Waterloo Days: The narrative of an Englishwoman resident at Brussels in June 1815

In June 1815, an Englishwoman finds herself in a bustling Brussels that has suddenly become the nerve centre of the Allied army. The streets are crowded with soldiers, diplomats, and civilians, each whispering about the looming clash with Napoleon. Through her keen eyes we hear the clatter of campfires, the hurried dispatches, and the uneasy optimism that the French emperor’s return will be swiftly ended. Her narrative captures the palpable mix of fear and excitement as the city transforms into a temporary headquarters.

She travels with her sister, a talented artist, and together they witness the aftermath of the battle that would soon define Europe. Their combined account blends vivid description with delicate sketches, offering a rare civilian perspective on the fields of Waterloo and the human cost of war. The memoir also weaves in reflections on family, travel, and the broader cultural currents of the era, making it a valuable snapshot of a world on the brink of change.