Sarah Forbes Bonetta

Sarah Forbes Bonetta, born in 1843, was a remarkable pianist and linguist whose life story is intertwined with the British monarchy. Orphaned during a conflict with the Kingdom of Dahomey, she was a member of the Yewa clan of the Yoruba people in West Africa. Her early years were marked by tragedy, as she was enslaved by King Ghezo of Dahomey.

In a twist of fate, Sarah was presented as a 'gift' to Captain Frederick E. Forbes of the British Royal Navy. This pivotal moment led her to become the ward and goddaughter of Queen Victoria, who took a keen interest in her upbringing and education.

As she grew, Sarah's talents flourished, particularly in music and languages, allowing her to navigate the complexities of her unique position in society. Her life took another significant turn when she married Captain James Pinson Labulo Davies, a prominent philanthropist in Lagos, further solidifying her legacy.