Frances "Fanny" Nisbet

Frances Fanny Nisbet (born Frances Herbert Woolward in 1761) is one of the most recognizable historical figures associated with the island of Nevis during the colonial era. Born into a prominent family, her father William Woolward was a senior judge. After being orphaned at a young age, she was raised by her maternal uncle, John Richardson Herbert, the powerful President of the Nevis Council. Growing up in the upper echelons of colonial society, she was deeply embedded in the island's political and economic fabric.

She first married Josiah Nisbet, a physician, and lived at the historic Nisbet Plantation. However, Josiah died soon after, leaving Fanny a young widow with a small child.

Fanny's life changed forever when she met Captain (later Admiral) Horatio Nelson, who was stationed in the Leeward Islands. Their courtship blossomed on Nevis, and they were famously married on March 11, 1787, at the Montpelier Estate. The wedding was a grand affair attended by Prince William Henry (the future King William IV of England), reflecting Fanny's high social standing on the island. After their marriage, Fanny left Nevis for England, though her connection to the Caribbean island remained her defining legacy.