From Telegrams to Royal Cards: The History of the Monarchy's Centenarian Greetings
The tradition of the British monarch sending birthday greetings to those turning 100 began during the reign of King George V. Back in 1917, the message was delivered via a telegram, which was a marvel of modern technology at the time. This act of recognition served as a symbol of appreciation for the longevity and service of a nation's eldest citizens. As technology and times have changed, so has the delivery method, shifting from telegrams to beautifully designed cards. Today, the message arrives via Royal Mail in a special envelope, a tangible piece of history and a cherished keepsake for centenarians and their families.
The Transition to the Reign of King Charles III
With the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, a new era began, and so did the design of the congratulatory messages. After a temporary pause following the Queen's death, the tradition was officially resumed by King Charles III in October 2022. The new cards feature an updated design, and some of the first recipients were veterans of the Second World War. This continuation of the tradition ensures that the monarchy's recognition of reaching 100 years of age remains a significant and heartfelt gesture. The tradition extends beyond the initial 100th birthday, with messages also sent for the 105th birthday and every birthday thereafter.
How to Arrange a Royal Birthday Message
For residents of the United Kingdom, receiving a 100th birthday message is often an automatic process, especially if the individual is a recipient of a State Pension. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) automatically notifies the Anniversaries Office at Buckingham Palace, which handles the arrangement of the card. However, if the person does not receive a State Pension, or if a family member wants to ensure the message is sent, an application can be made to the Anniversaries Office.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to arrange a royal birthday message:
- Check Eligibility: The celebrant must be a citizen of one of the King's Realms or UK Overseas Territories.
- Determine Application Method: If the celebrant is a UK resident receiving a state pension, no application is necessary. For all other scenarios, an application is required.
- Gather Documents: You may need a copy of the celebrant's birth certificate to prove their age. For those living abroad, evidence of British nationality is also required.
- Submit the Application: Applications can be made online via the official Royal Family website or by post. Applications should be submitted no earlier than five weeks before the birthday.
- Follow Up: The Anniversaries Office will send a confirmation once the application has been processed.
Comparing the Old and New Greetings
While the sentiment behind the message remains the same, the method and design have evolved significantly over the past century. Below is a comparison table outlining some key differences.
| Aspect | Traditional Telegram (Pre-1990s) | Modern Royal Card (Since Oct 2022) |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery Method | Electrical telegraph transmission | Royal Mail post |
| Physical Format | Paper strip with typed message | High-quality photographic card |
| Messenger | Telegraph boy, sometimes a family member | Standard postal service |
| Royal Figure | King George V, King George VI | King Charles III |
| Signature | Printed or transcribed signature | Facsimile signature of the King and Queen Consort |
| Envelope | Standard telegram envelope | Special, formal envelope |
The Significance of a Royal Greeting
The tradition of the monarch's birthday messages is more than just a historical custom; it is a meaningful gesture that connects a nation's elderly population to their Head of State. For many, receiving the card is the highlight of their 100th birthday celebration, a testament to a life well-lived. It acknowledges their contribution to society and recognizes their remarkable achievement of reaching a century of life. This tradition reinforces the sense of community and shared heritage within the UK and Commonwealth countries.
What About Commonwealth Countries?
For citizens of Commonwealth Realms such as Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, the process differs slightly. Applications for a royal message must be made directly through the country's Governor-General, who acts as the King's representative. This ensures that the tradition is maintained and managed appropriately within each nation's local governance. Detailed information and contact details for these applications can be obtained by contacting the Anniversaries Office or checking the official government websites of the respective countries.
Conclusion
While the image of a telegram boy delivering a congratulatory message is a romantic relic of the past, the core tradition of the monarch's greeting for a 100th birthday endures. Today, recipients receive a beautiful card from King Charles III, a modern update to a century-old custom. The process is straightforward, particularly for UK residents receiving a state pension, but applications are readily available for those who need to arrange it themselves. The message remains a cherished symbol of respect, longevity, and national pride for centenarians and their families across the King's realms. For more information on the process, you can consult the official Royal website: royal.uk.
