Marlborough’s Royal Links  – free exhibition today and tomorrow

At Queen Victoria’s Jubilee in 1887 Marlborough celebrated with an ox roast in the High Street. The ox head and the ox hoof, which has been made into a commemorative snuff box, are the centre pieces of the Marlborough’s Royal Links free exhibition in the Town Hall today and tomorrow 10am-3pm.

The exhibition, which has been created by The Merchant’s House, showcases memorabilia and photographs ranging from Queen Victoria’s reign to the present day. There are many photos from the Queen’s coronation in 1952. These have been photocopied and local people are invited to identify anyone they know in the photos. At the coronation Marlborough High Street was also turned into a street party and there was maypole dancing.

At King George V’s coronation a massive bonfire was lit but not before a photograph was taken. The bonfire is somewhat larger than today’s beacon which will be lit at 9.45 on the Common on Thursday June 2!

There is also an exhibition of commemorative Royal cups, saucers and mugs which have been lent to the exhibition by supporters of The Merchant House. And if the table set for afternoon tea using these items whets your appetite then tea and cake are on offer for a donation.

The Merchant’s House, which reopens in mid-June after renovations, is looking for more volunteers to help in the shop, or act as a tour guide in the house and museum. Staff member Nichola commented, “Just 2 hours of your time makes the world of difference to us.”

Tomorrow afternoon at 1.45pm The Merchant’s House is presenting a talk by Jo Badger entitled ‘Royal Fashion in the age of Queen Victoria’ also at The Town Hall.

Marlborough Open Gardens in aid of The Merchant’s House will be held on Sunday June 26^th 1-5pm £8.