I did sit in front of the tv for a while, quite an undertaking, but it did get a bit boring. Actually being there would have made it more exciting. The weather did not co-operate, does it ever in the UK, but being British everyone mustered on come rain or shine. My Mum's favourite saying when we were caught out in the rain and not prepared with a mac, wellies or a brolly, "your not made of sugar you won't melt". The Royals must have been frozen to the bone, however, I bet they were well fortified, prior to boarding the boat and definitely after when arriving back at the palace.
At some point in the program a woman from the crowd was being interviewed, she was holding a piece of ribbon she had saved from the coronation in 1953. This brought back memories of what I did on coronation day. Back in '53 I was living in England and remember all the children dressing up in fancy costume. I was Queen Victoria, wearing a light mauve bridesmaid dress, with leg-o-mutton sleeves, a home made ruffled collar and a sash with fake jewels and badges completed my outfit. My long hair was put up in some kind of bun and on top was a tiara. My younger sister was Little Bow Peep, Mum made her a dress that resembled the one that is always shown in picture books. The previous night a neighbour curled her hair in rags and then in the morning made it into ringlets and Dad made a crook. Instead of sheep, she had a live baby goat. Needless to say she won first prize.
I belonged to "GFS" "Girls Friendly Society", which I remember as being much like a combination of CGIT, "Canadian Girls In Training" and Girl Guides. After the Coronation all the girls were taken to London to see the Crowns etc. that were used in the ceremony.
Do you have memories of Coronation Day, 1953?.
Patricia
3 comments:
Patricia, I do recall the block party at the end of our street - my brother was born May 26 and I pushed him in his big pram, but I didn't have a costume. Later that Summer I was taken to London to visit my aunt and uncle and I bought a cute brooch like a little book. When opened, tiny photos of the coronation unfolded - wish I still had it!
Sunday I watched the river pageant for what seemed like hours - it was great but such a shame the rain came down so heavily toward the end. Those delightful singers with the Royal Phil. Orch. were to be commended - still smiling as they sang Land of Hope & Glory in the downpour - they must have been so cold and probably have sore throats today!
Long live the Queen - she looked radiant.
Hope you mend you mug - it's so pretty - I can imagine pink roses in it!
Mary
I have had family visiting for 3 days . It has poured of rain the whole time . We sat and watched the Thames do, dah! all very british and stiff upper lip .
I didn't watch the concert last night. One day was enough .
Oh, I loved reading your memories from the coronation Patricia. So special and the mug is just beautiful.
I think the royal family did a great job in the cold. The Duke of Ed was in fantastic spirits but has been in hospital all week. He's just come out in time for his 91st birthday tomorrow.
Sft x
Post a Comment