Monday, November 8, 2010

Astrid arrives in Antwerp

November 8, 1926

The Belgian royal family was present this morning for the arrival of Princess Astrid and her parents.  King Albert and Queen Elisabeth were accompanied by Crown Prince Olav of Norway.  After the Swedish cruiser Fylgia  docked, and the gangway lowered, "the Princess came quickly along it to meet the Duke of Brabant, who embraced her amid the cheers of the crowd," reports the New York Times.
The royal parties then traveled to the Hotel de Ville, where the local Burgomaster welcomed the guests.  Astrid's father, Prince Carl, "thanked the population of Antwerp for their cordial reception."
The journey to the royal train "was made somewhat exciting on account of the huge crowds in the street."  Police were unable to restrain the enthusiastic Belgians, "who surrounded the royal party."   King Albert "was compelled to use his elbows to avoid being jostled."  Eventually,  the royals were able get on the train, and continue their journey to Brussels.

No comments: