Fanny Sitwell

friend of Stevenson

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July 13, 2026

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Fanny Sitwell was an older woman of charm and talent who met Robert Louis Stevenson in Suffolk, England, in 1873. She drew the young Stevenson out and won his confidence, leading to him developing a deep affection for her. Stevenson addressed her by various names in his letters, including "Claire," which later led to some confusion. Their relationship evolved into a lasting friendship. Fanny Sitwell later married Sidney Colvin, a friend of Stevenson's. She was part of the Sitwell family, known for their literary contributions, though Fanny herself is primarily noted for her connection to Stevenson.123

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Robert Louis Stevenson
Early life
…became a lifelong friend, and Fanny Sitwell (who later married Colvin). Sitwell, an older woman of charm and talent, drew the young man out and won his confidence. Soon Stevenson was deeply in love, and on his return to Edinburgh he wrote her a series of letters in which he…
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…became a lifelong friend, and Fanny Sitwell (who later married Colvin). Sitwell, an older woman of charm and talent, drew the young man out and won his confidence. Soon Stevenson was deeply in love, and on his return to Edinburgh he wrote her a series of letters in which he…
Read More