Ellen Maria Burchell, also known as Ellen Frances Maria Micklewhite, was a pivotal mother, wife, and family supporter during the 20th century. Ellen’s life was ordinary and spectacular, filled with personal problems and family duties in a changing world.
Early Life and Background
Ellen Frances Maria Burchell was born on May 10, 1900, in the London district of Southwark, a time when the city was transforming rapidly. Her parents, Phoebe Stokes and her husband, supplied Ellen with a foundation steeped in the working-class culture of London. The city, with its bustling atmosphere and booming businesses, was a backdrop to Ellen’s formative years.
In 1925, Ellen married Maurice Joseph Micklewhite, a fish market porter. Together, they made their home in Southwark, London. The marriage of two modest but strong-willed people was typical.
Family and Personal Life
David Burchell, Stanley Caine, and Michael Caine were Ellen and Maurice Micklewhite’s children. Ellen faced many challenges as a mother, from financial constraints to caring for a disabled child.
A Hidden Family Secret
Ellen’s relationship with her oldest child, David Burchell, was touching. David, born before her marriage to Maurice, was disabled by an early childhood accident. His existence was a family secret for years after he was institutionalised. Over the years, Ellen has visited her son, showing her love and commitment.
Ellen’s second son was 1933-born Michael Caine. After Ellen died in 1989, Michael discovered David, his older half-brother. Ellen’s life was complicated by this revelation, demonstrating her capacity to manage family and society.
Raising Future Stars
Besides Michael, Ellen’s other son Stanley Caine also acted. Ellen’s encouragement helped her children develop their skills. Her influence is evident in Michael’s decades-long career, which featured several memorable cinema parts.
Later Years and Legacy
Ellen endured two world wars, the Great Depression, and 20th-century societal changes. She died in Harrow, London, on December 12, 1989, at 89. Ellen’s children and grandkids carry on her heritage despite her struggles.
Ellen’s grandchildren, Natasha and Dominique Caine, demonstrate her family values. Ellen’s great-grandchildren, Taylor Michael Caine Hall, Miles Michael Caine Hall, and Alegra Michael Caine, continue her legacy.
A Table of Ellen’s Immediate Family
| Name | Relationship to Ellen | Year of Birth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maurice Joseph Micklewhite | Husband | 1899 | Fish market porter; married in 1925 |
| David Burchell | Son | 1927 | Ellen’s first child, institutionalized |
| Stanley Caine | Son | 1935 | Actor, like his brother Michael Caine |
| Michael Caine | Son | 1933 | Acclaimed actor |
| Natasha Caine | Granddaughter | N/A | Michael Caine’s daughter |
| Dominique Caine | Granddaughter | N/A | Michael Caine’s daughter |
| Phoebe Stokes | Mother | 1881 | Ellen’s mother |
| Taylor Michael Caine Hall | Great-grandchild | N/A | Michael Caine’s grandchild |
| Miles Michael Caine Hall | Great-grandchild | N/A | Michael Caine’s grandchild |
| Alegra Michael Caine | Great-grandchild | N/A | Michael Caine’s grandchild |
FAQ
How many children did Ellen Maria Burchell have?
David, Stanley, and Michael Caine were Ellen Maria Burchell’s children.
When and where was Ellen Maria Burchell born?
Ellen was born in Southwark, London, on May 10, 1900.
What was Ellen’s biggest familial challenge?
After an early childhood accident, Ellen had to care for her crippled son, David Burchell, in an institution.
How was Ellen Maria Burchell related to Michael Caine?
Michael Caine was Ellen Maria Burchell’s son. Born Maurice Joseph Micklewhite.
Ellen Maria Burchell died when?
In Harrow, London, Ellen Maria Burchell died on December 12, 1989.
What is Ellen Maria Burchell’s legacy?
Ellen fostered her family’s success and that of her children, particularly Michael Caine, a globally recognised actor.
