Rigorous Royal Funeral Etiquette

“That is why Mr. Roosevelt rode behind persons of title, as did the special ambassador of the United States at the funeral of Queen Victoria. Etiquette prescribed the place in line; and etiquette is perhaps more rigorous at Royal funerals than at Royal festivals.” – Theodore Roosevelt was a special guest at the funeral of the British King Edward II
– Public domain image of former U.S. President, Theodore Roosevelt 

Theodore Roosevelt Guest of the King of Kings

First American Citizen Was Distinguished Guest at Monarch’s Table in England

Mr. Roosevelt did not loom in the procession which followed the late King to his grave and, but for his position. as special ambassador, he would not have been a part of it. There is no provision made for civilians at such. functions; and special ambassadors have to take the places assigned them by their rank, differentiating Royal from non-Royal envoys. And that is why Mr. Roosevelt rode behind persons of title, as did the special ambassador of the United States at the funeral of Queen Victoria. Etiquette prescribed the place in line; and etiquette is perhaps more rigorous at Royal funerals than at Royal festivals.

In his other relations with the English court, however, the ex-President has been treated with greater distinction than any other civilian on earth could expect to be. At the dinner given to the guests of the King he was at the right hand of the host; and the visiting Monarchs, with the notable exception of King Alfonso, singled him out for special courtesies. Of these, Emperor William was conspicuous. He likes Roosevelt; and he wanted to especially emphasize, not only that liking, but his desire to honor the people of the United States, so many of whom are of German derivation.

So the American people have no call to be sensitive over the order of the cortège and Mr. Roosevelt’s place in it. Had the point been stretched and Mr. Roosevelt been included among special envoys of Royal or imperial rank, it would have not only excited criticism at home and abroad, but it would have been offensive to the special ambassador of France, who held the same rank as his American colleague.– San Francisco Chronicle, May 1910

👑Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia