A handwritten letter penned by Queen Elizabeth II as a child is scheduled to be auctioned on February 27th, with expected bids reaching up to £4,000. The one-page note, addressed to the head housemaid at Royal Lodge in Windsor, features drawings of dogs, horses and children.
A Glimpse into Royal Childhood
The letter, written between 1936 and 1940 while the then Princess Elizabeth was in Praa Sands, Cornwall, includes a specific inquiry about the well-being of animals. She asks if “the birds are well, and the goldfish haven’t died.” The letter too references primroses she had picked and requested be shared with staff at Royal Lodge.
Discovery and Context
The letter was one of several found addressed to Beatrice Stillman, the former head housemaid at Royal Lodge. Another letter, from Princess Margaret, simply requested that Stillman “glance after my bathing suit.” The correspondence reveals a personal connection between the royal family and Stillman, particularly after a tragedy impacted her family.
In 1940, following the death of Stillman’s brother-in-law in an air raid, the Queen Mother extended an invitation to his widow and their two daughters, Rene and Jean, to play with the princesses at Royal Lodge. Rene, Westacott’s aunt, fondly remembered these encounters and playing in a large playhouse in the garden.
What’s Next?
The letter is expected to attract significant interest at auction. The final sale price will exceed the estimated £4,000. Following the auction, the letter could be acquired by a private collector, a museum, or an institution dedicated to preserving royal history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the letter about?
The letter, written by Queen Elizabeth II as a child, asks about the well-being of birds and goldfish and references primroses she picked.
When was the letter written?
The letter was written sometime between 1936 and 1940, while the then Princess Elizabeth was in Cornwall.
Who was the letter addressed to?
The letter was addressed to Beatrice Stillman, the head housemaid at Royal Lodge in Windsor.
What does this discovery reveal about the relationship between the royal family and their staff?
