The Intimate Marriage of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

Updated On: January 23, 2024 by   Noha Basiouny

In a time of shifting tides and industrial revolution, a young lady ascended the throne: Queen Victoria. Her reign, destined to be the second longest in British history, would be painted with vibrant strokes of progress and power, but at its heart, it would forever be intertwined with another remarkable figure—Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha.

Unlike most arranged unions of the era, Victoria and Albert’s marriage became a beacon of domesticity and intellectual companionship, redefining the public image of the monarchy. Yet, their path to wedded bliss was not paved with diamonds and roses. Tradition clashed with modern sensibilities, family pressures lurked beneath gilded surfaces, and the weight of an empire threatened to cast its shadow over their burgeoning love.

In the previous story, we explored Queen Victoria’s tangled lineage, lonely childhood, and unexpected ascension to the throne at a young age. Today, we are going to tell the captivating story of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s marriage, which blossomed amidst the pomp and circumstance of a royal wedding and weathered the storms of loss and societal expectations, a union that not only reshaped a crown but forever altered the fabric of British history.

Marriage

Upon becoming Queen, Victoria asserted her independence, dismissing Conroy, her mother’s confidante, and distancing herself from her by sending her to a remote flat in Buckingham Palace. Victoria also restricted their meetings and correspondence, leading to isolation and bitterness on the Duchess’s part.

On the other hand, Victoria started to show a growing interest in her first cousin, Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha and his fine education, which would pretty much be suitable for the position of the Queen’s husband.

Prince Albert was the son of Ernest I, Duke of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld, and his first wife, Louise of Saxe-Gotha-Altenburg. Is the name familiar? Yes! Ernest I was Victoria’s mother’s brother, and therefore Victoria and Albert were first cousins.

Lucky for Victoria, Albert felt the same affection for her. Yet, the royal tradition at the time dictated that a reigning monarch, even a young one like Victoria, could not be proposed to. So, in a bold and somewhat unconventional move, Queen Victoria took it upon herself to propose to Albert on 15 October 1839, just five days after his arrival at Windsor Castle for his second visit.

Victoria’s diary entries from that day reveal her nervousness and joy at his acceptance:

“I can no longer call Albert by his name of a friend—dear, dearest Albert! Oh! This morning I felt that I could call him ‘husband’… He was in such good spirits and talked and laughed, and was altogether so charming that I really could hardly contain myself.”

News of Victoria and Albert’s engagement was formally announced to the Privy Council on 23 November 1839.

The preparations for the royal wedding were nothing short of spectacular, and the ceremony, which took place on 10 February 1840, was meticulously planned to reflect the majesty of the occasion. While the anticipation hung in the air, young Queen Victoria, then 20 years old, was preparing to start what would redefine both her personal life and her role as Queen.

That day, the halls of the Chapel Royal at St. James’s Palace bore witness to the young couple exchanging vows in a lavish ceremony. The spectacle of their wedding captured the public’s imagination, and the event set the stage for a partnership that would transcend traditional royal conventions.

Queen Victoria bucked tradition and chose to wear a white wedding dress, a decision that would set a new trend for generations to come—interestingly, Duchess Anne of Brittany was the first to wear a white dress at her wedding, yet, it was not until Queen Victoria did the same that it became a tradition still followed to date.

The gown, crafted from silk satin and adorned with Honiton lace, became an iconic symbol of purity and elegance.

The dress, along with the entire royal wedding, captured the hearts of the public, and the celebrations extended beyond the palace walls. Commemorative items, including plates, cups, and even fashion styles, bore images of the newlyweds, solidifying their place as beloved figures.

Queen Victoria’s royal wedding not only marked the beginning of a new chapter in her personal life but also set the stage for a reign that would define an era. The lavish ceremony, the unconventional wedding dress, and the enduring love that blossomed between Victoria and Albert all contributed to a moment in history that will remain carved in the collective memory of the British people.

Albert’s Influence

Prince Albert’s influence on Queen Victoria and the British monarchy was profound and far-reaching, leaving an indelible mark on the course of history. His impact extended beyond the traditional role of a royal consort, as Albert actively engaged in matters of state, culture, and societal progress. Here are some key aspects of Albert’s influence:

Albert was a man of intellect and progressive ideals. His influence on Queen Victoria went beyond matters of the heart, as he became her confidant and a valued advisor. Together, they formed an intellectual partnership that significantly shaped the policies and decisions of the monarchy.

Albert was a strong advocate for educational reforms. He played a critical role in establishing institutions such as the Royal Commission on the Operation of the Poor Laws and the Prince Consort’s Library. His commitment to education aimed to improve the intellectual and moral standards of society.

The Victorian era is often associated with a cultural renaissance, and Albert played a central role in fostering artistic and intellectual pursuits. He supported various cultural initiatives, including the planning and organisation of the Great Exhibition of 1851, which highlighted the innovations and technological advancements of the time.

It did not stop there. Albert was deeply concerned about social issues and actively engaged in philanthropy. He supported various charitable causes, including the promotion of public health and the improvement of housing conditions for the less fortunate. His involvement in social reform initiatives had a lasting impact on Victorian society.

Albert’s influence also extended to the domestic sphere. He championed family values and embraced a role as a devoted husband and father. The image of a loving and harmonious family became a symbol of the Victorian ideal, reinforcing a sense of stability and moral rectitude.

While the role of a royal consort traditionally avoided direct involvement in politics, Albert broke with convention. He provided advice to Queen Victoria on matters of state, becoming a trusted political adviser. His influence was evident in various political decisions, and he worked to align the monarchy with liberal and constitutional principles.

Albert’s untimely death in 1861 deeply affected Queen Victoria, who mourned him for the rest of her life. In his memory, she spearheaded various initiatives, including the creation of the Albert Memorial in London and the establishment of the Victoria and Albert Museum, dedicated to art and design.

Children

The royal couple’s marriage was blessed with nine children, securing a direct line of heirs for the British monarchy. Their family life, though not without challenges, showcased the warmth and stability of a home founded on mutual respect and affection.

Queen Victoria’s nine children were a diverse and fascinating bunch, each a unique puzzle piece contributing to the grand portrait of Victorian England. Born in rapid succession over 17 years, they navigated a childhood defined by both privilege and strictures, their lives forever linked to the Crown yet charting their own individual courses.

Here is a list of Queen Victoria’s children:

1. Victoria, Princess Royal (1840-1901)

Victoria was the eldest child of the royal couple, who became the heir to the throne only until her brother Albert Edward was born. Victoria received a strict and rigorous education under the supervision of her parents, focusing on languages, history, and the arts. She was known for her intelligence and strong personality and went on to play a significant role in European royal history.

At the age of 17, Victoria married German Emperor Frederick III, becoming the German Empress and Queen of Prussia. They had eight children together, the eldest of whom was Wilhelm II, who later became King of Prussia.

Victoria, Princess Royal lived through dynamic times, witnessing the transformation of Europe and the challenges leading up to World War I. Her descendants further intertwined with European royalty, leaving an enduring impact on the continent’s political landscape. Victoria died in early August 1901, a few months after her mother, the Queen, passed away.

2. Albert Edward, Prince of Wales (1841-1910)

The second child Queen Victoria had was Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, who became later known as King Edward VII. Once born in 1841, Edward became the heir apparent to the throne.

Albert Edward was known for his affable personality and social charm, which earned him the nickname “Bertie.” Despite facing scrutiny during his youth for his indulgent lifestyle, Edward matured into a respected figure. His reign, which began in 1901 after the Queen’s death, marked the end of the Victorian Era and the transition to the Edwardian Era.

Edward VII played a crucial role in diplomatic relations and sought to mend European alliances, contributing to a period of relative stability before the outbreak of World War I. 

3. Alice, Princess of Hesse (1843-1878)

Two years after Albery Edward was born, the Queen gave birth to her third child, Alice.

Alice led a life marked by both personal tragedy and enduring resilience. In 1862, she married Louis IV, Grand Duke of Hesse, embracing her role as Grand Duchess of Hesse. Alice was known for her philanthropy and dedication to nursing, influenced in part by her experiences during the Franco-Prussian War.

Tragically, her life was marred by the loss of two of her daughters, Marie and Alice, to diphtheria within weeks of each other in late 1878. This is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can lead to severe respiratory difficulties. Just two weeks after their death, Alice herself died of diphtheria.

The family was devastated by the rapid succession of these tragic losses. Alice’s death deeply affected her husband, Louis IV and her surviving children. The outbreak of diphtheria in the family highlighted the vulnerability to infectious diseases during that era, as medical understanding and preventive measures were not as advanced as they are today.

4. Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh and of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha (1844-1900)

The fourth child and second son of the Queen and Prince Albert was Alfred, who was made both the Duke of Edinburgh and of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Prince Alfred led a multifaceted life that combined military service and royal responsibilities. He became the first member of the British royal family to enter the Royal Navy and rose to the rank of Admiral.

Alfred married Grand Duchess Maria Alexandrovna of Russia, strengthening ties between the British and Russian royal families. Tragically, his life was cut short when he was assassinated in 1900 during a visit to Australia by a mentally disturbed man.

5. Helena, Princess Christian of Schleswig-Holstein (1846-1923)

Helena, Princess Christian of Schleswig-Holstein, was the third daughter and fifth child of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, whose life was characterised by devotion to family and public service.

In 1866, Helena married German Prince Christian of Schleswig-Holstein, and she became known as Princess Christian. Helena was actively involved in charitable work and supported various causes, including nursing and the welfare of servicemen. Her husband’s military career led them to reside in various locations across Europe, fostering a cosmopolitan perspective.

Princess Christian’s family-oriented nature was evident in her close relationships with her siblings, and her home in Cumberland Lodge became a centre for family gatherings. Despite facing personal losses, including the death of her son in World War I, Helena remained resilient and continued her philanthropic efforts. She died in 1923.

6. Louise, Duchess of Argyll (1848-1939)

Louise, Duchess of Argyll, was the sixth child who carved her own path as a talented artist, writer, and supporter of women’s rights. She was renowned for her artistic abilities, exhibited sculptures at the Royal Academy, and became a patron of the arts.

In 1871, Louise married John Campbell, 9th Duke of Argyll. Their marriage faced challenges, and after a period of separation, she and the Duke reconciled.

Louise’s intellectual pursuits extended to literature, as she authored several books and was an advocate for women’s education. Her vivacious and independent spirit set her apart within the royal family, and her contributions to culture and progressive causes left a lasting legacy. After her husband’s death, Louise lived a more private life, and she passed away in 1939, having made notable contributions to both the arts and societal progress.

7. Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn (1850-1942)

Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn, the seventh child, was commissioned into the British Army. He served in various regiments and achieved the rank of Field Marshal. He also served as the Governor-General of Canada from 1911 to 1916, where he gained popularity for his affable nature and commitment to public engagements.

Known for his sense of duty, Arthur’s military and administrative roles showcased his dedication to the British Empire. His marriage to Princess Louise Margaret of Prussia resulted in three children.

Despite facing challenges during World War I, Arthur remained active in public life until his retirement. His long and varied service to the Crown, spanning military and diplomatic roles, contributed to the royal family’s commitment to public service during a period of significant change. Arthur passed away in 1942, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service to the British monarchy.

8. Leopold, Duke of Albany (1853-1884)

Leopold, Duke of Albany, was the second to last child and youngest son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Leopold received a private education and showed intellectual promise. He became Duke of Albany upon his marriage to Princess Helena of Waldeck and Pyrmont in 1882.

However, he faced the challenges associated with haemophilia, a genetic disorder inherited through Queen Victoria’s lineage. This condition made him prone to bleeding episodes, and he faced numerous health complications throughout his life. Tragically, he passed away at the age of 30 due to a cerebral haemorrhage, leaving his wife and two young children.

9. Beatrice, Princess Henry of Battenberg (1857-1944)

Beatrice, Princess Henry of Battenberg, the youngest child of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, lived a life marked by both familial duty and personal pursuits. Beatrice’s role as the youngest and only unmarried daughter led her to remain close to her mother, Queen Victoria, who relied on her for companionship and support. Beatrice had a keen interest in editing and compiling her mother’s journals and correspondence.

Despite her initial reluctance to marry due to her commitment to Queen Victoria, Beatrice eventually married Prince Henry of Battenberg in 1885, and their union produced three sons and a daughter.

After her husband’s death in 1896, Beatrice continued to play an active role within the royal family, raising her children and contributing to charitable causes. Her long life spanned significant historical events, and her efforts in preserving and organising Queen Victoria’s papers contributed to the understanding of this pivotal period in British history. Beatrice passed away in 1944, marking the end of an era within the royal family.

The marriage of Victoria and Albert, marked by love, intellectual camaraderie, and shared responsibilities, became a symbol of enduring romance that transcended the ceremonial trappings of monarchy. Their union left an enduring legacy, influencing not only the British monarchy but also shaping the cultural and societal landscape of the 19th century.