WXDA Record #793
Extraordinary Investigation.
24 January 1833
Summary
Inquest held at Coach and Horses before Mr. Higgs "by order of Lord Melbourne, the Secretary of State." Eliza (aka Lavinia) Edwards discovered at death to be "a perfect man." Edwards' body was examined by Dr. Clutterbuck at the direction of Dr. Somerville; Clutterbuck had attended her previously at the request of Thomas Smith, "under whose protection the deceased lived". The deceased was much better off three years ago. Mr. Smith deserted Edwards to work "in the service of the Canada Company." "Maria Edwards . . . passed as the deceased's sister. . ." The deceased performed on stage as female characters. Sometimes played "under the name of Miss Walstein." Maria "mostly slept with the deceased." Stated: "I always thought her to be a female, and never knew to the contrary." Deceased was supported by different gentlemen (Mr. Grimstead). Record contains a series of letters between Lavinia and Grimstead. "Coroner.--This appears to be one of the most horrible cases of depravity I ever met with."
Full Title
24 Jan 1833. Extraordinary Investigation. Times p. 5 c. E,F.
Publication
Times of London(Times)
Full Record
- Date
- 24 January 1833
- Provisional Category
- Male Wife/Mistress
- Cross-dressing activity
- Romance; Sexual relations; Gender transition
- Cross-dressing occupation