Reign IV
The Fourth Reign
The Court of the Iron Horse/White Dove
April 16, 1977

Empress IV Causha Lee Victoria
The White Dove Empress

Emperor IV Shel Anderson
The Iron Horse Emperor

For the first time, it was decided that the citizens of the empire would be the ones to elect the Emperor and Empress. The 1st duly elected monarchs of the people of Colorado were Emperor and Empress IV, Shel Anderson and Causha Lee/ It was during this reign that traditions were actively acknowledged and followed. The lines of succession to the thrones were further enhanced. It was also an interesting reign in that the Emperor and Empress lived in two different parts of the state. Up to this point the 4th Emperor and Empress were also the most widely traveled monarch for the ICRME. They traveled to over 11 coronations throughout the United States during their reign.

In a sidelight, while keeping the tradition of having the yearly PR Ball, whose theme was “ A Night of Elegance”, held at the Cosmopolitan Hotel, there was the 1st “turnabout.” The 1st three Emperors all arrived at the function in drag, while the Empresses all took part in the function out of drag. While perhaps not everyone was thoroughly amused it was an interesting evening. Also, in keeping with tradition, the winter ball, held at the Hilton Hotel had a theme of “Christmas in Camelot.” The King of Hearts Ball for the 4th reign was a “Leather & Levi Hoedown” held at Union Hall in Denver.

The lines of succession were given more responsibility during their reign. For the Empress’ line, the Princess Royale was originally Tommi Lynn, but she was succeeded by Christi Layne; Queen Mother (for life), Lola; Grand Duchess, Lee Sommers; Czarina, Lori Thimer; and Marquess, Jamie Alexander. The Emperor’s line of succession consisted of Prince Royale, Lee Bacus; King Father, Lee Zittle; Grand Duke, Ron Anderson; Czar, Lon Marfel; and Marquis, Dennis.

For this reign, two permanent titles were awarded. The emperor awarded his permanent title to his real-life wife. Deanna Anderson was to be known as the Crown Princess for Life to His Imperial Majesty. The Empress awarded Knight of the Realm for Life to David (Boom Boom) Lorette.

The merchandise Mart played host to the coronation “Myths, Lands and Legends” and from an Aztec Pyramid the 5th reign stepped into the spotlight.