She would grow up to be a rebellious and independent princess who left a strong legacy behind but did this royal Louise also have an intriguing secret?

Princess Louise, the sixth child of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, was born on 18 March 1848 at Buckingham Palace.

Princess Louise was an intelligent and quick-witted child; it was not long before she was also recognised for her artistic talents. She was allowed to study at the National Art Training School (which would later become the Royal College of Art). 

Louise specifically focused on sculpture, and although it was more than unconventional for a royal to be a working artist, she created several notable pieces. 

In 1887, her design based on Sir George Hayter’s coronation portrait of Victoria was chosen for a contest honouring the monarch’s Jubilee. Louise’s Portland stone sculpture still sits outside of Kensington Palace, Victoria’s childhood home. 

Princess Louise was also a rebel in her relationships. She married John Campbell, Marquess of Lorne in 1871, the first royal marriage to a British subject since 1515. 

Lorne was chosen to be Governor General of Canada in 1878, and Louise went with him as the vice-regal consort. Although her time in Canada was cut short due to a sledding accident, Louise’s name is found across Canada. The province of Alberta is named for her middle name, and the picturesque Lake Louise represents her, as well.