User:Flávia Varella/Frances Jamieson

Frances Jamieson (née Thurtle; 26 October 1779 – 5 March 1870) was a English poet, historian, novel writer and educator.

Early Life and Education
Frances Jamieson was baptized on 24 November at St. Giles-in-the-Fields, Holborn, London. She was the daughter of Samuel Thurtle and his wife Elizabeth.

Life
Frances married Alexander Jamieson, LLD (Aberdeen), on 1 March 1820 at St Mary Abbots, Kensington. Alexander was a schoolmaster and author of educational works.

In 1824, the couple moved from Kensington to Heston House on Hounslow Heath, where they established a school. Subsequently, from 1826 to 1838, they operated the Wyke House Academy at Sion Hill, Brentford End, Middlesex. The school specialized in preparing students for civil careers in the army, navy, civil service, and professions. However, the institution faced financial difficulties and went bankrupt in 1838.

Following the bankruptcy, the Jamiesons relocated to Bruges, Belgium, where they continued their teaching activities. However, Alexander passed away on 6 July 1850. Frances remained in Belgium for a while, supported by an annuity and financial assistance from friends.

Frances later returned to England, residing in Ghent before settling in Argyle Terrace, Kensington. In her later years, financial setbacks, such as the failure of the Albert Assurance Company, significantly reduced her income. She sought assistance from the Royal Literary Fund (RLF) to support her nieces, Elizabeth and Jane Jamieson, as well as herself.

Literary Career
Frances had gained literary recognition with works such as "Ashford Rectory: A Tale" (1817), "Memoirs of Brillante" (1817), "The Young Travellers" (1818), "The History of France" (1818), and "The History of Spain" (1820).

After her marriage, Frances published works such as "The Village Coquette" (1822) and "The House of Ravenspur" (1822). Notably, she wrote a verse drama titled "Cadijah" in 1825.

Later Years
Frances Jamieson passed away on 5 March 1870, at 5 Stamford Street, South Kensington, London, at the age of 90. She was buried at Brompton Cemetery. She left an estate of under £300 to her niece Jane Jamieson.