Anna Maria Russell, Duchess of Bedford (3 September 1783 – 3 July 1857)[1] was a lifelong friend of Queen Victoria,[2] whom she served as a Lady of the Bedchamber between 1837 and 1841.

Anna was the daughter of Charles Stanhope, 3rd Earl of Harrington, and Jane Fleming.

[3] Due to increasing urbanisation and industrialisation, wealthy English people were having their evening meal later and later, but still eating lunch at midday.

After inventing the afternoon tea ritual, the Duchess started inviting her friends to join in.

As those friends were also royal courtiers, the Queen became aware of the nascent custom, and immediately approved.