Anne Dundas, Viscountess Melville facts for kids
Anne Dundas, Viscountess Melville (died September 10, 1841), was an important lady in British history. She was born Anne Saunders (or Huck-Saunders). Anne was married to Robert Dundas, 2nd Viscount Melville. She also worked for Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, who was the wife of King George III of the United Kingdom. Anne was a Lady of the Bedchamber to the Queen from 1813 until the Queen passed away in 1818. This meant she was a close helper and friend to the Queen.
Who Was Anne Dundas?
Anne was one of two daughters of Dr Richard Huck-Saunders. Her mother was Jane Kinsey. Anne had a famous great-uncle, Admiral Sir Charles Saunders, who was a high-ranking officer in the navy. Her older sister, Jane, became a countess. This means Jane married a count and received a noble title. Their family received a large inheritance, or money and property, from their great-uncle. This money was later passed down to Anne and her sister.
Anne's Marriage and Family
Anne Saunders married Robert Dundas on August 29, 1796. At that time, he was a Member of Parliament (MP). An MP is someone elected to represent people in the government. In 1811, Robert inherited the title of Viscount. This made him the 2nd Viscount Melville. When he became a Viscount, Anne became a Viscountess. A Viscount is a noble title, ranking below an Earl but above a Baron.
Anne and Robert had six children together. Some of their notable children included:
- Henry Dundas, 3rd Viscount Melville (1801-1876): He was the oldest son and inherited his father's title. He never married.
- Vice-Admiral Hon. Sir Richard Saunders Dundas (1802-1861): He was a high-ranking naval officer. He also never married.
- Robert Dundas, 4th Viscount Melville (1803-1886): He married Mary Hamilton. They did not have any children.
- Reverend Hon. Charles Dundas (1806-1883): He married Louisa Maria Boothby. They had seven children. Two of their sons later became Viscounts: Robert Dundas, 5th Viscount Melville and Charles Saunders Dundas, 6th Viscount Melville.
Later Life and Legacy
Anne Dundas, Viscountess Melville, passed away on September 10, 1841. She died at Melville Castle in Scotland. Her husband, Robert Dundas, lived longer than she did. Anne's life shows the connections between important families and the royal court in 19th-century Britain.
