Luncheon menu, Assembly of Fleet at Spithead, Southampton

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Luncheon menu, Assembly of Fleet at Spithead, Southampton

South Western Hotel, Southampton, luncheon menu from 19 July 1914 for the Spithead Review, signed by Richard and Stanley May, in the May brothers personal archive of shipping items. Date: 1914

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Media ID 32270494

© Henry Aldridge & Son Ltd. / Mary Evans

Archive Assembly Brothers Ephemera Includes Luncheon Menu Passengers Personal Relating Review Signed Southampton Spithead Stanley Titanic Fleet

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EDITORS COMMENTS
This fascinating and historic luncheon menu dates back to the summer of 1914, showcasing an exquisite selection of dishes served at the South Western Hotel in Southampton on the momentous occasion of the Spithead Review. The Spithead Review was a naval parade held in the Solent, off the coast of Southampton, England, where the British fleet assembled to mark the coronation of King George V. This particular menu, from 19th July 1914, was signed by none other than Richard and Stanley May, adding an intriguing personal touch to this precious piece of maritime history. The May brothers' archive of shipping items is a small but significant collection, housing ephemera from the 1910s that relate to passengers, ships, and the navy. The menu itself is adorned with a beautiful white star and line design, reminiscent of the RMS Titanic, which had only sunk a few months prior, adding an air of somber reflection to the event. The dishes listed, such as "Sole Meuniere," "Roast Pigeon," and "Peaches in Chartreuse," suggest a grand and luxurious affair, fitting for the esteemed guests in attendance. The South Western Hotel, located in Southampton, was a popular destination for travelers and naval personnel alike, making it a fitting venue for such an event. The Spithead Review was a significant moment in naval history, and this menu serves as a small yet poignant reminder of the grandeur and pageantry of the occasion. This menu, with its rich history and personal connection, is a must-have for any collector of maritime ephemera or those with an interest in the history of the British navy during this period. It is an intriguing glimpse into the past, offering a tantalizing taste of the food, the atmosphere, and the excitement of the Spithead Review of 1914.

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