A Peek into the Royal Nursery: Queen Elizabeth’s Tender Reflections on Motherhood

In a rare and heartwarming glimpse into her private life, a handwritten letter by Queen Elizabeth II, penned in October 1950, offers an intimate look at her experiences as a young mother. Addressed to her midwife, Helen Rowe, affectionately known as “Rowie,” the letter is now available for auction at RR Auction. This precious note, composed less than two months after the birth of her second child, Princess Anne, reveals the future Queen’s candid reflections on her two children and her life at Balmoral Castle.

Life as a New Mother: Elizabeth’s Candid Observations
Before she ascended the throne, the then-24-year-old Princess Elizabeth was already a doting mother to two young children. In the letter dated October 4, 1950, she shares charming and personal insights about her family life. Writing from Balmoral Castle, a cherished retreat for the royal family, Elizabeth describes her routine and her children’s antics with affection and humor.

“We are all getting on very well up here and I am feeling very much stronger already,” Elizabeth begins, detailing her recovery and daily activities at the Scottish estate. Despite a minor knee injury caused by a missed Jeep pick-up, she expresses her growing strength and contentment, crediting the refreshing Highland air for her swift recovery.

The Royal Heirs: Charles and Anne
Elizabeth’s letter offers delightful snapshots of her children’s lives. She affectionately describes her then-nearly-two-year-old son, Charles, as having an “enormous appetite” and being very active. His spirited nature is evident as she recounts his behavior: “I find it extremely difficult to explain it away when he looks at something he can’t reach and then turns his back meaningly on me and says, ‘Mummy, lift!'” This charming anecdote captures Charles’ early assertiveness and curiosity.

Princess Anne, just over a month old at the time, is noted for her blossoming health. Elizabeth writes with pride about Anne’s rosy complexion and increasing weight. “She has got lovely pink cheeks after she has been out,” the young princess notes, reflecting the benefits of the fresh Scottish air. She also mentions Anne’s gradual adjustment to the journey by train and her changing appetite, hinting at the normal challenges of newborn care.

Family Dynamics and Royal Spoiling
The letter also touches on the family dynamics within the royal household. Elizabeth humorously notes the indulgence of her children’s grandmother, who “is spoiling her eldest quite openly and will do so with Anne if she got a chance!” This candid observation provides a relatable glimpse into the generational aspects of parenting, even within the royal family.

Elizabeth concludes her heartfelt message with the hope of seeing Rowie at Princess Anne’s christening, adding a personal touch that underscores the bond between the royal family and their trusted midwife. The four-page letter is signed, “Yours very sincerely, Elizabeth,” a testament to the young princess’s warmth and sincerity.

Historical Significance and Auction Details
This poignant letter not only offers a rare personal insight into Queen Elizabeth’s early years as a mother but also serves as a valuable historical artifact. As of June 28, the highest bid for the letter stood at $1,149, reflecting its significance and the fascination it holds for royal enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Bobby Livingston, Executive Vice President at RR Auction, highlights the letter’s charm, stating, “A wonderful letter from the princess, touching on the health of her two young children: Charles, a month shy of his second birthday, and Anne, who was only one month and 19 days old when this letter was written.”

A Glimpse into Royal Legacy
The letter is part of the Fine Autograph and Artifacts auction by RR Auction, which concludes on July 10. This auction also features other notable items, including a signed photograph of Princess Elizabeth and her sister Princess Margaret as children and an oversized color portrait of Queen Elizabeth adorned in her crown jewels, signed in 1968. These artifacts collectively offer a rich tapestry of the Queen’s life and legacy.

A Royal Journey
Queen Elizabeth ascended to the throne in 1952, just two years after penning this letter. At that time, Charles was 3 years old, and Anne was 1, making Charles the heir apparent. Elizabeth and Prince Philip later welcomed two more children, Prince Andrew in 1960 and Prince Edward in 1964, expanding the royal family further.

This letter provides a touching and intimate view of Queen Elizabeth’s journey through motherhood and her enduring love for her children. It stands as a testament to her personal experiences and the cherished moments that shaped her reign.

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Source: https://people.com/queen-elizabeth-writes-life-mom-private-letter-midwife-up-auction-8671433