What Possessions of the British Royal Family Surprised You?
The British Royal Family has a long and storied history, often known for their grandeur, tradition, and opulence. However, some of their possessions have managed to shock even the most accustomed royal watchers. Let's explore some of these surprising items and incidents that have grabbed headlines in recent years.
Queen Elizabeth II's Unconventional Display of Anger
One of the more astonishing moments involving the Royal Family occurred during one of Queen Elizabeth II's interactions with the Archbishop of Canterbury. Witnessing the Queen turn her head through 180 degrees and start shouting obscenities with an unmistakable gravelly voice, was a clear demonstration of her displeasure. This unexpected outburst by the British monarch tested the boundaries of royal decorum and served as a reminder that even figures of such stature can experience moments of human emotion.
Princess Anne's Unfortunate Bathroom Accident
Another surprising incident with the Royal Family involved Princess Anne. In a moment of outrageous and unintended humor, Princess Anne was documented spewing green vomit onto the Clerks of the Privy Footstool during a crawl on the ceiling of St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. This event, which took place during a historical reenactment, was a delightful mix of comedy and tragedy, reminding onlookers that even members of the Royal Family can engage in boyish antics.
The Musket Ball that Killed Admiral Nelson
A possession that many might not have known about is the musket ball that killed Admiral Nelson, currently on display in the Royal Collection. Presented to Queen Victoria in 1842, this relic serves as a poignant reminder of the deadly nature of war and the importance of preserving historical artifacts to educate future generations.
Prince Philip's Old Black Cab
A seemingly mundane but surprisingly enlightening possession is the London Black Cab that Prince Philip used to drive around London in disguise. Purchased in 1999 and referred to as the metrocab, this eco-friendly vehicle, though dark green, was still colloquially known as a "Black Cab" despite its officially green hue. In 2017, Prince Philip donated the vehicle to a museum, providing a unique insight into his personal life beyond the royal duties often in the spotlight.
Conversational Insights
Some of the more surprising revelations about the Royal Family stem from everyday items like carriages. For example, the fact that Queen Elizabeth II once owned a Vauxhall Cresta Estate car stands out as an amusing anachronism. This flashy, overly extroverted car simply didn't fit the image of the British monarchy, leading to much amusement among the public and some grumbling among royal watchers.
Another comment from Keith Stevenson reflects a broader social and ethical perspective. He questions why the Royal Family maintains so many farms and estates, suggesting that these properties could be repurposed to provide accommodation for homeless individuals. This viewpoint highlights a common debate about the use and public perception of royal wealth and property.
Finally, there are those who take issue with the Royal Family's possessions, pointing out that some items, such as military relics or historically significant objects, are common to past monarchs but still considered odd by a modern audience.
While the possessions and antics of the British Royal Family may often seem quaint or ridiculous, they provide a window into the lives of those who inhabit the highest echelons of society. These items, both mundane and extraordinary, serve as a reminder of the complex and often layered nature of the British monarchy.