“It Was Tremendous”: Canada’s Welcome to King and Queen

Northern Advocate, 26 June 1939, Page 8

“It Was Tremendous”: Canada’s Welcome to King and Queen

[Special to “Northern Advocate”! AUCKLAND, This Day. “It was tremendous.” This was how Mr. J. N. Greenland, general manager for the Union Steamship Company, described the welcome to the King and Queen on their arrival at Montreal, at the beginning of their Canadian tour. Close-up Impressions. As one of the huge crowd in the streets, and later at the Montreal banquet, he received close-up impressions of the enthusiasm of the Canadian people. “Yes, it was a wonderful welcome,” said Mr. Greenland. “I had never seen anything like it before, and I don’t think Canada could have done more to demonstrate its loyalty and affection. In every way the reception was remarkable, and was an inspiration to everyone who took part. The warmth of the greeting was spontaneous and universal.” Canada’s Voice.

Canada’s voice, so unitedly expressed in the crowded streets, was later raised in tumultuous cheers when Their Majesties appeared on the balconies at the hotel where the banquet was held, he said. Three times the crowd outside the hotel called “We want the King and. Queen.” Their Majesties went out on the balcony each time, and every time the enthusiasm reached greater heights. The banquet was attended by 1,000 guests, who were admitted by special permit issued by the police department. Mr. and Mrs. Greenland, who were among the number, had the opportunity of seeing Their Majesties as they passed through the lounge. Everybody Impressed.

Everyone was impressed by their charm of manner, and they were very popular.

Canada had awaited the visit with the keenest anticipation, added Mr. Greenland, but the result exceeded all estimates. In the United States there was also a general eagerness to welcome Their Majesties, and the interest rose to unusual heights as the visit approached. There was a most friendly attitude evident among the American people, which had since been expressed by the mass demonstrations during the short tour of the United States.