A young Princess named Elizabeth was at the beginning of her first-ever visit to Canada on this date in 1951. She had arrived in the province of Quebec the day before. The future Queen’s visit was celebrated by Premier Maurice Duplessis and his government with a State Dinner in honour of the princess in Quebec City. An obviously moved Princess replied to the toast of her host Premier. You can read her remarks below.
Princess Elizabeth: Yesterday, when I first saw Canada, I felt as I think must always be the case for one who comes for the first time across the Atlantic to the new world, not only wonder and excitement, but also a feeling of strangeness of the unknown.
But from the moment when I first set foot on Canadian soil the feeling of strangeness went, for I knew myself to be not only amongst friends, but amongst fellow countrymen.
And as I passed through this fine old city my heart was filled with pride and happiness by the warmth of the Canadian welcome which was given to myself and my husband. Your speech this evening, Mr. Premier, has put this welcome into eloquent words, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Tonight, my husband and I start upon our long journey which will lead us twice across the breadth of this continent. I need not tell you I am sure with what feelings of hope and expectation we look forward to it.
Tomorrow night, from Ottawa, the capital of Canada, I shall be able to speak to you again: tonight, I only wish to tell you all how happy I am to be amongst you. In Quebec’s welcome today, Mr. Premier, I have felt that the good wishes of all of you will follow us on our journey, and for this too, I thank you.
I am very glad that our path will lead us back through the famous city of Montreal. And so, tonight, I do not say good-bye, but with great happiness au revoir.
