Anna Pavlovna was truly an exemplorary representative of the Romanov Family and of royalty in general. Born the daughter of Tsar Paul I, she ws the apple of the eye of her mother Maria Feodorovna (born Princess Sophia Dorothea Augusta Louisa of Wurttemberg). As a member of a very large family, she shared a special closeness with her mother and her younger brothers, Nicholas and Michael. Together, the three youngest children called themselves the Triopathy.
Once requested for marriage to Napolean (his proposal rejected by the Tsar), Alexander I found William, the Prince of Orange and heir to the throne of the Netherlands, to be a more appropriate suitor for his youngest sister. The marriage took place in Russia on February 2, 1816. Leaving her homeland proved to be very difficult to Anna.
Having taught herself the language of her newly adopted land, Anna, who kept her Russian title above her new title of Princess of Orange, threw herself into the role of wife.of the Prince of Orange and subsequently the mother of the heir and their family.
Throughout her life in her transplanted homeland, Her Imperial Highness Grand Duchess Anna Pavlovna, Princess of Orange, was in constant contact with relations and family amilyin Russia. She was at all times informed and aware of the goings on with her brothers and their famlies and through exhaustive letter writing kept them informed of her life, husband, and the "little Orange grove" as Konstantine affectionately referred to his niece and nephews.
Her letters, allowing you to view her through her own words, show the selfless ruler who was always thinking of her family, her relations, both her countries and to the well-being of those loyal to her and hers. Her affections were everflowing and her kindness showed no limitations--often sacrificing personal wealth and possession to assist and promote others.
Long live the Queen! |
