In an intriguing twist of ancestry, a therapist from Minnesota, Angela Webb-Milinkovich, has been suggested by a historian to possibly be a descendant of a secret love affair involving Queen Victoria. This proposition, presented by British historian Fern Riddell, points to a scandalous connection between the queen and her devoted manservant, John Brown.
Webb-Milinkovich, now in her 40s, has not been accustomed to royal connections but is open to taking a DNA test to clarify her lineage. She expressed her thoughts on the matter, stating, “I feel pretty confident that there’s some legitimacy to the theory, but it’s not something I myself would ever be able to confirm.”
The story she grew up hearing paints a picture of a romantic relationship between Queen Victoria and John Brown, especially after the queen lost her husband, Prince Albert. Webb-Milinkovich recalled a family narrative that suggests the duo undertook a lengthy boat journey together, leading to the birth of a child from which her family descends.
These claims have roots in historical gossip, with rumors exploring the possibility that Mary Ann Brown, Webb-Milinkovich’s great-grandmother, might be their illegitimate child. The conjecture surrounding Queen Victoria and John Brown’s closeness stirred considerable speculation in Britain, especially when a Swiss publication hinted at a potential secret marriage between the two in 1866.
Victoria’s affection for Brown was not just passing; she dedicated a book on highland life to him after his death in 1883 and made a peculiar request to be buried with a photograph of him. This deep-seated bond has been well-documented and has even inspired cinema; the 1997 film “Mrs. Brown,” where Dame Judi Dench brilliantly portrayed Victoria, was a nod to this unique relationship.
While many historians have previously dismissed the notion of an affair, Riddell claims to have discovered new evidence suggesting otherwise. One piece of this evidence includes a cast of Brown’s hand commissioned by Queen Victoria shortly after his death—a gesture she had also made for her late husband, Prince Albert. This suggests that their bond went beyond mere loyalty.
Additionally, a previously hidden diary entry from Queen Victoria reveals a heartfelt confession of love for her “beloved John.” Riddell firmly believes that their relationship has been understated and sanitized over the years. Her work aims to restore John Brown’s legacy, presenting him as Victoria’s de facto royal consort for two decades.
The unfolding story of Angela Webb-Milinkovich serves as a reminder of the complexity of historical narratives. It showcases how personal tales intertwine with public lives, often transcending the boundaries of time and culture. Whether or not Webb-Milinkovich is indeed a descendant of this royal connection remains to be seen. However, the discussion opens up vital conversations about heritage, identity, and the often-overlooked stories that shape our understanding of history.
In a world that values transparency, Angela’s willingness to investigate her lineage reflects a broader desire among individuals to explore their roots and better understand their heritage. If the lines connecting the present to influential figures of the past can indeed be traced, it adds a layer of depth to discussions about legacy and impact.
As more people engage with their histories in an increasingly digital age, stories like that of Webb-Milinkovich remind us that the past isn’t solely reserved for textbooks. It lives on in our families and, in some cases, someone’s love story could even alter their present, connecting them to a storied past in unexpected ways. Whether this is merely the musings of a historian or a genuine legacy waiting to be uncovered, one thing is clear: the stories of our ancestors continue to resonate, often revealing much more than what is presented in the history books.
