William of Normandy had a certain purpose in mind when he ordered the Tower of London to be built. William of Normandy was not even English, but he was once promised the throne to England by his cousin, King Edward. However, on King Edward’s deathbed, he gave the throne …show more content…
It is one of the oldest traditions, and has occurred every night without fail for the last 700 years. The exact origin of this ceremony is unknown, but it probably dates from the time of the White Tower. The Chief Warder comes from the Byward Tower carrying the traditional lantern in one hand, and the Queen’s Keys in the other. This happens every night at exactly seven minutes to ten. He walks toward the Bloody Tower, where an escort of a sergeant and a representative drummer are marched towards the outer gate. The escort halt and present arms as the Chief Warder shuts and locks the doors of the Middle Tower and the Byward Tower. Then they walk towards the Bloody Tower Archway. They wait and watch, then a sentry challenges them. After the challenge, they proceed to go through the archway and toward the steps, where they then meet and officer with a drawn sword, the guard for the night. The Chief Warder and escort halt. The officer gives the command, and the Chief Warder takes two steps forward. He holds up his Tudor bonnet high in the air, and calls out, “God preserve Queen Elizabeth.” The whole guard replies, “Amen.” The clock tower strikes ten, and the drummer, or bugler, sounds the last post. The Keys are then taken to the house of the Resident Governor, and the Guard is