Tragic Facts About Gladys Deacon, The Socialite-Turned-Recluse
Gladys Marie Deacon was an American and European socialite and Duchess of Marlborough by way of marriage.
Her sensational life story—from a tragic beginning to a fairy tale wedding and nightmarish ending—serves as a cautionary tale for those who get what they wish for. Remember, beauty fades…
1. She Was Admir-able
Gladys Deacon was born in Paris in 1881. Her parents were the wealthy American aristocrats, Edward and Florence Deacon. By way of her mother, Gladys was the granddaughter of the famed American admiral, Charles H. Baldwin.
It would be tragedy, however, that would mar the early years of Gladys’ life.
2. Her Mother Preferred The French
Edward and Florence Deacon were fixtures of Europe’s high society. But behind closed doors, they were hiding a dark secret. The Deacons were not happily married which meant that Florence was happy to seek “comfort” elsewhere. Gladys’ mother began carrying on an affair with a Frenchman named Emile Abeille. Her father, however, wouldn’t stand for it.
3. Her Father Interrupted The Honeymoon
Gladys’ father found out that his wife was carrying on an affair and took some drastic measures to end her infidelity.
Leaving little Gladys behind, Edward followed his wife and her lover to a hotel in Cannes where the two paramours were planning on having a romantic getaway. To say that Edward overreacted would be an understatement.
4. Her Father, With The Revolver, In The Hotel
Gladys’ father confronted his wife and her lover…with a revolver. Edward let loose three bullets and put an end to Abeille, who staggered out of the room to the horror of the hotel guests. Mr.
Deacon then handed himself into the local authorities. In an ironic twist of fate, revolvers would play a large role in Gladys’ later life as well.
