London, December 31, 2024 – For the first time, visitors’ books from the residence of Britain’s Prime Minister, 10 Downing Street, have been made public, offering an extraordinary glimpse into decades of political history. The release of these volumes, spanning from 1970 to 2003, includes famous signatures from global leaders, monarchs, and political figures.
As agreed, the set of books shall be made accessible by the National Archives following an earlier government decree to stop auctioning one of the books back this year. It is great insight into how many people would have visited and seen the British Prime Minister down the years by being exposed to among the most popular personalities of both the 20th and very early 21st centuries.
Notable Signatures
Visitors Among the notable names, Nelson Mandela, the South African anti-apartheid leader’s signature is most striking. In 1996, Mandela wrote, “Visiting Downing St, No 10, is always an unforgettable experience,” marking a piece of history in which he visited the heartbeat of British politics. Other notable visitors include the late Queen Elizabeth II, who signed her name as Elizabeth R (Elizabeth Regina), and King Charles III, who just penciled in his signature, “Charles,” along with his former wife Diana.
Several U.S.
Presidents signed the books, from Jimmy Carter to George W. Bush, with each adding messages that reflect the strength of the transatlantic relationship. Notably, in 1989, former U.S. President George H.W. Bush wrote, “With respect, friendship, and gratitude for this relationship that means so much,” while his wife Barbara added, “Me too.”
Historic Commemorations
Important moments in the life of British politics are also reflected in the visitors’ books. In 1985, to commemorate the 250th anniversary of 10 Downing Street, Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and all five of her surviving predecessors, including Harold Macmillan and Harold Wilson, signed a single page in the book. The collection of signatures represents, within the continuity and tradition, British leadership.
Unusual Signatories
The books also feature more controversial figures, including Ugandan dictator Idi Amin and Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, known for their notorious reigns. In addition, former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev and Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie left their marks, showing the global nature of diplomatic relations at the time.
The Auction Controversy
The visitor’s books had been found early this year after one was intended to be put up for sale by a former civil servant, who had retrieved the volume when clearing out boxes damaged by the flood. Sellers had expected it to sell at auction for around £15,000 ($18,800). The British government intervened, proclaiming the book its property, under the Public Records Act. It was henceforth suspended and sent over to the National Archives for preservation as a collection.
It provides, in this unprecedented release of historical documents, a rare and priceless record of political diplomacy and personal encounter at the heart of British government over several decades.