During his second state visit to the UK, Donald Trump spent a brief five minutes observing valuable crown artefacts, despite his professed admiration for the Royal Family. Upon his arrival at Windsor Castle, the US president toured the Green Drawing Room, where he showed interest in various items from the Royal Collection symbolizing the special relationship. Notably, he focused on a table of exhibits dubbed the “fun fun fun” table, which included an art deco penguin-shaped cocktail shaker and a letter from the Queen Mother to Queen Elizabeth II recounting her experience trying American hot dogs.
Although Trump has expressed fondness for the royals and praised King Charles as an “elegant gentleman,” he only spent a short time viewing the showcased items but expressed enthusiasm throughout, repeatedly calling the letters, paintings, and photographs “fantastic” and “wonderful.”
Accompanied by the King, Trump interacted with archivists, showing interest in items related to American Independence. Meanwhile, the Queen walked with the First Lady, who kept her face mostly covered with a hat, admiring 1700s paintings of flora and fauna.
The royal party, including the Prince and Princess of Wales and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, lingered at each display, engaging librarians with questions and inspecting letter details. The Princess inquired about the artists’ names and reflected on the historical significance of handwritten letters, envisioning a future where emails and text messages replace such artifacts.
Prince William, intrigued by a long message from President James Buchanan to Queen Victoria, marveled at the transatlantic communication. Trump, exclaiming over the displayed documents, interacted with Royal Collection experts and shared insights on pronunciation.
Subsequently, the royal party, consisting of the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, joined by the Trumps, enjoyed a lunch together before exploring the Green Drawing Room. Noteworthy items included the Georgian Papers related to American independence, a specific request by Trump, along with letters, maps, and other historical documents.
Trump’s visit included viewing letters from King George III, President Eisenhower’s memoirs, and a letter from Abraham Lincoln to Queen Victoria. The President expressed admiration for these artifacts, acknowledging their historical significance and the enduring special relationship between the US and the UK.
In conclusion, the private lunch hosted six members of the Royal Family, including the King and Queen, the Prince and Princess of Wales, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester. Notably, the absence of the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh due to travel and the expected arrival of the Princess Royal for the evening’s banquet were highlighted.