Ridiculous History CLASSIC: Fanny and Stella: The Cross-Dressing Scandal of Victorian England
Mar 29, 2025
Dive into the audacious tale of Fanny and Stella, two men arrested for cross-dressing in Victorian England. Their sensational trial in 1870 sparked a moral panic and shone a light on gender identity issues of the time. Discover how their theatrical endeavors challenged societal norms and the deep bond they shared amidst adversity. The podcast also delves into the absurdities of the legal system and the media frenzy surrounding their case, revealing a captivating glimpse into LGBTQ+ history.
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Fanny and Stella's Letters
- Fanny and Stella, known for cross-dressing, wrote letters addressing each other as "sisters".
- One letter, from Fanny to Lord Arthur Clinton, expressed gratitude for birthday wishes and gifts.
Early Life and Cross-dressing
- Fanny (Frederick Park) and Stella (Ernest Boulton) were men who successfully cross-dressed in London's theater scene.
- Stella's mother even encouraged this behavior from a young age.
Cross-dressing in Victorian England
- Cross-dressing was less uncommon in the Victorian era due to women not being allowed to act on stage.
- Fanny and Stella also wore women's clothing offstage, challenging societal norms.
