The Story of the Missing Coronation Stone

Name: The Story of the Missing Coronation Stone
Start: 1296-12-25
Location: Unspecified

The Significance of the Coronation Stone

Coronation Stone’s Historical Role

The Coronation Stone, also known as the Stone of Scone, has been a symbol of Scottish royalty for centuries. It was traditionally used in the coronation of Scottish kings at Scone Abbey. The stone measures around 26 inches in length and is made of reddish-brown sandstone, covered in tall tales of myth and legend.

Edward I and the Taking of the Stone

In 1296, during the Wars of Scottish Independence, King Edward I of England seized the Coronation Stone from Scotland. The act was not merely a theft but a statement of power, as Edward sought to consolidate his control over Scotland. The stone was taken to Westminster Abbey, where it was placed beneath the Coronation Chair, a symbol of the English monarchy.

The 1950 Theft and Smuggling of the Coronation Stone

The Daring Theft at Westminster Abbey

On Christmas Day in 1950, a group of Scottish nationalists orchestrated a daring operation to reclaim the Coronation Stone. They broke into Westminster Abbey and stole the stone, which was a powerful act of defiance against the English rule. This operation symbolized a renewed spirit among Scots, reflecting their ongoing desire for autonomy and independence.

Smuggling the Stone Back to Scotland

Following the theft, the group successfully smuggled the Coronation Stone back to Scotland, where it was hidden in various locations. Eventually, it was returned to Scotland on the eve of the celebrations for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, ultimately leading to its restoration in Scone in 1996, where it rightfully belongs.

Fun Fact

Coronation Stone’s Return

The Coronation Stone was returned to Scotland in 1996 under the agreement that it would be used for future royal ceremonies, showcasing both the historical importance and the ongoing significance of the stone in the Scottish national identity.