"With Love, from Elizabeth". A Childhood Memento of the British Monarch Discovered
A handwritten letter from a young Princess Elizabeth, recently discovered, highlights her early love for animals amidst a looming global conflict.
Recently, a handwritten letter from a young Princess Elizabeth II was discovered under the bed of a childhood friend, shedding light on her early affection for animals, especially dogs and horses. Experts estimate the letter dates from 1936 to 1940 when Elizabeth was on holiday in Praa Sands, Cornwall, a popular destination for wealthy Britons. The letter's existence highlights a simpler time in her life before the onset of World War II and her eventual ascension to the throne.
The letter is addressed to Beatrice Stillman, who became a royal maid at the Windsor residence in 1936, and contains drawings made by the young princess, reflecting her creative spirit during a time of innocence. It serves as a poignant reminder of Elizabeth's childhood years, moments that would soon give way to the responsibilities and challenges of royal life.
As the world stood at the precipice of war, these rediscovered childhood memories of Elizabeth II offer a unique glimpse into her early years and the person she would become. The letter not only encapsulates fond memories but also adds a personal touch to the history of the British monarchy, connecting the past with the present.