Group Captain Peter Townsend, a divorced man with two sons.
The Princess, who is Queen Elizabeth II's younger sister, and is third in line to the throne, spent about hour in private with the Archbishop.
The Archbishop's chaplain said later: "I cannot give any information about it."
Group Captain Townsend called on the Princess before lunch at Clarence House. He returned after the Princess' visit to Lambeth Palace, and left two hours later.
Group Captain Townsend divorced his wife, Rosemary, on the grounds of adultery in 1952. She is now married to John de Laszlo, a British national.
The Church Times, which reflects the views of the Church of England, has an editorial regarding Princess Margaret's situation. "Until such time as an official statement may be issued on the Princess' future, we regard the comment as unwarranted."
Will Boris visit America?
October 26, 1923
Bulgaria's Foreign Minister is recommending to King Boris III that he visit other European capitals and the United States as "normal conditions have been restored at home," according to the Associated. The young Bulgarian sovereign is "anxious to adopt the suggestion," as he has not yet met any of the current reigning monarchs. King Boris is eager to establish friendly contracts with the sovereigns and their governments.
Friends of the King, who is 29, say he may undertake the trip with the "possibilities of finding a suitable young woman in Europe or in the United States to be his Queen," as there are no eligible women in Bulgaria.
As the supply of maiden Princesses and Duchesses in Europe is not equal to the demand," King Boris may "select one of the democratic daughters of America, rather than a titled lady of the Continent."
The late Bulgarian premier Stamboulisky always wanted the king to marry an American girl as such a marriage might have brought "financial affluence to the impoverished Bulgarian throne."
King Boris lives a "lonely studious life" in the palace at Sofia, where his sole companions are his two sisters.
Bulgaria's Foreign Minister is recommending to King Boris III that he visit other European capitals and the United States as "normal conditions have been restored at home," according to the Associated. The young Bulgarian sovereign is "anxious to adopt the suggestion," as he has not yet met any of the current reigning monarchs. King Boris is eager to establish friendly contracts with the sovereigns and their governments.
Friends of the King, who is 29, say he may undertake the trip with the "possibilities of finding a suitable young woman in Europe or in the United States to be his Queen," as there are no eligible women in Bulgaria.
As the supply of maiden Princesses and Duchesses in Europe is not equal to the demand," King Boris may "select one of the democratic daughters of America, rather than a titled lady of the Continent."
The late Bulgarian premier Stamboulisky always wanted the king to marry an American girl as such a marriage might have brought "financial affluence to the impoverished Bulgarian throne."
King Boris lives a "lonely studious life" in the palace at Sofia, where his sole companions are his two sisters.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Will King Zog return to Albania?
Albania's Prime Minister Sali Berisha plans to ask France to return the remains of King Zog, who died in 1961 in Paris. The king reigned from 1928 until 1939 when he and his wife and their infant son were forced to flee after Italian troops invaded the country.
The prime minister described the late king "as one of the most distinguished personalities, with a major contribution in the history of the Albanian nation.
King Zog was married to Countess Geraldine Apponyi, a Hungarian countess with an American mother. The couple had one son, Leka, who is seen by many as Albania's monarch.
King Leka currently lives in Tirana as a private citizen.
The prime minister described the late king "as one of the most distinguished personalities, with a major contribution in the history of the Albanian nation.
King Zog was married to Countess Geraldine Apponyi, a Hungarian countess with an American mother. The couple had one son, Leka, who is seen by many as Albania's monarch.
King Leka currently lives in Tirana as a private citizen.
Nicholas II refuses to receive the Badens
October 26, 1897
The Berlin newspaper, Tageblatt, reports the reason for Nicholas II's refusal to receive the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess of Baden at Darmstadt on Saturday. This was due to the "sarcastic comments" made by the Grand Duke after Empress Alexandra converted to the Orthodox faith. The former Princess Alix of Hesse and By Rhine, a Lutheran, joined the Orthodox church prior to her marriage to Nicholas. The Russian Czar is required to marry a royal who is a member of the Orthodox church.
However, the Frankfurter Zeitung states that the Tsar's snub was because the Crown Prince of Baden had wooed the Empress' sister, Elisabeth, but his proposal had been rejected. Elisabeth is married to Nicholas' uncle, Grand Duke Serge.
A semi-official statement was issued in Darmstadt today "denies that there is any "political significance" in the Czar's reply to the Grand Duke's desire to meet with him in Darmstadt.
Karlsruhe's Official Gazette noted that Nicholas' reply to the Grand Duke implied "that he had already made arrangements every day before his departure from Darmstadt," and would not be able to meet with the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess of Baden.
Friedrich I, Grand Duke of Baden, is married to Princess Luise of Prussia, sister of the late Wilhelm I of Germany. Their son, Friedrich, married Princess Hilda of Nassau in 1885, a year after Princess Elisabeth married Grand Duke Serge.
Returning home
October 26, 1879
The Grand Dukes Alexis and Paul of Russia left Paris today for Russia. They will stop in Berlin where they will meet with the Emperor Wilhelm.
The Grand Dukes Alexis and Paul of Russia left Paris today for Russia. They will stop in Berlin where they will meet with the Emperor Wilhelm.
Head of Methodist church "counsel's Margaret
October 26, 1955
A stream of criticism toward Princess Margaret continues in Britain's media and by religious leaders. The New York Times reports that that head of Britain's Methodist church "added his voice to those suggesting that Princess Margaret" renounce all claims to the throne if she marries Group Captain Peter Townsend, a divorced man. The Rev. Dr. Leslie Weatherhead stated that the princess would then be "free to enjoy married happiness."
A Times of London editorial has made a similar comment, but Lord Beaverbrook's Evening Standard has published an immediate rejoinder. Princess Margaret, the paper's editorial states, deserves the nation's respect as "she attempts to give the question of her marriage the full consideration it requires and demands."
Princess Margaret continues to carry out her official engagements.
A stream of criticism toward Princess Margaret continues in Britain's media and by religious leaders. The New York Times reports that that head of Britain's Methodist church "added his voice to those suggesting that Princess Margaret" renounce all claims to the throne if she marries Group Captain Peter Townsend, a divorced man. The Rev. Dr. Leslie Weatherhead stated that the princess would then be "free to enjoy married happiness."
A Times of London editorial has made a similar comment, but Lord Beaverbrook's Evening Standard has published an immediate rejoinder. Princess Margaret, the paper's editorial states, deserves the nation's respect as "she attempts to give the question of her marriage the full consideration it requires and demands."
Princess Margaret continues to carry out her official engagements.
Former Prince Sigvard remarries
October 26, 1943
Sigvard Bernadotte was married today in a civil ceremony in Copenhagen to Sonja Robberts, the daughter of a Copenhagen ship owner. This is the second marriage for both.
Sigvard, a grandson of King Gustav V, lost his royal title and right of succession in 1934, when he married a commoner Erika Patzek, the daughter of a Berlin soap manufacturer.
For several years, Sigvard Bernadotte, worked in Hollywood's film industry.
His sister, Queen Ingrid of Denmark, hosted a luncheon for the couple after the wedding.
Sigvard Bernadotte was married today in a civil ceremony in Copenhagen to Sonja Robberts, the daughter of a Copenhagen ship owner. This is the second marriage for both.
Sigvard, a grandson of King Gustav V, lost his royal title and right of succession in 1934, when he married a commoner Erika Patzek, the daughter of a Berlin soap manufacturer.
For several years, Sigvard Bernadotte, worked in Hollywood's film industry.
His sister, Queen Ingrid of Denmark, hosted a luncheon for the couple after the wedding.
Archduke Joseph to be king of Hungary?
October 26, 1919
The Svenska Dagbladet "learns from what it considers reliable sources that Archduke Joseph of Austria," will soon be elected King of Hungary, according to a news report in the Chicago Daily Tribune.
The Archduke's "popularity and authority are growing steadily with the population. His wife, the former Princess Augusta of Bavaria, "also enjoys great popularity as the result of her self-sacrificing work."
Archduke Joseph was born in 1872, the son of Archduke Joseph Karl and Princess Clotilde of Saxe-Coburg. He married Princess Augusta of Bavaria in 1893. Princess Augusta's mother, Gisela, is the eldest daughter of the late Emperor Franz Joseph.
The Svenska Dagbladet "learns from what it considers reliable sources that Archduke Joseph of Austria," will soon be elected King of Hungary, according to a news report in the Chicago Daily Tribune.
The Archduke's "popularity and authority are growing steadily with the population. His wife, the former Princess Augusta of Bavaria, "also enjoys great popularity as the result of her self-sacrificing work."
Archduke Joseph was born in 1872, the son of Archduke Joseph Karl and Princess Clotilde of Saxe-Coburg. He married Princess Augusta of Bavaria in 1893. Princess Augusta's mother, Gisela, is the eldest daughter of the late Emperor Franz Joseph.
No formal request yet for Miss Gould's hand
October 26, 1909
"There is no telling what may come to pass," states Col. Dosnop Chine, who is the aide-de-camp to Duke George of Leuchtenberg, and the close friend of George's son, Alexander.
The Colonel spoke to a New York Times reporter regarding press reports about a proposed marriage between Prince Alexander and the American heiress Marjorie Gould.
"But up to the present time, nothing at all has been settled regarding the marriage of Prince Alexander and Miss Gould. There has not even been a formal proposal made for her hand by the Prince's father, Duke George of Leuchtenberg. Should anything of this nature happen, I will immediately inform you. The young people have formed each other's acquaintance. That is all I can tell you now, except that Mr. and Miss Gould express their intention when here of returning to Paris in January or February."
He added that neither Prince Alexander or Duke George have any plans to visit America. He "was expressly authorized by the Duke to deny the existence of a formal engagement between the Prince and Miss Gould."
The Duke of Leuchtenberg is a wealthy landowner in Russia, but "he would not sanction a marriage merely for love, and would insist that the Prince's bride must bring with her a fortune suitable to the rank of an Imperial Princess."
The marriage would also need to be approved by Nicholas II.
Princess Marie's $300,000 bridal trousseau
October 26, 1907
The New York Times reports today that Prince Roland Bonaparte is spending $300,000 on his daughter, Princess Marie's bridal trousseau. The princess is to marry Prince George of Greece. Her wardrobe is said to "rival in magnificence those prepared in the Rue de la Paix for wealthy American brides.
Princess Marie has a "strong predilection" for the Empire style. This will be a "predominating note in the trousseau," and Paris fashion leaders are predicting that "royal bride's new frocks will bring the Empire style again into immediate fashion."
The New York Times reports today that Prince Roland Bonaparte is spending $300,000 on his daughter, Princess Marie's bridal trousseau. The princess is to marry Prince George of Greece. Her wardrobe is said to "rival in magnificence those prepared in the Rue de la Paix for wealthy American brides.
Princess Marie has a "strong predilection" for the Empire style. This will be a "predominating note in the trousseau," and Paris fashion leaders are predicting that "royal bride's new frocks will bring the Empire style again into immediate fashion."
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Grania's birth certificate
I had not planned to do another post on Grania Mary O'Malley, as the evidence against her is overwhelming. She is the daughter of Hamilton O'Malley and Eleanor de Pentheney O'Kelly.
Grania has changed her birth date to July 31, 1946, which makes her four years older than she really is.
I have obtained an official copy of her birth registration in Cannes. Grania Mary O'Malley was born on July 31, 1950, at 10 pm in Cannes La Bocca, Alpes-Maritimes, France.
Birth registrations are an official act. There are no birth registrations for Mountbatten or O'Malley in Cannes for July 31, 1946.
Grania has claimed that she is not related to the O'Malley-Keyes and that she is Hamilton's only child. She claims Charles, Patrick, Dermot, and Owen are Sadie's children, but not Hamilton's.
However, one of Grania's three sons, Malachi uses the surname O'Malley-Keyes. On September 5, 2009, Grania attended the wedding of her nephew, Daniel O'Malley-Keyes. Daniel has also confirmed that Grania is his aunt and the daughter of Hamilton and Sadie.
Here is the death notice for her brother, Patrick Peter O'Malley-Keyes, which was published in Bournemouth Echo.
O'MALLEY-KEYES PATRICK PETER Suddenly on 7th February 2005 in London. Son of Major Hamilton O'Malley-Keyes, dear brother of Dermot, Owen, Grania and Charles. Requiem Mass at the Church of Our Lady Queen of Peace, Douglas Road, Southbourne, on Tuesday 22nd February at 2.00 pm followed by interment in the Boscombe Cemetery at 3.00 pm. All flowers and enquiries to Harry Tomes Ltd F.D., 'Barham House', 31/33 Tower Road, Boscombe. Tel B'mouth (01202) 394340 12:00am Saturday 19th February 2005.
This listing would have been placed by a close family member. "Dear brother of Dermot, Owen, GRANIA and Charles."
A Roman Catholic service. Grania O'Malley-Keyes attended a Roman Catholic school, Lewiston, in Sherbourne, Dorset. She graduated in 1968, which would have made her 18, and not 22 years old. In other words, she was born in 1950, and not 1946.
Birth registrations are irrefutable and incontrovertible.
Lady Iris Mountbatten's marriage to Hamilton O'Malley was childless. It is entirely possible that Lady Iris used O'Malley as a cover for her romance with another man. This fact was told to me by two different members of Hamilton's family.
Moreover, Lady Iris was already in the United States in July 1946.
Grania O'Malley (later O'Malley-Keyes) changed her name by deed poll to Mountbatten-Carisbrooke and then changed it again by deed poll to Mountbatten.
Hamilton O'Malley was married three times. His first two marriages to Lady Iris Mountbatten and Eleanor de Pentheny O'Kelly ended in divorce. Eleanor O'Malley-Keyes died in Dorset in 2001. In 1970, Hamilton married for the third time in 1970 to Betty Saunders. When Hamilton died in 1989, he was survived by his wife, and his five children by his second wife.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Trouble for Prince Albert - a sex tape and much else
In Sunday's Times:
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/europe/article6888916.ece
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/europe/article6888916.ece
Duke of York asks for more vocal support for British troops
New interview with Duke of York
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/theroyalfamily/6417864/Duke-of-York-urges-more-support-for-troops.html
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/theroyalfamily/6417898/Duke-of-York-on-airmiles-the-military-and-his-family.html
and an interview with the Financial Times
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/72c219cc-bf63-11de-a696-00144feab49a.html
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/theroyalfamily/6417864/Duke-of-York-urges-more-support-for-troops.html
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/theroyalfamily/6417898/Duke-of-York-on-airmiles-the-military-and-his-family.html
and an interview with the Financial Times
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/72c219cc-bf63-11de-a696-00144feab49a.html
Friday, October 23, 2009
Secrets efforts to restore Brazilian monarchy
October 23, 1895
The Los Angeles Times reports today on a secret plan to restore Brazil's monarchy with Prince Pedro of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha as king. The prince is the son of Prince August and his late wife, Princess Leopoldina of Brazil, the younger sister of Princess Isabel.
The report is based on a cable from Rio de Janeiro. Officials at the Brazilian embassy in London are denying the rumor and point out that Prince Pedro "is in a lunatic asylum in Austria." The officials add that there are no movements toward restoring the monarchy.
The Los Angeles Times reports today on a secret plan to restore Brazil's monarchy with Prince Pedro of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha as king. The prince is the son of Prince August and his late wife, Princess Leopoldina of Brazil, the younger sister of Princess Isabel.
The report is based on a cable from Rio de Janeiro. Officials at the Brazilian embassy in London are denying the rumor and point out that Prince Pedro "is in a lunatic asylum in Austria." The officials add that there are no movements toward restoring the monarchy.
Margaret at castle with Queen
October 23, 1955
Princess Margaret spent today at Windsor Castle with her sister, Queen Elizabeth II and brother-in-law, the Duke of Edinburgh. The princess did not meet with Group Captain Peter Townsend. This was only the second time in eleven days that princess has not met with the 40-year-old divorced man, who many believe will marry Princess Margaret.
Princess Margaret left the castle once today to attend church services with her sister and brother-in-law. Group Captain Townsend has remained at his London residence.
The public discussion of the Princess's romance continues. The popular view is that Margaret "should be permitted to marry anyone she chooses."
But a commentator in the Observer wrote that if Margaret chooses to marry Townsend, she should renounce her "royal rights and privileges, including the right of succession to the throne." Noting that Queen Elizabeth II is head of the Church of England, the writer said that it would be "improper" for Princess Margaret to enter into a marriage that would not be recognized by the Church of England.
Princess Margaret spent today at Windsor Castle with her sister, Queen Elizabeth II and brother-in-law, the Duke of Edinburgh. The princess did not meet with Group Captain Peter Townsend. This was only the second time in eleven days that princess has not met with the 40-year-old divorced man, who many believe will marry Princess Margaret.
Princess Margaret left the castle once today to attend church services with her sister and brother-in-law. Group Captain Townsend has remained at his London residence.
The public discussion of the Princess's romance continues. The popular view is that Margaret "should be permitted to marry anyone she chooses."
But a commentator in the Observer wrote that if Margaret chooses to marry Townsend, she should renounce her "royal rights and privileges, including the right of succession to the throne." Noting that Queen Elizabeth II is head of the Church of England, the writer said that it would be "improper" for Princess Margaret to enter into a marriage that would not be recognized by the Church of England.
Prince Bernhard remains silent on Nazi connections
October 23, 1933
Prince Bernhard of Saxe-Meiningen is refusing to cooperate with authorities, the Associated Press reports today. The 25-year-old Prince has been charged as a Nazi and is being held in a Klagenfurt jail. In their investigation, police have discovered that the "names and addresses of the alleged confederates, found in his confiscated correspondence, was deemed to be insufficient evidence against them without corroborative information."
The police have tried to question the prince, but he refuses to answer the questions, apart from saying: Do you take me for a traitor?
The letter from Dr. Joseph Goebbals, Germany's Minister of Propaganda, has shown on "closer inspection to be relatively tame, proving little beyond the fact that Goebbels and the prince corresponded."
Police continued to press for further investigation, which is being conducted "vigorously." The prince was sentenced to six weeks in jail without a trial. His wife, Princess Margot, is interned in the family's castle without a trial. These sentences were based on the "recent concentration camps decrees for internment of Nazi agitators."
After six weeks, it will be up to a court to decide whether the prince and his wife are to be tried for conspiracy.
The princess, who is being held at her castle on the orders of Chancellor Dollfüss, was permitted today to talk with the AP reporter.
Detectives "stood at her elbow to see that the conversation remained within strictly non-political bounds."
The 21-year-old princess "is getting a thrill out of the sudden American interest in her plight. She was allowed to tell the reporter: "I've heard that you called the castle several times in the last few days and I thank you for your interest."
The princess was not permitted to discuss her case.
Prince Bernhard of Saxe-Meiningen is refusing to cooperate with authorities, the Associated Press reports today. The 25-year-old Prince has been charged as a Nazi and is being held in a Klagenfurt jail. In their investigation, police have discovered that the "names and addresses of the alleged confederates, found in his confiscated correspondence, was deemed to be insufficient evidence against them without corroborative information."
The police have tried to question the prince, but he refuses to answer the questions, apart from saying: Do you take me for a traitor?
The letter from Dr. Joseph Goebbals, Germany's Minister of Propaganda, has shown on "closer inspection to be relatively tame, proving little beyond the fact that Goebbels and the prince corresponded."
Police continued to press for further investigation, which is being conducted "vigorously." The prince was sentenced to six weeks in jail without a trial. His wife, Princess Margot, is interned in the family's castle without a trial. These sentences were based on the "recent concentration camps decrees for internment of Nazi agitators."
After six weeks, it will be up to a court to decide whether the prince and his wife are to be tried for conspiracy.
The princess, who is being held at her castle on the orders of Chancellor Dollfüss, was permitted today to talk with the AP reporter.
Detectives "stood at her elbow to see that the conversation remained within strictly non-political bounds."
The 21-year-old princess "is getting a thrill out of the sudden American interest in her plight. She was allowed to tell the reporter: "I've heard that you called the castle several times in the last few days and I thank you for your interest."
The princess was not permitted to discuss her case.
Unenemployed German sues for Saxon king for title
October 23, 1929
Victor von Horvath, a 40-year-old German clerk, who has been living on the dole for the past five months, has filed action in a Dresden court today against the the former King Friedrich August of Saxony, according to a report in the Chicago Tribune. Von Horvath seeks recognition "of his claims to the title of the royal house of Wettin as prince of Saxony." Von Horvath has also filed suit against the former king's brothers, Princes Johann Georg and Max, and sisters, Princess Mathilde and Archduchess Maria Josepha.
He said he would have claimed the throne if the November 1918 revolution had not abolished the Saxon throne. His suit was denied, however, because Herr von Horvath "is penniless and the authorities refuse to grant him pauper dispensation for the court fees."
Von Horvath's claims that his father, Geza, who was born in 1854, was the legitimate son of King Albert and Queen Carola, a Swedish princess. It has been assumed that this marriage was childless.
The Saxon house law has a clause, which was inserted "a century ago,"that the "first crown prince would have to be educated as a Protestant, whereas the family was Roman Catholic."
The royal family did not want a Protestant head of the house, so that "Victor's father's birth was concealed and the baby smuggled out to be taken care of by an old Hungarian nurse."
The nurse allegedly brought up the young man, and shortly before her death, she revealed to him the truth about the swindle. It is a "fact that since the insertion of this clause no crown prince has existed in Saxony, the crown always passing on to some one other than the eldest son."
Geza von Horvath committed suicide in 1921.
Victor von Horvath, a 40-year-old German clerk, who has been living on the dole for the past five months, has filed action in a Dresden court today against the the former King Friedrich August of Saxony, according to a report in the Chicago Tribune. Von Horvath seeks recognition "of his claims to the title of the royal house of Wettin as prince of Saxony." Von Horvath has also filed suit against the former king's brothers, Princes Johann Georg and Max, and sisters, Princess Mathilde and Archduchess Maria Josepha.
He said he would have claimed the throne if the November 1918 revolution had not abolished the Saxon throne. His suit was denied, however, because Herr von Horvath "is penniless and the authorities refuse to grant him pauper dispensation for the court fees."
Von Horvath's claims that his father, Geza, who was born in 1854, was the legitimate son of King Albert and Queen Carola, a Swedish princess. It has been assumed that this marriage was childless.
The Saxon house law has a clause, which was inserted "a century ago,"that the "first crown prince would have to be educated as a Protestant, whereas the family was Roman Catholic."
The royal family did not want a Protestant head of the house, so that "Victor's father's birth was concealed and the baby smuggled out to be taken care of by an old Hungarian nurse."
The nurse allegedly brought up the young man, and shortly before her death, she revealed to him the truth about the swindle. It is a "fact that since the insertion of this clause no crown prince has existed in Saxony, the crown always passing on to some one other than the eldest son."
Geza von Horvath committed suicide in 1921.
Louise postpones sale of mother's jewels
October 23, 1907
Officials today postponed the sale of jewels belonging to the late Queen Marie Henriette of the Belgians. The request had been made by the queen's eldest daughter, Princess Louise, the former wife of Prince Philipp of Saxe-Coburg.
The sale was ordered by the princess' creditors, Princess Louise, however, "now declares that, notwithstanding the King's refusal to come to her rescue in her financial difficulties, she will, at the expiration of thirty days, have sufficient funds to save her mother's heirlooms," according to the New York Times.
Officials today postponed the sale of jewels belonging to the late Queen Marie Henriette of the Belgians. The request had been made by the queen's eldest daughter, Princess Louise, the former wife of Prince Philipp of Saxe-Coburg.
The sale was ordered by the princess' creditors, Princess Louise, however, "now declares that, notwithstanding the King's refusal to come to her rescue in her financial difficulties, she will, at the expiration of thirty days, have sufficient funds to save her mother's heirlooms," according to the New York Times.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Pope orders Clothilde to return to her husband
October 22, 1879
The Pope has ordered Princess Clothilde to return to her marital home, and the Princess, according to the Chicago Daily Tribune, "has submitted to the Church, and is reconciled with her husband," Prince Napoleon. The couple had lived apart for seven years, as the princess' "grievances were too public to put up with them," and she had retired to a home in Piedmont, which was provided by King Victor Emmanuel. Princess Clothilde lived near her brother, the Duke of Aosta, and was able to be "a second mother to his orphan children."
After many months of negotiations, Princess Clothilde was finally persuaded to return to France and her "unworthy spouse." The Princess did appeal in the name of her children, but she was "assured of the sincerity of Prince Napoleon's repentance." The prince "is now of an age when men prefer the calm of domestic life to the excitement of gallant adventures."
Princess Clothilde and Prince Napoleon were married in Turin on June 13, 1859. They have three children, Prince Napoleon Victor, Prince Louis, and Princess Laetitia.
Margaret to spend weekend at Windsor
October 22, 1955
Princess Margaret "left late today" to spend the weekend at Windsor Castle, which her sister and brother-in-law, Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh, reports the New York Times. Earlier today, Group Captain Peter Townsend paid a two-hour visit to the Princess at Clarence House, where she lives with the Queen Mother. The Queen Mother is spending the weekend with her brother, the Hon. David Bowes-Lyon, at his home in Hertfordshire.
Many believe that Princess Margaret wants to marry Group Captain Townsend, a divorced man with two sons. But a proposed match might stir too much controversy among leaders of church and state.
Townsend will not be joining the princess at Windsor.
Princess Margaret "left late today" to spend the weekend at Windsor Castle, which her sister and brother-in-law, Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh, reports the New York Times. Earlier today, Group Captain Peter Townsend paid a two-hour visit to the Princess at Clarence House, where she lives with the Queen Mother. The Queen Mother is spending the weekend with her brother, the Hon. David Bowes-Lyon, at his home in Hertfordshire.
Many believe that Princess Margaret wants to marry Group Captain Townsend, a divorced man with two sons. But a proposed match might stir too much controversy among leaders of church and state.
Townsend will not be joining the princess at Windsor.
Margot soothes nerves by sewing
October 22, 1933
Princess Margot of Saxe-Meiningen is soothing her nerves by sewing, according to an Associated Press report. The German-born princess is being held at her husband's castle, Pitzelstaetten, near Klagenfurt, at the expressed order of Austrian chancellor Engelbert Dollfüss.
Margot, 21, "tall, slender and brunette," is spending most of her time in a tower room, where she soothes her nerves with needlework, "in which she is an expert. She is also a talented woodcarver. One of the most "interesting pieces of furniture," is a tiny chair that she carved for her 18-month-old daughter, Feodora. The little girl is living with her grandparents in Germany.
The AP also reports that "bedlam has broken out" at the castle because the family's five dogs "are dismayed at the absence of their master." Prince Bernhard of Saxe-Meiningen is being held in a Klagenfurt jail, and has been charged "with being a participant in a Nazi conspiracy."
The dachshunds are "running around wildly about the castle, howling, barking, upsetting suits of armor in their excited search" for the prince. Princess Margot has been unable to quiet the dogs.
It appears that dogs, especially dachshunds, do not like a "garrison of detectives watching the movements of the castle personnel."
There are rumors in the Carinthian countryside that the Knights of Carinthia, "believed to be adherents of the Nazi party," may attempt to rescue "the Nazi princess from her castle."
Correspondence and other documents, which were removed from the castle yesterday, have been perused, and have revealed to the police a "long list of names and addresses indicating a nation-wide organization" of Prince Bernhard's Nazi activities.
In Vienna, the Reichspost reports that a Coburg prince was arrested in Schladming, in eastern Styria, and was expelled from Austria.
The former Kaiser Wilhelm II's sister-in-law, Princess Marie Agness Reuss, who is married to Baron Ferdinand Gnagnoni, lives at Schloss Emersdorf, which is less than a 30-minute walk to the Saxe-Meiningen castle.
Princess Margot of Saxe-Meiningen is soothing her nerves by sewing, according to an Associated Press report. The German-born princess is being held at her husband's castle, Pitzelstaetten, near Klagenfurt, at the expressed order of Austrian chancellor Engelbert Dollfüss.
Margot, 21, "tall, slender and brunette," is spending most of her time in a tower room, where she soothes her nerves with needlework, "in which she is an expert. She is also a talented woodcarver. One of the most "interesting pieces of furniture," is a tiny chair that she carved for her 18-month-old daughter, Feodora. The little girl is living with her grandparents in Germany.
The AP also reports that "bedlam has broken out" at the castle because the family's five dogs "are dismayed at the absence of their master." Prince Bernhard of Saxe-Meiningen is being held in a Klagenfurt jail, and has been charged "with being a participant in a Nazi conspiracy."
The dachshunds are "running around wildly about the castle, howling, barking, upsetting suits of armor in their excited search" for the prince. Princess Margot has been unable to quiet the dogs.
It appears that dogs, especially dachshunds, do not like a "garrison of detectives watching the movements of the castle personnel."
There are rumors in the Carinthian countryside that the Knights of Carinthia, "believed to be adherents of the Nazi party," may attempt to rescue "the Nazi princess from her castle."
Correspondence and other documents, which were removed from the castle yesterday, have been perused, and have revealed to the police a "long list of names and addresses indicating a nation-wide organization" of Prince Bernhard's Nazi activities.
In Vienna, the Reichspost reports that a Coburg prince was arrested in Schladming, in eastern Styria, and was expelled from Austria.
The former Kaiser Wilhelm II's sister-in-law, Princess Marie Agness Reuss, who is married to Baron Ferdinand Gnagnoni, lives at Schloss Emersdorf, which is less than a 30-minute walk to the Saxe-Meiningen castle.
Umberto's brief visit to Brussels
October 23, 1929
Crown Prince Umberto of Italy is in Brussels arrives on Wednesday for the start of a three-day visit, but, according to a Chicago Tribune reporter, he "won't have a quarter of an hour to kiss Princess Marie José in private."
During his three-day visit, the heir to the Italian throne "will hurry through receptions and official ceremonies." Umberto will leave on Friday, and he will not see his fiancee again until January when the couple is married.
The Crown Prince will be met at the railroad station by his future brothers-in-law, Crown Prince Leopold and Prince Charles. He will pay homage to the tomb of Belgian's unknown soldier, and if the weather is nice, there will also be a parade. There are also plans for a gala dinner at the palace and a luncheon to honor Crown Prince Umberto and Princess Marie José, plus the princess' family at the Italian embassy. On Friday, the Princess will accompany Crown Prince Umberto to the railroad station, where they will say goodbye until January.
A New York Times editorial notes that the forthcoming marriage between Umberto and Marie José is the most important royal alliance since the end of the war.
Umberto, the New York Times notes, was the second most eligible royal bachelor after the Prince of Wales. "Relations between States will continue to be shaped independently of family alliances. The internal effect will no doubt be in both countries a strong demonstration of popular loyalty to two reigning houses."
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
German princess jailed by Dollfuss
October 21, 1933
The Associated Press reports today on the imprisonment of Princess Margot of Saxe-Meiningen because she supports National Socialism. Austria's "fighting five-foot chancellor Dr. Engelbert Dolfuss" ordered the house imprisonment of a German Nazi princess in her "romantic Carinthian castle tonight 'for an indefinite period.'" The Princess's husband, Prince Bernhard of Saxe-Meiningen was sentenced to jail for six weeks.
The Prince and Princess were "declared guilty of a Nazi conspiracy against Austria.
The couple was arrested in Carinthia because the Prince's automobile "carried a Hitlerite flag as he drove through the streets of Klagenfurt." Police also confiscated "many incriminating documents including a letter to Dr. Paul Joseph Goebbels, the German Propaganda Minister."
Princess Margot "would be a prisoner in her own castle and would not be permitted to receive visitors" or be able to communicate with the "outside world."
It was also officially announced that "care will be taken to keep the German Consul away" from visiting the princess.
Police became suspicious when Prince Bernhard, already in custody, asked for permission to telephone his wife. The police overheard the prince instruct his wife to "destroy the documents." The police immediately notified officials at Pitzelstaetten, where the castle is located.
Twelve armed police "rushed to the castle," where Princess Margot was arrested and the house and grounds were searched. The documents were found, and the princess was "questioned extensively at Klagenfurt."
Although the "exact nature of alleged conspiracy was not revealed." the police acknowledged that they found the entire office files for the Nazi headquarters in Klagenfurt.
A "sardonic feature of the whole affair" was that Prince and Princess Bernhard "were only two of the many aristocratic Germans expressly invited to Austria after the war 'to make Carinthia more German.'"
Several hundred German aristocrats and many more German farmers and tradesmen moved to Carinthia "that when Germany became Nazi and most of Carinthia became Nazi, too."
Princess Margot is being guarded by six detectives. The police do not want the princess to escape, so the detectives have moved into the castle and "set up eight-hour watches."
The Princess is not permitted to receive visitors "and her mail was strictly censored."
An Associated Press reporter who was permitted to telephone the castle "was told by a woman friend of the Princess that she bore up well but 'went to her room and had a good cry.'" The Princess' friend was not under arrest but was told if she left the castle, she would not be able to return. The AP did not name the friend.
The Princess is the former Margot Groessler, a German commoner. She married Prince Bernhard on April 25, 1931.
The German Legation in Vienna "will not take any steps in the case" until it receives a complete report from consul officials in Klagenfurt.
The Associated Press reports today on the imprisonment of Princess Margot of Saxe-Meiningen because she supports National Socialism. Austria's "fighting five-foot chancellor Dr. Engelbert Dolfuss" ordered the house imprisonment of a German Nazi princess in her "romantic Carinthian castle tonight 'for an indefinite period.'" The Princess's husband, Prince Bernhard of Saxe-Meiningen was sentenced to jail for six weeks.
The Prince and Princess were "declared guilty of a Nazi conspiracy against Austria.
The couple was arrested in Carinthia because the Prince's automobile "carried a Hitlerite flag as he drove through the streets of Klagenfurt." Police also confiscated "many incriminating documents including a letter to Dr. Paul Joseph Goebbels, the German Propaganda Minister."
Princess Margot "would be a prisoner in her own castle and would not be permitted to receive visitors" or be able to communicate with the "outside world."
It was also officially announced that "care will be taken to keep the German Consul away" from visiting the princess.
Police became suspicious when Prince Bernhard, already in custody, asked for permission to telephone his wife. The police overheard the prince instruct his wife to "destroy the documents." The police immediately notified officials at Pitzelstaetten, where the castle is located.
Twelve armed police "rushed to the castle," where Princess Margot was arrested and the house and grounds were searched. The documents were found, and the princess was "questioned extensively at Klagenfurt."
Although the "exact nature of alleged conspiracy was not revealed." the police acknowledged that they found the entire office files for the Nazi headquarters in Klagenfurt.
A "sardonic feature of the whole affair" was that Prince and Princess Bernhard "were only two of the many aristocratic Germans expressly invited to Austria after the war 'to make Carinthia more German.'"
Several hundred German aristocrats and many more German farmers and tradesmen moved to Carinthia "that when Germany became Nazi and most of Carinthia became Nazi, too."
Princess Margot is being guarded by six detectives. The police do not want the princess to escape, so the detectives have moved into the castle and "set up eight-hour watches."
The Princess is not permitted to receive visitors "and her mail was strictly censored."
An Associated Press reporter who was permitted to telephone the castle "was told by a woman friend of the Princess that she bore up well but 'went to her room and had a good cry.'" The Princess' friend was not under arrest but was told if she left the castle, she would not be able to return. The AP did not name the friend.
The Princess is the former Margot Groessler, a German commoner. She married Prince Bernhard on April 25, 1931.
The German Legation in Vienna "will not take any steps in the case" until it receives a complete report from consul officials in Klagenfurt.
No title for Marjorie Gould
October 21, 1909
In an exclusive dispatch published by the Chicago Tribune, American heiress Marjorie Gould declared in a letter to a friend: "An American is good enough for me." She has made it clear that she will not marry a titled European, even though Prince Franz Joseph of Braganza and Prince Alexander Georgevitch Romanovski have made formal appeals to her father for her hand in marriage.
Prince Franz Joseph is the brother of Prince Miguel of Braganza who recently married another American heiress Anita Stewart. Miss Gould is the niece of Anna Gould, who is now the wife of the Prince de Sagan. Her previous marriage to Count Boni de Castellane was an unmitigated disaster. Marjorie is the daughter of George Gould, son of the financier Jay Gould.
Miss Gould has no wish to repeat her aunt's "unhappy experience."
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Margaret dines with Townsend
October 20, 1955
Princess Margaret, 25, dined with Group Captain Peter Townsend tonight at the home of Maj. Mrs. John Lycett Willis on Kinnerton Street in Knightsbridge. Mrs. Willis is the Princess' cousin.
The Princess arrived in a chauffeur-driven limousine at 6:30 p.m. She was accompanied by a detective. Townsend arrived about ten minutes later.
The New York Times reports "as the door opened later to let other guests, in, peals of laughter echoed from inside the small house."
The Daily Telegraph, a pro-royalist newspaper, has severely criticized the Palace for not giving any guidance on Princess Margaret's purported romance with a divorced man. In an editorial entitled "A Damaging Silence," the newspaper noted that the increasing speculation was causing a loss of dignity for the royal family. "The longer any element of mystery is allowed to linger in this affair, the more deplorable the publicity is likely to become."
Princess Margaret, 25, dined with Group Captain Peter Townsend tonight at the home of Maj. Mrs. John Lycett Willis on Kinnerton Street in Knightsbridge. Mrs. Willis is the Princess' cousin.
The Princess arrived in a chauffeur-driven limousine at 6:30 p.m. She was accompanied by a detective. Townsend arrived about ten minutes later.
The New York Times reports "as the door opened later to let other guests, in, peals of laughter echoed from inside the small house."
The Daily Telegraph, a pro-royalist newspaper, has severely criticized the Palace for not giving any guidance on Princess Margaret's purported romance with a divorced man. In an editorial entitled "A Damaging Silence," the newspaper noted that the increasing speculation was causing a loss of dignity for the royal family. "The longer any element of mystery is allowed to linger in this affair, the more deplorable the publicity is likely to become."
Elizabeth's views on divorce stirs controversy
October 20, 1949
Princess Elizabeth, the heiress presumptive to the British throne, stated today that "divorce threatens stability of British family life."
Britain's Marriage Reform Committee has deplored the Princess' comments. "We have observed the statement with regret." The committee's goal is to reform Britain's marriage laws. But the Marriage Guidance Council, which has more than 100 branches throughout the country, welcomed the Princess' comments. The group's general secretary said that the Princess' words, which were made to the Mothers Union, "was very much to the point, and we would like to hear more speakers like her."
The Marriage Reform Committee's statement was also unusual, according to the Associated Press, which noted that "ordinarily the only Britons who criticize members of the royal family are the relatively few antiroyalists or Communists."
In other news, the Labor Government promised "to outlaw slot machines dispensing contraceptives."
Princess Elizabeth, the heiress presumptive to the British throne, stated today that "divorce threatens stability of British family life."
Britain's Marriage Reform Committee has deplored the Princess' comments. "We have observed the statement with regret." The committee's goal is to reform Britain's marriage laws. But the Marriage Guidance Council, which has more than 100 branches throughout the country, welcomed the Princess' comments. The group's general secretary said that the Princess' words, which were made to the Mothers Union, "was very much to the point, and we would like to hear more speakers like her."
The Marriage Reform Committee's statement was also unusual, according to the Associated Press, which noted that "ordinarily the only Britons who criticize members of the royal family are the relatively few antiroyalists or Communists."
In other news, the Labor Government promised "to outlaw slot machines dispensing contraceptives."
Leopold wants to study at an American university
October 20, 1919
Crown Prince Leopold of the Belgians, who is visiting the United States with his parents, King Albert and Queen Elisabeth. The prince, whose official title is the Duke of Brabant, is now is Kansas City, Missouri, where he and his parents will visit different factories.
The prince told a New York Times reporter that he would like to study at an American university. He says he is "eager to win a degree at some great American university which breathes the spirit of democracy." Prince Leopold is "irked by royal etiquette." He said he "was profoundly impressed by Harvard," which the prince visited two weeks ago.
Yesterday, the Duke of Brabant visited a cowboy and Indian show in Albuquerque. He was delighted with the show but expressed one regret: "I wish there had been some lassoing."
Crown Prince Leopold of the Belgians, who is visiting the United States with his parents, King Albert and Queen Elisabeth. The prince, whose official title is the Duke of Brabant, is now is Kansas City, Missouri, where he and his parents will visit different factories.
The prince told a New York Times reporter that he would like to study at an American university. He says he is "eager to win a degree at some great American university which breathes the spirit of democracy." Prince Leopold is "irked by royal etiquette." He said he "was profoundly impressed by Harvard," which the prince visited two weeks ago.
Yesterday, the Duke of Brabant visited a cowboy and Indian show in Albuquerque. He was delighted with the show but expressed one regret: "I wish there had been some lassoing."
Infanta Cristina goes to the opera with her daughter
Infanta Cristina of Spain, who is living in Bethesda, Maryland, as her husband is on assignment for a Spanish telecom company, went to the opera on Saturday. She was accompanied by her children as the Washington National Opera performed a children's version of Verdi's Falstaff. The Infanta and her children sat in Placido Domingo's box. Monday's Reliable Source column included a tidbit and a photo of Cristina and her daughter, Irene.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/reliable-source/2009/10/rs-hey19.html
Although Infanta Cristina wants to be largely anonymous here in the USA, even turning down a dinner with President Obama, she will soon realize that the United States does not have the type of privacy laws that exist in Europe. In other words, she cannot request that a photographer not take photos of her family if the family is outside of the Bethesda home. The lobby of the Kennedy Center is a public space, and photographers were free to snap photos of people attending the opera. In fact, the photo was not taken by the Washington Post, but by the Washington National Opera's house photographer. The Infanta was sitting in a corporate box (owned by Placido Domingo). Thus, she could not prevent the Opera's house photographer from taking photos.
Although there is probably a minimal interest in Cristina, but if someone snaps her buying groceries at the local Giant, there is nothing she can do because she is outside of her house.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/reliable-source/2009/10/rs-hey19.html
Although Infanta Cristina wants to be largely anonymous here in the USA, even turning down a dinner with President Obama, she will soon realize that the United States does not have the type of privacy laws that exist in Europe. In other words, she cannot request that a photographer not take photos of her family if the family is outside of the Bethesda home. The lobby of the Kennedy Center is a public space, and photographers were free to snap photos of people attending the opera. In fact, the photo was not taken by the Washington Post, but by the Washington National Opera's house photographer. The Infanta was sitting in a corporate box (owned by Placido Domingo). Thus, she could not prevent the Opera's house photographer from taking photos.
Although there is probably a minimal interest in Cristina, but if someone snaps her buying groceries at the local Giant, there is nothing she can do because she is outside of her house.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Prince August of Coburg bags his 3000th chamois
October 19, 1899
The Marquis de Fontenoy reports that Prince August of Saxe-Coburg-Kohary, recently shot his 3,000 chamois, "thus maintaining his claim to the position of Europe's Nimrod." He killed his first chamois nearly 30 years ago.
Chamois hunting "is one of the most difficult and even perilous forms of sport." The game can be found only in the most "inaccessible and remote portions of the Austrian, Italian and Swiss Alps. To be a successful chamois hunter "demands not only remarkable certainty of aim but also sureness of foot and great powers of endurance."
Prince August was only 18-years-old when he was married Princess Leopoldina of Brazil, the second daughter of Pedro II, Emperor of Brazil. The couple had four sons, Peter, August, Josef, and Luis, before Leopoldina died at the age of 23 in 1871.
Prince August, who is the second son of Prince August of Saxe-Coburg-Kohary and Princess Clementine of Orleans, is the brother of Prince Ferdinand of Bulgaria and Prince Philipp of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.
Prince August and his first cousin, Gaston, the Count d'Eu, were sent to Brazil as the prospective husbands for Princesses Isabel, heiress to the throne, and Princess Leopoldina. The original plans was for August to marry Isabel, but Isabel and Leopoldina had other ideas. Thus, Isabel chose Prince Gaston, and Leopoldina married August.
August's eldest son, Peter, was the heir presumptive to the Brazilian throne until Isabel, after 15 years of marriage, gave birth to her first child.
Prince Peter is now a patient in a lunatic asylum near Vienna, "inflicted with incurable mania of a homicidal nature." His reason was "already shaken" by events in Rio that led to his grandfather losing his throne, and "the finishing touch was given by an accident which he met with while riding the Prater at Vienna."
Peter's incarceration came after several sensation incidents. He "barricaded himself on the top floor of the great Coburg palace" in Vienna, where he armed himself with revolvers and sporting rifles. He began a shooting siege that ended with several people being wounded by gunfire.
The prince was finally "overpowered by the Fire department, with the assistance of its hose, the entire top floor of the palace being deluged by water." He was incarcerated soon after this final incident.
Peter's younger brother, Prince August Leopold, a Captain in the Austrian navy, is married Archduchess Karoline Marie of Austria, Princess of Tuscany. They have three children, August, Klementine and Maria Karoline. Prince August Leopold and his family live at Pola on the Adriatic.
Prince August has lived in Austria since the fall of the Brazilian throne. He holds the rank of Admiral in the Austria navy, a position comparable to his rank in the former Imperial Brazilian navy.
Emperor Franz Joseph ranks second on the list of chamois hunters. His record stands at 2,300 chamois.
Margaret dines with Archbishop
October 19, 1955
Princess Margaret and other members of the Royal Family dined tonight with the Archbishop of Canterbury at his residence, Lambeth Palace.
The Archbishop is head of the Church of England, which would oppose the princess' marriage to Group Captain Peter Townsend. The Anglican church frowns on the marriage of divorced persons, if their spouses are still living. Townsend's former wife, Rosemary, has since remarried, and the couple's two sons live with her.
Although the primary reason for the dinner was to celebrate the rededication of the palace chapel, which was destroyed by Nazi incendiary bomb on May 10, 1941, it is understood that the topic the princess' future was also discussed.
Queen Elizabeth II and her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, were also present at the dinner.
Queen Elizabeth II is the temporal head of the Church of England. She and her husband, who is opposed to the marriage, drove from Buckingham Palace to the Archbishop's home. Princess Margaret and the Queen Mother arrived from the Houses of Parliament.
A "heavy rain" fell throughout the evening.
Although the Archbishop has not publicly commented on Princess Margaret's romance, he recently stressed in a speech that "religious and moral considerations, and not personal desires should rule the lives of young people."
Princess Margaret, 25, has been linked to the 40-year-old hero of the Battle of Britain, for several years although the news of their romance was largely not reported in Britain.
The group captain recently returned to London from Brussels, where is he serving as an air attache.
Princess Margaret and other members of the Royal Family dined tonight with the Archbishop of Canterbury at his residence, Lambeth Palace.
The Archbishop is head of the Church of England, which would oppose the princess' marriage to Group Captain Peter Townsend. The Anglican church frowns on the marriage of divorced persons, if their spouses are still living. Townsend's former wife, Rosemary, has since remarried, and the couple's two sons live with her.
Although the primary reason for the dinner was to celebrate the rededication of the palace chapel, which was destroyed by Nazi incendiary bomb on May 10, 1941, it is understood that the topic the princess' future was also discussed.
Queen Elizabeth II and her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, were also present at the dinner.
Queen Elizabeth II is the temporal head of the Church of England. She and her husband, who is opposed to the marriage, drove from Buckingham Palace to the Archbishop's home. Princess Margaret and the Queen Mother arrived from the Houses of Parliament.
A "heavy rain" fell throughout the evening.
Although the Archbishop has not publicly commented on Princess Margaret's romance, he recently stressed in a speech that "religious and moral considerations, and not personal desires should rule the lives of young people."
Princess Margaret, 25, has been linked to the 40-year-old hero of the Battle of Britain, for several years although the news of their romance was largely not reported in Britain.
The group captain recently returned to London from Brussels, where is he serving as an air attache.
Duchess of Kent and baby "doing nicely
October 19, 1935
The Duchess of Kent, the wife of King George's fourth son, and her infant son are making good process, according to the final bulletin released today. "Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Kent had made an interrupted recovery. The infant prince is doing well in every way and is steadily gaining weight."
The report was released to the Associated Press and other international news organizations.
The infant prince is the first child of the Duke and Duchess of Kent. He was born on October 9 at his parents' home, 3 Belgrave Square, in London.
The former Princess Marina of Greece and Denmark and the Duke of Kent were in married on November 29, 1934 at Westminster Abbey.
The infant prince's names have not yet been announced.
No further bulletins will be issued.
The Duchess of Kent, the wife of King George's fourth son, and her infant son are making good process, according to the final bulletin released today. "Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Kent had made an interrupted recovery. The infant prince is doing well in every way and is steadily gaining weight."
The report was released to the Associated Press and other international news organizations.
The infant prince is the first child of the Duke and Duchess of Kent. He was born on October 9 at his parents' home, 3 Belgrave Square, in London.
The former Princess Marina of Greece and Denmark and the Duke of Kent were in married on November 29, 1934 at Westminster Abbey.
The infant prince's names have not yet been announced.
No further bulletins will be issued.
Duke of Buccleuch's death affects Alice''s wedding plans
October 19. 1935
All the arrangements for the state wedding between Lady Alice Montagu-Douglas-Scott and the Duke of Gloucester have been canceled due to the death today of Lady Alice's father, the Duke of Buccleuch, reports the Chicago Tribune.
The wedding will still take place on November 6 at Buckingham Palace and will be attended only by members of the British royal family and Lady Alice's relatives. Men will wear morning suits rather than "brilliant uniforms." There are no changes planned for the bridesmaids' arrangements or to the honeymoon.
There will be no procession of troops and "other attendant functions have been canceled."
Lloyd's will "suffer considerable financial losses, as a large amount of 'contingency' insurance was underwritten in connection with the state wedding." The insurance covered those who planned to erect stands along with route, dressmakers, restauranteurs and others who expected an increase in business due to the wedding.
All the arrangements for the state wedding between Lady Alice Montagu-Douglas-Scott and the Duke of Gloucester have been canceled due to the death today of Lady Alice's father, the Duke of Buccleuch, reports the Chicago Tribune.
The wedding will still take place on November 6 at Buckingham Palace and will be attended only by members of the British royal family and Lady Alice's relatives. Men will wear morning suits rather than "brilliant uniforms." There are no changes planned for the bridesmaids' arrangements or to the honeymoon.
There will be no procession of troops and "other attendant functions have been canceled."
Lloyd's will "suffer considerable financial losses, as a large amount of 'contingency' insurance was underwritten in connection with the state wedding." The insurance covered those who planned to erect stands along with route, dressmakers, restauranteurs and others who expected an increase in business due to the wedding.
Zita to settle in Belgium
October 20, 1929
The former Empress Zita of Austria arrived in Brussels today from Spain, according to the New York Times. She will make Belgium her permament home, and will use the name Duchess of Bar. She and her children will live at Steenokerzeele Castle, which is owned by the Marquis de Croix. Her eldest son, Archduke Otto, is studying philosophy at Louvain university, where he is known as the Duke of Bar
The former Empress Zita of Austria arrived in Brussels today from Spain, according to the New York Times. She will make Belgium her permament home, and will use the name Duchess of Bar. She and her children will live at Steenokerzeele Castle, which is owned by the Marquis de Croix. Her eldest son, Archduke Otto, is studying philosophy at Louvain university, where he is known as the Duke of Bar
Umberto and Marie Jose's engagement: official
October 19, 1929
It was "authoritatively announced tonight" that the engagement of Crown Prince Umberto of Italy and Princess Marie-José will be announced next Thursday," according to the Associated Press.
The date is the anniversary of King Victor Emanuel and Queen Elena's marriage in 1896.
It was "authoritatively announced tonight" that the engagement of Crown Prince Umberto of Italy and Princess Marie-José will be announced next Thursday," according to the Associated Press.
The date is the anniversary of King Victor Emanuel and Queen Elena's marriage in 1896.
Duke of Connaught as king of Hungary
October 19, 1919
The Interallied Commission, which is located in Budapest, "recently received delegates from the Monarchical Party," according to the New York Times, which based its report on dispatches from Hungary. Representatives from the party are demanding the right to elect a Hungarian monarch. Members of the party are no advocating for the selection from the Habsburg dynasty, and the "would not oppose selection of an English prince, particularly the Duke of Connaught."
Hungarian newspapers report, however, that the Duke's candidacy "has not be confirmed in official circles."
The Duke of Connaught, who was born in May 1850, is the only surviving son of the late Queen Victoria. He is married to Princess Louise Margaret of Prussia, and they have three grown children: Margaret, who is the wife of the Crown Prince of Sweden, Arthur, who is married to Princess Alexandra, Duchess of Fife, and Patricia, who renounced her royal title in February, when she married Captain the Hon. Alexander Ramsay of Mar. Patricia is now styled as The Lady Patricia Ramsay.
Should the Duke succeed in becoming elected as king of Hungary, his son would become the Crown Prince. Prince and Princess Arthur are the parents of a five-year-old son, Alistair, the earl of Macduff.
The Interallied Commission, which is located in Budapest, "recently received delegates from the Monarchical Party," according to the New York Times, which based its report on dispatches from Hungary. Representatives from the party are demanding the right to elect a Hungarian monarch. Members of the party are no advocating for the selection from the Habsburg dynasty, and the "would not oppose selection of an English prince, particularly the Duke of Connaught."
Hungarian newspapers report, however, that the Duke's candidacy "has not be confirmed in official circles."
The Duke of Connaught, who was born in May 1850, is the only surviving son of the late Queen Victoria. He is married to Princess Louise Margaret of Prussia, and they have three grown children: Margaret, who is the wife of the Crown Prince of Sweden, Arthur, who is married to Princess Alexandra, Duchess of Fife, and Patricia, who renounced her royal title in February, when she married Captain the Hon. Alexander Ramsay of Mar. Patricia is now styled as The Lady Patricia Ramsay.
Should the Duke succeed in becoming elected as king of Hungary, his son would become the Crown Prince. Prince and Princess Arthur are the parents of a five-year-old son, Alistair, the earl of Macduff.
An open letter to the Saxon king
October 19, 1907
The King of Saxony has recently receive unique advice from a subject in the form of an open letter published in a Dresden newspaper, according to the New York Times.
The man, who signed the latter as "an humble man, but an ardent patriot," begs King Friedrich August "to desert Catholicism and join the Lutheran Church so he can remarry."
The letter reads: "The woman whom your Majesty honored with his love and name has now become the wife of another. Does not that let down all the bars which have hitherto bound you? Your entire country sighs for a national mother. It dearly wishes a mother.
"If the Pope will not confirm the divorce which the civil courts have granted, stand by your country, and make the people whom you lead and who are devotedly loyal to you, the supreme sacrifice of joining the State to the Evangelical Lutheran Church. Then nothing will stand in the way of your giving us again a mother of our country.
"It is a remarkable and notorious fact that despite her idiosyncrasies, the ex-Crown Princess continues to be idolized by large sections of the Saxon people, who would even forgive all and have her joyfully as Queen."
The former Crown Princess Luise, who is now styled as Countess Montignoso, recently married her lover, the Italian singer Toselli. The couple were married in a civil ceremony in London
The King of Saxony has recently receive unique advice from a subject in the form of an open letter published in a Dresden newspaper, according to the New York Times.
The man, who signed the latter as "an humble man, but an ardent patriot," begs King Friedrich August "to desert Catholicism and join the Lutheran Church so he can remarry."
The letter reads: "The woman whom your Majesty honored with his love and name has now become the wife of another. Does not that let down all the bars which have hitherto bound you? Your entire country sighs for a national mother. It dearly wishes a mother.
"If the Pope will not confirm the divorce which the civil courts have granted, stand by your country, and make the people whom you lead and who are devotedly loyal to you, the supreme sacrifice of joining the State to the Evangelical Lutheran Church. Then nothing will stand in the way of your giving us again a mother of our country.
"It is a remarkable and notorious fact that despite her idiosyncrasies, the ex-Crown Princess continues to be idolized by large sections of the Saxon people, who would even forgive all and have her joyfully as Queen."
The former Crown Princess Luise, who is now styled as Countess Montignoso, recently married her lover, the Italian singer Toselli. The couple were married in a civil ceremony in London
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Death of the Princess of Löwenstein-Wertheim-Freudenberg
The Princess of Löwenstein-Wertheim-Freudenberg died on October 15, 2009 at her home, Schloss Kreuzwertheim, at Kreuzwertheim-am-Main. She was 87 years old. The Princess, who was born Ruth-Erika von Buggenhagen, married Alfred-Ernst, the Hereditary Prince of Löwenstein-Wertheim-Freudenberg in 1950. (In 1980, Alfred-Ernst succeeded his father as the 7th Prince.)
She was born on June 15, 1922 at Schloss Buggenhagen, the family seat. Ruth-Erika was the daughter of Hans-Detlef von Buggenhagen and Baroness Ruth von Rosenberg. Buggenhagen is located on the Baltic coast in East Pomerania in Mecklenburg.
Ruth grew up at Schloss Buggenhagen with her family. She had a happy childhood, and she looked forward to studying medicine. But when her only brother was killed in 1941, Ruth-Erika's plans for a career in medicine were shelved and she had to devote herself to agriculture, and running the estate. After the war, Mecklenburg became one of the states in the German Democratic Republic. Ruth-Erika and her family were expelled from their home, and forced to flee to West Germany.
Ruth-Erika and her family settled in Amorbach in 1947. It was in Amorbach, where she was introduced to her her future husband.
The Prince and Princess were the parents of five children: Hereditary Prince Ludwig (1951), Princess Ameli (1953), Princess Dorothea (1955); Prince Udo (1957) and Princess Ruth (1959), who followed her mother's dreams by becoming a medical doctor.
Despite raising a large family, the Princess was active in many local and social organizations. She served from 1972 through 1996 as a member of the CSU, sitting on the municipal council. In fact, she was the first woman to sit on the local council. She also spent 18 years on the board of Evangelical Church (Lutheran), and she also served on several other Lutheran boards, including the Deaconesses of Rankenstein.
The Princess' funeral will be on October 23 at 2 p.m. at the Evangelical church in Wertheim. She will be buried in the family cemetery at Kreuzwertheim.
Friday, October 16, 2009
de Braganca - Stolberg-Stolberg wedding
HRH Princess Isabel de Orleans-Braganca and Count Alexander zu Stolberg-Stolberg were married today in Rio de Janeiro. The nuptial mass took place at the Imperial Church of Nossa Senhora da Glória do Outeiro. A reception followed the Paco Imperial.
Several members of the former Brazilian imperial family have married at this church, including the bride's parents.
Princess Isabel is not a Brazilian dynast. Her father, Prince Fernando renounced for himself and his descendants the rights to the Brazilian throne in 1975 when he married a Brazilian commoner, Maria de Grace Baere de Araujo.
The non-dynasts are entitled to the HRH and title of Prince or Princess. Dynastic members are styled as HI & RH. At this time, there are only six members of the family who are entitled to the HI & RH: Dom Luis Gastao, who is the head of the house; his brothers, Dom Bertrand and Dom Antonio and Dom Antonio's three surviving children: Amelia, Rafael and Maria Gabriela. The eventual head of the house is Dom Antonio, who is married to Princess Christine de Ligne. Neither Luis nor Bertrand are married.)
The newlyweds are expected to settle in Brussels, where Count Alexander is a director at Fontana Investments. Count Alexander is the eldest son of Count Josef Emanuel zu Stolberg-Stolberg and his Belgian wife, Jacqueline de Florin Duikinberg. Count Alexander is a director at Fontanta Investments in Brussels.
The princess had made a very good match as she is the first non-dynast descendant of Dom Pedro Henrique to have married a European noble. This marriage, however, will not change Isabel's status due to her father's renouncement when he married Isabel's mother.
Several members of the former Brazilian imperial family have married at this church, including the bride's parents.
Princess Isabel is not a Brazilian dynast. Her father, Prince Fernando renounced for himself and his descendants the rights to the Brazilian throne in 1975 when he married a Brazilian commoner, Maria de Grace Baere de Araujo.
The non-dynasts are entitled to the HRH and title of Prince or Princess. Dynastic members are styled as HI & RH. At this time, there are only six members of the family who are entitled to the HI & RH: Dom Luis Gastao, who is the head of the house; his brothers, Dom Bertrand and Dom Antonio and Dom Antonio's three surviving children: Amelia, Rafael and Maria Gabriela. The eventual head of the house is Dom Antonio, who is married to Princess Christine de Ligne. Neither Luis nor Bertrand are married.)
The newlyweds are expected to settle in Brussels, where Count Alexander is a director at Fontana Investments. Count Alexander is the eldest son of Count Josef Emanuel zu Stolberg-Stolberg and his Belgian wife, Jacqueline de Florin Duikinberg. Count Alexander is a director at Fontanta Investments in Brussels.
The princess had made a very good match as she is the first non-dynast descendant of Dom Pedro Henrique to have married a European noble. This marriage, however, will not change Isabel's status due to her father's renouncement when he married Isabel's mother.
Duchess of Albany's duties
October 16, 1895
The New York Times reports on an article about the Duchess of Albany in London's Daily News. The Duchess of Albany's "knowledge of London and its environments will soon be much superior to that possessed by most residents of the metropolis." The Duchess, who is the widow of the late Duke of Albany -- Queen Victoria's youngest son -- "goes everywhere." The former Princess Helene of Waldeck und Pyrmont has gone "hop picking in Kent, distributing prizes in Hoxton, presiding at health classes in the West End."
On a recent day she was inspecting the machinery at the Tower Bridge, and the next day, the duchess was witnessing "the antics of the Somalis at the Crystal Palace."
Yesterday, the Duchess of Albany, and her two children, Princess Alice, and the young Duke of Albany, went to the Royal Albert Docks.
The royal party went on board the Bismarck, which is owned by the Victoria Steamboat Association. They also visited the P&0 steamer, the Caledonia, and lunch was served onboard the British India steamer Golconda. Her Royal Highness "expressed her highly pleased with the visit."
Princess Aage dead at 64
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| Marlene A. Eilers Koenig Collection |
October 16, 1949
United Press is reporting that Princess Aage of Denmark died tonight at her home at the Yellow Palace in Copenhagen. She was 64 years old.
The Princess was the widow of Prince Aage of Denmark, who was a cousin of King Christian X and a nephew of Queen Alexandra. He fell in love with Countess Mathilde Calvi di Bergolo, who was the daughter of Italy's minister to Denmark. Because the countess was not of royal blood, Prince Aage lost his right to the Danish throne after their marriage in 1914. He was given the title Count of Rosenborg, but he and his wife were styled as Prince and Princess Aage.
Prince Aage, who spent many years serving in the French Foreign Legion, died in 1940. He and his wife had no children.
The princess' brother, Count Giorgio Calvi di Bergolo, was married in 1923 to Princess Yolanda of Italy.
Another royal engagement: Astrid and Olav
October 16, 1925
There is a great deal of interest among the European courts and diplomatic circles concerning a rumor about an impending marriage between Princess Astrid of Sweden and Crown Prince Olav of Norway, according to dispatches received by the Los Angeles Times,
Princess Astrid, who is the younger daughter of Prince and Princess Carl of Sweden, "is one of the most charming members of European royalty."
No official announcement has been made.
There is a great deal of interest among the European courts and diplomatic circles concerning a rumor about an impending marriage between Princess Astrid of Sweden and Crown Prince Olav of Norway, according to dispatches received by the Los Angeles Times,
Princess Astrid, who is the younger daughter of Prince and Princess Carl of Sweden, "is one of the most charming members of European royalty."
No official announcement has been made.
Crown Prince Wilhelm in disgrace
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| Marlene A Eilers Koenig Collection |
The Crown Prince of Germany has been "relieved from court and military duties and it set to work in the Ministry of the Interior and it sitting on a stool from 9 o'clock in the morning until 6 in the evening," reports the Los Angeles Times. He will occupy this stool for a year "in order to familiarize himself with the practical details of government."
But is the stool also a former of pertinence for Crown Prince Wilhelm, whose wife, Cecilie, gave birth to a son several months ago. Has the Crown Prince "again incurred the displeasure of his royal father," and this assignment is a "long delayed measure of discipline."
Crown Prince Wilhelm, it appears, likes American girls. The Kaiser was so fearful of the "American girl peril" that a planned trip to the States by the Crown Prince was shelved.
When the Crown Prince was on a trip to England, he gave "an imperial heirloom, a ring" to Miss Gladys Deacon, "presumably as an accompaniment to the less tangible gift of his affections."
The Prince has also had a "lovely romance" with the American opera singer Geraldine Farrar. Gladys' relationship with the Crown Prince "seemed to have annoyed her father as much as it did the Kaiser."
Another romance with an American girl occurred in Russia when a certain Miss Wakefield, who was visiting the American embassy, "seemed to be more attractive than the Russian Grand Duchesses in the eyes of Germany's future rulers.
The Kaiser hoped that the Prince's marriage to Duchess Cecilie of Mecklenburg-Schwerin and the birth of a son would end young Wilhelm's behavior. Recent rumors "of a court scandal, a club, a 'round table' of which the Prince was a member," were brought to the Kaiser's attention.
This latest "scandal has stirred Germany and the entire continent aroused the Kaiser's deepest ire."
The stool is "the Kaiser's idea of discipline for this latest misstep."
Crown Princess Cecilie "has the deepest sympathy in this hour of her husband's disgrace."
[Geraldine Farrar was the daughter of Sid Farrar, an infielder who played with the Philadelphia Phillies and the Philadelphia Athletics from 1883 through 1890. My grandfather was Geraldine's chauffeur when she performed in New York City.)
Previously unseen portrait of Victoria: I do not think so
The Telegraph has a story today about a previously unseen Winterhalter painting of a young Queen Victoria, painted in 1843.
This portrait, I believe, has been published in several books, and may have been a jacket cover as well. In fact, the Winterhalter portrait has been seen numerous times.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/theroyalfamily/6344037/Queen-Victoria-the-secret-picture.html
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Yes, that was the queen at the theatre
Brings a real smile ...
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/article6876142.ece
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/article6876142.ece
Prince Rupprecht reported slain
October 15, 1939
The American news agency, United Press, is reporting "a widespread belief" that the former Crown Prince Rupprecht "was mysteriously killed in the first days of the Polish campaign." It is "widely believed" that the prince was killed by Adolf Hitler's special guards.
The UP report is based on an Agence France radio dispatch from Ljubljana, Yugoslavia.
Agence radio "asserts repeatedly that the 70-year-old Prince has met the same fate as Col. Gen. Baron Werner von Fritsch, former commander-in-chief of Germany army. The German high command reports that von Fritsch was killed in action before September 22. There are rumors that von Fritsch was slain by Hitler's guards.
Crown Prince Rupprecht, is the head of the former ruling house of Bavaria. He is the eldest son of the late King Ludwig III and Queen Maria Theresa. The Prince is married to Princess Antonia of Luxembourg, by whom he has six children. His heir, Prince Albrecht, is the only surviving child of his first marriage to Duchess Marie Gabrielle in Bavaria.
Victoria of Prussia sells possessions at auction
October 15, 1929
It "is another gloomy chapter in the ill-starred love affairs" of Princess Victoria of Prussia, sister of the former Kaiser Wilhelm II that ended today with the auction of the Princess' possessions, "comprising a stately array of Hohenzollern heirlooms."
More than 500 persons, mostly "prominent art dealers and collectors" from Europe and the United States gathered in the palace garage for an auction as "Frau Subkoff was unable to meet her creditors her belongings were being auctioned off."
A true royal garage sale.
Due to the lack of racks, many of the guests placed their hats on the busts of Hohenzollerns, "chiefly the ex-Kaiser."
There were no representatives from Doorn or from the British royal house, although some of the gifts were from Queen Victoria, who was the princess' grandmother.
Unfortunately for the auctioneer, the auction "caused keen disappointment, especially for the creditors, on account of the ridiculously lowly prices offered."
The only lively bidding was for pieces "bearing the Hohenzollern coat of arms.
The most valuable object was a Japanese silver tea service, which was bought by a Cologne dealer for 7000 marks. The tea service was presented to Empress Friedrich (the Princess Royal) by her father-in-law, Wilhelm I, on the occasion of her silver wedding anniversary.
The auction brought in a mere 60,000 marks ($14,000), a "trifling sum" as Princess Victoria's debts total more than 750,000 marks ($180,000.) She now lives in "comparative poverty" in a two-room apartment at Mehlem, near Bonn. Her much younger husband, Alexander Zubkoff, a Russian emigre, was recently expelled from Germany and has been arrested in Luxembourg.
Duke Joachim marries moving picture actress
"With much of the pomp of former Imperial days," Duke Joachim Ernst of Anhalt was married today, according to the Associated Press. His bride, however, is not noble. The Duke married Edda Charlotte von Stephani, a "former moving-picture actress and former wife of the Duke's attorney."
The religious wedding "was solemnized in the residential palace in the presence of all the princes and princesses of the ducal house of Anhalt and Schwarzburg. The new Duchess wore a "gown of gold brocade."
Duke Joachim, who visited the United States in 1925, was previously wed to Elisabeth Strickrodt, daughter of a theatre director. The marriage ended earlier this year in divorce.
Marie's indignation over Ileana's marriage rumors
October 15, 1929
Queen Marie of Roumania is indignant over published reports that Princess Ileana eloped with a young naval lieutenant. She issued the following statement tonight to the Associated Press and other news organizations:
"I am pained and indignant that it is possible for any one to spread such idiotic and calumnious tales. Since King Ferdinand's death Ileana has never left my side. We are constant companions and we cannot do without each other. Ileana's earnest sense of duty and love for me are a guarantee that she will always be the pride of her country and the royal family,"
The palace has been inundated with questions about Ileana's elopement since the stories first appeared in American and European newspapers. Palace officials and Queen Marie have said the stories are completely false. Princess Ileana has not run off to marry anyone.
Queen Marie of Roumania is indignant over published reports that Princess Ileana eloped with a young naval lieutenant. She issued the following statement tonight to the Associated Press and other news organizations:
"I am pained and indignant that it is possible for any one to spread such idiotic and calumnious tales. Since King Ferdinand's death Ileana has never left my side. We are constant companions and we cannot do without each other. Ileana's earnest sense of duty and love for me are a guarantee that she will always be the pride of her country and the royal family,"
The palace has been inundated with questions about Ileana's elopement since the stories first appeared in American and European newspapers. Palace officials and Queen Marie have said the stories are completely false. Princess Ileana has not run off to marry anyone.
Undies "bomb" scare for Madeleine
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/sweden/6335376/Swedens-Princess-Madeleine-has-NY-underwear-bomb-scare.html
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Paul and Kate Brandram
Congratulations to Paul and Kate Brandram, who were united in marriage on September 19 at St James's Church, Walton d'Eivile, Warwickshire.
Paul Brandram is the son of the late Princess Katherine of Greece and and the late Richard Brandram. His previous marriage to Jennifer Steele was dissolved by divorce.
His three children, Sophie, Alexia and Captain Nicholas Brandram, were present for the marriage. Kate's son, Henry Warhurst, was also present.
Paul Brandram, who works in the City, maintains a good relationship with some of his Greek cousins. King Constantine was his best man at his first wedding, but the King and Queen of the Hellenes were unable to attend his second wedding as they were in Greece.
He was baptised on May 31, 1948 at St. Michael's, Chester Square. Paul's godparents were the King of the Hellenes (Mr. Percy John Hampden Dunn stood proxy), the Queen of Rumania (Princess Eugenie stood proxy), the Duchess of Kent, the Duchess of Aosta (from whom Countess Toerring stood proxy), the Duke of Edinburgh (for whom Major R.D. Dixon-Frith stood proxy), Major P.A. Unlacke (4th Queen's Own Hussars), Captain H.H. Cruddas (Royal Horse Artillery) and Mrs. P.J.H. Dunn. (Percy Dunn was Richard Brandram's brother-in-law. He married Joyce Maud Brandram in 1936.)
Paul Brandram is the son of the late Princess Katherine of Greece and and the late Richard Brandram. His previous marriage to Jennifer Steele was dissolved by divorce.
His three children, Sophie, Alexia and Captain Nicholas Brandram, were present for the marriage. Kate's son, Henry Warhurst, was also present.
Paul Brandram, who works in the City, maintains a good relationship with some of his Greek cousins. King Constantine was his best man at his first wedding, but the King and Queen of the Hellenes were unable to attend his second wedding as they were in Greece.
He was baptised on May 31, 1948 at St. Michael's, Chester Square. Paul's godparents were the King of the Hellenes (Mr. Percy John Hampden Dunn stood proxy), the Queen of Rumania (Princess Eugenie stood proxy), the Duchess of Kent, the Duchess of Aosta (from whom Countess Toerring stood proxy), the Duke of Edinburgh (for whom Major R.D. Dixon-Frith stood proxy), Major P.A. Unlacke (4th Queen's Own Hussars), Captain H.H. Cruddas (Royal Horse Artillery) and Mrs. P.J.H. Dunn. (Percy Dunn was Richard Brandram's brother-in-law. He married Joyce Maud Brandram in 1936.)
Threats against Grand Duke Alexander
October 14, 1929
A police guard was placed outside the suite of Grand Duke Alexander of Russia at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Boston. The Grand Duke has received a telephone threat against his life, and detectives are endeavoring to trace the phone call.
The threat was reported by a maid at the home of Mrs. Curtis Guild, whose late husband was served as Ambassador to Russia. Mrs. Guild is one of the sponsors of a lecture tomorrow night by the Grand Duke. The Grand Duke's lecture will benefit a folk handicraft guild.
The maid reported to the police that a man called the Guild home and "I'm going to kill the Grand Duke."
This is Grand Duke Alexander's second visit to Boston as a paid lecturer.
A police guard was placed outside the suite of Grand Duke Alexander of Russia at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Boston. The Grand Duke has received a telephone threat against his life, and detectives are endeavoring to trace the phone call.
The threat was reported by a maid at the home of Mrs. Curtis Guild, whose late husband was served as Ambassador to Russia. Mrs. Guild is one of the sponsors of a lecture tomorrow night by the Grand Duke. The Grand Duke's lecture will benefit a folk handicraft guild.
The maid reported to the police that a man called the Guild home and "I'm going to kill the Grand Duke."
This is Grand Duke Alexander's second visit to Boston as a paid lecturer.
No alcohol for gay honeymooners
October 14, 1925
By wireless to the New York Times:
The newly married Prince Philipp of Hesse and Princess Mafalda of Italy are now in Berlin, where "they are leading a gay life during their honeymoon." They are abstaining from "all wines and alcoholic liquors and sticking strictly to water."
The couple have attended numerous shows, dancing parties and "other forms of amusement," in Berlin. They go alone, and have refused all invitations from German royalty, "preferring to use the days in shopping and sightseeing and in the evenings at amusement places, where they are gay but dry."
By wireless to the New York Times:
The newly married Prince Philipp of Hesse and Princess Mafalda of Italy are now in Berlin, where "they are leading a gay life during their honeymoon." They are abstaining from "all wines and alcoholic liquors and sticking strictly to water."
The couple have attended numerous shows, dancing parties and "other forms of amusement," in Berlin. They go alone, and have refused all invitations from German royalty, "preferring to use the days in shopping and sightseeing and in the evenings at amusement places, where they are gay but dry."
Archduke Ludwig Salvator dead at 68
German newspapers are reporting the death of Archduke Ludwig Salvator of Austria, who was "known chiefly as an explorer and scientist." The archduke, who was 68 years old, died at Brandeis Castle on the Elbe.
He was an honorary member of the Imperial Academy of Sciences and the Academy of Sciences in Bohemia.
Archduke Ludwig Salvator, who was unmarried, was the 12th of 13 children of Grand Duke Leopold II of Tuscany.
Prince Joachim to marry
October 14, 1915
Berlin newspapers report today the engagement of Kaiser Wilhelm II's youngest son, Prince Joachim, 25, to Princess Marie Auguste of Anhalt, who turned seventeen in June. The news was relayed to Amsterdam via London by the American Press association.
Berlin newspapers report today the engagement of Kaiser Wilhelm II's youngest son, Prince Joachim, 25, to Princess Marie Auguste of Anhalt, who turned seventeen in June. The news was relayed to Amsterdam via London by the American Press association.
Forged will: family charges!
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| Maria Leopoldina and her sons, Aloys and Max |
The Marquise de Fontenoy reports today on a court case in Munich, where "two beautiful Countess, each of them under 80 years old," are contesting the will of their grandmother, Archduchess Maria Leopoldina of Austria, who was the wife of the last Elector of Bavaria.
Maria Leopoldina died on June 23, 1848 at the age of 71.
(The Marquise notes that this marriage was "negotiated by an American hailing from England," Benjamin Rumford, who "entered the Bavarian service at the close of the American war of independence. Rumford became a principal advisor to the Elector and was made a count. He was also knighted in England, and was a founder of the Royal Society.)
The Elector was 71 years old when he married the Archduchess. There were no children from the marriage, and after his death, Maria Leopoldina married her "principal chamberlain and gentleman-in-waiting, Count Ludwig von Arco."
The couple had two sons, Count Aloys and Count Max.
The archduchess' "enormous fortune" was divided equally between her two sons "with the proviso that in the event of one of her sons dying without male issue two-thirds of his inheritance should go to the children of his brother."
Count Aloys' first marriage to Irene Pallaviccini was childless. After his wife's death, he married a commoner, Pauline Oswald. They had one daughter, Countess Sophie von Arco, who in 1890 married Count Ernst von Moy, who holds a position with the Port of Munich.
Before Count Aloys died, he "made an agreement with his younger brother, Max, according to which the former agreed both for himself and for his daughter to pay over a sum of a million marks at his death to Count Max's youngest son, Maximilian," who was the chief male descendant of the archduchess.
Count Aloys died in 1891.
Countess Sophie paid over one million marks to her cousin, Maximilian. The lawsuit came about when Maximilian's first cousin, Countess Mathilde von Arco, was the only child of Maximilian's older brother, Karl.
Mathilde, who is unmarried, has brought suit against Countess von Moy, "declaring she had no business to pay a million marks" to her cousin, Maximilian. Mathilde's lawsuit charges that the money should have come to her, and "she has succeeded in accumulating a quantity of evidence tending to show that the clause in the Archduchess' will" regarding the two-thirds inheritance was a forgery.
Count Max's eldest son, the late Count Ludwig inherited his father's portion of the archduchess' estate.