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The Duke Once Knew Unlikely Duchesses: A Journey Through the Lives of Three Extraordinary Women

Jean Blair

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Published in The Duke I Once Knew: Unlikely Duchesses

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In the opulent world of 18th-century England, the title of duchess was reserved for women of the highest birth and privilege. Yet, against all odds, a trio of remarkable women managed to break through societal barriers and ascend to the ranks of the aristocracy.

The Duke I Once Knew: Unlikely Duchesses

by Olivia Drake

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Sarah Cadogan, Elizabeth Chudleigh, and Anne Damer each came from unlikely backgrounds. Cadogan was a humble seamstress, Chudleigh a scandalous royal mistress, and Damer an illegitimate daughter of a royal duke. But through a combination of ambition, wit, and sheer determination, they all managed to secure marriages to wealthy and powerful men, thereby earning the coveted title of duchess.

Sarah Cadogan: The Seamstress Duchess

Born into poverty in London in 1714, Sarah Cadogan's life took an unexpected turn when she caught the eye of William Cadogan, the 2nd Earl Cadogan. Despite her humble origins, Cadogan was renowned for her beauty and intelligence, and the Earl was instantly smitten.

In 1735, Cadogan and the Earl were secretly married. To avoid scandal, the marriage was kept secret for several years, but eventually, it was revealed to the public. Despite the uproar caused by her marriage to a man of such high rank, Cadogan proved to be a gracious and capable duchess.

Cadogan used her influence to support charitable causes and the arts, and she became known as a patron of literature and music. She also played a role in her husband's political career, advising him on matters of government and diplomacy.

Elizabeth Chudleigh: The Scandalous Duchess

Elizabeth Chudleigh was born in 1720 to a wealthy family. She was a renowned beauty and wit, and she quickly became a fixture in London society. In 1744, she married the Duke of Kingston, but the marriage was soon annulled due to Chudleigh's bigamy.

Undeterred, Chudleigh went on to have a series of affairs with powerful men, including King George III. She was also a vocal supporter of the American Revolution, and she even traveled to France to meet with Benjamin Franklin.

In 1777, Chudleigh was finally declared the Duchess of Kingston by a Scottish court. However, her triumph was short-lived. In 1788, she was convicted of bigamy and sentenced to life in prison. She died in exile in France in 1794.

Anne Damer: The Illegitimate Duchess

Anne Seymour Damer was born in 1749 to John Seymour, the 4th Duke of Somerset, and his mistress, Mary Anne Bonnell. As an illegitimate child, Damer was denied the privileges enjoyed by legitimate children of the aristocracy.

Despite her humble beginnings, Damer was a talented sculptor and artist. She studied with the renowned sculptor Joseph Nollekens, and her work was highly acclaimed by critics. In 1793, she became the first woman to be elected to the Royal Academy of Arts.

In 1802, Damer married Lord Henry Frederick Carteret, the 2nd Baron Carteret. The marriage was childless, but Damer found happiness in her marriage and her work. She continued to sculpt until her death in 1828.

The stories of Sarah Cadogan, Elizabeth Chudleigh, and Anne Damer are a testament to the power of ambition, wit, and determination. These three women overcame social barriers and personal challenges to achieve their dreams of becoming duchesses. Their lives offer a glimpse into the hidden world of 18th-century England, and they continue to inspire women today.

The Duke I Once Knew: Unlikely Duchesses

by Olivia Drake

4.3 out of 5