Memory Monday (Swann Coronation 2004)

As the appreciation of our Royals have increased since the Crown Prince Imperial's Ball in 2009, we thought it appropriate to post more on historic events between the 1996 revolution and 2009. Those years were very austere and Royal events were very toned down in the few countries that retained their monarchies. The Principality of Swann was the poster boy monarchy of the time with a very popular or very young up-and-coming monarch. The Duke of Swann acceded to the throne after his father's death due to the revolution but was a mere child of 13 years of age. He was thus only crowned in 2004 at age 21. The event, though popular within Swann, was not afforded much international fanfare although noted. The event was also very small and could almost be seen a private.

Here follows the photographic record of the 2004 event which was attended by representatives of the only four reigning monarchies left in the world at the time.

The throne room of Duke's Court palace awaits the arrival of the guests. The Silver Cardinal, Prelate of Scotney, and by extention Swann, has just blessed the throne room and waits along with Sir Charles Jenning, High Stewart of Swann. 

A close view of the waiting Throne and the Crown sets the tone for the day. 

Representing the Kingdom of Hispania, Infanta Isabella the sister of Queen Maria is first to arrive. She wears the Crown Emeralds and the sash of the Order of the Triad. 

Next arrived Princess Augusta of the United Empire of Scot-Britania. The deposed Empire was not represented in its official capacity but in pretense as the Imperial Family is closely related to the monarchy of Swann. Remember that at this stage in time, it was still thought that the Crown Prince Imperial was killed in the 96 Revolution. Princess Augusta was merely attending the big day of a cousin of  Royal Family of Swann.

The Duke of Swann's maternal aunt and representing the reigning monarchy of Hanoveria, Princess Beatrice, Dowager Grand Duchess of Hanoveria arrived next. 

The Duke of Swann's paternal aunt and representing the reigning Principality of Wallachia, Princess Suzanna, Dowager Princess of Wallachia arrived last. The Royal guests were to be the official witnesses of the religious ceremony of Investiture and Crowning of the Duke of Swann. As a Royal event none of Swann's or the world's non-Royal government officials were included. For those delegates a special luncheon was held after the short ceremony.

The full compliment of Royal witnesses await the arrival of the Duke of Swann.

Princess Suzanna was poignantly photographed next to the official photo of the her brother the previous Duke of Swann and his wife.

A 21 gun salute fired as the Duke of Swann arrived in the State Carriage.

The State Carriage of Swann is only used to transport the Duke of Swann at the occasion of Crowning. 

A wave at the cameras. 

The Duke was awaited at the entrance to the palace by his closest aid, Sir Charles Jennings, who helped with the robes until the Duke entered the palace.

A fanfare of trumpets as the Duke arrived at the throne room.

The Crown of Swann is presented to the Duke ceremonially by a military officer, signifying the armed forces' and the nation's submission to his rule.

The Duke of Swann accepts the gesture with a nod of his head...

...and then follows the crown to the throne to the welcoming acclaim of the guests shouting "Long may he reign!!"

The Duke takes his place in front of the throne and prepares to be blessed by the Cardinal. 

The assembly sings the hymn "Amazing Grace" whilst standing after the Cardinal's blessing and prayer. The placing of the Crown is not photographed due to its sacredness.

"Long Live the Duke of Swann!"

After the ceremony the Royal Guests pose for a press photo opportunity in the court yard and then proceed to the diplomatic luncheon.

The Swann local newspaper was the main source of International news as it was also distributed to capital cities of the world at the time. This event caused sales to boost to such a level that "The Proclaimer" is now one of the broadest distributed newspapers in the world.