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The Edinburghs

Monument dedicated to Prince Edward unveiled

The U.K. Hgh Commission in Samoa has unveiled a new monument in Savai’i in honour of a visit to the big island by Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex, nearly 30 years ago.

The monument was officially dedicated at the end of October at Prince Edward Park in Iva, Savai’i, within the U.K. High Commissioner to Samoa, Ian Richards, as well as other Iva villagers in attendance.

The new monument includes a monument itself, new billboard signage and the renovation of the park’s changing facilities. Richards said it was an honour to unveil the new monument: “What a great afternoon we spent at Iva’s Prince Edward Park on 27 October.

“It was a real honour to unveil a new monument to [His Royal Highness] Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex, commemorating his visit in 1992; as well as two billboards which will help visitors find their way to the park for future sports events; and, of great significance to the local players, refurbished changing rooms.”

The activities finished off with the inaugural march of this year’s Island of Origin competition. Richards added: “This was narrowly won by Upolu, but it was a close game played in a positive spirit: I am only sorry Prince Edward was not there to watch it.”

The monument was designed and installed by the artist Papalii Penehuro Papalii of Beautiful Expressions of Nature Art Gallery. The Earl, who is currently 14th in the line of succession to the throne, officially opened Prince Edward Park during a visit to Savaii on 13 October 1992. Other members of the Royal Family have also visited the country, including The Queen, who visited Western Samoa in February 1977.

About author

My name is Sydney Zatz and I am a University of Iowa graduate. I graduated with a degree in journalism and sports studies, and a minor in sport and recreation management. A highlight of my college career was getting the chance to study abroad in London and experiencing royal history firsthand. I have a passion for royals, royal history, and journalism, which led me to want to write for Royal Central.