Historic images that tell of love stories from days gone by
WORDS: CLAIRE SAUL
Seventh Heaven
The baronets of Calke Abbey in Derbyshire have had many passions through the centuries, including horse racing, agriculture and the natural world – the property’s rooms teem with specimens of insects and butterflies, shells, eggs, stuffed birds and animals.
Despite his own areas of intellectual interest, the 7th baronet Sir Henry Crewe became famous for an altogether different type of love. Known as the “isolated baronet”, Henry was described by one of his tutors as having a “morbid taste for solitude”, to the extent that instructions to his servants were delivered by letter.
There was one notable exception, however – a lady’s companion called Anne “Nanny” Hawkins. Henry’s mother described him as being “in love violently” with her, also calling the couple’s relationship an “unfortunate connection”. It defied social convention – Nanny was well beneath him in station – and caused something of a stir amongst polite society.
Nanny lived in a separate house on the estate and, despite the arrival of their daughter, did not move into the house until after their marriage the following year, in 1792. Their happy union went on to produce eight further children.
nationaltrust.org.uk/calke-abbey
Precious Pet
Hollywood darling Audrey Hepburn brought her dogs everywhere she was able, helping to fuel the trend for dogs as constant companions and even as chic fashion accessories.
Yet they were far more than a fashion statement to the iconic actress. In Melissa Hellstern’s book How To Be Lovely: The Audrey Hepburn Way Of Life, the star is quoted as saying, “I walk my dogs to keep me fit. I talk to my dogs, which keeps me sane. I can’t think of anything that makes one happier than to cuddle and play and start the day with a warm puppy.”
Audrey was photographed with poodles, a boxer and Jack Russell terriers Missy, Tuppy, Penny, Piceri and Jackie. She had Yorkshire terriers, too. Her most well-known was Mr Famous, who accompanied her around the world. He graced magazine covers and even had a cameo in Funny Face (1957). She often rode her bicycle with Mr Famous in the basket.
Physical Attraction
