Childhood Letter from Queen Elizabeth II Sells for £25,000 at Auction
A childhood letter written by the late Queen Elizabeth II, when she was approximately ten years old, has been sold at auction for an impressive £25,000. This sum significantly exceeded the pre-sale estimate of £4,000, highlighting the enduring fascination with royal memorabilia and historical documents.
Historical Context and Discovery
The single-page letter is believed to have been penned between 1936 and 1940, during a formative period in the future monarch's life. It was addressed to Beatrice Stillman, who served as the head housemaid at Royal Lodge in Windsor, a residence used by the royal family. In the note, signed with the heartfelt closing 'Love from Elizabeth', the young princess inquired about the well-being of birds and goldfish under the care of the staff. She also requested that primroses she had personally picked be distributed among the household employees, showcasing her early thoughtfulness and connection to nature.
Auction Details and Significance
The auction took place in Kent, where bidders competed fiercely for this rare piece of royal history. Auctioneers noted that the letter's charm lies in its candid glimpse into Queen Elizabeth II's character as a child, revealing her compassionate and inquisitive nature. This document was part of a larger archive discovered in 2024, found in a suitcase belonging to Jean Westacott, the niece of Beatrice Stillman, after her passing. The archive also included a note from Princess Margaret, adding to its historical value and providing further insights into the royal siblings' early lives.
The sale underscores the high demand for authentic royal artifacts, particularly those that offer personal insights into the lives of prominent figures. Collectors and historians alike value such items for their ability to humanize historical icons and preserve intimate moments from the past.
