It’s not unusual for babies’ baptism gowns to have special significance. Often that’s because they are family heirlooms handed down through many generations, or because of who else has worn them.
In Maurice Crane’s case, the dainty jacket he wore for his christening 95 years ago is unique because of who made it. The crocheted piece – and also possibly the gown and slip worn with it – was handmade specially for him by Queen Mary, the wife of King George V. That’s our current King’s great-grandmother.
“I know Queen Mary definitely did the crocheting, but I’m not sure about the gown and the bit that goes under it,” says Maurice. “I suppose there aren’t too many people who can say that a queen made what they wore for their baptism.”
For many years, the matinée jacket, gown and under slip have been wrapped in tissue paper and packed away. But the death of Queen Elizabeth last year and the deluge of information about the British royal family that followed prompted Aucklander Maurice to get it out and reminisce about his own royal connections.
He crossed paths with royalty thanks to his parents, George and Emily Crane, who worked for the Marquess and Marchioness of Cambridge at Dallicott Hall, their stately home in Shropshire. George was the gardener and chauffeur, while Emily worked as a seamstress.
This story is from the February 27, 2023 edition of New Zealand Woman's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the February 27, 2023 edition of New Zealand Woman's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Mamma's milk bar WENDY'S HERBAL HELPER
When she had trouble breastfeeding, she found a solution that's got mums pumped
IVF egg-swap babies 'IT WAS THE BEST DECISION!'
In a bid for a deeper connection, the loving couple carried each other's baby and sometimes feed the other one's bub too!
Ahoy there, Verity! THE PIRATE OF GARNET STATION
The local legend's making a swashbuckling return to the stage
Take Two & add a farm! HOW DANIELLE FOUND HER BLISS
The Kiwi author's country crush is contagious and has led to some bestsellers
Nobody mention air fryers 'THE GADGET WE CAN'T AGREE ON!'
Parents Andrea and Mark run their busy households in very different ways
Bonnie's next chapter 'QUEEN CAMILLA MADE ME CONFESS!'
The bestselling author's next project is top secret... to everyone but Her Majesty
Davida and the Dames OUR MOTHER'S DAY MAGIC
It's a special celebration for Miranda Harcourt and her daughter - their beloved matriach Kate is back on her feet
NO GOING BACK
Harry's preserving his dignity after having to move out of home
Carole's a real queen! WILLIAM'S GO-TO IN A CRISIS
The heir and his mother-in-law have become firm friends as they care for Kate and the kids
It takes a village HEATHER'S MOTHERHOOD SECRETS
She may have lost herself a little, but the radio star's embracing life with Iggy