Golden Jubilee 2002

1902-1911

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Coronation invitation and ticket, 1902
These are James Benyon’s (of Englefield House) invitation and ticket for Edward VII’s coronation. James Benyon was Lord-Lieutenant of Berkshire at the time. The coronation had been planned for June 1902 but had to be postponed until 9 August because the King suffered a burst appendix 3 days before the original date. In consequence he missed his own coronation banquet – on the day he fell ill all the guests had arrived at Buckingham Palace for the feast, and it was felt impossible to cancel it. The King later made up for it by a organising dinner attended by half a million Londoners at over 700 venues.
Document reference: [D/EBY/O12]
 
 

Coronation sports programme, Reading, 1902
The coronation sports were held at the Biscuit Factory Recreation Ground. Contestants were invited to dress in ‘university costume’ – a one piece outfit. There were serious athletics as well as sack, three-legged and costume races.
Document reference: [D/EX1348/13/4]
 
 

Coronation supplies advertisement, 1902
Oetzmann and Co were suppliers of furnishings and furniture. This advertisement shows flags and bunting on sale for the coronation.
Document reference: [D/EX1348/13/8]
 
 

Advertisement for gas illuminations, 1902
Gas illuminations became popular towards the end of the eighteenth century. They comprised multiple gaslights within pipe work designs and were often used to accompany firework displays.
Document reference: [D/EX1348/13/9]
 
 

Photograph showing the Proclamation of George V, Windsor, 1910
This photograph from the Berkshire County Council archives show the Mayor, aldermen and councillors of Windsor Borough in proclaiming George V King in front of the statue of Queen Victoria erected for her Golden Jubilee. Royal proclamations are issued by the monarch and Privy Council under the Great Seal. These days the device is rarely used, but apart from announcing a new sovereign they are issued to dissolve Parliament for a General Election and also to announce the introduction or withdrawal of coins and notes.
Document reference: [BCC misc picture 30]
 
 

Programme of Coronation activities, Newbury, 1911
Newbury celebrated the coronation with a procession of schools and societies through the town centre, including floats on the making of the Newbury coat in 1811, the Berkshire Regiment’s last stand at Maiwand in 1880, and the development of English weapons through the ages. In the afternoon there were sports and in the evening a fancy dress ball.George V’s first coronation was on 22 June 1911. He is unique in also having a second on 12 December. The first was at Westminster as usual; the second at a Durbar in India, where he was crowned Emperor. Neither Victoria nor Edward VII had attended the Durbars to mark their becoming Empress and Emperor.
Document reference: [N/D115/1]