Prince Arthur of Connaught Arrives at Rhyl Station

It’s all feathers, flags and finery at Rhyl for the welcoming of posh Prince Arthur

Rhyl’s station, its Dudley Arms Hotel and Bowling Green are abuzz when the Prince arrives, resplendent in plumed bearskin and braided uniform. Despite much hand-shaking and bowing there’s an air of informality, with enthusiastic hat-waving (even by the unhatted), and much clapping by the flat-capped men and boys perched atop the wall during the presenting of Rhyl Urban District Council’s address.

Prince Arthur of Connaught (1883-1938) was a grandson of Queen Victoria. On 1st June 1920 he represented his cousin, King George V, at the enthronement of the first Archbishop of Wales at St Asaph. Rhyl Urban District Council had invited the Prince to visit the town the same day, and although his was not deemed possible, it was agreed that he would alight from the royal train on his way from St Asaph and make a brief appearance. The Shannon Film Company filmed this event, which took place on a temporary dais erected outside the railway station, in addition to the enthronement.