was in 1897.
Archival letters and documents reveal the controversies of that extravaganza of 114 years ago.
The illumination and fireworks displays were thought dangerous and a public risk.
Plans to illuminate the dome of St. Paul's Cathedral were modified for the fire hazard it posed.
Well wishers were banned from standing on roof tops for fear of folks falling from the buildings.
A terror threat from royal anarchists meant extra police came out of retirement to ensure public peace.
A row concerning who should cover the cost of the celebration in which the Queen insisted that the Ministers contribute to the day after the immense cost of her diamond jubilee of 1887. The threat of her cancellation was a concern if she should discover that the Privy purse was on the line to cover all expenses.
The government and Buckingham Palace were forced to modify expenses.
These and other issues preceded the staging of a successful event of which the Queen was well pleased.
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