3-028-373 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Queen passing through the lobby of the new building of London University, 1870. Official opening of a '...newly-built mansion in Burlington-gardens...her Majesty [was] received at the principal entrance of the building by the Chancellor, Lord Granville; the Vice-Chancellor, Mr. Grote; the member for the University, Mr. Lowe; the Chairman of Convocation, Dr. Storrar; and the Senate...The Queen...wore deep mourning, with some white ornaments in her bonnet...[In her speech she said:] "It gives me great satisfaction to open the beautiful and spacious building provided by the liberality of Parliament for the University of London. The completion of that building marks a new era in the history of the University, the achievements of which have already justified the expectations of the patriotic and enlightened men by whose efforts and on whose advice it was founded".' In 1868, nine women were admitted to the University of London. This was the first time in Britain that women had gained access to university education. From "Illustrated London News", 1870.