King Charles and Queen Camilla were treated to some old-fashioned American razzmatazz as they were given a royal welcome by the small town of Front Royal, Virginia, on the final day of their four-day state visit to the United States.
A Taste of Rural America
The warm hospitality shown by the residents of Front Royal, featuring a marching band, cheerleaders, clog dancers, and a prize display of Welsh breed sheep, was a far cry from the formal white-tie banquets and garden parties of Washington DC. The visit almost did not happen after the mayor initially deleted the email proposing the trip, thinking it was a hoax.
Thousands turned out for the bunting-decked event, which was the first opportunity for Charles and Camilla to meet members of the public during their tour, which had been largely governed by strict protocol. The crowd responded with rapturous cheers and furiously waved Union Jacks. Some people had queued since early morning to secure a prime spot on Main Street for the royal arrival.
Community Potluck and Gifts
As part of the celebration marking the 250th anniversary of American independence, a so-called "pot luck" community meal was held. True to tradition, Charles and Camilla brought their own contributions: a Coronation quiche and Victoria sponge cake, prepared by the British embassy kitchens. They also brought a gift of honey from the royal hives.
The King and Queen appeared relaxed and happy as they walked among the crowd, under the watchful gaze of Secret Service agents wearing sunglasses. Camilla spent five dollars on scout cookies, choosing the famous American "thin mint" variety, while Charles tapped his toes to a spirited clog dance performed to the well-known bluegrass tune "Rocky Top."
Terry Guiffre, of the Bull Run Cloggers, said: "They were lovely. I am so excited for them to be here. This is the highlight of our year." Melissa and Carey Saffelle, of Bloomington Wild speciality cut flower farm, were also delighted to meet the King and Queen. Mr. Saffelle remarked: "It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to meet them. They seemed very down to earth."
The visit to Front Royal was among the final engagements of the royal couple as their state visit drew to a close, leaving a lasting impression of goodwill and cultural exchange between the United Kingdom and the United States.
