You Won't Believe What People Have Gifted the Royal Family

3. An Elephant

Given to: Elizabeth II, the queen
Given by: Cameroonian President Ahidjo
Estimated Value: $10,000*
Queen Elizabeth II received many extraordinary gifts during her reign, including enough animals to fill a zoo. One of the most memorable was an elephant named Jumbo, gifted to her by the President of Cameroon in 1972.

The Duke of Edinburgh and the Queen go to Bedfordshire. ©Max Mumby/Getty Images/Indigo
Jumbo’s journey to the UK was an adventure in itself, with the Queen personally feeding the elephant avocados and bananas during the flight. Though Jumbo never starred in a Disney movie, his story remains an unforgettable chapter in royal history.

About the Author: VelvetCircuit

Generalist mind with a specialist’s attention to detail—sharing what I learn in public.

Recommended Reading: The Surprising Before and After of 8 Animal Pregnancies