Many members of Royalty have visited the Okanagan over the years. The Duke of Connaught was one of the early ones.
The Okanagan has been lucky enough to entertain many historical figures, from the Prince of Wales to Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Though lesser known, the Duke of Connaught and Strathearn's visit to BC brought with it just as much excitement. The governor general of Canada, the Duke (the third son of Queen Victoria), along with his wife and daughter, visited Vancouver in 1912 to christen the newly replaced Cambie Bridge. Though it was officially renamed to Connaught Bridge, the name never seemed to catch on. Regardless, the family received a warm welcome, with much of Vancouver's populace coming out to get a glimpse. They then traveled throughout Interior of BC. Their trip up Okanagan Lake was on the SS Okanagan, whose stern saloon is all that remains today, situated in the Sicamous Heritage Park behind the paddlewheel.
The Duke of Connaught and Strathearn was created as a title for the ruling monarch's third son, though it only lasted two generations. Prince Arthur, the Duke who visited BC, also held the role of Governor General of Canada from 1911 to 1916, and made what seemed like a positive impression upon most Canadians. His daughter, Princess Patricia, was also particularly beloved, with an army regiment named after her with her own design for their badge and colours. She even appeared on a one dollar note from 1917!
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