The South Kensington Museum (renamed Victoria and Albert Museum May 17, 1899) was established by using the proceeds Prince Albert received from hosting the Great Exhibition at the Crystal Palace in 1851. The museum was officially established in 1857 and houses over two million artifacts. Like the Crystal Palace it also displayed priceless art pieces, but also developed a large exhibit dedicated purely to scientific discoveries and innovations. It was also the chosen venue to host the Colonial and Indian Exhibition on May 4, 1886.

Mrs. Croft mentioned in her conversation with Mrs. Musgrove that she had travelled to Lisbon with Admiral Croft. Lisbon had been a port of war operations and under French control from 1806 to 1814, and was subject to invasions and occupation. It was a dangerous place to be, showing Mrs. Croft contradicting other female characters. 

In 1849 Prince Albert who was president of the Royal Society of Arts desired to create an intricate exhibit that allowed both Britain and other international exhibitors the opportunity to showcase their works and inventions. In order to house what would be known as the Great Exhibition of 1851 Prince Albert decided to build a new structure within Hyde Park in London. After many months of planning, and diligently reviewing architectural submissions Prince Albert selected Sir Joseph Paxton's design, and construction began.