Thursday, April 30, 2009

It's a girl!!!

April 30, 1909

American President William Taft has sent his congratulations to Dutch Queen Wilhelmina who has given birth to daughter this morning. The queen's condition is "most satisfactory" according to today's New York Times.
Holland "is celebrating the happy event from one end of the country to the other with expressions of joy and gratification such as have seldom been witnessed among this placid people."
There is also great "political significance" to the birth of an heir to the throne, "a circumstance which greatly enhances the country's chances for continued independence."
Queen Wilhelmina continues to sleep well and is "progressing nicely." She says she plans to start nursing the infant princess tomorrow.
In the Netherlands tonight, "splendidly illuminated streets, thronged with a rejoicing populace, dancing, singing and throwing confetti," the Hague a carnival appearance. There was also a torch light procession and every town and village in the country is celebrating "the long-awaited birth of a child to Her Majesty with demonstrations of satisfaction."
In spite of the downpour, the streets in the capital are "gayly decorated, "and great crowds are passing to and fro evidencing their gratification."
The infant princess was born at 7 a.m. The proud father, Prince Hendrik immediately telegraphed his mother with the news of the birth and the condition of Queen Wilhelmina.
No name for the princess has been announced.

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