The passing of Queen Victoria on January 22, 1901, marked the end of an era. After reigning for an astonishing 63 years and 7 months, the beloved monarch succumbed to old age. Her deathbed was attended by her son, King Edward VII, and her grandson, Emperor Wilhelm II of Germany.
Queen Victoria’s funeral, held on February 2, 1901, was a somber occasion. Her body lay in state for two days before being interred in Frogmore Mausoleum, alongside her late husband, Prince Albert. Commemorative services were held throughout the British Empire, honoring her legacy and the impact she had on the nation.
One of the lesser-known aspects of her funeral was the inclusion of a special order of service for the town of Berwick-upon-Tweed. Located on the England-Scotland border, Berwick had a unique status, being “of England, but not in England.” This distinction often led to confusion and misunderstandings, particularly regarding its involvement in historical conflicts.
A popular myth claimed that Berwick had remained technically at war with Russia after the Crimean War (1853-1856) due to an oversight in the Treaty of Paris. However, this belief was later debunked. The 1746 Berwick and Wales Act clarified that references to England included Berwick, dispelling the notion of the town’s ongoing conflict.
Queen Victoria’s death was a significant event that reverberated throughout the British Empire. Her reign, characterized by stability, progress, and a strong sense of duty, left an enduring legacy. As the nation mourned her loss, it also celebrated the remarkable achievements and contributions of one of its most iconic monarchs.
