Watching History...

Monday, August 19th, the funeral for Queen Elizabeth the second was held this day. Queen Elizabeth passed away August 8th at the age of 96. I am fascinated by the Royal family. This was also a bit of history. She reigned as Queen for 70 years. She was the longest reigning British Monarch. I wanted to view this funeral but it started in the wee small hours of the morning Eastern Standard Time. I found the news station and DVR'd it so I could watch it when I awoke. I have gleaned some pictures from the media that are parts of the funeral day that I appreciated.

The funeral was held at Westminster Abbey. 

The funeral procession would walk from Westminster Abbey to Wellington Arch. The Queen's children, King Charles, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward would walk behind the coffin. Behind them would be Prince William and Prince Harry.

The Queen's casket was drawn on a cannon carriage. It was pulled by 142 member of the Royal Navy. This is a tradition that began with the funeral of Queen Victoria. Her casket was pulled by a horse that was a bit too frisky. It started to slip. Quickly rope and soldiers were brought and the carriage was pulled by the military. From this point forward, this is how it is done. There are ropes in front pulling and ropes behind keeping things steady.

At Wellington Arch, the Queen's casket would be transferred to the State Hearse, which the Queen had a hand in designing. Then the State Hearse with other security vehicles would drive from Wellington Arch to Windsor Castle. All the way the roads were lined with people wanting a last glimpse of their Queen.

The Committal Service was held at St. George's Chapel on the grounds of Windsor Castle. 

At the end of this service, the casket was lowered into the underground burial chamber as the Dean of Windsor read the Psalm. 

The services were beautiful. Many facets were according to protocol and tradition. Many touches were added by the Royal family to personalize their feelings for their Mother and Grandmother. Here are a few things that caught my attention.

Prince William and Kate brought their two oldest children, Prince George, age 9, and Princess Charlotte, age 7. These two little ones behaved so well. Charlotte wore a broach on her coat that Queen Elizabeth had given her of a horse shoe. Princess Kate wore a necklace that had been worn by Princess Diana. All these tiny details were the family's way of remembering and including family. 

On the casket was a floral arrangement which King Charles had designed to be environmentally friendly. This simply means it had no floral foam holding it together. It was made of flowers from plants that were from the Queen's wedding and other important moments in her life. On the floral arrangement was a card visibly displayed. This card was handwritten by King Charles and said, "In loving and devoted memory. Charles R." The 'R' is for Rex which is Latin for King. This handwritten card is also a tradition. 

When the funeral procession arrived at Windsor Castle, the Queen's much loved pets were there for a final good bye. The horse is named Emma. The corgi's were much loved by the Queen.

Queen Elizabeth loved Balmoral and had a Piper play outside her window every morning. In a tribute to her love of bagpipes, there was a Piper for each of the services. The Funeral Service had a Piper that played "Sleep, Dearie, Sleep" from a place above the main level. The Committal Service had a Piper who played as the coffin was lowered into the ground of St. George's Chapel. He also played from an upper level in the Chapel. As he played he very slowly walked away down a hall and out of sight. The sound diminished as he did that which was very touching as the Queen's casket lowered into the ground. These were both very touching. I enjoy bagpipes.

I confess, I spent my entire day in Sandiland curled up in my winged chair watching this bit of history. It was moving, tender, and respectful. I feel good about my choice to watch this history as it happened.