Object corner

School children in the past often had special events and holidays to look forward to, much as they do today. These included May Day, Harvest Festival, Christmas, and special treats such as a visit to the countryside or afternoon teas.

This small metal pin badge was given to children in Warwick to celebrate Empire Day in 1912.

Empire Day was a celebration of the power and greatness of the British Empire. It was first celebrated following the death of Queen Victoria in 1901.

The day chosen to celebrate Empire Day was Queen Victoria’s birthday (May 24). It was especially popular and celebrated in schools. As a treat children would hold pageants, dress-up in fancy dress, and wave the Union Flag.

Empire Day was a way of inspiring patriotism throughout the British Empire. It was hoped that children would grow up to be proud and devoted to both the Empire and the monarchy. To the children it was a chance to escape everyday school life and have fun!

Empire Day began in 1903 following the creation of the Empire Day Movement. The movement was founded by the Earl of Meath, who believed children should be brought up to feel devotion to the King and Empire.

By 1904 he had persuaded a number of local education authorities to adopt Queen Victoria’s birthday, May 24th, as a day of celebration in their schools. By 1907 many schools in England and Wales were taking part, and Empire Day continued to grow in popularity. In 1958 Empire Day was re-named Commonwealth Day.

Commonwealth Day is still celebrated by many schools in countries that once were part of the British Empire. Today, the focus is on the celebration of diversity and the importance of international cooperation between the 53 member states of the Commonwealth.

Since 1973, Commonwealth Day has been held on the second Monday in March, which is marked by a service in Westminster Abbey attended by Queen Elizabeth II. The Queen also records a Commonwealth Day message, which is broadcast by radio throughout the member nations of the Commonwealth.