Osborne Palace Presented to the Nation.

Manawatu Herald, 14 August 1902, Page 2

Osborne Palace Presented to the Nation.

The King, in a letter to Mr Balfour (Prime Minister) dated Cofonation day—practically a message to the nation—recalls the fact that under the will of his much-loved mother, Osborne becomes bis personal estate. Having to spend a considerable part of the ysai.’ in Loudon and at Windsor Castle, and having fliso Strong home ties in the County of Norfolk, Which have existed nearly forty years, his Majesty feels uiiable to make adequate use of Osborne as a Royal residence, and offers it as a gift to the nation. As Osborne is sacred to the memory of Queen Victoria, the King wishes that, with the exception of the apartments in the late Queen’s personal occupation, the people shall always have access to the house over associated with her beloved name. i As regards the rest of the building, his Majesty hopes it will be devoted to national purposes, and converted into, a convalescent home for officers of the navy and array whose health is impaired through service to the country.

If it is necessary to apply to Parliament to give legal effect to his wishes, the King trusts Mr Balfour ■will do so in due course.

[lf it is the intention of presenting the nation the house and estate the gift is'very'valuable, but it may be that the house.aud adjoining grounds are only given, would also be a valuable gift. The Osborne" House property became the late Queen’s by purchase in 1845. It is situated on the north coast of the Isle of Wight, between the towns of Ryde and Cowes. The estate surrounding the mansion is now, with late purchases, very nearly 6000 acres.

The old mansion Was taken down and the present mansion built after the, designs of T. Cubitt; it la in the domestic Italian style; has a square flag tower, and a square clock tower. Later additions include the wonderful Indian room. It is filled with statuary and pictures. ■ The gardens are r of surpassing beauty and are terraced down towards the shore.at which there is a private pier. The estate has excellent cottages for the work-people.