Harpenden's celebrations of the 1953 Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II

Carnival procession - can you recognise the participants?

By Rosemary Ross

Photo:Programme of events

Programme of events

LHS archives

The programme of events concludes with the following note:

"It will be a matter of interest to place on record that the cost of the Celebrations outlined in the foregoing Programme and the souvenirs for the children has been met by the allocation by the Urban District Council of the produce of a 1½d [approx. 0.5p] rate, amounting to £860, together with contributions from the residents of Harpenden as the result of several voluntary efforts, including “Merry-go-round-Teas”, “Mile of Pennies”, “Roses of England” and the “Order of Chivalry”.  To all …… grateful thanks are extended. …

"The scene is set – pageantry, fun, music and dancing, and Harpenden will bedeck itself with all the colour and gaiety of Fairyland.

"It is hoped that everyone, whether young and old, will find some item which will afford an outlet for the joyous expression of loyalty and devotion to her Gracious Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on her Coronation.

S. V. Shadbolt, Honorary Organiser"

Below is a selection of items from our archives, which gives an idea of how the event was celebrated. Do you recognise any of the people or organisations taking part?

Photo:1. The busiest day for celebrations

1. The busiest day for celebrations

LHS archives

Photo:2. Harpenden WI float, depicting Henry VIII and his six wives. The float broke down at the beginning of the procession, so they took little part in it. What a shame! - See comment below

2. Harpenden WI float, depicting Henry VIII and his six wives. The float broke down at the beginning of the procession, so they took little part in it. What a shame! - See comment below

LHS archives

Photo:3.

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Photo:8. The Coronation dinner in Harpenden Hall - perhaps the Ball followed this?

8. The Coronation dinner in Harpenden Hall - perhaps the Ball followed this?

LHS archives

Photo:9. Mr Shadbolt thanks all who contributed

9. Mr Shadbolt thanks all who contributed

LHS archives

This page was added by Rosemary Ross on 04/06/2013.
Comments about this page

I was delighted to see this photograph (no. 2) as it clearly shows my mother, June Tuffin and my sister, Patricia Tuffin. (My mother is seated right at the front and my sister is behind and to the left of her). I was six years old at the time and remember this day very well. Also part of the coronation parade, I was seated somewhat precariously on the back of my uncle's van (Frank Tuffin, electrician) and dressed as a ballerina.

By Barbara Stickley (formerly Tuffin)
On 18/02/2014
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