I recently watched a fascinating documentary about Queen Alexandra, Edward VII's wife. Beyond knowing the basics, I previously knew almost nothing about her. The Danish royal’s story makes an interesting comparison with Diana's.
Living in Alexandra Park, I thought folk might be interested to know just a little more about this interesting woman.
This Channel 5 programme examines the-today-under-appreciated Queen Alexandra, who was the longest-serving Princess of Wales and reigned as Queen Consort for nine years until her husband’s passing in 1910.
Her popularity often eclipsed that of the king and in this film, royal experts lift the lid on how many present-day duties were inspired by Alexandra's work of more than a century ago.
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The story of the popular Princess Alexandra of Denmark - after whom were named Alexandra Park and Palace - is indeed very relevant to the troubles of the Royals today, as you say, Hugh! Thanks for introducing us this documentary, which I have now watched. To add to what you say:
She grew up more or less as a commoner – her father was an army officer, only distantly related to the Danish King. But following his death, and as a consequence of the politicking of several European powers, her father was chosen to be next in line to the throne. She and her siblings instantly became very eligible to marry into the royal families of Europe and Russia.
She married the heir to the British throne, Prince Albert (later Edward VII), a few months before Alexandra Park was opened. There was continual friction between her and her mother-in-law Queen Victoria. Danish royalty were much more informal than the British court, and the Queen disapproved of her high-spiritedness and love of socialising. She was also annoyed that Alexandra (and her husband) supported Denmark when it was invaded by Prussia, which annexed 2/5 of it! You are supposed to switch allegiances when you marry into British royalty ...
Alexandra was very much more popular with the general public than either her husband or mother-in-law. This was partly her informal style and visible concern when visiting the sick (not sure if British royalty had done this before, though gentlewomen obviously did). Intriguingly, the film tells us that she once flung her leg over a hospital patient’s bed …She was also involved in many other charitable activities, such as her efforts to raise funds for a hospital ship to bring back the wounded from the Boer War. She also had considerable influence over fashion – society ladies even copying her limp (which was a consequence of complications after the birth of her third child)!
Well, there are some points of interest gleaned from the film - with the politics added from Wikipedia. Follow the link above to view it!
Sorry, I put the wrong link! Now corrected.
Thanks very much, Hugh! She sounds a fascinating person - looking forward to seeing the programme.