FOLLOWING the sad passing of Queen Elizabeth II, I thought it rather apt to dedicate this week’s local history column to a particular occasion of Ilminster’s patriotism to Her Majesty.
As we now welcome in a new reigning monarch, so too did the nation upon the Queen’s Coronation in June 1953 following the death of King George VI a year before.
Across Britain, celebrations were underway and Ilminster, in true Ilminsterian fashion, was no exception having formed its own Coronation Committee at previous coronations.
The streets and recreation grounds (both the one in the centre of Ilminster and along Winterhay Lane) were lined with bunting, partiers, picnics, and parades on the special day.
One Ilminster resident, Doreen, can remember a renowned coal merchant who often facilitated such gatherings in a large shed behind his house in Winterhay Lane, the room lined with tables and chairs for residents to enjoy food and drink typical of the post-war era.
Coronation chicken, invented by Constance Spry as part of the royal banquet preparations for the special event, was cuisine that would later be enjoyed between two slices of bread by the general public many years later as availability allowed, and palates became curious.
Local dignitaries and clergymen gathered to lead a procession through Vivary Park in Taunton, the day ending with a carnival watched by thousands, and a script written by Mr Janes of Glastonbury entailing a historical account leading up to the Queen’s Coronation was staged at Dillington House in Ilminster.
Lots of commemorative ware was produced in its millions with some of us still having a mug or plate tucked away at the back of the cupboard either having lived through it personally, or as something passed down by those who had. Which shops sold these items in Ilminster originally, I wonder? Can you remember?
If you have any stories, information, or photos related to the Coronation celebrations in Ilminster please do get in touch and share your memories.
Written by Megan Bessell, member of the Ilminster History Society
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