Having secured a Winston Churchill scholarship, dad went to the US in 1967 to study Mountain Rescue for 6 months. He had the most amazing time, learning so much and making so many friends, many of whom he stayed in touch with. I found a memento of his voyage back from New York, on board the Queen Elizabeth in September, 1967. As they sailed, they passed the Queen Mary on her final Atlantic voyage. A message was sent between the two ships as they passed. Dad has kept his original luggage label, a letter from the captain, a copy of the message, the programme of entertainment, the passenger list and a book on The Elizabeth, signed by the Captain, WJ Law. The message from Captain Law to the Captain of the Queen Mary read : "As we pass on your Final Atlantic Voyage, we send you Greetings and express our sadness that time is running out and that you will soon be leaving this Atlantic Ocean which you have crossed so many times. We salute the "Old Atlantic Greyhound" and the last of the 'Cape Horners'". I found this all quite fascinating, and hope you do too. A moment in history, recorded with humble pieces of paper.
I am beginning to think I throw too much stuff away (I don’t & I don’t have anything as interesting as this!) - this is fascinating! I’m reminded that Nigel lost his best friend from school a couple of years ago, his wife had just died as well and their 23 year old son took himself off to Canada to learn mountain rescue. He’s settled there and does some amazing things like drop out of a helicopter with skis - obviously N America has a long history of training people!
Yes this is the sort of thing that everyone finds so interesting on the Antiques Roadshow! A lovely collection of memories with what they like to call provenance. Your dad has led an interesting life, hope he wasn’t too upset on Monday.
My mother sailed on the Q E II (many years before your dad though). I have a post card she bought and a picture of her by the railing as they sailed out of NY harbor (probably taken by the ship's photographer). It's not as interesting as your collection and the story that goes with it, but like you, I feel like I'm holding history when I have them in my hands. Nice shot!
Such an interesting collection of mementos. And nice composition. Fav
I have a question, Issi. What is the literal translation of Auld Lang Syne? I have found all sorts of translations, but not precisely of these words. Thank you!
@happypat He was strangely ok Pat. His main worry is his books; where they will go. We're taking them into him gradually at the home, and allowing him to look at them in his own time and decide what he wants to do with them. A lot of work for us, but it also keeps dad busy. We get access to his room now, which is going to make things a bit more normal, although visits still have to be booked and are limited in time spent there, who can visit and number of visits a week. Still, another move forward.
@caterina I believe the actual words mean 'old long since'. However, it is roughly translated as 'for old times' sake'. Some people sing 'for the sake of auld lang syne' which is incorrect as the word 'sake' is implicit in the words 'auld lang syne'. Hope that helps!
How very lovely that yoour Dad has kept these all those years. Such wonderful finds for you. Hope he is getting well with his selection of things to keep.
This is so special! It makes me think about the albums of my dad’s service in WWII that my brother currently has in hand. Next time I go visit, I’m going to take my camera and go through them. Your posts are inspiring!
May 23rd, 2021
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I have a question, Issi. What is the literal translation of Auld Lang Syne? I have found all sorts of translations, but not precisely of these words. Thank you!