200 Years Later……. a Woman of Substance is remembered in Weybridge, Surrey
On August 6th 2020 the Weybridge Society remembered The Duchess of York – Frederica Charlotte Ulrica Catherine – a Prussian princess (1767-1820). She was a well loved royal and benefactor who died 200 years ago aged just 53 years. The York Column on Monument Green was erected by the citizens so saddened by her death in 1820, in recognition of the kindness and generosity she displayed to the town and its young people during her life at Oatlands House. Dr Ben Spencer MP, local dignitaries, historians and members of the Society met to remember her works and toast her life beside the column.
Several Weybridge Soroptimists, including two who live in properties overlooking the very column, joined the locals in a toast to a much loved royal and laid flowers at her resting place.
She is also recognised inside St James’ church where a beautiful memorial statue resides; it was her last wish to be buried in the parish church where you will find her tomb, encrusted with coronets befitting a British royal, a Duchess.
For information on the Weybridge Society contact social@weybridgesociety.org.uk
To chat about the impact Soroptimists make worldwide get in touch via our web page at https://sigbi.org/weybridge/about-our-club/
