Born: 1891 (East Sheen Lodge, Richmond)
Died: 1959
Biography:
Princess Alexandra, 2nd Duchess of Fife, RRC, GCStJ (17 May 1891 – 26 February 1959), born Lady Alexandra Duff and known as Princess Arthur of Connaught after her marriage, was a prominent member of the British royal family. As the eldest surviving grandchild of King Edward VII and the first cousin of George VI, Princess Alexandra played a significant role in the royal lineage during the early 20th century.
Alexandra’s father was Alexander Duff, 1st Duke of Fife, who became Duke on his marriage to Princess Louise of Wales in 1889. Princess Louise became the Duchess of Fife and Alexandra’s mother, holding the title of head of many Scottish Feudal Baronies, including MacDuff. Alexandra was born on 17 May 1891 at East Sheen Lodge, Richmond.
After the birth of Alexandra’s younger sister Maud in 1893, no more children were born to Alexandra’s parents. As a result, the dukedom and marquessate of Fife faced extinction since only a male heir could inherit those titles. To address this situation, Queen Victoria granted Alexander Duff a second dukedom of Fife and the earldom of Macduff in 1900. These titles were stipulated to jointly pass to Alexandra and her sister in order of seniority, and then to their agnatic male descendants in the same order.
Following her father’s death in 1912, Alexandra eventually inherited the Dukedom of Fife. However, as a female-line granddaughter of the British monarch, she was not entitled to the title of Princess or the style of Her Royal Highness. Instead, she was styled Lady Alexandra Duff, as the daughter of a duke. Despite being fifth in the line of succession to the British throne, Alexandra and her sister were unique among British princesses as they were descended from both William IV and Queen Victoria.
On 9 November 1905, King Edward VII honored Alexandra by declaring her the Princess Royal. This bestowed upon her the prestigious title and further elevated her standing within the royal family. She was baptised at the Chapel Royal, St James’s Palace on 29 June 1891, with Queen Victoria and the Prince and Princess of Wales serving as her godparents.
Throughout her life, Princess Alexandra actively participated in various royal engagements and charitable endeavors. She dedicated her time to causes such as public health, education, and veterans’ welfare. Alexandra also served as an honorary commandant for the British Red Cross Voluntary Aid Detachments during World War I, displaying her dedication to assisting those in need during times of crisis.
In 1913, Princess Alexandra married Prince Arthur of Connaught, the only son of Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn. This union earned her the title of Princess Arthur of Connaught. The couple had three children: Alastair, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn; Lady Alexandra, later Princess Alexandra, 2nd Duchess of Fife; and Lady Maud, later Countess of Southesk.
Princess Alexandra, 2nd Duchess of Fife, made significant contributions to society through her patronage of numerous charitable organizations. She left a lasting impact on women’s history, using her position to advocate for women’s rights and empowerment. Her life and accomplishments continue to inspire individuals around the world, solidifying her place as an influential figure within the British royal family.
Awards:
– Royal Red Cross (RRC)
– Dame Grand Cross of the Order of St. John (GCStJ)