Description:

Edward Duke of Windsor
n.p., n.d.
Edward, Duke of Windsor Signed Official Transcript of December 11, 1936 BBC Radio Farewell Address
DS

An official typed transcript of the "Farewell Address / by / King Edward VIII / of / England / on / December 11, 1936" boldly signed by the former King of England Edward VIII, then Duke of Windsor (1894-1972), as "Edward / Duke of Winsor" in black ink on the third page. N.d., n.p. 3pp typed on thick double-weight paper, including the cover page. Expected wear including uneven toning and isolated minor corner wrinkles, else near fine. 9" x 11.875." Accompanied by its original transmittal slip, printed "With the Compliments / of the Private Secretary / of the / Duke and Duchess of Windsor" at center, discolored by old adhesive near the top edge, else near fine, 5.875" x 3.875."

Edward VIII had met American socialite Wallis Simpson in 1931, when he was still Prince of Wales. After inheriting the British throne in January 1936, Edward faced an incredibly difficult decision that pitted his personal life - his love for Wallis; against his royal obligations - the kingship. The stance of sitting British leadership, canon law of the Church of England, and longstanding cultural traditions dictated that Edward could not marry Simpson and keep his crown; thus, a choice had to be made.

Edward VIII signed an official Instrument of Abdication on December 10, 1936, in front of his three brothers, including his successor, the future George VI. The following day, on December 11, 1936, the "Act of Parliament: His Majesty's Declaration of Abdication Act of 1936" was introduced and immediately passed. That evening, the former king read a statement to the British public through a BBC radio broadcast. Edward's "Farewell Address" had been edited with the aid of Conservative politician Winston Churchill, who personally objected to Edward's abdication, calling it "altogether premature and probably quite unnecessary."

The transcript in part:

"… A few hours ago I discharged my last duty as King and Emperor, and now that I have been succeeded by my brother, the Duke of York, my first words must be to declare my allegiance to him…

You all know the reasons which have impelled me to renounce the throne…

But you must believe me when I tell you that I have found it impossible to carry the heavy burden of responsibility and to discharge my duties as King as I would wish to do without the help and support of the woman I love.

And I want you to know that the decision I have made has been mine and mine alone…

I now quit altogether public affairs and I lay down my burden. It may be some time before I return to my native land, but I shall always follow the fortunes of the British race and empire with profound interest, and if at any time in the future I can be found of service to his majesty in a private station, I shall not fail…"

The former king was granted the honorary title of the Duke of Windsor on December 12th, and he departed England for Austria the same day. He married Wallis Simpson six months later, on June 3, 1937, in France.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 9" x 11.875"
  • Medium: DS

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