Anne Vane facts for kids
Anne Vane was a lady who lived a long time ago, from 1710 to 1736. People sometimes called her "the Hon. Mrs. Vane." She worked for Caroline of Ansbach, who was the Princess of Wales. Anne also had a special relationship with Caroline's son, Frederick, Prince of Wales.
Her Life Story
Anne Vane was the first daughter of Gilbert Vane, who was the second Baron Barnard. Her brother was Henry Vane, 1st Earl of Darlington, a well-known politician. Anne became a maid of honour to Caroline of Ansbach, who later became Queen Caroline when her husband, George II, became king in 1727.
In 1728, Frederick, Queen Caroline's son, came to England. He became the Prince of Wales in 1729. Prince Frederick and Anne Vane became very close. Anne even hosted his guests at her home in Soho Square.
Anne had a son named Cornwell Fitz-Frederick Vane. The name "Fitz-Frederick" meant "child of Frederick." Many people believed that Prince Frederick was the father of her son.
Around 1732, stories and books were written about Anne Vane. One book was called The Secret History of the Beautiful Vanella. These stories often talked about her life and her relationships.
In 1734, Anne and Prince Frederick were still together. However, in 1735, Prince Frederick became engaged to marry Augusta of Saxe-Gotha. There was a plan to send Anne away, but she managed to stay in England. She also kept her yearly payment of £1600.
In 1735, Anne moved to Bath. Her second child passed away in London on February 26, 1736. Anne herself died in Bath a few weeks later, on March 27, 1736.
What She Left Behind
There is a famous picture of Anne Vane made by John Faber Jr., based on a painting by John Vanderbank. Some people believe that Anne was the model for the character of Anne Boleyn in a painting by William Hogarth from 1729.
The famous writer Dr. Johnson mentioned Anne Vane in his poem The Vanity of Human Wishes. He wrote, "Yet Vane could tell what ills from beauty spring." This line suggests that even beauty can bring difficulties and sadness.
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