On this day 11 March

[7eat51]

As Monty Python would say, “And now for something completely different …” On the 11 of March 1787, Horatio Nelson wed Frances “Fanny” Nisbet on the island of Nevis. The two had met a couple of years earlier, and though engaged by the summer of 1785, were unable to marry until they secured familial blessings and sufficient finances. Unfortunately, by the end of 1800, their marriage had dissolved as Nelson transferred his affections to another woman - Emma, Lady Hamilton.

Horatio Nelson:
2361

Frances “Fanny” Nisbet:
2362

Emma, Lady Hamilton:
2363


For more information on today's event:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horatio_Nelson,_1st_Viscount_Nelson
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frances_Nisbet
http://www.rmg.co.uk/explore/sea-and-ships/facts/explorers-and-leaders/horatio-nelson
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emma,_Lady_Hamilton

[Berthier]

Unfortunately, by the end of 1800, their marriage had dissolved as Nelson transferred his affections to another woman - Emma, Lady Hamilton.

Whose attractions are all too easy to see compared to the somewhat dour Fanny in these portraits.

[Sea Gull]

I'm hoping Fanny's portrait was done AFTER the marriage broke down. Otherwise we have to ask if Nelson had eye trouble a lot earlier in life. :eek: It's no wonder he spent so long at sea.

[csadn]

"Good luck, Captain -- you're about to go where *everyone* has gone before."

[Sea Gull]

"Good luck, Captain -- you're about to go where *everyone* has gone before."

good job I wasn't having a drink when I read that! :)

[csadn]

good job I wasn't having a drink when I read that! :)

It's an accurate description of Emma Hamilton (I *REFUSE* to attach the title "Lady" to that overglorified whore).

Also: I've seen some other paintings of Frances Nisbet; the one selected for the OP is Not Flattering.

[7eat51]

And I wondered if this thread would have garnered any posts due to the topic. :D