The Queen Visits Benenden Sanatorium
On Thursday 6th July 1950 Queen Elizabeth, Queen Consort, made her way by train to Cranbrook for a visit to local towns and the Sanatorium. A reception was first held at Cranbrook before the Queen and her party left for Benenden Village. A programme of the full tour was found in our Museum archive.
Benenden Village residents surrounded the green whilst the Queen was introduced to prominent local people. As the Queen made her way to the Sanatorium, all children of Benenden under the age of 15 years, were given a commemorative coin to remember this special occasion. An oak tree was planted by the oldest inhabitant and the day ended with dancing and sports.
On arrival at our hospital, the Queen was received by Miss Jackson, MBE, Chairman of the National Sanatorium Association. Surrounded by a crowd, estimated to number 2,500 she was introduced to prominent people and staff.
The Queen was taken on a tour and introduced to every patient.
Before leaving, the Queen was presented with a brochure detailing the history of the Sanatorium.
Tenterden welcomed the Queen before she finished her tour.
Benenden Heritage Project - Remembering the Past - Securing the Future 