The reign of Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022)
We express our sadness on the death of her majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, and extend sincere condolences to the Royal family.
Today we are reflecting on the long reign of Queen Elizabeth II. She became queen at 25 and was the longest reigning monarch in British history (1926-2022). In her coronation speech she said:
“I declare before you all that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service.”
She studied constitutional law, trained as a driver and mechanic in the Second World War, visited over 117 countries on 6 continents and was the first monarch to send an email!
On July 30th 1988, Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh privately attended the Church of St Mary the Virgin in Saffron Walden for the wedding of James Ogilvy, the son of Princess Alexandra of Kent, and Julia Rawlinson.
In March 1991 she formally visited Stansted Airport to open one of the terminals.
In the museum’s collections, we hold many commemorative items from Elizabeth II’s reign including straw plaited crowns and commemorative china.
We are also very lucky to hold a beautiful embroidery sample from the Queen’s coronation dress. It was on display in the museum earlier this year for the Platinum Jubilee.
You can find out more about it here:
Books of condolence can be signed at the Town Hall in Saffron Walden and at the Uttlesford District Council Offices. Flowers may be laid in Jubilee Gardens (see SWTC and UDC websites for times and details).
Rest in Peace #QueenElizabethII
