Mary Anne Disraeli

Mary Anne Disraeli, 1st Viscountess Beaconsfield (née Evans), was born on 11 November 1792 in Brampford Speke, near Exeter, Devon. She was the only daughter of Commander John Evans and Eleanor Viney (later Mrs. Eleanor Yate). In 1815, she married Wyndham Lewis, Member of Parliament (MP), at Clifton, Bristol. Wyndham Lewis was born in 1780 and died in 1838.

Following her first husband's death in 1838, Mary Anne Evans married Benjamin Disraeli in August 1839. Their wedding took place at St George's, Hanover Square, in London. Her marriage to Disraeli facilitated his acquisition of the Hughenden estate in Buckinghamshire, which he used as his residence.

In 1868, Queen Victoria expressed a desire to ennoble Disraeli for his contributions to the nation at the end of his first ministry. Disraeli preferred to remain in the House of Commons, so his wife accepted a peerage on his behalf. She was created Viscountess Beaconsfield, of Beaconsfield in the County of Buckingham, on 30 November 1868. After her death, Disraeli accepted the title of Earl of Beaconsfield.

Mary Anne Disraeli was known for her candid conversation, which sometimes scandalized Victorian society. Despite initial impressions, Benjamin Disraeli recognized her intelligence and wit. She was instrumental in assisting him with his literary work and provided significant support during their marriage, which lasted until her death. She was approximately twelve years older than Disraeli, yet their relationship persisted for over three decades.

In 1872, Mary Anne became seriously ill with stomach cancer. Despite her declining health, she managed a summer tour through the Home Counties with her husband and hosted a dinner party in November. Her condition worsened, and she passed away on 15 December 1872 at the age of 80. Disraeli described her as a woman capable of mitigating difficulties and facing challenges with cheerfulness and courage. William Gladstone, Disraeli's political rival, expressed condolences upon her death. Disraeli responded with a statement emphasizing the importance of mutual sympathy in marriage.

She is buried alongside Benjamin Disraeli in a vault at the Church of St Michael and All Angels, Hughenden, Buckinghamshire. The Hughenden Manor estate, where they resided, is now preserved by the National Trust and open to visitors.

In cultural history, George Arliss is notable for his portrayals of Benjamin Disraeli, including in the 1911 play "Disraeli" and subsequent film adaptations. Other actors who have depicted Mary Anne Disraeli include Florence Arliss, Diana Wynyard, Greer Garson, and Mary Peach. The 1978 miniseries "Disraeli: Portrait of a Romantic" featured her role, with Mary Peach portraying her opposite Ian McShane as Disraeli.

Further biographical references include Mollie Hardwick's "Mrs Dizzy: The Life of Mary Anne Disraeli, Viscountess Beaconsfield" (1972) and Daisy Hay's "Mr and Mrs Disraeli: A Strange Romance" (2015).