Anna, Lady Miller facts for kids
Anna, Lady Miller (born Anna Riggs; 1741 – 24 June 1781) was a talented English writer and a popular host of special gatherings called "salons." She was known for her poetry, travel stories, and for bringing people together to share their creative ideas.
Anna Miller's Life Story
Anna was the daughter of Edward Riggs. Her family was quite wealthy. Her grandfather, also named Edward Riggs, was an important person in Ireland's government. Anna inherited a lot of his money. Her father worked for the government in London.
In 1765, Anna married John Miller. His family was not as rich as hers. John had been a soldier in a big war called the Seven Years' War. Anna brought a lot of money to their marriage. John then took her family name, Riggs, before his own. They spent a lot of money building a fancy house and garden near Bath.
Because they spent so much, they decided to save money by moving to France. They also took a trip to Italy to see old historical sites. In 1776, Anna's interesting letters about her travels were published. They were quite popular.
In 1778, John Miller became a baronet, which is a special title. This meant Anna became Lady Miller. She then started a special club at her home that met every two weeks. People would come together to share their creative writing.
Lady Miller had bought an old vase in Italy. This vase was placed on a special stand. Each guest was asked to put an original poem or story into the vase. A small group would then choose the best three writings. Lady Miller would then crown the winners with wreaths made of myrtle leaves. This tradition continued until Lady Miller passed away. The vase was later bought and placed in a public park. This writing club became very famous and was often talked about.
Some of the writings from these meetings were published in a book in 1775. It sold out very quickly! More books of the poems were published in 1776, 1777, and 1781. The money made from selling these books was given to charity. Many famous writers contributed to these books.
Lady Miller passed away on 24 June 1781. She was buried in a church in Bath. A special monument with a poem written by her friend, Anna Seward, was put up for her. Lady Miller had two children, a son and a daughter.
Her Family After Her
Sir John Riggs Miller, Anna's husband, inherited her wealth. He later remarried. He also served in parliament for a while. He was known in London for being a person who loved to share news and gossip. He passed away suddenly in 1798. His son from his marriage to Anna, John Edward Augustus Miller, inherited his title.
See Also
- Salon (gathering)
