Queen a ‘symbol of stability’ in inspiring throwback photos—but what are those red boxes?
The Queen’s throwback photos include an unusual detail as fans praise the ‘incredible’ monarch.


The Queen was dubbed a “symbol of stability” by fans after sharing “incredible” throwback photos in honor of a momentous day—and they feature some intriguing red boxes.
- Her Majesty marked Accession Day on February 6th as she prepares for the celebrations to come later in her Platinum Jubilee year.
- The Queen’s throwback photos posted in honor of the occasion include a surprising detail and fans couldn’t help but be inspired by the monarch’s “stability”.
- This royal news comes as the Queen gives her blessing for Duchess Camilla to have this special title—if Prince Charles becomes King.
It might seem like only yesterday that the Queen celebrated her Diamond Jubilee, but now 70 years have passed since her accession to the throne on February 6th 1952. As is tradition, the Queen marked the poignant day on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk and reflected on the death of her father King George VI in private. But whilst the Queen’s children might not have all been with her, Prince Charles led tributes to the monarch’s achievements throughout her momentous reign.
Meanwhile, the Queen began Platinum Jubilee celebrations ahead of Accession Day with a tea party at Sandringham House. On the day itself she shared a series of wonderful snaps, many of which featured some unusual bright red boxes…
A post shared by The Royal Family (@theroyalfamily)
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Taking to social media, the official Royal Family accounts posted the Queen’s throwback photos. And they certainly showed Her Majesty’s dedication to her royal duties throughout her 70-year reign, ranging from a picture of her at her desk at Buckingham Palace in 1959 to one of her at Sandringham taken just days before by photographer Chris Jackson.
In all the snaps, eagle-eyed fans might just have spotted the little red boxes beside the Queen. Explaining their presence, the caption stated, “This photograph has been released to mark Accession Day 2022: the 70th anniversary of Her Majesty’s reign and the start of her Platinum Jubilee year.
“Her Majesty is seen with one of her famous red boxes. Over the past 70 years, The Queen has received daily papers from her Private Secretaries, in person or via a red despatch box."
It continued, “The boxes hold documents updating Her Majesty on events in Parliament as well as overseas and Commonwealth matters, and State papers requiring her signature and Royal assent.”
The choice to share these particular snaps featuring such an important part of the Queen’s daily life as monarch celebrates her enduring devotion to her duties as the Sovereign. And this meaningful symbolism didn’t go unnoticed by fans! One even reflected upon how the Queen has been a beacon of “stability” and “resilience” throughout the trials and tribulations of the past seven decades.
“Beautiful and inspiring to reach today, a symbol of stability, resilience and unity, to the stars❤️⭐”, they declared.
This sentiment was echoed by a second person who wrote, “Thank you for your 70 years of service 🤍”.
“❤️amazing duty, we are so thankful”, someone else replied.
Whilst another agreed, commenting simply, “Absolutely incredible ❤️”.
The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year might now have officially begun but the full schedule of events to mark the milestone will take place in the summer. It’s not yet known how many of the extended Royal Family members will join Her Majesty, though there’ll no doubt be many people hoping for a full family reunion for these celebrations.
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Emma is a Royal Editor with seven years of experience working in digital publishing. Her specialist areas including literature, the British Royal Family and knowing all there is to know about the latest TV shows on the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and every streaming service out there. When she’s not writing about the next unmissable show to add to your to-watch list or delving into royal protocol, you can find Emma cooking and watching yet more crime dramas.
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