Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.
Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.
Welcome to this forum . We are a worldwide group with a common interest in Birmingham and its history.
While here, please follow a few simple rules. We ask that you respect other members, thank those who have helped you and please keep your contributions on-topic with the thread.
We do hope you enjoy your visit.
BHF Admin Team
Members of the Royal Family have made visits to Villa Park and such visits have become increasingly regular as Prince William and his son George are fans of the club. The first photograph was taken in 1951, when our late Queen (the then, Princess Elizabeth) arrived to watch a physical recreation display by local children. The second and third were taken in 2018 and 2023.
Everywhere she went the Queen had a smile for war workers. On the left she is inspecting Wolverhampton A.F.S. women in Calthorpe Park. They told her they did not find the work too heavy.
Hi Pedrocut, My Father was in the AFS line up being inspected by the King at Calthorpe Park in April 1941. A close up picture of the King talking to my Father as I remember it hanging on the living room when I was a kid has been lost and I'd love to see a copy as I have been searching for it for sometime. Have you come across such a picture?
Reading these notices about Prince Albert's visit to Birmingham (from Birmingham Mail 18/7/1891) gives a glimpse of some of the actions taken for their arrival. Christ Church was selling seats on a platform in the churchyard. The Midland Hotel offered viewing seats and a first class luncheon.The Grand Hotel offered similar. A covered seating area was available by the Law Courts. All were claiming the best view of the Royal party and charging for the privilege.
The Regimental orders are interesting - no leggings and only one pouch at the back !
All the public places, museums, libraries, cemeteries etc seem to have been closed. Banks opened from 9.00 - 11.00 am then closed for the visit.