Cannock and District Soroptimists enjoyed an excellent talk this month by Mary Bodfish, an author and local historian. The name ‘Elizabeth’ refers to HM Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, born 4th August, 1900. The well researched presentation gave an insight into the early life of this much loved and popular royal.
Elizabeth, daughter of the Earl of Strathmore, was born into the wealthy and privileged Bowes-Lyon family, and was brought up at a home in Hertfordshire as well as Glamis Castle in Scotland. She enjoyed a happy and secure childhood, among a large family of ten children – she was the ninth – who enjoyed many outdoor pursuits as well as looking after animals and pets. Elizabeth’s education was mostly restricted to that provided by governesses.
Like many families their lives were changed with the start of the Great War when her brothers went to fight and one, Fergus, was killed. As a teenager, Elizabeth met and helped many injured soldiers when Glamis Castle became a recovery hospital.
As a popular and pretty young woman, she attracted several suitors including Albert (Bertie), Duke of York. Bertie enjoyed the lively Bowes-Lyon family gatherings. He was a shy young man having had some health problems and a stammer. The couple fell in love and, although Elizabeth turned him down twice, they married in 1923. Bertie referred to his new wife as “My Darling Elizabeth.” Their first child Elizabeth was born in 1926 and Margaret came along in 1930.
As a couple they helped and supported each other. Both had a strong sense of duty. This was invaluable during times of crisis such as the abdication of his brother King Edward VIII which resulted in Bertie being crowned King George VI on 12th May 1937 with Elizabeth as his Queen.
Life became even more challenging with the outbreak of WW2. Elizabeth rose to the challenge supporting her husband, visiting troops and meeting many people whose lives were devastated by the Blitz. Elizabeth was not, however, perfect. She could be outspoken and liked to have her own way. She said of herself: “I am not as nice as I look”!
Sadly, Elizabeth’s beloved husband died in 1952 and she found herself in a new role as Queen Mother supporting her daughter HM Queen Elizabeth II. Again, she rose to the challenge with determination and that famous smile. She passed away on 30th March 2002, aged 101.
Photo below: l to r: Mary Bodfish with Soroptimist Val Jones
