60th Year of Reign of Queen VictoriaPrint Page

The tablet commemorates the 60th year of the reign of Queen Victoria. 

Victoria (24 May 1819 – 22 January 1901) was Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland from 20 June 1837 until her death. From 1 May 1876, she adopted the additional title of Empress of India. With a reign of 63 years, seven months and two days, Victoria was the longest -reigning British monarch and the longest-reigning queen regnant in world history until her great-great-granddaughter Queen Elizabeth II surpassed her on 9 September 2015.

Queen Victoria`s birthday, 24th May, used to be called `Empire Day`. There were special assemblies at school with songs praising the British Empire. Children were then given a half-day holiday. Up to the 1950s, Empire Day was celebrated in Australia with huge bonfires and fireworks.

The town was en fete yesterday. The school children of Dunolly and surrounding districts mustered in strong force in procession, and marched through the streets, accompanied by a band and headed by the borough councillors, to the town hall, where ample provision had been made to entertain the children. The Chinese of the town were also well provided for. The National Anthem was sung by the children after refreshments. At 4 o'clock a tablet in commemoration of the jubilee was unveiled, a large concourse being present. The mayor made a patriotic speech, and Mr Comrie, M.L.C., and Mr Duggan, M. L. A., also spoke. At the conclusion the National Anthem was sung.
The Argus (Melbourne), 23 June 1897.

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