History

King Edward's Appendicitis

On Victoria's death her son Edward VII acceded to the throne in 1901. His coronation day was set for 26 June 1902 and guests were invited from all over the world. However, the King suffered an appendicitis a few days beforehand and developed peritonitis: unless he postponed the coronation and had an operation immediately he would die. The King, though hugely reluctant, finally relented, and 9 August was chosen as the new date. By then he was much recovered and the service proceeded as planned.

The ageing and almost blind Archbishop of Canterbury, had the prayers printed in large letters on card so he could see them. He still mis-read some of them and at the moment of crowning (after he appeared to drop the crown!) he placed it on the King's head the wrong way round!