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This weekend, Queen Elizabeth II will celebrate her Diamond Jubilee with 60 years as Queen and Head of State of the United Kingdom and 15 other Commonwealths. At 86 years old, the Queen has celebrated numerous accomplishments and reached significant milestones, including becoming the second longest reigning monarch in British history – the first is Queen Victoria with a 63-year reign. Last year, I gave you 8 little-known facts about Queen Elizabeth. Now, in honor of her Diamond Jubilee, let’s take a look at 8 more:
8 More Facts About Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal Family
- During her reign, the Queen has had 3.3 million pieces of correspondence sent to her.
- In 2005, the Queen claimed ownership to 88 swans on the Thames in London.
- Despite popular belief, there is no “official” way to approach the Queen, but common courtesy is expected. Those who wish to greet the Queen in a more traditional fashion can do so with a neck bow (men) or a slight curtsy (women).
- In addressing the Queen by name, it is proper to use “Your Majesty” first, followed by “Ma’am”.
- The Queen has more than 10 Royal Residencies, of which I have seen or visited: Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, Windsor Castle, Palace of Hollyroodhouse, Balmoral Castle, St. James Place, and Clarence House.
- Many members of the Royal Family, including Her Majesty, can be contacted by mail. See a list of addresses.
- Before 1917, members of the Royal family had no surname, only the name of the house or dynasty to which they belonged. However, Queen Elizabeth and her husband the Duke changed this tradition giving their descendants the surname Mountbatten-Windsor, the surname of the Queen’s husband paired with the name of the Queen’s official house.
- During the Diamond Jubilee celebration, you may see the letters “ER” on the Royal Crest. These letters stand for Elizabeth Regina or Elizabeth the Queen.
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