Almina Carnarvon

Almina Carnarvon (1876–1969) was born Almina Victoria Marie Alexandra Wombwell, the illegitimate daughter of banker Alfred de Rothschild. She married George Edward Stanhope Molyneux Herbert, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, in 1895, thereby becoming Countess of Carnarvon. While her husband is celebrated for funding Howard Carter's archaeological expedition that discovered Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922, Almina deserves recognition for her own significant contributions. During World War I, she converted Highclere Castle into a hospital for wounded soldiers, where she worked as a nurse despite her aristocratic status. She was known for her progressive views and considerable philanthropic endeavors throughout her life. Almina lived through dramatic historical periods and witnessed the transformation of British society. Her intelligence, determination, and charitable spirit made her more than merely a nobleman's wife—she was an active participant in her era's significant events and social causes. After her husband's death, she managed considerable estates and continued her philanthropic work until her death at age 92, leaving a legacy of service and compassion.