History of Sedbergh School in 50 Objects #24: Visit of King George Vth to Sedbergh School 19th May 1917
As Britain reeled from the news that 14 British drifters had been sunk off the coast of Italy, King George Vth toured the north of England recognising factories, schools and businesses who were contributing to the war effort.
Before visiting Sedbergh School King George Vth and his wife Mary stopped in Carlisle to tour the Territorial Army Drill Hall on Strand Road. The building had been converted by Theodore Carr of the famous Carr’s biscuits to become a munitions factory. Businesses in the town were encouraged to donate machinery that was converted for use making 18lb. artillery shells. The efforts of the largely female workforce were recognised by King George as an important part of the war effort.
As the King was touring Carlisle news reached Sedbergh that he had graciously accepted an invitation to visit the school later that day. The King was due to inspect the Officers’ Training Corps and so lessons ended at 11am. The Sedberghian magazine records:
“…the rest of the morning and all the afternoon were spent in a gallant attempt on the part of the O.T.C. to put a final polish on themselves and their manoeuvres (for be it remembered that this was only the second full parade of the term), while the few involuntary civilians and townspeople erected such decorations as time allowed.”
The Sedberghian magazine of June 1917 recorded the day in great detail, excerpts from which are included below:
“The cars drew up opposite the gymnasium. Mrs Weech was presented to Their Majesties, and a move was made to the saluting base. After the Royal salute had been given Capt. Woodhouse was presented to the King. Few officers commanding O.T.C. contingents have been merited this honour; it was a happy reward for his fifteen years of work with the Corps. As His Majesty went along the ranks and inspected the cadets he questioned the O.C. as to our strength, the hours of parade, the number of O.SS. serving in his forces, and himself a keen and expert shot, naturally took a great interest in the Musketry and Shooting VIII badges.”
“The King spoke for some time to Lieut. Leake, and we understand that he would have decorated him personally on the field but for the accident that there was no Military Cross at hand. Later on, His Majesty detected Mr. Bacchus’ discharge badge, and spoke to him, and also to 2nd Lieut. M. G. Black, R.F.A. The Corps then marched past in column of platoons while His Majesty took the salute.”
“On his return from taking leave of Their Majesties at the station the Headmaster addressed the Corps and announced the King’s entire approval of all he had seen: at the Royal request an extra week would be added to the summer holidays. So ended the great day.”
King’s steps beside Powell House were begun in 1919 to commemorate the visit of the King. During the intervening years since the royal visit most skilled craftsmen were involved in the war effort and so it was not possible, or fashionable, to progress with cosmetic projects. The inscription was added in 1920 once the steps were complete.
Despite our royal charter King George Vth was the first member of the royal family to formally visit Sedbergh School. It is rumoured, however, that Bonnie Prince Charlie passed through Sedbergh as he retreated from Derby to Inverness.
During his visit to Sedbergh on Monday 10th April 2017 His Majesty King Charles, then the Prince, was delighted to hear that his visit occurred so close to the 100th anniversary of his great-grandfather’s visit.