Prince Philip Remembered: A Royal Visit

Admiralty House Communications Museum is saddened by the passing of His Royal Highness, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. We extend our deepest sympathies to all of the members of the Royal Family. 

Admiralty House was honoured to have His Royal Highness present at the grand opening of the museum on June 23, 1997, and will fondly remember his interest in our history and engagement with our community. 

Prince Philip had visited the province in June 1997 to take part in Cabot 500 celebrations. During his time here, he visited Admiralty House for the official opening. It was fun to review the photos of his visit while digitizing them. I could feel the excitement that people must have been experiencing that day. I also loved spotting Cabot 500 merchandise (still regret not having one of those hats). Sadly, this visit was Prince Philip's final visit to Newfoundland and Labrador. 

Back in 2018, Admiralty House interviewed David Lythgoe and Dan Maher. During their interviews, they talked about that special day. Below are some excerpts from their interviews and photos from the City of Mount Pearl's Collection. Enjoy!

The opening [was my favorite memory] . . .When the word went out that [Prince Philip] was going to come and officially open [the museum], it was almost short notice. And so there was a lot of work, a lot of activity on the go. That morning we were still planting flowers and everything while the security detail was going around the building. 
- David Lythgoe, 2018

There were two people allowed to move freely with the Prince: myself and a photographer for the Evening Telegram. . .The city told me there were key shots I had to get and I got ‘em. And I was focused on getting those shots. . .[ Of ]course that night my mother calls me and says, “So you were taking pictures of the Prince today.” I said, “How do you know?” “Well,” she said, “the least you could’ve done was stay out of the way of the TV cameras.” - Dan Maher, 2018

When[Prince Philip] came in [The Admiralty Museum], he came through the main door, and of course I preceded him. And as he’s walking along with the mayor, getting familiarized with this facility, because he had a very keen interest. . .and he had a lot of questions on stuff in here." -Dan Maher, 2018

I must say, [the opening] was very nice. We were all dressed up in our regalia. The kids, special guests, the mayor and councilors and every thing. [Having] an opportunity from being on the Board of Directors to actually sit in this room here, or stand in this room, and actually meet [Prince Philip]. It was very cordial...It was a nice gathering, it was just like, I guess the feeling of pride.

- David Lythgoe, 2018

We are not able to share them all in this post but if you would like to view more, please contact the museum to arrange a viewing.

-Sarah, Museum Manager

t:(709) 748-1124

e:admiraltyhouse@mountpearl.ca