3-078-056 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Duke of Edinburgh declaring the Edinburgh International Exhibition open, 1890. 'The Duke wore the uniform of the 42nd Highlanders, of which he is Honorary Colonel (3rd Battalion)...The grand hall was entered shortly after two o'clock. Between 2000 and 3000 people were present. The orchestra, occupied by the Edinburgh Choral Union and the Edinburgh Amateur Orchestral Society, sang and played the National Anthem while the Duke and Duchess took their places on a raised dais...Mr. Lee Bapty presented handsomely bound copies of the catalogue to the Duke and Duchess. The Duke replied briefly, and expressed satisfaction at his being able to be present, and hopes for the success of the Exhibition. The eighth Psalm, the music of which was specially composed for the occasion by Mr. Hamish MacCunn (who conducted), was then sung by the Choral Union. Mr. MacCunn was afterwards presented to their Royal Highnesses. Bishop Dowden, of Edinburgh, offered a short prayer. The Duke then declared the Exhibition open. The procession re-formed, and made a tour of the Exhibition'. From "Illustrated London News", 1890.