60 Years of Queen Victoria`s ReignPrint Page

The clock at Leichhardt Town Hall was erected to commemorate 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.

Yesterday much enthusiasm was shown in connection with the record reign celebrations in Leichhardt.  The principal interest centred around the Leichhardt Town Hall, where before noon a large concourse of spectators gathered to witness the ceremony connected with the starting of the town clock.  The Mayoress in performing the ceremony briefly stated that, in response to a request by the alderman and the public of Leichhardt it afforded her very much pleasure to start the clock on the completion of the sixtieth year of her Majesty's reign. Miss Cropley immediately afterwards unveiled a handsome marble tablet set in almost at the base of the tower.
The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW), 23 June 1897.

Location

Details

Dedication