From: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethel_Barrymore
Men everywhere were smitten with Ethel, most notably young Winston Churchill, who asked her to marry him. Not wishing to be a politician's wife, she refused. Winston, several years later, married Clementine Hozier, a ravishing beauty who looked very much like Ethel, but Winston and Ethel remained friends until the end of her life. Their “romance” was their own little secret until his son let the cat out of the bag 63 years after it happened.
I partly agree, - even if ex-partner is a valid connection option in genealogy we should limit us to list ex-partners when it resulted in children or was a relationship that played an important part of the involved persons life.
It is a case-to-case situation and if a marriage proposal is good enogh to be listed as an ex-partner can be discussed.
Well then the most legitimate 'illegitimate' listing should be his famous sparring partner, Lady Astor:
Lady Astor: "Mr. Churchill, you're drunk!"
Winston Churchill: "Yes, and you, Madam, are ugly. But tomorrow, I shall be sober."
Lady Astor: "Sir, if you were my husband, I would poison your drink."
Winston Churchill: "Madam, if you were my wife, I would drink it."
Winston Churchill is gentleman with all his weaknesses and difficulties I am proud to have a connection with through his mother. Winston is my 5th great-aunt's 2nd great-uncle's wife's 6th great nephew. This line is through the Southard line which has also paid a big part in the history of the United States.
Yes, Anne - I think I agree - some degree of cohabitation is at least indicated, maybe Ofir Friedman who curates Winston can give us his thoughts about what should be done.