| Date | 19 December 2014 |
|---|---|
| Source | Slough Observer |
| Reference | VP-0092 |
| Volume | Views of the Past |
| Collection | Views of the Past |
Transcript
Presents were royal delight
AS WE count down to Christmas, I thought I’d share a story from The Observer of December 1915 when a giant Christmas tree was put up in the Royal Riding School of Windsor Castle. Entertainment took place there with the permission of King George V.
It was attended by 1,000 children, soldiers and sailors who lived in the vicinity of Windsor.
The King organised the Christmas tree, which was a massive 30 foot high and came from nearby Windsor Forest. It was put up close to the Royal Gallery, reaching high up into the ceiling of the Royal Riding School. It was decorated with gold and silver baubles, fairy lanterns and artificial snowflakes and was lit by electric coloured globes. This must have been a great visual feast.
A large number of toys had been placed under the tree and classified by the age of its recipient. Queen Mary herself contributed 100 presents, including exquisitely-dressed dolls. Princess Mary sent a huge bon-bon six feet in length, filled with crackers.
The Christmas spectacle was attended by Princess Alexander of Teck together with her children Princess Mary and Prince Rupert of Teck. She was received by General Carteret Carey, acting governor of Windsor Castle and his wife. Mrs Carteret Cary had organised the whole event with the assistance of her husband. The National Anthem was sung. Tea followed, and Princess Alexander helped to serve it.
The toys were then distributed and Princess Mary’s giant bon-bon was carried down the middle of the riding school and its contents distributed to the children.
A Punch and Judy show then followed and was enjoyed by the children and, I am sure, some of the adults!
I would like to take this opportunity to wish all my readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
If you are looking for last-minute Christmas presents, I will be signing my new book of local historical photographs Royal Windsor Images of a Bygone Age at Waterstones, Peascod Street, Windsor, from 11am to 2pm on Sunday, December 21.
ROYAL TRADITION: Queen Victoria and Prince Albert together with their family celebrating Christmas at Windsor Castle.
Images
