George V visiting Ireland in 1911 received a warm welcome

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King George V of the United Kingdom

Photo by Michael Rhodes

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The last monarch to visit the Republic of Ireland, nearly 100 years ago, received a warm welcome, so warm in fact it was even suggested that King George V may have even solved the crisis over Home Rule.

King George V, who was accompanied on his trip by Queen Mary, always said he wanted to return to Ireland but never did and neither did any King or Queen after him.

Hundreds of people gathered to welcome to the king and reports have him tell friends that the welcoming was “as warm-hearted and enthusiastic as any that he has ever received”.

During a visit to Phoenix Park for the races, one newspaper said, “the thousands of spectators cheered them to the echo…when they appeared on the balcony the multitude cheered the more. It was altogether a great and stirring reception."

While in Ireland, the Queen was presented with a court train of Irish lace from the ladies of Belfast.

As he left Dublin Castle King George thanks the Irish people for their warm hospitality.

He said that Irish people's  “spontaneous and hearty loyalty that has greatly touched our hearts” and looked forward to “coming amongst our Irish people again, and at no distant date."

It is believed that the Queen of England will make a visit to the Irish Republic before the end of next year.
 

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