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Louisa Fairbrother ('Mrs FitzGeorge')
(1816-1890), Actress; wife of Prince George, 2nd Duke of CambridgeSitter in 4 portraits
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Mrs Tracy Barker
12 January 2017, 23:39
One of Dr. Henry Earle's daughters married a publisher of the name of Farebrother. They had a very remarkable daughter, Louisa Sarah by name. She was highly intelligent and talented, but rather in advance of her times. Coming from a line of such distinguished royal physicians it was no wonder when she decided to make medicine her career. But, whether it was due to the belief that the medical profession was in that day, unsuitable for a lady, or not, she abruptly changed her mind and went on the stage. Although this brought grief and consternation to her parents, her outstanding talent and beauty caused an immediate sensation. It was at once recognised that Louisa Farebrother was someone special and all society flocked to see her. Among the nobility nightly attending the theatre where she was appearing was His Royal Highness The Duke of Cambridge, first cousin to Queen Victoria. He ardently courted her and after twelve months they were married at St Johns Church, Marylebone, London. Queen Victoria, as was expected, was disdainfully shocked and refused to acknowledge the marriage. Consequently Louisa could not be accepted as the Duchess of Cambridge and was known as Mrs. FitzGeorge. Mrs. FitzGeorge was of gentle birth, highly educated and possessed a gracious and charming personality. She proved for fifty long years a devoted wife and mother. The Queen finally agreed to meet with Mrs FitzGeorge due to the general public and the whole of society including her son the Prince of Wales had accepted her as being no less than Royalty's equal. It certainly says a great deal for Louisa's charm and breeding to record that the prejudiced old Queen was completely won over and the subsequent meetings were frequent.