Bashkirtseff
Orig | CZ

Howard Family

Basic Aktualizováno: 2025-07-06

Research Status: Basic Last Updated: 2025-07-06 Diary Coverage: Up to 1874-04-30

Overview

The Howard family was one of the closest and most frequently mentioned families in Marie Bashkirtseff's 1873 diary. They appear to be English or Anglo-Irish expatriates living in Nice, and maintained a warm friendship with the Bashkirtseff family throughout this period.

Family Members

Parents

The Howard parents are mentioned but not named specifically in the early diary entries.

Children

Willy Howard

  • Male, appears to be eldest or one of the older children
  • November 5, 1873: Specifically named when Marie visits Sacco with the Howards
  • Participated in family outings and social events

Helene Howard (Hélène)

  • Female, one of the Howard daughters
  • November 5, 1873: Named during the Sacco flower shop visit
  • Regular companion in social activities

Lise Howard

  • Female, another Howard daughter
  • November 5, 1873: Present at Sacco
  • August 11, 1873: Marie bought presents for "Lise et Aggie" suggesting close friendship

Aggie Howard

  • Female, youngest or one of the younger daughters
  • August 11, 1873: Received gifts from Marie (leather necessities from Russia)
  • November 5, 1873: Part of the Sacco expedition

Bête (Princess/Princesse)

  • See separate glossary entry
  • Extremely close to Marie, possibly a Howard family member or intimate connection
  • Called both "Bête" (Beast) and "Princesse" (Princess)

Relationship with Marie

The Howards represent:

  • Close Family Friends: Regular visitors and companions
  • Social Equals: Part of the same expatriate aristocratic/wealthy circles
  • Emotional Support: Particularly through Bête/Princess
  • Daily Companions: Frequent mentions suggest almost daily contact

Notable Events

1873

  • January 11, 1873: "Les Howard étaient venus me chercher" - came to fetch Marie
  • Regular Visits: Constant presence throughout 1873
  • Gift Exchanges: Marie buying presents for the Howard children
  • Shared Activities: Promenades, shopping, social calls

1874

  • April 20: Dance at Howards with Boutowsky family present
  • April 30: Visit from 4-6pm. Marie confronts Hélène about gambling rumors spread by Mrs. Howard. They reconcile and plan Sunday visit. Howards leaving Wednesday. Hélène claims Marie corseted due to "grosseur" - Marie insists naturally thin. Lise defends Marie's figure.

Social Position

The Howards appear to be:

  • English/British Expatriates: Part of the British colony in Nice
  • Wealthy: Able to maintain the same social activities as the Bashkirtseffs
  • Well-Connected: Part of the international social scene

Historical Context

British families like the Howards were common in Nice during the 1870s:

  • Nice was a popular wintering spot for wealthy British families
  • The British had established churches, clubs, and social networks
  • Many came for health reasons or to enjoy the climate
  • Formed close friendships with other expatriate families

Questions for Further Research

  • What was Mr. Howard's profession or source of wealth?
  • Were they permanent residents or seasonal visitors?
  • What happened to the friendship in later years?
  • Is Bête definitely a Howard family member?

%% 2025-06-30T21:45:00 RSR: Created comprehensive entry for Howard family based on 1873 diary references %%