It's a girl ... but Italians are disappointed

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June 1, 1901

Queen Elena of Italy was "accouched of a daughter at 9 o'clock this morning," reports the New York Times.  Both mother and her infant daughter "are doing well.

The new princess will be named Yolanda Margherita.

Although there are "general congratulations" for the birth of a healthy princess, "there is considerable disappointment" in Italy due to the baby being a daughter.   King Vittorio Emanuele "is understood to have expressed contentment."

Gun salutes have been fired throughout the Kingdom of Italy, and flags are flying from the palace and all government buildings to honor the new princess. 

The infant's nurse receives a liberal salary and a pension.  She will also get $2000 "with the baby's first tooth," another $2000 when "the child is able to speak," and a similar sum "when the little Princess walks unsupported."

Queen Elena is the daughter of the Prince of Montenegro.  She was born January 8, 1873, and married the then Prince of Naples at Rome on October 24, 1896.   Elena, who was raised in the Orthodox church, converted to Roman Catholicism, shortly before her marriage. 

Princess Yolanda is the first child for the King and Queen.