Prussian Princess Charlotte Writes Her Uncle Prince Friedrich, Just Days After Napoleon’s Return in 1815, Hoping a Friend Can Stay at the Royal Palace

In 1815, Berlin had been liberated from Napoleon for just 2 years, and the Palais am Wilhelmsplatz in Berlin was a key aristocratic residence near the Wilhelmstrasse, which was becoming a hub for government and high society. This area was crucial for military leadership and elite housing near the Brandenburg Gate, often used by Prussian royal families and high-ranking officials during the post-Napoleonic era.

Composed just days after Napoleon Bonaparte returned to power in France (March 1815) and Prussia had reason to fear another invasion, this letter offers a glimpse into the private concerns of the Prussian royal family at a moment of major European upheaval. Despite the looming political crisis, the correspondence reflects the everyday workings of aristocratic patronage, property management, and family influence within the Prussian court.

Princess Charlotte, Autograph letter signed, March 26, 1815, to Prince Friedrich of Prussia, just 6 days after Napoleon’s arrival in Paris for his famed 100 days.

“Esteemed uncle, A gray eternity has passed since my eyes last gazed upon your gentle countenance, I feel anxious, and I long to see you again. Two matters urge me today to burden you with my lines; firstly, to find out about your health and how my uncle is doing; and secondly, it is a request to you on behalf of Ms. von Kleist, who would so much like to live in some rooms in your unused Palais at the Wilhelmsplatz. Aunt Hußen has already written to you in this regard, and you didn’t know whether the King would allow it. Now I received a letter from Papa yesterday, who told me that he cannot grant the request as it concerns the Johanniter Palais and is therefore at the disposal of his brother Heinrich; so he leaves it up to you, and as one can see, he will not mind; and is it not true that you are not using the whole large building at all and that you will heed my request, all the more so since it is your aunt Auguste’s wish? I am counting on your generosity and kindness, my one and beloved uncle, and I am waiting for a favorable response; as I am kissing your gracious hands in my mind until it can soon be done in actuality – your Charlotte”