Letter from Frederica Halsey

 

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Hertfordshire archive and local studies

In October 1846 the Marquis of Salisbury entertained Queen Victoria and Prince Albert at Hatfield House. Preparations made before the visit included the erection of the fine iron gates to the park. A staggering £70,000 was spent on food and drink for the three day visit, with a total of £800 spent on turtles for turtle soup, and a 96-stone ox was roasted on the lawn for the local inhabitants. The events that were arranged in their honour included a banquet on the evening of the 23rd, a shoot the following day for the Prince with all the attendants attired in Lincoln Green, and a grand ball the following evening.

For those moving in the highest social circles this momentous occasion must have been the event of the year in Hertfordshire. It was reported in great detail not only in the press, but also in the personal correspondence of those who attended. In this letter written by Frederica Halsey, she relates to her father Frederick Johnston her excitement at the honour of being introduced to the Queen.