Obscure Book of the Day: Illustrated London News, George VI Memorial Number, 1952

Following the whole “Abdication Kerfuffle” ™, Prince Bertie, the Duke of York, found himself reluctantly and rather unexpectedly ascending the throne as King George VI. He guided Britain through the Second World War and the stress of his unwanted duties hastened his early death.

In death King George VI left behind his beloved wife, the Queen Mother, his mother Queen Mary (who was, herself, also dying of lung cancer following the deaths of three of her sons and her devoted husband, King George V) and his two daughters, Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret. Abroad with her husband, Princess Elizabeth heard of her father’s death and quickly returned to England as Queen Elizabeth II.

In my collection of Royalty-related ephemera, I have two magazines from 1952 devoted to the death of King George VI. Here’s one of them. This edition of The Illustrated London News not only covers the death and funeral of the brave and loyal King, but also his exceptional life.

Let’s take a look inside.

The King was dead, but life went on and people needed biscuits, shoe polish and booze, not to mention Norma Desmond's favorite cigarettes, Abdullas.

Guarding the Royal coffin.

The new Queen was crushed by the death of her beloved father.

During the war, King George VI was eager to show the people of Britain that everyone had to work together.  He actively worked to farm the lands of the Royal households.  Here, we see him making friends with a pig.  Pigs don't know Kings from commoners.  It's a nice looking pig, too.

Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother--in mourning.

The funeral procession.

The new queen rushed home from Africa.

Queen Mary was no stranger to tragedy.  Aware that she was dying, Queen Mary attended the funeral of her son, the King, and made it very clear that the coronation of her favorite granddaughter should not be postponed in the event of her death.  In fact,, Queen Mary did pass away just before the coronation.

George VI enjoyed, more than anything, staying at home and spending time with his wife and daughters.  Here, we see the King sharing tea with Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, in a rare peaceful moment.

Long live the Queen!

Blackie and Whitey were eager to sell their whiskey to a grieving nation.

I’m feeling self-promoting today, so let me remind you that in our online store, we have designs which will help you show your love of British history. Our “Teck Support” and “Abdication Kerfuffle” designs are a fun and clever way to remember the lives of those who shaped the history of the world.