Princess Alice marries Prince Ludwig of Hesse at Osborne House

Background. Alice's matrimonial plans were begun in 1860 by her mother, who instructed her daughter Victoria, recently married to Prince Frederick William of Prussia, to produce a list of eligible princes in Europe. Princess Victoria suggested Prince Louis of Hesse, a minor German royal and nephew of the Grand Duke of Hesse. Louis visited Windsor Castle in 1860, ostensibly for the Ascot Races but in reality so the Queen could inspect her potential son-in-law. Alice became engaged on 30 April 1861, following the Queen's consent. Prince Albert died on 14 December 1861, leaving the court in mourning. Osborne House, purchased in 1844, served as the family holiday home where the wedding took place.

Ceremony. The wedding occurred on 1 July 1862 in the dining room of Osborne House, converted into a temporary chapel. Alice was given away by her uncle, Ernest II, Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Four bridesmaids flanked her: Princesses Helena, Louise, and Beatrice, along with Louis's sister, Princess Anna. The event was private, reflecting the ongoing mourning for Prince Albert.

Participants. Princess Alice, the third child of Queen Victoria, married Prince Louis of Hesse. Louis was the nephew of the Grand Duke of Hesse. Alice's uncle, Ernest II, gave her away. Her sisters Helena, Louise, and Beatrice, and Louis's sister Anna, served as bridesmaids. Queen Victoria consented to the engagement in 1861.