Edward and Mrs Simpson: Where did the Duke and Duchess live during the Second World War?

Prince Edward and Mrs Simpson may have died many years ago but the world is still fascinated by this couple. For a King to abdicate his throne for one woman makes it a rather special love story.

A Hubpages question about where this couple lived during the war seemed to need a hub rather than a simple answer, so here we go.

Whilst Edward, now King of England went through the final stages of abdication from the throne Wallis was in the south of France away from the press. The media intervention may have been less intrusive in some ways at this time, but she was still sought after.

After the abdication of Prince Edward he and Wallis were persona no grata in the UK.

Many of the ordinary people still held Edward in great affection but in time that would change. His loss of popularity was partially due to the fact that his successor soon became a good king and also that Edward made some foolish friendships and alliances.

In the run up to the second world war Edward and Wallis were seen on more than one occasion cosying up to senior German officials. He went a step too far though when he and Wallis were seen shaking hands with Hitler and then giving the Nazi salute.

His remaining friends in England turned their backs on him and Wallis.

When leading Nazi, Rudolph Hess, was arrested in Scotland, in May 1941, many believed Edward was involved. On 10th May 2011 it is 70 years since his capture. Mystery and conspiracy theories still surround Hess and his imprisonment but also alleged his ally Edward. If gossip is to be believed Edward was prepared to make a pact with Hitler if he could regain his throne.

We shall never know the truth now.

Back in time, 4 years earlier, Edward left the UK and went to Austria. Nothing was left to chance. He and Wallis lived separately initially, so that her divorce would not be compromised. As soon as her decree absolutei was granted Wallis and Edward were reunited, in France.

The pre was years were spent in France and even when war was declared France remained home. However, as the war intensified the couple spent some time in Portugal before being dispatched to the Bahamas.

During their time in the Bahamas the Duke, as Edward was know known, was installed as Governor. It seems that in spite of making enemies people in high places were protecting him and Wallis after all.

Their war years then seem to have been spent either in the Bahamas or swanning about the Caribbean. One thing is for sure, they did not suffer bombings and rations, as did Edward;s people in the UK.