I’ll confess, we’ve been Royal Family watchers in our house for a long time, mostly due to the interesting history. However, Tara seems to be interested in the gossip as well, lately. Though I am a lover of history, I will be the first to admit that the actions of the Crown have not always aligned with my value system, or benefited my province. But, one cannot deny that thousands of years of reigning as a Monarchy is impressive.

Kevin Major, in his book, “As Near to Heaven by Sea” speaks of Newfoundland & Labrador’s early connection and contributions to the British empire:

“In 1770, the per-capita exports of Newfoundland amounted to 12 – 15 pounds sterling. No other territory in North America could boast anything near that figure.

… The merchant princes sank their cod money into property. What came to be known as Mansion House is a monument of sorts to Newfoundland’s vast contribution to Britain’s economy and the building of its empire.”

Questions are arising about the future of the Monarchy and the entire world order for that matter. No matter what happens, on this international day of mourning, I’m taking this time to recognize the deep rooted history of this province and country with the Crown. More specifically, I’m recognizing the efforts of a young woman who emerged to become an exceptional leader and our head-of-state upon her coronation in 1952. A job she didn’t expect, but did to the best of her abilities, for more than 70 years.