Under lowered half-mast flags, Buckingham residents commemorated the life of Queen Elizabeth II throughout the National Mourning period.
A number of books of condolence were available in Buckingham, with copies circulated to care homes so that residents unable to access the books could take part from their homes. The resulting entries will be bound into books and archived at Buckinghamshire Council for future historians.
The Reading of the Proclamation of the Accession of the new King Charles III took place outside the Old Gaol at 3.30pm on Sunday 11th September. A large crowd of more than four hundred people gathered to witness Deputy Mayor of Buckingham, Cllr. Anja Schaefer, read the Proclamation and sing ‘God Save the King’ for the first time.
On Sunday 18th September, St Peter & St Paul’s Church in Buckingham held a Commemorative Service. The service started with a reflection on Her Majesty’s life by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Buckingham followed by readings and prayers given by other reverends and the Deputy Mayor, Cllr. Anja Schaefer. There were various hymns sung including the late Queen’s favourite hymn: Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven. The service was attended by approx. 200 people and many of those signed the book of condolence afterwards.
One Buckingham fact commented on by residents was the long link between Buckingham and the Royal Family. Buckingham has two Royal Charters, one from Mary Tudor in 1554, and one from Charles II in 1684. Charles II also gifted Buckingham its Mace in 1660, which is still used at ceremonial occasions today.
Buckingham Palace is also named after Buckingham. Originally known as Buckingham House, it was owned by the Duke of Buckingham and sold to George III in 1761. Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II had visited Buckingham on several occasions, and stories were told of her visit to the University of Buckingham in 1996 as well as her arrival several years before via train in 1966. Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip met with the then Mayor of Buckingham, Alderman T. Lambourne at Buckingham Station. Images of the couple smiling in the train carriage were printed in the local paper.
Councillor Margaret Gateley, Mayor of Buckingham said “These have been momentous and historic days since we learned of the death of our beloved Queen Elizabeth II. I am sure that the people of Buckingham will remember participating in the various events which have taken place since for all their lives. These events have provided us all with the opportunity to reflect on the long life and reign of Her Majesty as well as to give thanks for her devoted service to our nation and to the Commonwealth.”
Notes:
- For enquiries, please contact Claire Molyneux at Buckingham Town Council on 01280 816426, communications@buckingham-tc.gov.uk
