Princess Mary Adelaide of Cambridge, born on 27 November 1833, was a prominent member of the British royal family, later known as the Duchess of Teck. She was the daughter of Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge, and Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel, making her a first cousin of Queen Victoria. Her lineage traced back to King George III and Queen Charlotte, highlighting her noble heritage.
Mary Adelaide's marriage to Francis, Duke of Teck, resulted in four children, one of whom was Victoria Mary, affectionately known as 'May'. This daughter would go on to marry George V and become Queen Mary, linking Mary Adelaide to the British monarchy's future. Through her daughter, she became the grandmother of kings Edward VIII and George VI.
Notably, Princess Mary Adelaide was among the first royals to actively support a diverse array of charitable causes, setting a precedent for royal involvement in philanthropy. Her dedication to various charities reflected her commitment to social issues and her desire to make a positive impact on society.