Royal History: The Duchess of Cambridge's estate

Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel,  Duchess of Cambridge. Image: FlickR 

June 10, 1889 - The New World revealed that the estate of the late Duchess of Cambridge was estimated at around 220,000 pounds. She left 17,500 each to her grandchildren, the daughter and son of the Duke and Duchess of Teck. She also bequeathed them her savings, estimated at 50,000 pounds. Meanwhile, her collection of china and miniatures are bequeathed to Gloucester House, while her younger daughter, Princess Mary, received her carriages and wine. To her son in law, she left 5,000 pounds, "which has greatly helped to assuage his ruined feelings about the funeral arrangements." The residue of her estate is to be divided equally between her two daughters, Princess Mary and Princess Augusta, Grand Duchess of Mecklenburg-Strelitz. The sisters are also charged of paying certain bequests, although the Grand Duchess herself has volunteered to do so. However, the advances made by the Duke and Duchess of Teck are to be charged against their share of inheritance.


The Duchess also left Lady Geraldine Somerset and a certain Signor Tosti each with a 300-pound annual pension. Minor bequests are also provided to a number of individuals. It is believed that the Duke and Duchess of Connaught will occupy her apartments in St. James' Palace, while her son, the Duke of Cambridge will take Kew Cottage.

The Duchess of Cambridge was born Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel on July 25, 1797. In 1818, she married Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge, youngest son of King George III.