Secretive Facts About Maud Of Wales, The Veiled Queen
Some are born to rule—others go kicking and screaming. For Maud of Wales, there is little in-between. Known as being a bit of a “reluctant royal," she had a unique relationship with the throne, preferring to lead an independent lifestyle.
Most importantly, a shroud of mystery seemed to surround Maude, transforming her into an object of fascination.
1. She Had A Massive Royal Family
Maud Charlotte Mary Victoria of Wales was born on November 26, 1869, in London, England. Her parents were King Edward VII and Alexandra of Denmark. What's more? Her grandmother was none other than the illustrious Queen Victoria.
Given all of these incredible ties, one might assume that she was prim and proper from the start, but nothing was further from the truth.
2. She Felt Smothered
Maud’s mother became heavily involved in raising all of the children. She preferred to be hands-on when it came to playtime with them, and she did not rely on her staff to discipline or care for the children even though it was typical for royals to do exactly that. But there may have been a heartbreaking reason for this.
Some say that her mother, Princess Alexandra, invested so much into family life out of sadness. Her husband's many affairs took a heavy toll on her. That said, Maud and her siblings had little breathing room.
3. She Lost Her Brother
Maud’s brother, Alexander, sadly passed away as an infant—and the consequences were startling. Homelife understandably got darker, and the family began to increasingly lean on some of their older and more regal relatives.
In spite of their roots, Maud’s own parents had a reputation for being a carefree and relaxed couple. Therefore, her sudden connection to these more “refined” elders caused some friction.
4. She Hated Palace Life
After the loss of Alexander, Maud and her siblings often shifted back and forth between England and Denmark, as they had royal ties in both places.
While staying at Buckingham Palace, Maud developed a very strong discomfort with the uptightness of the whole environment.
This may have been foreshadowing at its finest because of course, Maud had many more experiences with the royals ahead.