
audiobook
Part 1
In this vivid historical sketch, the reader is taken into the bustling preparations for Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee in 1897, when the Sons of England set out to create a truly global tribute. The narrative follows the ambitious plan to launch a continuous rendition of the national anthem, beginning at Windsor Castle at dawn and echoing across far‑flung colonies from Canada to Fiji, timed to the sun's passage. It captures the fervent patriotism and logistical ingenuity that made a 24‑hour chain of services possible.
Through excerpts from the Supreme Grand President’s report, the work reveals how communities synchronized their worship, adjusting schedules so that each locale sang the anthem at precisely 4 p.m. local solar time. The account paints a picture of an empire linked by a single, resonant voice, illustrating both the challenges of communication and the deep loyalty felt toward the monarch. Listeners will feel the excitement of a world united in song, a rare snapshot of imperial solidarity at its height.
Full title
A Sketch of how "The Diamond Anthem" was Sung around the World The 60th Anniversary of the Accession Day of Her Majesty Queen Victoria The 60th Anniversary of the Accession Day of Her Majesty Queen Victoria
Language
en
Duration
~26 minutes (25K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Marcia Brooks, Cindy Beyer, Ross Cooling and the online Project Gutenberg team at http://www.pgdpcanada.net with images provided by The Internet Archives-Canada
Release date
2015-05-23
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1846–1913
A businessman, historian, and energetic public figure, he wrote lively books on Great Lakes shipping, Canadian history, and imperial symbols. His work captures a moment when transportation, patriotism, and local history were all closely tied together.
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