On 21st March 1871, Princess Louise married John Campbell at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor. The marriage marked a significant chapter in British royal history. While the union appeared to uphold the traditions of the monarchy, it also reflected Louise’s independent and modern spirit. Known for her beauty and elegance, Louise was a favoured daughter of Queen Victoria, often considered one of the most beautiful princesses in Europe.
Princess Louise's Engagement
The process of selecting a husband for Louise was not without its challenges. After rumours of Louise’s liberalism, feminism, and alleged affairs spread, Queen Victoria determined it was time to secure a match for her daughter. Several princes were considered, but Louise was resistant to marrying royalty. Among the candidates were the Crown Prince of Denmark, Prince Albert of Prussia, and Prince William of Orange—all ultimately deemed unsuitable for various reasons. The queen eventually turned to British nobility, and John Campbell, Marquess of Lorne, emerged as a potential suitor, though initially met with opposition from Louise’s brother, Prince Albert Edward. Despite the controversies, Queen Victoria supported the match, believing that John would bring "new blood" into the royal family and that the union would bring peace and happiness.
On October 3rd, 1870, while on a walk near Balmoral, John proposed to Louise by the scenic Dhu Loch. Queen Victoria, who adored her daughter, described the moment in her diary:
"A glorious evening with the same wonderful sky & light. — Louise had gone with Janie, E., the Lord Chancellor, & Ld Lorne to Loch Muich & the Glassalt. They returned sometime after I got home, & Louise came to speak to me & tell me, that while walking up to the Dhu Loch, Ld. Lorne had told her of his feelings for her & had in fact proposed to her, & Knowing that I would approve & like him, she had accepted him. I embraced her & gave her my blessing.”
They were married five months later in a grand ceremony. Louise was escorted to the chapel by her mother and two eldest brothers, Prince Albert Edward and Prince Alfred, with eight bridesmaids in attendance.
Princess Louise's Life After the Wedding
In 1878, John Campbell was appointed Governor General of Canada, and Louise accompanied him to their new life abroad. However, her time in Canada was not without difficulties, and their marriage grew strained, exacerbated by John’s homosexuality, which hindered physical affection between them. Despite these challenges, they remained devoted to each other. After returning to England, they were provided apartments at Kensington Palace by Queen Victoria. Following Queen Victoria’s death in 1901, the couple spent much of their time apart, with Louise residing at Kent House on the Isle of Wight and frequently visiting Scotland.
Tragedy struck in 1914 when John passed away. Despite their challenges, their relationship had grown closer in John’s final years, and his death marked the end of an important era for Louise.
Their romantic engagement by the loch became a treasured memory for those close to the royal couple. Queen Victoria even gave gifts to those close to Louise.
Princess Louise's Commemorative Brooch at Auction
One such gift is a brooch offered for sale in our September Fine Jewellery auction. It bears the inscription: “DHU-LOCH 3rd October 1870 FROM VR” (Victoria Regina).
Believed to be a gift from Queen Victoria, to commemorate her daughter Princess Louise's engagement to John Campbell, Marquess of Lorne. The inscription on the reverse refers to the date and location where the couple became engaged, Dhu Loch on 3rd Oct 1870. The granite used in the brooch is thought to refer to the Scottish home of the Royal Family, Balmoral. Not only does this brooch commemorate their engagement, it stands as a testament to both their love and Queen Victoria’s approval of the match.
A bracelet to commemorate the same occasion, also featuring granite, was given to Jane Hope, the Marchioness of Ely who was, at the time, Princess Louise's chaperone. Aberdeen Archives, Gallery & Museums (AAGM) REF: ABDAG011428.
Fine Jewellery | Thursday 26th September 2024
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Tuesday 17th September 12:00-19:00
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