Becoming a Debutante

Though Sol could no longer sustain Alice Montague’s lavish lifestyle, he still wielded influence over young Wallis’ future. Sending her to Oldfields, Maryland’s most prestigious girls’ school, he planted the seeds of resilience within her. There, amidst the hallowed halls, Wallis discovered the power of self-reliance, cultivating a reputation for unyielding determination and unshakeable confidence. She knew her desires and possessed the cunning to pursue them.

Her aspirations stretched beyond the confines of academia; Wallis set her sights on securing a wealthy husband. To enter high society’s elite circles, she needed the coveted status of debutante, complete with a grand coming-out party. Thus, in 1914, she concocted a plan, banking on Uncle Sol’s financial backing. Yet, her hopes were dashed when he adamantly refused, citing the atrocities of war and the impropriety of celebration amid global turmoil.