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9 Apr 2025, Wed

Discover the rare connection between Charlotte and Eugenie in British royalty

Charlotte


Princess Charlotte, the 9-year-old daughter of Prince William and Kate Middleton, holds a distinctive connection with just one member of the British Royal Family: her second cousin, Princess Eugenie. This bond, rooted in history, ties the two through their baptisms at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene in Sandringham, Norfolk. As the third in line to the British throne, Charlotte was christened there on July 5, 2015, while Eugenie, currently 12th in the line of succession, underwent the same rite on December 20, 1990. They remain the only royals to share this unique distinction, spotlighting a rare thread within the monarchy’s rich tapestry of traditions.

Born on May 2, 2015, Charlotte is the second child of the Prince and Princess of Wales, following Prince George and preceding Prince Louis. Her baptism, attended by luminaries such as Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III, drew global attention to the quaint Norfolk church. The venue, typically reserved for the royal family’s Christmas services, had hosted only one other christening before Charlotte’s—Eugenie’s, a quarter-century earlier. That 1990 event marked a shift, being the first public royal baptism, offering a glimpse into the monarchy’s evolving relationship with its subjects. For Charlotte and Eugenie, the shared location underscores a continuity that bridges generations and family branches.

The christening of Charlotte was a family affair filled with charming moments. Her older brother George, then 2, captured hearts as he stood on tiptoes to peek at his sister, even chatting with his great-grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II. Meanwhile, Eugenie’s baptism, set against a wintry December backdrop, carried a different tone, reflecting a monarchy in transition. As the daughter of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, Eugenie entered the world at a time when her parents’ marriage was still intact, though it unraveled years later. These ceremonies, separated by decades, highlight how the Church of St. Mary Magdalene has become a poignant link between the two princesses.

Church of St. Mary Magdalene binds generations

Nestled within the Sandringham Estate, the Church of St. Mary Magdalene stands as a historical gem for the British royals. Dating back to the 16th century, its Gothic architecture, adorned with intricate stained glass, exudes a timeless serenity. While it hosts the annual Christmas service—where royals traditionally mingle with locals—its use for baptisms is exceptionally rare. Charlotte’s 2015 ceremony and Eugenie’s 1990 event stand out as the only two such occasions in recent history, cementing the church’s role as a symbolic touchstone for the monarchy.

Charlotte’s baptism unfolded under the summer sun, officiated by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby. The church was adorned with flowers reflecting Norfolk’s local charm, and her godparents, handpicked by William and Kate, added a personal touch to the day. In contrast, Eugenie’s winter christening embraced a festive air, coinciding with the holiday season. The decision to open it to the public broke with tradition, showcasing a monarchy eager to connect with its people. For both princesses, the church offered a sacred space that blended intimacy with royal duty.

  • Charlotte’s baptism: July 5, 2015, attended by Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III.
  • Eugenie’s baptism: December 20, 1990, the first public royal christening.
  • Location: Church of St. Mary Magdalene, Sandringham, Norfolk.
  • Significance: The only shared baptismal site between the two princesses.

Honiton gown ties royal tradition

Beyond their shared baptismal venue, another tradition links Charlotte and Eugenie: the Honiton christening gown. Commissioned by Queen Victoria in 1841 for her eldest daughter, the original garment—crafted from Honiton lace and white satin—graced 62 royal infants over 163 years. Eugenie wore this historic piece in 1990, among the last to do so before its retirement in 2004 due to wear. Following this, Queen Elizabeth II commissioned a replica by her designer Angela Kelly, which Charlotte donned in 2015, as did her brothers George and Louis.

Creating the replica was a meticulous endeavor. Angela Kelly partnered with London’s Joel & Son Fabrics, a longtime supplier to the royals, and an Italian firm specializing in lace. Combining handcrafting with modern techniques, they recreated the gown’s delicate patterns and airy satin texture. While Charlotte and her siblings wore the updated version at their baptisms—George in 2013 and Louis in 2018, both at the Chapel Royal in St. James’s Palace—Eugenie’s use of the original marked a handover between eras. This garment, whether in its initial or replicated form, remains a cherished emblem of royal heritage.

Sandringham’s enduring royal legacy

The Sandringham Estate, encompassing the Church of St. Mary Magdalene, is a cornerstone of royal life. Purchased in 1862 by the future King Edward VII, its 20,000 acres of woodlands, fields, and gardens provide a tranquil retreat. Sandringham House, the main residence, hosts the family during winter holidays, with the church a short walk away. For Charlotte, her 2015 baptism tied her to this legacy early on, while Eugenie’s 1990 ceremony added to its historical layers, reinforcing Sandringham’s status as a familial and ceremonial hub.

Throughout Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, Sandringham was a constant presence, hosting her final Christmases until her passing in 2022. King Charles III has since upheld this tradition, ensuring the estate’s relevance. The church, with its quiet elegance, has witnessed both private milestones and public moments, from Charlotte’s christening to the annual walks that draw crowds. Its role in uniting Charlotte and Eugenie across decades speaks to its enduring significance within the monarchy.

Princesa Charlotte e irmãos
Princesa Charlotte e irmãos – Foto: Pete Hancock/Shutterstock.com

Charlotte’s place in the succession

At 9 years old, Princess Charlotte stands third in line to the British throne, behind her father, Prince William, and her brother, Prince George. This position reflects a historic shift cemented by the Succession to the Crown Act of 2013, which ended male primogeniture, ensuring her place regardless of future siblings’ gender. Raised between Kensington Palace and Anmer Hall in Norfolk, Charlotte attends Lambrook School in Berkshire, where her parents strive to balance royal duties with a grounded upbringing.

Her baptism at Sandringham marked an early step into public life, connecting her to relatives like Eugenie through shared rituals. As the daughter of the future king, Charlotte’s role is poised to grow, blending modern expectations with the weight of tradition. Her link to Eugenie, though subtle, underscores how even distant family ties resonate within the monarchy’s intricate structure.

Eugenie’s journey in the royal spotlight

Born on March 23, 1990, to Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, Princess Eugenie entered the world as sixth in line to the throne. Her baptism nine months later at St. Mary Magdalene placed her in the royal spotlight, though her rank has since slipped to 12th with the arrival of newer generations. Her parents’ 1996 divorce and Andrew’s later scandals, tied to Jeffrey Epstein, cast shadows over her upbringing, yet Eugenie has carved her own path, largely outside official royal duties.

Married to Jack Brooksbank since 2018, Eugenie is mother to August, born in 2021, and Ernest, born in 2023. She works as a director at the Hauser & Wirth art gallery, embracing a career distinct from Charlotte’s predetermined royal trajectory. Her 1990 baptism, however, remains a historical tether to her younger cousin, highlighting how shared moments endure despite diverging lives.

Contrasts and parallels in their christenings

Charlotte’s 2015 baptism was a tightly knit affair, emphasizing the Wales family’s unity under William and Kate’s stewardship. With George present and Louis yet to be born, the event radiated familial warmth, bolstered by attendees like Charles and Camilla. Eugenie’s 1990 christening, conversely, carried a pioneering spirit as the first public royal baptism, reflecting a monarchy adapting to public interest. Held before her parents’ split, it captured a fleeting moment of harmony for Andrew and Sarah.

Both ceremonies, though distinct in tone, drew strength from the Church of St. Mary Magdalene’s legacy. Charlotte wore the Honiton gown replica, signaling a new chapter, while Eugenie donned the original, closing an older one. These events, 25 years apart, illustrate the royal family’s ability to evolve while honoring its past, with the Norfolk church as a steadfast anchor.

Honiton gown across generations

The Honiton christening gown’s journey spans over a century. After its debut in 1841, it clothed 62 royal babies until 2004, when Lady Louise Windsor, daughter of Prince Edward, became the last to wear it. Queen Elizabeth II’s decision to preserve it prompted the replica’s creation, debuted by George in 2013. Charlotte and Louis followed, each ceremony reinforcing the gown’s symbolic weight. Eugenie’s 1990 use of the original tied her to this lineage, bridging the gown’s past and present.

Crafting the replica demanded precision. The Honiton lace, sourced from England’s southwest, required hand-stitching to mirror the 1841 design, paired with satin woven to match its lightness. During Charlotte’s baptism, Kate was seen tending to the gown, a nod to its revered status. This continuity across baptisms underscores the monarchy’s dedication to its heritage.

Sandringham’s role in royal life

Sandringham’s significance extends beyond baptisms. A haven since the 19th century, it offered Queen Elizabeth II respite during her 70-year reign, hosting her until her final days. King Charles III now maintains its traditions, with the Church of St. Mary Magdalene central to winter gatherings. For Charlotte, the estate is part of her childhood, while for Eugenie, it marks a milestone from a bygone era, uniting them in a shared royal narrative.

The estate’s blend of privacy and public engagement—seen in Christmas walks and rare baptisms—mirrors the monarchy’s dual nature. Charlotte’s connection to it through her 2015 christening ties her to Eugenie’s 1990 moment, reflecting Sandringham’s role as a keeper of royal memory and a stage for its future.

Memorable moments from the baptisms

Charlotte’s baptism brought tender scenes to light. George’s curiosity, as he peered at his sister and spoke with Elizabeth II, warmed onlookers’ hearts. Kate, cradling Charlotte, and William, overseeing the day, embodied a modern royal family. Though private, the event’s images spread worldwide, cementing Charlotte’s early prominence. The summer setting enhanced its gentle ambiance, with the church’s floral touches adding local flair.

Eugenie’s christening, held in December’s chill, radiated holiday cheer. Andrew and Sarah, still united, presided over a ceremony that welcomed public eyes, a bold step for the time. The church, festooned with seasonal decor, framed Eugenie’s entry into royal history. These contrasting yet complementary moments highlight how Charlotte and Eugenie, through St. Mary Magdalene, share a legacy shaped by family and tradition.

Timeline of recent royal baptisms

The British monarchy’s baptismal history offers context for Charlotte and Eugenie’s link:

  • 1990: Princess Eugenie baptized at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene.
  • 2013: Prince George baptized at the Chapel Royal, St. James’s Palace.
  • 2015: Princess Charlotte baptized at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene.
  • 2018: Prince Louis baptized at the Chapel Royal, St. James’s Palace.

Legacy of Charlotte and Eugenie

At 9, Charlotte embodies the monarchy’s future. Her schooling at Lambrook and public appearances, like her Sandringham baptism, shape her as a poised yet relatable princess. Her bond with Eugenie, though symbolic, ties her to a broader royal story. As third in line, Charlotte’s path is set, merging contemporary values with centuries-old customs.

Eugenie, now 34, has forged a quieter role. Distanced from royal duties after her father’s controversies, she focuses on family and art, her 1990 baptism a distant but defining memory. Together, Charlotte and Eugenie reflect the monarchy’s breadth—past and present intertwined at a Norfolk church that stands as a testament to their shared heritage.



Princess Charlotte, the 9-year-old daughter of Prince William and Kate Middleton, holds a distinctive connection with just one member of the British Royal Family: her second cousin, Princess Eugenie. This bond, rooted in history, ties the two through their baptisms at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene in Sandringham, Norfolk. As the third in line to the British throne, Charlotte was christened there on July 5, 2015, while Eugenie, currently 12th in the line of succession, underwent the same rite on December 20, 1990. They remain the only royals to share this unique distinction, spotlighting a rare thread within the monarchy’s rich tapestry of traditions.

Born on May 2, 2015, Charlotte is the second child of the Prince and Princess of Wales, following Prince George and preceding Prince Louis. Her baptism, attended by luminaries such as Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III, drew global attention to the quaint Norfolk church. The venue, typically reserved for the royal family’s Christmas services, had hosted only one other christening before Charlotte’s—Eugenie’s, a quarter-century earlier. That 1990 event marked a shift, being the first public royal baptism, offering a glimpse into the monarchy’s evolving relationship with its subjects. For Charlotte and Eugenie, the shared location underscores a continuity that bridges generations and family branches.

The christening of Charlotte was a family affair filled with charming moments. Her older brother George, then 2, captured hearts as he stood on tiptoes to peek at his sister, even chatting with his great-grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II. Meanwhile, Eugenie’s baptism, set against a wintry December backdrop, carried a different tone, reflecting a monarchy in transition. As the daughter of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, Eugenie entered the world at a time when her parents’ marriage was still intact, though it unraveled years later. These ceremonies, separated by decades, highlight how the Church of St. Mary Magdalene has become a poignant link between the two princesses.

Church of St. Mary Magdalene binds generations

Nestled within the Sandringham Estate, the Church of St. Mary Magdalene stands as a historical gem for the British royals. Dating back to the 16th century, its Gothic architecture, adorned with intricate stained glass, exudes a timeless serenity. While it hosts the annual Christmas service—where royals traditionally mingle with locals—its use for baptisms is exceptionally rare. Charlotte’s 2015 ceremony and Eugenie’s 1990 event stand out as the only two such occasions in recent history, cementing the church’s role as a symbolic touchstone for the monarchy.

Charlotte’s baptism unfolded under the summer sun, officiated by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby. The church was adorned with flowers reflecting Norfolk’s local charm, and her godparents, handpicked by William and Kate, added a personal touch to the day. In contrast, Eugenie’s winter christening embraced a festive air, coinciding with the holiday season. The decision to open it to the public broke with tradition, showcasing a monarchy eager to connect with its people. For both princesses, the church offered a sacred space that blended intimacy with royal duty.

  • Charlotte’s baptism: July 5, 2015, attended by Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III.
  • Eugenie’s baptism: December 20, 1990, the first public royal christening.
  • Location: Church of St. Mary Magdalene, Sandringham, Norfolk.
  • Significance: The only shared baptismal site between the two princesses.

Honiton gown ties royal tradition

Beyond their shared baptismal venue, another tradition links Charlotte and Eugenie: the Honiton christening gown. Commissioned by Queen Victoria in 1841 for her eldest daughter, the original garment—crafted from Honiton lace and white satin—graced 62 royal infants over 163 years. Eugenie wore this historic piece in 1990, among the last to do so before its retirement in 2004 due to wear. Following this, Queen Elizabeth II commissioned a replica by her designer Angela Kelly, which Charlotte donned in 2015, as did her brothers George and Louis.

Creating the replica was a meticulous endeavor. Angela Kelly partnered with London’s Joel & Son Fabrics, a longtime supplier to the royals, and an Italian firm specializing in lace. Combining handcrafting with modern techniques, they recreated the gown’s delicate patterns and airy satin texture. While Charlotte and her siblings wore the updated version at their baptisms—George in 2013 and Louis in 2018, both at the Chapel Royal in St. James’s Palace—Eugenie’s use of the original marked a handover between eras. This garment, whether in its initial or replicated form, remains a cherished emblem of royal heritage.

Sandringham’s enduring royal legacy

The Sandringham Estate, encompassing the Church of St. Mary Magdalene, is a cornerstone of royal life. Purchased in 1862 by the future King Edward VII, its 20,000 acres of woodlands, fields, and gardens provide a tranquil retreat. Sandringham House, the main residence, hosts the family during winter holidays, with the church a short walk away. For Charlotte, her 2015 baptism tied her to this legacy early on, while Eugenie’s 1990 ceremony added to its historical layers, reinforcing Sandringham’s status as a familial and ceremonial hub.

Throughout Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, Sandringham was a constant presence, hosting her final Christmases until her passing in 2022. King Charles III has since upheld this tradition, ensuring the estate’s relevance. The church, with its quiet elegance, has witnessed both private milestones and public moments, from Charlotte’s christening to the annual walks that draw crowds. Its role in uniting Charlotte and Eugenie across decades speaks to its enduring significance within the monarchy.

Princesa Charlotte e irmãos
Princesa Charlotte e irmãos – Foto: Pete Hancock/Shutterstock.com

Charlotte’s place in the succession

At 9 years old, Princess Charlotte stands third in line to the British throne, behind her father, Prince William, and her brother, Prince George. This position reflects a historic shift cemented by the Succession to the Crown Act of 2013, which ended male primogeniture, ensuring her place regardless of future siblings’ gender. Raised between Kensington Palace and Anmer Hall in Norfolk, Charlotte attends Lambrook School in Berkshire, where her parents strive to balance royal duties with a grounded upbringing.

Her baptism at Sandringham marked an early step into public life, connecting her to relatives like Eugenie through shared rituals. As the daughter of the future king, Charlotte’s role is poised to grow, blending modern expectations with the weight of tradition. Her link to Eugenie, though subtle, underscores how even distant family ties resonate within the monarchy’s intricate structure.

Eugenie’s journey in the royal spotlight

Born on March 23, 1990, to Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, Princess Eugenie entered the world as sixth in line to the throne. Her baptism nine months later at St. Mary Magdalene placed her in the royal spotlight, though her rank has since slipped to 12th with the arrival of newer generations. Her parents’ 1996 divorce and Andrew’s later scandals, tied to Jeffrey Epstein, cast shadows over her upbringing, yet Eugenie has carved her own path, largely outside official royal duties.

Married to Jack Brooksbank since 2018, Eugenie is mother to August, born in 2021, and Ernest, born in 2023. She works as a director at the Hauser & Wirth art gallery, embracing a career distinct from Charlotte’s predetermined royal trajectory. Her 1990 baptism, however, remains a historical tether to her younger cousin, highlighting how shared moments endure despite diverging lives.

Contrasts and parallels in their christenings

Charlotte’s 2015 baptism was a tightly knit affair, emphasizing the Wales family’s unity under William and Kate’s stewardship. With George present and Louis yet to be born, the event radiated familial warmth, bolstered by attendees like Charles and Camilla. Eugenie’s 1990 christening, conversely, carried a pioneering spirit as the first public royal baptism, reflecting a monarchy adapting to public interest. Held before her parents’ split, it captured a fleeting moment of harmony for Andrew and Sarah.

Both ceremonies, though distinct in tone, drew strength from the Church of St. Mary Magdalene’s legacy. Charlotte wore the Honiton gown replica, signaling a new chapter, while Eugenie donned the original, closing an older one. These events, 25 years apart, illustrate the royal family’s ability to evolve while honoring its past, with the Norfolk church as a steadfast anchor.

Honiton gown across generations

The Honiton christening gown’s journey spans over a century. After its debut in 1841, it clothed 62 royal babies until 2004, when Lady Louise Windsor, daughter of Prince Edward, became the last to wear it. Queen Elizabeth II’s decision to preserve it prompted the replica’s creation, debuted by George in 2013. Charlotte and Louis followed, each ceremony reinforcing the gown’s symbolic weight. Eugenie’s 1990 use of the original tied her to this lineage, bridging the gown’s past and present.

Crafting the replica demanded precision. The Honiton lace, sourced from England’s southwest, required hand-stitching to mirror the 1841 design, paired with satin woven to match its lightness. During Charlotte’s baptism, Kate was seen tending to the gown, a nod to its revered status. This continuity across baptisms underscores the monarchy’s dedication to its heritage.

Sandringham’s role in royal life

Sandringham’s significance extends beyond baptisms. A haven since the 19th century, it offered Queen Elizabeth II respite during her 70-year reign, hosting her until her final days. King Charles III now maintains its traditions, with the Church of St. Mary Magdalene central to winter gatherings. For Charlotte, the estate is part of her childhood, while for Eugenie, it marks a milestone from a bygone era, uniting them in a shared royal narrative.

The estate’s blend of privacy and public engagement—seen in Christmas walks and rare baptisms—mirrors the monarchy’s dual nature. Charlotte’s connection to it through her 2015 christening ties her to Eugenie’s 1990 moment, reflecting Sandringham’s role as a keeper of royal memory and a stage for its future.

Memorable moments from the baptisms

Charlotte’s baptism brought tender scenes to light. George’s curiosity, as he peered at his sister and spoke with Elizabeth II, warmed onlookers’ hearts. Kate, cradling Charlotte, and William, overseeing the day, embodied a modern royal family. Though private, the event’s images spread worldwide, cementing Charlotte’s early prominence. The summer setting enhanced its gentle ambiance, with the church’s floral touches adding local flair.

Eugenie’s christening, held in December’s chill, radiated holiday cheer. Andrew and Sarah, still united, presided over a ceremony that welcomed public eyes, a bold step for the time. The church, festooned with seasonal decor, framed Eugenie’s entry into royal history. These contrasting yet complementary moments highlight how Charlotte and Eugenie, through St. Mary Magdalene, share a legacy shaped by family and tradition.

Timeline of recent royal baptisms

The British monarchy’s baptismal history offers context for Charlotte and Eugenie’s link:

  • 1990: Princess Eugenie baptized at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene.
  • 2013: Prince George baptized at the Chapel Royal, St. James’s Palace.
  • 2015: Princess Charlotte baptized at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene.
  • 2018: Prince Louis baptized at the Chapel Royal, St. James’s Palace.

Legacy of Charlotte and Eugenie

At 9, Charlotte embodies the monarchy’s future. Her schooling at Lambrook and public appearances, like her Sandringham baptism, shape her as a poised yet relatable princess. Her bond with Eugenie, though symbolic, ties her to a broader royal story. As third in line, Charlotte’s path is set, merging contemporary values with centuries-old customs.

Eugenie, now 34, has forged a quieter role. Distanced from royal duties after her father’s controversies, she focuses on family and art, her 1990 baptism a distant but defining memory. Together, Charlotte and Eugenie reflect the monarchy’s breadth—past and present intertwined at a Norfolk church that stands as a testament to their shared heritage.



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