Queen VictoriaPrint Page

The statue was erected by public subscription to commemorate Queen Victoria who died in 1901.  It is a twice life-size white marble statue on a 5 metre high stone pedestal with a lion couchant at the base of the plinth.

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.

Yesterday the Mayor of Bendigo, Cr Curnow, performed the ceremony of unveiling the statue of the late Queen Victoria, in the presence of the Parliamentary representatives for the district, councillors, citizens and members of the military forces and the Naval Brigade. The mayor and Cr Harkness made patriotic speeches, and the Naval Brigade Band played the National anthem as the flag was removed from the statue. The sculptor is Mr. J. White and his work has been greatly admired.
Geelong Advertiser (Vic), 15 April 1903.

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