chambers_search-1

Search Chambers

Consult Chambers 21st Century Dictionary, The Chambers Thesaurus (1996) or Chambers Biographical Dictionary (1997 edition with amendments). Enter your search and choose your title from the drop-down menu.

Gwyn, Nell (Eleanor), also spelt Gwynn or Gwynne c.1650-1687
English actress, and mistress of Charles II

Born of humble parents, she lived precariously selling oranges before establishing herself as a comedienne at Drury Lane, London, especially in breeches parts. 'Pretty, witty Nell's' first protector was Lord Buckhurst, but the transfer of her affections to Charles II was genuine. She had at least one son by the king - Charles Beauclerk, Duke of St Albans - and James Beauclerk is allegedly a second. She is said to have urged Charles to found Chelsea Hospital.

Bibliography: Bryan Bevan, Nell Gwynn (1969)