Prince Hendrik’s visit to the agricultural exhibition in Leeuwarden in 1902
- denron
- 19 October 2024

Prince Hendrik ( photo public domain)
At the end of the 1800s, agricultural exhibitions in the Netherlands became increasingly popular.
During these major events, agricultural and horticultural products were displayed, as well as the latest in the field of agricultural mechanisation.
There were livestock inspections where contestants could win medals and diplomas,; as well horse related competitions, all accompanied by a plethora of music, it was a big party event.
In 1902, a large agricultural exhibition was held in Leeuwarden from the 23rd to 31st of August.
It was announced in the local press that HRH Prince Hendrik (husband of Queen Wilhelmina) would visit the exhibition on Friday, August 29th. He would arrive at 10 am after which he would take a driving tour through the city. At 11 am he would go to the exhibition where he would first attend a parade of breeding cattle followed by a viewing of the exhibition. After a lunch, offered to him by the committee, the prince would attend the harness racing event. After dinner, the prince would leave again around 9 pm.
The newspaper the next day stated that thousands of people were present when the prince’s procession passed by the Prince Hendrik Bridge.
In our collection we have a silver miniature of a horse and carriage. Engraved on this is; “HRH Parade 29/8 1902”. This special item was presented by the prince as a prize to the winner of the parade.