Explore The Royal Family's close relationship with the region, as well as the diverse artistic traditions represented in the Royal Collection
King George VI and Queen Elizabeth at St John, New Brunswick, during their tour of Canada
13 - 13 Jun 1939Gelatin silver print | 24.3 x 31.5 cm (image) | RCIN 2704622
The first reigning Canadian monarch to visit Canada was King George VI in 1939. He and his consort, Queen Elizabeth, spent a month in the country on the eve of the Second World War – a vital moment to strengthen Anglo-Canadian ties. Like his father in 1901, the king travelled westwards across the country by train, from Quebec to Victoria. The royal couple also visited Newfoundland (then a separate Dominion in the British Empire) and briefly the United States. The twelve-car royal train – decorated in blue and silver – became a potent symbol of the tour. It was accompanied by 55 journalists, and waiting crowds placed souvenir coins on the track to be flattened as the royal couple travelled past.
