Insight

Think a republic would be cheaper than Monarchy? Think again!

<![CDATA[It has long been the contention of those who would abolish the Monarchy that one of the virtues of a republican system is that it is, in some way, axiomatically cheaper than a Monarchy. On the face of it, it's understandable to see why some may buy into this claim. After all, you don't see presidents processing in state carriages or attending many great parades in their…
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FeaturesHistoryInsight

The Royal W: Scarlet Rod

<![CDATA[The Gentleman Usher of the Scarlet Rod is one of six administrative and ceremonial officers of the Order of the Bath and established in 1725. The Title ‘Scarlet Rod’ is from the characteristic insignia of the office which is a long silver gilt rod. The shaft is covered with scarlet enamel that signifies the mantles of the Knights and Dames Grand Cross of the Order. The holders of…
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FeaturesInsight

The Royal Household: Master of the Household's Department

<![CDATA[The Master of the Household Department was created in 1539. Originally there were four Masters of the Household, but in the 17th Century it was reduced to one. The position was also one that required little to no effort, which was until Prince Albert reorganized the structure in the 1840s. The current Master of the Household Department comprises over 250 employees and is the largest…
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Interviews

Royal Central Conversations: Desmond Thompson

<![CDATA[In November 2013, The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) launched a new honour amongst their ranks: The Queen's Medal. The Medal is reserved for veterinary surgeons whose careers and lifetime achievements deserve wider recognition. With the support…
FeaturesHistory

History Rewind: Marriage of William of Orange and Mary

<![CDATA[On 4th November 1677, the future joint Monarchs of England, Scotland and Ireland, Queen Mary II and King William III married at St James' Palace. Although their marriage was, in broad terms, quite a happy one, their wedding day was far from a joyous occasion. Mary, a mere 15 year old girl, is said to have wept continuously throughout the ceremony, and the arranger of the marriage…
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