A shimmering fountain greets you. It’s the Jubilee 1887 2002 2012 fountain. A testament to three grand celebrations. Three Jubilees marking Queen Victoria’s reign. The Diamond Jubilee and two more.
This elegant fountain wasn’t always here. It was gifted in 1887. A memento of Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. Six hundred Teddington residents presented it. They wanted to remember this special occasion. It commemorates fifty years of her rule. Fifty years of the British Empire.
Imagine the scene. Crowds lining the streets of London. Ten miles of scaffolding for spectators. A grand procession to Westminster Abbey. Queen Victoria riding in her gilded landau. Six cream-coloured horses pulling her. She wore a bonnet not a crown. The procession was seen as far as the eye could see. It stretched endlessly along the road.
That day was filled with joy and celebration. A Thanksgiving service was held. The Te Deum Prince Albert had composed was sung. A beam of sunlight fell on the Queen’s bowed head. Later she enjoyed a banquet. Foreign royalty and dignitaries attended. The fireworks display lit up the night sky. A fitting end to a remarkable day.
The Jubilee celebrations were huge. They extended across the British Empire. India held official celebrations in February. The heat of summer was avoided. Indian princes travelled to London. Some accompanied by their wives. One brought an Arab stallion as a gift.
Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee was momentous. It marked a return to public life after Prince Albert’s death. She signed correspondence as Victoria Regina et Imperatrix. This reflected her title as Empress of India. She had taken this title in 1876. Her Jubilee truly celebrated her vast empire.
This fountain stands as a symbol of those Jubilees. A reminder of the pomp and pageantry. It reflects pride and unity across the years. The Jubilee 1887 2002 2012 fountain. A tangible link to history. It whispers tales of royal celebrations. Remember this moment. Remember the Jubilees.