Catherine Cambridge: Saving the monarchy one pretty dress at a time

During previous royal tours I've tried to be more active when it comes to blogging. With William and Catherine's New Zealand and Australian tour, I'm having a hard time rousing myself to write anything about it. What is there really to say other than to write about Catherine's wardrobe and Prince George's cuteness? To be quite honest, it's boring.


Not to say that I haven't been paying attention. Like anyone else, I'm curious about Prince George, how big he has grown. My initial interest in royalty started with the birth of his father, Prince William, so I would be rather remiss to ignore George now, wouldn't I?


So, why am I writing about this tour now?


Media coverage of the royal tour has bordered on the ridiculous. Royal Commentators falling all over themselves to make it sound like William, Catherine and George walk on water. Claims by smug monarchists about how they have reduced the Republican movement to ashes by their very presence. To be quite honest it makes me angry.


A lot of the success of the tour has been attributed to Catherine, how she has charmed people and what she wears. There is no denying that Catherine has done a great job. William, normalcy craving royal is comfortable in his supporting role. Then there's George. Adorable? Yes and you would have to have ice-water in your veins to criticize him. To see the family actually at work is wonderful and long overdue. Judging by how much they enjoyed their speedboat races, wine tasting and trips to the zoo, they seem to be enjoying this grueling tour immensely. So many great photo-opportunities, it's enough to blind anyone on the fence.


Having said all of that, I'm tired of reading the cavity inducing coverage. Watching how the media can bend over backwards to make the most mundane moments sound remarkable. I'm tired of reading about how much Catherine and George's clothes cost and how fast they sell out.  Crowd turnout is obviously great but how many crowd members are ardent monarchists or are just showing up out of curiosity to get selfies? Clothes selling out and crowd size seems to be rather flimsy evidence that the republican movement has been set back. If anything it I see it as evidence of how weak the pro-monarchy arguments are when it is so dependent on Catherine's clothes and how cute George is at the moment.


The real argument about the future of the monarchy can be found in what happens when the family returns to the UK. Will they maintain the momentum and dive into supporting the monarchy? Or will they disappear on their third vacation of the year, wearing a new dress at the occasional engagement to muffle the noise of the critics?


Old habits die hard and that doesn't bode well for the future of the monarchy.


© Marilyn Braun 2014


Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

William and Catherine, Come Back!

It's been 11 days since I've seen a photograph of William and Catherine in the news. Once they boarded that British Airways plane with no in-flight entertainment, they were gone.  True they have promised to return to Canada, but when? What on earth are we supposed to do until then? Surely we can't survive on mere pregnancy rumors and eating disorder concerns?

Sure I've read stories about them. The ho-hum Diana comparisons. Kate's old car is for sale on eBay. But no physical sightings. They reportedly went to the movies recently and moved into Kensington Palace. I know they're busy, but couldn't they at least step-out to pick out some paint colors?

If I'd only known that it would be the last time I would see them for a while, I would have appreciated it more. I wouldn't have gotten so frustrated with the incessant coverage about Kate's hair. Now that they're gone all I have is the Maclean's Commemorative Edition - The Royal Tour of Canada Souvenir Issue to remember the good times.

I try to remain stoic but every day is a challenge. Progressing through the stages of royal tour withdrawal, I'm currently at Stage 5 - guilt and regret. If only we'd been more welcoming on Canada Day. Maybe there was too little fiddle music at the concert? Why did they have to leave? Was it something we said? However, all hope is not lost. William did say they would return, didn't he? He promised they would. When in doubt, save a copy of the news footage as evidence.

I guess there's nothing left to do other than to face reality. It's a depressing prospect given the lack of exciting royal news. Maybe in the interim someone will abdicate, an illegitimate child will surface or Prince Charles will demand Camilla become queen.

Fingers crossed.

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

Day Seven - William & Catherine's Royal Tour of Canada - Slave Lake, Alberta

Source: British Monarchy Flickr

In a brief, unscheduled stop on their royal tour, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge departed the North West Territories for a stop in Slave Lake, Alberta.

The town, about 280 kilometres north of Edmonton, had been devastated by wildfire on May 15th. The fire destroyed 40% of the town of Slave Lake, making it the second most expensive insured disaster in Canadian history. Damage is estimated at $700 million.

7,000 residents were evacuated with little more than the clothes on their backs. William and Catherine's visit not only boosted morale for the town but highlighted the devastation, bringing the rebuilding efforts of the community back into the public eye.

Source: British Monarchy Flickr

The couple toured the devastation, meeting privately with dignitaries, rescue workers and affected citizens. Outside William and Catherine went on an informal walkabout, delighting those who had been waiting, before departing on the last stop of their tour in Calgary, Alberta.

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

Day Six - William and Catherine's Royal Tour of Canada - Yellowknife, North West Territories

Source: British Monarchy Flickr

On Day Six of their royal tour, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrived in Yellowknife, North West Territories. The last royal visit was in  August 1994, when the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh visited Yellowknife, Rankin Inlet and Iqaluit. They had previously visited in 1959 and 1970. Prince Charles visited in 1979 and Prince Andrew and  his then wife Sarah Ferguson, came in 1987.


During the official welcoming ceremony at Somba K’e Civic Plaza, the couple were treated to a song of welcome by Native Canadian drummers performed by the Dene, traditional Aboriginal hand games and “high kick,” an Arctic sport. On this stop William made a memorable, brief quadrilingual speech in English and French, adding his thanks in the languages of the Dene and the north coast of Inuvialuit.

Source: British Monarchy Flickr

After watching a brief game of street hockey, William tried his hand but failed at three shoot-out attempts. Catherine, who excelled at sports in school, demurred in participating in a shoot-out and instead dropped the ball in a face-off. She was wearing a wearing a cream linen three-quarter dress by Malene Birger with shoes by L.K. Bennett. They were presented with Canadian Olympic hockey jerseys with CAMBRIDGE on the back, Catherine's sporting the #1 and William with #2.

In the afternoon they joined a Session of Youth Parliament at the Legislative Assembly, learning about the challenges Aboriginal youth face, specifically in keeping young people in school. Later in the day the couple took a 30-minute float plane ride to Blachford Lake. They met members of the Canadian Rangers, the country's volunteer northern home guard. Catherine was named an honorary member of the Rangers. William had previously been named an honorary member, along with his brother Harry, in 2009. The couple posed in Rangers' red sweatshirts for a group photo. William was given a handcrafted patrol knife. Earlier he had received platinum cuff links and Catherine was given a polar bear diamond brooch made from diamonds mined in the territory.

Source: British Monarchy Flickr

The couple then toured the Dechinta Centre for Research and Learning, a program combining traditional Aboriginal learning into a university accredited program. Here they learned about  moose-hide tanning and fish-drying.

At the end of the day, an elder guided them by canoe to uninhabited Eagle Island on Blachford Lake, where they dined on a specially prepared meal of local cranberries, Bannock bread, caribou and white fish. No doubt enjoying a peaceful, brief respite from the whirlwind tour.

Sources: Indian Country, CBC, Newstabulous

© Marilyn Braun 2011 Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

Day Five - William & Catherine's Royal Tour - Prince Edward Island

On the fifth day of their royal tour, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrived in Canada's smallest province, Prince Edward Island. The island is named after Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, father of Queen Victoria. Catherine wore a sleeveless crepe dress by Joseph, with a peach/light salmon colored jacket reportedly from Chanel.

Out of the entire visit, this 24 hour stop proved to be the most exciting. The couple met the obligatory dignitaries in the morning at Province House, the Legislator of Prince Edward Island. Catherine, appeared to be channeling Liesel von Trapp in her Sarah Burton/Alexander McQueen outfit.The cream-colored cable-knit sweater dress had a drop waist with blue stripes around the hem, waistline and wrists. The dress featured an tied collar, handing in a sailor's knot around her neck, the nautical theme was appropriate for the couple's activities later on in the day.

At noon Prince William had a chance to display his helicopter piloting skills by participating in a training session for the 'waterbird' emergency landing procedure, which is only done in PEI. He was shown various techniques, including water taxiing and landing, taking off with one engine powered down before testing them himself in a Sea King helicopter at Dalvay-by-the-sea. On land, Catherine with her hair pulled back in a ponytail, wore casual clothes, dark skinny jeans, a navy belted trench coat with a bright red scarf and beige and white deck shoes. She proudly watched her husband, while taking photos to post on Facebook.

After Prince William's helicopter exercise, it was Catherine's turn to demonstrate her skills in a dragon boat race against William. Back in 2007, Kate had been part of The Sisterhood, an all-female dragon boat racing team. Her team lost by a third of a length to Prince William's all-male opposing team. On land the competitive, good-natured couple showed they were good sports by hugging. Thereby treating onlookers to a rare royal public display of affection.

In the evening the couple departed for the North West Territories

Sources: Sun News, The Globe and Mail, Mail Online

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

Day Four - William and Catherine's Royal Tour - Québec City, Quebec

Source: Royal Tour website

The Royal Couple arrived in Quebec, city aboard the HMCS Montréal. They joined the crew for morning worship in the chapel aboard the ship. Catherine was wearing a new outfit, an electric blue lace  'Jacquenta' dress by Canadian designer Erdem. This dress is the second one she wore from the designer. On her feet she wore LK Bennett pumps.

Source: British Monarchy Flickr

After the service they departed the vessel to head off to La Maison Dauphine, a shelter which offers programs to street youth of Québec. The homeless is an issue close to Prince William's heart. He is patron of Centrepoint, which helps homeless youth in the UK.

The couple then took part in a freedom-of-the-city ceremony at City hall; a ceremony honoring Canada's Royal 22nd Regiment. Prince William delivered a speech in French where he thanked attendees for their patience with his accent. Kate was presented with a bouquet by two-year old Raffaela Cheater who was at the event with her father, David.  He later told reporters: "Kate said to me, 'What a beautiful daughter you have.' " He added: "When I said to her I wished her and William well with starting their own family, she said, 'Yes, I hope to.' " Thus setting the rumor-mill in motion upon their return to the UK.

Source: Royal tour website

Later on in the afternoon William and Kate later joined the Lévis Community Celebration.  Kate had changed into a cream-colored Vanessa sleeveless crepe dress by Joseph. The couple attended the event to celebrate the 375^th anniversary of the Lauzon “seigneurie”, the 150^th anniversary of the founding of Lévis, and the 10th anniversary of the new City of Lévis.

In the evening, the couple departed Quebec City for a visit to Prince Edward Island.

Sources: The Star, Global Montreal, 2011 Royal Tour website, Yahoo News, People.

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

So, where do you wear a diamond polar-bear brooch anyways?

Many years into the future, and a young woman steps onto Canadian soil. This is her first visit. The first in line to the throne, she has her mother's style and her father's blond hair. On her lapel she wears a polar bear brooch. Journalists of the day rush to research this unusual piece. Canadians are flattered that she is paying a subtle compliment to them. After all, her mother, great-grandmother and great-great grandmother had done the same before her.

So, where did this striking piece come from?

Way back 2011, when her parents (now King and Queen) went on their first tour of Canada, her mother was presented with this brooch. A Harry Winston pave polar bear silhouette beneath a semi-circle representing the northern lights. A lovely memento of their visit. As the years go by, Catherine will wear this brooch on future visits to Canada and loan it to her daughter; heiress apparent to the throne (succession laws having been changed by this point).  

Wearing jewels given during previous visits is a royal tradition. It's difficult to gauge exactly when it started but there is a certain charm in knowing that this gift is not gathering dust in the vault. Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother was given a maple leaf brooch, which was worn many times by her daughter, the Queen. Her daughter-in-law, William's mother, rarely wore brooches herself and it does not appear that she wore this piece on her own Canadian visits. Instead she seemed to prefer wearing red and white - another royal tradition.

William and Catherine's daughter will also be given her own jewels, representing something exclusive to Canadian history and culture. Yet another striking jewel, which will have limited fashion appeal outside of the country that gifted it to her.  She will then wear it on subsequent visits of her own, eventually loaning it to her own daughter. And so the royal tradition will continue.

Right now if you're wondering, where do you wear a diamond polar-bear brooch?

During future visits to Canada.

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

Day Three - William and Catherine's Royal Tour - Montréal, Quebec

Via British Monarchy Flickr

William and Catherine left Ottawa and arrived in Montréal, Quebec at the Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport for the second half of day three of their tour.

Still wearing the grey Catherine Walker 'Kensington' dress, the couple arrived at Sainte-Justine University Hospital Centre at 4:15PM. Amongst the crowds waiting to see them were 20 anti-monarchist protesters from the Réseau de Résistance du Québécois, waving a banner that read "Parasites Go Home." The protesters were outnumbered by the royal fans, and in response to the protesters who chanted 'Down with the monarchy' the royal supporters responded with chants of"Will and Kate!"

As a security measure the couple swiftly exited the car and were surrounded by security guards as they entered the hospital, disappointing the many people who had waited for hours to see them. William and Catherine were greeted by Quebec Premier Jean Charest, his wife Michèle Dionne, Health Minister Yves Bolduc and hospital staff. They were taken on a tour of the neonatal and oncology units meeting young patients and their families in the game room for children. The couple visited with the children, smiling and asking questions. After their visit, the couple were offered a photo as a memento of their visit by hospital staff.

Via British Monarchy Flickr

The Montreal tour continued at the prestigious Institut de Tourisme et d’hôtellerie du Québec where the couple participated in a one-hour cooking workshop. Wearing chef outfits, William prepared a lobster souffle, while Catherine worked on an amuse-bouche of foie gras.

Later on in the evening the couple departed Montreal for Québec City on board HMCS Montreal.

Sources: The Montreal Gazette, Global Saskatoon

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

Day Three - William and Catherine's Royal Tour 2011 - Ottawa

Via Governor General's Twitpic

With all of the fuss surrounding the religious wedding ceremony in Monaco, it would be easy to forget that William and Catherine were still on tour in Canada.

While the traditional tree planting in the Royal Grove on the grounds of Rideau Hall is not as glamorous as what the new royal bride, the Princess of Monaco was wearing, the couple did their best to be stoic about it.

This will be the first of many trees that Catherine will plant, she carried it off with elan, as if she had been doing this her entire life. Dressed in a grey Catherine Walker 'Kensington' dress, a favorite designer of the late-Diana, Princess of Wales, wearing the same ring, using the same spade and stopping to admire a tree Charles and Diana had planted on their own first visit, ran the risk of comparisons but thankfully there were few.

The couple planted a Canadian hemlock, a tree with a lifespan of 800 years. According to the Governor Generals office:

"They have chosen it as a symbol of love and marriage and are planting a similar tree that was planted by the emperor and empress of Japan on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary,"

Canadian heritage flickr

Afterwards the couple attended a reception at the Canadian War Museum, meeting with 25 veterans from the Korean War, the Second World War and Afghanistan. The couple also unveiled a massive mural. Painted by Augustus John and commissioned by Lord Beaverbrook, who'd intended it to be part of a collection at a national war memorial art gallery.

The couple continue Day 3 of their visit in Montréal, Quebec.

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

Day Two - William and Catherine's Royal Tour - Parliament Hill

Exactly one year ago, Prince William's grandmother attended the Canada Day festivities on Parliament Hill in Ottawa. Like many royal ladies have previously done, the Queen wore red and white, along with a Maple leaf brooch. The large diamond-encrusted maple leaf brooch, was originally presented to Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother when she first visited Canada in 1939. The gift of a maple leaf brooch follows a long-standing tradition. In 1901, the future Queen Mary, visited Canada on a seven-month-long tour where she was given an enamel maple leaf spray. In 1923, Queen Elizabeth, the future Queen Mother received as a wedding gift a gold maple leaf brooch set with diamonds.

Via Canadian Heritage Flickr

Fast forward a year and we have another royal lady in Ottawa, on Canada Day, also wearing red and white and the same brooch. Though 56 years separate the Queen and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge in age, showing patriotism through fashion never goes out of style.

Catherine cream dress called the Nannette by Reiss, is familiar to many as it is the same one she wore in one of the official engagement portraits by Mario Testino. She paired this with the Queen's Maple leaf brooch, a red hat by Sylvia Fletcher at Lock and Co, topped with maple leaves.  Her straw cream and red fan clutch was by Anya Hindmarch, and in case anyone missed the patriotic point of the outfit, red heels. After the previous day's dark outfits, it was a refreshing change to see show some color.

William and Catherine started their morning at the Museum of Civilization in Gatineau, Quebec where they attended a citizenship ceremony, no doubt delighting the 25 new Canadians. The visit had a personal touch as a piper played a piece created especially for them called St. Andrews Courtship, inspired by the university in Scotland where they first met.

Via Canadian heritage Flickr

At Parliament Hill, a record-breaking 300,000 people waited in the sweltering head in anticipation of their arrival. William and Catherine arrived on the Hill with an RCMP escort, using the same horse-drawn landau used for previous royal visits. They were welcomed by various dignitaries, including the Governor General and Prime Minister. Throughout the two hour appearance, they were treated to a CF-18 fly-past, and performances by Canadian artists.

The crowds were delighted when William finally spoke, first in French, then in English, conveying the Queen's 'warmest wishes' and emphasizing their pride in the Armed Forces.  He added a personal touch when he noted that his wife's grandfather had trained in Alberta as a pilot.

Canadian Heritage Flickr

After the event the couple went on an informal walk-about with the crowds before departing in a large black SUV. The were not scheduled to attend any other events that day but later that evening they attended the evening show. Catherine, wearing her hair up, looked lovely in a purple jersey Issa dress.

On July 2 they depart for Montréal, Quebec.
© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

Day One - William and Catherine arrive in Canada

Prince William and his new wife Catherine have finally arrived in Canada. This is Prince William's third visit to Canada and Catherine's first. William's last visit to Canada took place in 1998 when he accompanied his father and brother to Vancouver for a private holiday in Whistler, British Columbia.

Anticipation of their arrival had been building daily with a constant stream of tweets from royal watchers, bloggers, royal reporters and those eager for a glimpse of what Catherine was wearing. She departed London wearing wearing a navy blazer by Toronto label Smythe les Vestes, over a sheath of the same color by French label Roland Mouret. She accessorized this with Manolo Blahnik Calogera shoes and a Mulberry Polly Push Lock bag.

Upon landing in Ottawa the airbus seemed to taxi for an interminable length of time. As dignitaries lined up, William and Catherine made their way down the stairs for a meet and greet. Catherine had her hair pulled back from her face, had changed into a different outfit and was wearing a black and white lace dress by London-based Canadian designer Erdem Moralioglu accessorized with a nude clutch and heels. From the designers 2012 collection, the description for the navy, lace Cecile shift is as follows:

The fitted scoop-backed dress of contrast stone neoprene crepe with a navy lace overlay had a sheer lace sleeve with a scallop detail and was made in the United Kingdom.

A nice, subtle nods to Canada; which we may see more of as the tour progresses.

Catherine was presented with a bouquet by nine-year-old Kellen Schleyer before the couple headed to Confederation square for a wreath laying ceremony. Greeted by Prime Minister Stephen Harper and his wife Laureen, the Duke and Duchess approached the national war memorial for a ceremony of remembrance. Afterwards the couple met with veterans for 20 minutes before heading towards the crowds for a walkabout.

The couple then headed to Rideau Hall, the Governor General of Canada's official residence where they met with Gov.-Gen. David Johnston and his wife Sharon. After the official welcome, the Duke gave a short speech

The couple will attend a private event at Rideau Hall later on in the evening. Tomorrow they will be on Parliament Hill for Canada Day.

© Marilyn Braun 2011

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.

The Royal Tour - Day Nine

Ahh, all good things must come to an end, on this, the last day of her visit to Canada.

She had attended a state dinner the night before at the Royal York Hotel in Toronto. Looking lovely as always, she brought out the tiara and priceless jewels. But it was not the jewels that people noted but the gown she was wearing: a long white lace gown adorned with sequins and pearls around the neckline and a glittering maple leaf appliquéd to the shoulder. Yet another fashion tribute to Canada. (Oh, stop Your Majesty, you're making us blush!)

Looking sprightly despite the heat and late-evening, the Queen was ready for the 21-gun salute at Ontario's Legislature, afterwards unveiling the last plaque of her visit: commemorating the 150th anniversary of the dedication of Queen's Park by her great-grandfather, before he was crowned King Edward VII.

She then headed to Pearson International Airport for a badge ceremony with Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean before departing on an Airbus bound for New York City.

Given her age, there is some discussion regarding whether this will be her last visit to Canada. I like to think that it isn't. During her 2005 visit I had the same thoughts and yet she visited us again and she is reportedly scheduled to return in 2012 to mark her Diamond Jubilee.

Let's hope that's true!

© Marilyn Braun 2010

The Royal Tour of Canada - Day Eight

Admit it. When we visit countries on vacations or for business, or for royal tours, we like taking souvenirs back with us and not declaring them. In this case, the Queen and Prince Philip toured the Research in Motion factory in Waterloo where Blackberrys are made. She was presented with one of her own, with no bells and whistles other than an image of children holding out flowers.

Will she declare it? I can see it now:

Hapless customs agent: Do you have anything to declare?

The Queen's minions: (Nervous but trying to sound casual) No, nothing other than a St James Cathedral tea towel..

Hapless customs agent: Wait a moment, didn't the Queen receive a Blackberry...Why yes she did! Here's the photographic proof!

Hapless minion sighs and begins filling out the paperwork.

© Marilyn Braun 2010

Image via PicApp

The Royal Tour of Canada 2010 - Day Six

On Day Six of the tour, the Queen and Prince Philip visited the province of Manitoba before returning to Toronto later on in the evening.

Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport welcomed its first passengers; Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness, the Duke of Edinburgh. When the Queen and Prince Philip deplaned at Bridge 7, they became the first official passengers to the airport, arriving in the new terminal, currently still under construction. 

Later on in the afternoon the Queen unveiled a statue of herself created by the late Leo Mol, Manitoba’s most famous artist and sculptor. Mol created the statue of The Queen for her visit to Manitoba in 1970. It stood in the courtyard of the Manitoba Centennial Centre, but was recently relocated to the garden of Government House.

The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh planted a shrub in the Government House garden, renamed the Queen Elizabeth II Gardens. This shrub, the Amber Jubilee Ninebark, was specially created in honour of The Queen’s upcoming Diamond Jubilee.

Accompanied by various dignitaries, en route to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights - the first national museum created in over 40 years - The Queen and Prince Philip crossed the striking Esplanade Riel (pedestrial bridge) to arrive at The Forks, where The Queen dedicated the cornerstone for the new museum.

For this historic dedication, The Queen used a stone from Runnymede – the site of the 1215 signing of the Magna Carta. Once officially opened in 2012, this national museum will be a national centre of learning, where Canadians and people from around the world can engage in discussion and commit to taking action against hate and oppression.

Afterwards the couple attended the Manitoba Homecoming Canadian Concert for Human Rights at The Forks, where the Queen delivered a speech.

The concert featured performances by various Manitoban performers, including Aboriginal drummers, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, as well as Manitoba born singer Chantal Kreviazuk.

© Marilyn Braun 2010

The Royal Report for Monday July 5, 2010 - A look back at The Queen's Royal Tours of Canada

In honor of The Queen and Prince Philip's 22nd visit to Canada, a look back at their royal visits and the long association royalty has had with Canada.

You can listen to the episode here

Publications mentioned

Hello! Canada Special Collectors Edition - The Life and Times of Queen Elizabeth II Celebrating Her Majesty's Royal Visit to Canada

From My Royal Collection

Royal Canada: a History of Royal Visits to Canada Since 1786

Resources used to research this episode

Macleans Magazine Commemorative Edition Royal Visit 2010 - July 5, 2010

Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal Family in Canada (Golden Jubilee

Canada's Queen: Elizabeth II: A Celebration of Her Majestys Friendship with the People of Canada

The Royal Tour: A Souvenir Album

Royal Canada: a History of Royal Visits to Canada Since 1786

 The Royal Report is on hiatus for the next two weeks and will return on Sunday July 25th, 2010 at 9:00PM EST (North America)

Topic to be determined

© Marilyn Braun 2010

The Royal Tour of Canada - Day Four and Five

Aside from the Vancouver Olympics, where is the best place to put your Canadian pride on display? In our nation's capital on the 143rd birthday of Canada! To top it all off we had the Queen of Canada to celebrate right along with us!

The Queen arrived in an open, horse-drawn landau, patriotically dressed in a red chiffon dress with a diamond maple leaf brooch, and a white hat with red flower. Ladies from the Royal family have been known to provide a compliment to the host country through their fashions and Her Majesty did not disappoint. As a matter of fact she could easily have blended in with the 100,000 flag-waving, revellers dressed in similar colors. I'll bet she doesn't have to worry about that very often.

To signal her arrival The Queen's Personal Canadian Flag was flown from the Peace Tower at Parliament Hill as she took the salute, inspected a Guard of Honor and watched a 21-gun salute, a fly-past and a march-past.

During her speech, which she made in both English and French she praised Canada's 'warmth and enthusiasm" and made reference to the Vancouver Olympics and the gold-medal win for Canada's hockey team.

On day five of the tour, which was meant to be her day-off, The Queen met privately with Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff at Rideau Hall. Mr Ignatieff had this to say after his meeting with her “I have to be discreet. She’s the Queen. I can’t share what she said other than to say she has a magnificent sense of humour and sense of the absurd,” he said.

Oh, if only to have been a fly on the wall...

© Marilyn Braun 2010

The Royal Tour of Canada 2010 - Day Three

Day Three of the Queen and Prince Philip's royal tour marked their arrival in our nations capital - Ottawa, Ontario.

It must have seemed like a regular day at the office, what with all of the plaques, windows and statues she unveiled. The first unveiling took place during a visit to the Canadian Museum of Nature where she unveiled a plaque dedicating The Queen's Lantern. This glass addition replaces the original tower of the Victoria Memorial Museum Building, built in 1910 to house this natural history museum, a 100 year-old building, designated a national historic site. The Lantern is dedicated to The Queen and her great-great-grandmother, Queen Victoria, after whom the building was named.

After a short walkabout the couple arrived at the National Arts Centre to unveil a life-sized bronze statue of the late-jazz- legend Oscar Peterson, who played for the Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh during the 2002 Golden Jubilee celebrations in Toronto.

Her visit to Rideau Hall marks the second tree-planting of the tour. Rideau Hall is the official residence of the Governor General of Canada and the tree that the Queen planted, her fifth at Rideau Hall, is one of 120 trees planted by members of the Royal Family, heads of state and other dignitaries. A bronze plaque at the base of each tree indicates the name and title of the person who planted it and the species and date.

The last unveiling takes after her audience with Prime Minister Stephen Harper. She unveils the design for the Diamond Jubilee Window for the Senate of Canada, the upper chamber of the Parliament of Canada.  The Window will commemorate Her Majesty’s 60 years of service as Queen, to be celebrated in 2012, and that of Queen Victoria’s, celebrated in 1897.

The Queen also unveiled a design for a carving of The Queen for the Senate Foyer. This image of The Queen will be installed alongside the other five of Canada’s sovereigns (Victoria, Edward VII, George V, Edward VIII and George VI) who have reigned since Confederation.

© Marilyn Braun 2010

Not a monarchist, just semi-fascinated at the moment

The Queen and Prince Philip are in Canada for their 22nd royal tour.

(Insert stifled yawn here)

Considering that I'm covering the visit for this blog (and will continue to do so), I just can't rouse myself to feel any true excitement for the tour.

Having an 84 year old woman and her 89 year old husband displaying impressive energy and stamina when it comes to shaking multiple hands and unveiling plaques, just doesn't do it for me. It's something I noticed when Charles and Camilla visited last November. It was the same lack of excitement. Where was the glamour? The youth factor? At minimum, couldn't someone have fallen off a horse?

While it may be nice to have the Queen amongst us if only to compare her likeness to our currency, I have to ask what the point of these visits are? But then again, I had to ask what the point of the recent G20 visits were, an event that could have easily been accomplished by video teleconference equipment (yes, we have the technology!), wasted a billion dollars and led to a small group of anarchists overshadowing peaceful demonstrators with legitimate issues. Unlike the G20 world leaders, who we barely saw, the Queen does not hide behind partitions and cement barriers. We are not strongly encouraged to stay away, leaving the downtown core a ghost town. We are encouraged to come to see a woman who is the last of her kind, to celebrate her visit and to see the Queen of Canada who, as the most well-travelled monarch in history, and has seen and met more of of her subjects than any of her predecessors. While she may not enthusiastically wade into the crowds like the younger generation of royals, shaking all hands proffered, she is here, in the flesh, and visible.

When I look back on her previous visits, the first one in 1951 as Princess Elizabeth, the photos show an excitement to be marvelled at for the wrong reasons. Not to be viewed as the natural consequence of a deferential age but as a questionable response to a young woman far removed from our reality. It was inevitable that those types of reactions would reduce for subsequent royal visits. In the 1970s, when she brought her children, it increased the excitement factor. The photos from Charles and Diana's various visits show the same type of excitement and enthusiasm that was briefly repeated on Andrew and Fergie's 1987 tour, but has not been seen since then. Other royals may come and go, but it's just not the same.

With Charles and Camilla's recent tour, I chalked the lack of enthusiasm up to having the opening act instead of the star of the show perform. I had honestly thought that the Camilla curiosity factor would have increased the interest in the tour; it didn't. The lackluster response for their tour seemed to be an omen for this visit. Except in this case we have the star of the show in attendance. If the people from the 1950s were capable of viewing photos from this tour, they would marvel at our cynicism and in some cases our lack of respect.

At the risk of sounding like a monarchist - which I'm not - I'm glad she's here. I may not appreciate her visits until she's gone and that's a shame. In the future, other royals may come and go, but it just won't be the same.

© Marilyn Braun 2010

The Royal Tour of Canada 2010 - Day Two

Continuing their stop in Halifax, Nova Scotia, The Queen and Prince Philip visit coincided with the Celebrations marking the Canadian Naval Centenial - 100 years of proud service by the Royal Canadian Navy. The Queen also has a personal interest in the Royal Canadian Navy. She is patron of The Navy League of Canada, The Royal Canadian Naval Association and The Royal Canadian Naval Benevolent Fund.

The Duke of Edinburgh presented a certificate from the World Ship Trust to Canada's most famous and most decorated warship, HMCS Haida. HMCS Haida, a Tribal class warship built in England in 1941 it was Commissioned into the Royal Canadian Navy in 1943. The certificate represents the prestigious International Maritime Heritage Award – bestowed on ships considered important to maritime history and heritage and honoring the legacy of those who served in HMCS Haida.

In the afternoon The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh visited the Bedford Institute of Oceanography, Canada’s largest centre for ocean research. After this visit they board the naval frigate HMSC St John's for the International Fleet Review. This naval pageant featured about 22 foreign ships, each saluting the Queen as she passed by in the HMSC St. John's.

Later on in the day, The Duke of Edinburgh attended a reception with the the 2nd Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment The Duke of Edinburgh meeting members of the 2nd Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment at Government House. The Duke of Edinburgh acts as Colonel-in-Chief of many units, including the 2nd Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment. This long-serving regiment is the only regular force infantry battalion stationed in Atlantic Canada.

In the evening the couple attended a Celebration of Nova Scotia at the Cunard Centre, overlooking the Halifax port.  The evening celebrates Nova Scotians who have made significant contributions to their communities, province and country. These include recipients of the province’s highest honour – the Order of Nova Scotia – as well as the unsung heroes, who work quietly to make their communities better. During the event they were treated to performances by Nova Scotia musicians, dancers and singers. As well a performance by DRUM! a group of artists from Canada's Aboriginal, Black, Celtic and Acadian communities.
© Marilyn Braun 2010

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The Royal Tour of Canada 2010 - Day One

The Queen and Prince Philip have arrived in Canada to begin their 22nd Canadian Royal Tour!

Arriving on a rainy day in Halifax, Nova Scotia, the Queen carried a clear umbrella; a deliberate choice to allow people to view her despite the weather conditions. The couple are welcomed  by officials, including the Hon Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and the Queen's personal flag is raised to signify the presence of the Queen of Canada.

Their visit starts with an official welcome ceremony to Canada and Nova Scotia, in the Garrison grounds at the foot of the Halifax Citadel Hill, a national symbol of Halifax's role as a major naval station in the British empire and in Canada's development from colony to nation. In attendance at this welcome ceremony is Prime Minister Stephen Harper, The Governor General Michaëlle Jean, and other prominent Canadian's and dignitaries. After the Prime Minister's speech, the Queen addressed the crowd:

"My mother once said that this country feels like a home away from home for the Queen. I'm delighted to be back among you all. Canadians have by their own endeavours built a society that is widely admired across the world," she said. "I am very proud of this country. Thank you for your welcome. It is very good to be home."

The Queen and Prince Philip paid a visit to a Mi'kmaq festival, and unveiled a plaque, rededicating Government House, the restored residence of Nova Scotia's lieutenant-governor — the oldest official residence in Canada, which had undergone a three-year renovation. 

The Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, Her Honour the Honourable Mayann E. Francis, presented The Queen with the ceremonial Royal Key, made of gilt-sterling silver and engraved with The Queen’s Royal Cypher. This presentation of the key, to be returned at the end of the tour, begins a new tradition at Government House. The Royal Key will also be presented to future Lieutenant Governors and important visitors who stay at Government House.

© Marilyn Braun 2010

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