The first meeting of our new Society was held in this historic building, now a Hotel, in which the Grand Duchess Elizabeth visited members of the British Royal Family during the time when it was a royal residence. It proved to be a most suitable venue when about 60 members and supporters gathered to inaugurate the Society dedicated to spreading knowledge of the life, values and faith of the Grand Duchess Elizabeth, Queen Victoria’s granddaughter, a remarkable benefactor of the poor and a Martyr of the 20th century.

The evening began with the playing of selected parts of a film of the Grand Duchess’ life “White Angel of Moscow” made in Russia in 2009 with an English commentary. This gave an introduction to her story which was of interest both to those who knew her well and to those who knew little of her story. This was followed by a fascinating lecture from the noted historian and biographer Charlotte Zeepvat on the life of the Grand Duke Sergey and Elizabeth in Moscow when he was acting as Governor-General of Moscow, and up until his tragic death at the hand of assassins in 1905.

The story of Elizabeth’s life was brought right up to its conclusion by the dramatic reading of a moving letter by her sister Victoria written from Port Said where she met Elizabeth’s coffin on its way to the final resting place in Jerusalem in 1920. This brought home how deeply she was loved and recalled the episodes in the film covering her decision to stay in Russia with her sisters and their mission to the poor; a decision which led to her brutal death, seen now as the martyrdom of a faithful and virtuous soul.

The evening concluded with a concert of Russian music, generously provided by various friends and supporters. Alexey Knupffer overcame the limitations of a decidedly inferior piano with some of his own compositions and music from Rachmaninov. Tenor Gary Marriott delighted us with two operatic songs, and soprano Lilia Moshtael, accompanied by Nadia Giliova, gave us a moving recital of romantic songs.

We are extremely grateful to everyone who contributed to the evening’s entertainment, which was very well received by the audience.

We would also like to thank all those who attended this event, many of whom were very generous in their offerings in support of the future work of the Society. Projects including a travelling exhibition of artifacts from Moscow and elsewhere and a one person show based on the Empress Maria’s recollections of Elizabeth while in exile are to be planned over the coming weeks. Details will be forthcoming, so watch this space!

Paul Oxborrow
Secretary, Grand Duchess Elizabeth Romanov Society