Paper letters
Various Belfast Traders and indeed some from considerably further afield were conscious of the commercial potential for supplying the necessary materials to local authorities, such as Belfast Harbour Commissioners, preparing for the Royal visit to Belfast for the the Opening of Parliament in June 1921.
These three letters were each sent to Belfast Harbour Commissioners in the weeks ahead of the Event offering their various respective services.
Letter 1
A letter from Alex. Dickson and Sons, Ltd - Rose growers to H. M. The King
This is dated 9 June 1921 and addressed to
“The Secretary, Harbour Office, Belfast.
Sir,
In view of the forthcoming visit of their Majesties to Belfast, we have made special arrangements with our growers for a supply of the choicest Orchids, Roses, Carnations, Lily of the Valley etc. etc for presentation Bouquets and Baskets.
On the occasion of former Royal visits, we had the honour of being entrusted with orders for a large number of presentation Baskets, Bouquets etc. etc., and in soliciting your esteemed orders, we beg to assure you of our most careful personal attention to same.
We beg to remain,
Your obedient servants, for Alex. Dixon and Sons Ltd”
Letter 2
A Letter from Speedings Limited, a Sail & Flag works Company, from Sunderland, in the North of England.
The letter is dated 8 June 1921 and was sent to:
“The Secretary
Belfast Harbour Commissioners
Corporation Square Belfast
Dear sir,
With reference to our recent letter respecting sewn woollen Bunting flags for use during the forthcoming Royal Visit, the time is short but we would like to have an opportunity of quoting you for your requirements.
We know we can serve you well at prices to your advantage.
The favour of a Reply would be much appreciated.
Yours faithfully,
For Speedings Ltd”
Letter 3
A letter from Graham and Heslip Printers Lithographers and Bookbinders, Franklin Street, Belfast
Dated 13th June, 1921.
“To the Secretary,
Belfast Harbour Commissioners,
Corporation Square.
Dear Sir,
We presume that on the forthcoming visit of his Majesty the King for the opening of the Northern Irish Parliament you’ll be presenting an Address of Welcome to him.
Can we do anything for you in this matter? We employ a large staff of highly trained Artists, and are thoroughly accustomed to this class of work.
We shall be pleased to submit your designs and quote prices on application, and we can assure you of our very best attention.
Yours faithfully
Graham and Heslip”
Owned by PRONI References HAR/1/A/7/5,HAR/1/A/7/5 & HAR/1/A/7/5 Images used with permission of ‘The Deputy Keeper of the Records, Public Record Office of Northern Ireland’