Queen Victoria’s Birthday is May 24th and every year England and Commonwealth celebrate the birth of England’s longest reigning monarch.  During her 63 year reign she saw her small island nation become a world dominating empire, she saw the industrial revolution ignite and witnessed scientific advancements that helped shape our world.  This portrait shows her later in life – she lived for many years in deep morning for her husband Price Albert.  She lived for 40 years as a widow, retired someone from the public life.   As Canadians, we have a deep attachment to Victoria since our country had its confederation during her reign.

Happy Birthday Queen Victoria!