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A Real Companion and Friend:
The diary of William Lyon Mackenzie King
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Behind the Diary
A King's Who's Who Biographies
Beatrix Henderson Robb (1875-1957)
Beatrix Henderson Robb, 1941
Beatrix Robb, an American who lived in New York, met Mackenzie King in Europe in 1928, and they spent time together in Paris and Switzerland. Later he visited her whenever he was in New York. Their friendship and correspondence continued for the rest of King's life. This photograph is from King's personal collection.
Beatrix Robb was an American whom Mackenzie King met in Europe during the summer of 1928. They spent a great deal of time together, in Paris and in Switzerland. The diary contains many references to her. "Then went to call on Mrs. Robb & took her for a drive - had a delightful talk together," King wrote. (Diary, August 27, 1928) Later he wrote: "Spent the balance of the evening with Beatrix Robb - a most interesting & memorable talk...." (Diary, September 11, 1928)
Beatrix was divorced from Nathaniel Thayer Robb and lived in New York. She also had a residence in Murray Bay, Quebec. After 1928, whenever King travelled to New York, he set aside some time to visit her. During the Second World War, Beatrix helped to organize entertainment for Allied troops in the United States.
King's correspondence and friendship with Beatrix Robb continued for the rest of his life.
