In a groundbreaking moment, Queen Elizabeth II graced the vibrant city of Houston, TX with her presence on May 22, 1991. This marked the first-ever visit by a British monarch to Texas. The Queen’s itinerary was a delightful blend of cultural immersion and community engagement.

Queen Elizabeth II and her husband, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, disembark from a British Airways Concorde supersonic transport aircraft upon their arrival for a royal visit.
Queen Elizabeth II and her husband, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, disembark from a British Airways Concorde supersonic transport aircraft upon their arrival for a royal visit.
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Royal Arrival

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Antioch Missionary Baptist Church:

The Queen in the all black Antioch Church
The Queen in the all black Antioch Church
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Toe Tappin' Tea Toters

The historic Antioch Church, nestled in Downtown Houston, played host to Her Majesty. As gospel melodies filled the air, Queen Elizabeth sat between Prince Philip and then-Houston Mayor Kathy Whitmire, savoring the soul-stirring tunes. The church, founded in 1875, holds a special place in Houston’s heart and was a fitting backdrop for this momentous occasion.

NASA’s Johnson Space Center:

Queen Elizabeth II toured Mission Control at NASA Johnson Space Center in May 1991. (NASA)
Queen Elizabeth II toured Mission Control at NASA Johnson Space Center in May 1991. (NASA)
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Queen of Space!

Houston’s space legacy captivated the Queen. She toured the Mission Control Center, guided by astronaut Jeff Hoffman. Jim McBarron, chief of the Extravehicular Activity Branch, introduced her to space suits, leaving her intrigued by the wonders of the cosmos.

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Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center:

Courtesy of the Baylor College of Medicine Archives
Courtesy of the Baylor College of Medicine Archives
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Royal Veteran Affairs

Elizabeth’s compassion shone as she visited wounded veterans. She witnessed stroke patients’ progress using parallel bars and explored the hospital laundry facility. Heart surgeon Dr. Michael DeBakey joined her, emphasizing the importance of healthcare and healing.

City Hall:

Houston Mayor Kathy Whitmire and Queen Elizabeth II with her Texas Dictionary during the royal visit on May 22, 1991. (Photo courtesy: City of Houston)
Houston Mayor Kathy Whitmire and Queen Elizabeth II with her Texas Dictionary during the royal visit on May 22, 1991. (Photo courtesy: City of Houston)
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Kathy and The Queen

Mayor Whitmire gifted the Queen “The Illustrated Texas Dictionary.” Elizabeth graciously signed the official Houston visitors’ book, etching her legacy into the city’s history.

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Houstonians fondly remember that day—a harmonious blend of royalty, resilience, and reverence. Queen Elizabeth II’s visit remains etched in the Bayou City’s collective memory, a testament to the enduring bond between nations and cultures.

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