Explore The Royal Family's close relationship with the region, as well as the diverse artistic traditions represented in the Royal Collection
The Duke of Windsor (1894-1972) when Edward, Prince of Wales, as Chief 'Morning Star', Banff
17-18 Sep 1919Gelatin silver print | 15.1 x 10.6 cm (image) | RCIN 2703376
The heir to the throne, Edward, Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII), visited Canada in 1919. In the Rocky Mountains, he was welcomed by the Stoney-Nakoda First Nation. Disembarking from the royal train, the prince was escorted on horseback past herds of bison and elk to an encampment of tipis. There, Chief Little Thunder addressed the royal visitor, asking him ‘to accept from us this Indian suit, the best we have, emblematic of the clothes we wore in happy days. We beg you also to allow us to elect you as our chief, and to give you the name Chief Morning Star.’ The prince donned the headdress immediately, and was later photographed in full dress. The clothes are made from white buckskin and decorated with beads, feathers and fur. Having thanked the community for the honour bestowed on him, the prince watched displays of dancing and riding.
