February 20, 1547: Edward VI Coronated

Portrait of Edward VI, by Circle of William Scroetes,
created sometime before 1554

Young Edward was only nine years old when he inherited the throne of England from his father, King Henry VIII. The ceremony took place at Westminster Abbey, and were somewhat shortened, because of the age of the King and the demands of the Protestant Reformation.

The night before, Edward had riden from the Tower (where, as was traditional, he spent the days prior to his coronation as monarch) to the Palace at Westminster, and had been delighted by the crowds and pagentry. He especially enjoyed the antics of a tightrobe dancer, according to contemporary reports.

After the coronation ceremony he banqueted at Westminster Hall, where, he later recalled, he was allowed to dine with his crown on his head.