Sydney Harbour at night during the Royal Visit
Photographer
R E Crombie Studios
Date1920
Object number00046574
NamePostcard
MediumPhotograph on card
DimensionsOverall: 136 x 84 x 1 mm
ClassificationsPosters and postcards
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Macksville and District History Group
DescriptionThis unusual photographic postcard is of Sydney Harbour at night. Taken during the visit of HRH the Prince of Wales, this striking image shows the outlines of several ships due to their decorative lights.HistoryHRH Prince Edward, the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII) was the eldest son of King George V and undertook 16 Royal Tours on behalf of his father to various parts of the British Empire between 1919 and 1935.
The visit of the Prince to Australia in 1920 reaffirmed the ties between Australia and Britain, and conveyed thanks to Britains allies for their service and loyalty during World War I.
In Australia the tour started in late May and concluded in mid-July with the Prince visiting every state. Public holidays were declared, receptions and balls held, foundation stones laid, memorials unveiled and thousands of hands shaked.
The Royal Yacht chosen to convey the Prince on this journey was in fact a battlecruiser, HMS RENOWN. In 1927 she also carried the Duke and Duchess of York on their cruise to Australian and New Zealand.SignificanceThis postcard illustrates the excitement surrounding the Royal Visit of the Prince of Wales to Australia in 1920. An important event in the development of Australian nationalism, the visit of the Prince dominated public life and reinforced Australia’s shared destiny with Britain.
