‘The Kings Speech’ tells of George VI’s struggle to overcome his stutter in order to broadcast to the nation, assisted by an eccentric speech therapist. During his lifetime George VI gave many speeches including one at the National Library of Wales.
On the evening of July 14th 1937 Aberystwyth’s housewives were advised to put milk jugs out on their doorsteps in readiness. For what ? The Royal Visit of course! At 10.20pm on July 15th 1937 the Royal Train would roll into Aberystwyth station. Milkmen had been told to be off the streets by 8.30am, other vehicles by 9a.m. Shops in the principal streets were to close until 1pm.
When the train arrived Aberystwyth was thronged with 5000 excursionists and 4000 local schoolchildren, the latter conscripted into lining the route. On a stage erected in the North Reading Room King George VI, dressed in a morning suit, addressed the assembled dignitaries. Next to him was Queen Elizabeth in a shell-pink ensemble and a hat the same colour trimmed with an ostrich feather, a double string of pearls and a fox fur. The text of his speech is too long to print here, so why not visit the library and find out what he said for yourself?
The King has just opened the door to the National Library with a ceremonial gold key, visible in his hand. This he handed to his equerry, who in turn was supposed to give it to the Librarian. He forgot and took it back to London with him. Ref 4486/44