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At the Circulating Library

A Database of Victorian Fiction, 1837–1901

A Database of Victorian Fiction, 1837–1901

Author: William Henry Patten Saunders

Author: William Henry Patten Saunders (1831–1899)

Alternate Name(s): Capt. Patten Saunders, K.C.G. (familiar name)

Biography: William Henry Patten Saunders was born in 1831 in Wells, Somerset, the son of grocer. His early life is a bit of a mystery. He seemingly spent time in Russia where he served as cavalry consultant to the czar; he also styled himself a captain in the Household Brigade. In any case, a gifted athelete, he was named the "European Champion Athlete" in 1862 after being presented with a ruby ring as a memento of his great running match in 1861. The following year, he assaulted a police officer at Epsom and served three months hard labour. He wrote a novel, Black and Gold, which was published by the desire of the Russian czar in 1864. Patten Saunders subsequently dramatized the novel. In 1856, he married Augusta Rolfe and the couple had two daughers. Apparently, the couple lived apart. In the 1870s, Saunders met and "married" Catherine Elizabeth Simpson, the only daughter of Gen. Sir James Simpson. This irregular relationship produced two sons. His scandalous life did little to affect his social standing since Saunders served as president of the Royal Athletic Club of England. He died on 2 February 1899 at his home in Lancing, Sussex.

Author Tags:

References: Allibone; Boase; British Census (1851, 1881); Leader (2 August 1856); Penny Illustrated Paper (11 July 1863)

Fiction Titles:

  1. Black and Gold: or, "The Don! The Don!" A Tale of the Circassian War.  3 vol.  London: Saunders and Otley, 1864.