Mrs McKay’s Musicale: A Glimpse into Victorian High Society

Discovering a Social Event from the Butterfield Archive

A fascinating glimpse into Victorian high society has been uncovered in the Butterfield family archive, revealing details of a notable musical party hosted by Mrs McKay in London. The event, which took place at her home in Buckingham Gate, attracted many prominent figures of the time and offers insight into the social circles connected to Henry Isaac Butterfield, a keen observer of elite society.

The Musical Party

The party was held in a beautifully decorated ballroom adorned with flowers, ferns, and palms. Mrs McKay, dressed elegantly in white satin embroidered with pearls, welcomed numerous guests. The concert featured a performance by Madame Nevada, who sang “La Fleur du Foyer.” Among the distinguished attendees were Prince Malcom Khan, the Italian Minister, and Baron de Pinede, representing the diplomatic corps.

Notable guests included:

• Sir Arthur Sullivan, famed composer of Gilbert and Sullivan operettas, arriving from his duties at the Philharmonic
• Colonel Cody, known for his Wild West show and pioneering work in aviation
• Several titled ladies and socialites, including the Duchess of Manchester, Lady Hothsfield, Mrs Cavendish Bentinck, Lady Gosford, and Mrs Ronalds
• Miss Butterfield, identified as C.T. Butterfield (Katie or Kitty), niece of Henry Isaac Butterfield, who was known for her travels and later life in France

After the concert, supper was served in the dining room, with guests seated at separate tables.

Historical Context and Connections

The article and accompanying notes provide valuable context about the guests and their significance:

• Sir Arthur Sullivan (died 1900) was a celebrated composer, best known for his partnership with librettist W.S. Gilbert.
• Louisa Montagu, Duchess of Manchester, later Duchess of Devonshire, was a prominent society hostess and former Mistress of the Robes to Queen Victoria.
• Lady Hothsfield, wife of Sir Henry Jacques, was a local neighbour to Henry Isaac Butterfield, owning the Barony of Skipton Castle.
• Mrs Ronalds was a socialite and friend of Butterfield’s late wife.
• Mrs Hughes-Hallett (formerly Emilie Von Schaumberg) was a long-time associate of Butterfield.
• Miss Butterfield (Katie or Kitty) was the daughter of Fred Butterfield, Henry Isaac’s younger brother, and had an international lifestyle.

The date of the newspaper cutting is estimated to be around 1891, based on references to mourning attire and the death of the Duke of Manchester in 1890.

Explore More

This intriguing social snapshot offers a window into the interconnected lives of Victorian elites and the cultural events they attended. To delve deeper into the Butterfield archive and learn more about Mrs McKay’s Musicale and its participants, readers are encouraged to visit the original blog post by Bradford Museums.

Source: Bradford Museums Blog