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Maribyrnong-Bagotville Hill Welcome Home Committee

Page history last edited by Lenore Frost 5 years, 1 month ago

Organisations

 

See also Maribyrnong-Bagotville Hill Memorial

 

Items listed in the following list will be found on this page by scrolling down. 

 

20 Aug 1915             Meeting to form a Welcome Home committee

1 Sep 1915               Reception for Private Charles Dangerfield

6 Jan 1916                Returned Soldiers Report and Balance Sheet

20 Jan 1916              Returned Soldiers' Reception - C Dangerfield   

4 Feb 1916               Letter from Samuel Pynor re invitation to a reception for Pte E Williamson

10 Feb 1916             Ticket for the Welcome Home for Pte Edward Williamson 10 February 1916

10 Feb 1916             Program of the Welcome Home given to Cpl J F Callaghan and Pte E Williamson

17 Feb 1916             From Active Service- Welcome Home to Callaghan and Williamson

19 Oct 1917             State War Council to J E Higginbotham re Christmas Club,

29 Oct 1917             Crown Law Office to J E Higginbotham re Christmas Goose Club

 11 Jan 1918             Maribyrnong-Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers Reception Committee, circular letter

                                   about a reception

24 Jan 1918              Musical Presentation evening, Ascot Vale Picture Theatre

 8 Feb 1918              Thank you from Chas Rayner to H E Higginbotham for condolences on death of son

                                   Rayner G J Pte 2268

14 Feb 1918              Welcome Home to Maribyrnong-Bagotville Soldiers 

21 Feb 1918             Correction to Essendon Gazette story  

no date c 1918         Concert program and Roll of Honour     

20 Aug 1918             Congratulations to parents of Williams H J Pte 1791 on winning the Military Medal

   1 Oct 1918             State War Council  re War Savings

   3 Oct 1918             J E Higginbotham to James MacLeod of the Commonwealth War Savings Council 

   4 Oct 1918             Victorian War Savings Committee to Returned Soldiers' Reception Committee

 11 Oct 1918             Returned Soldiers' Reception Committee to Essendon Council re a war memorial

                                    in the new reserve  

18 Oct 1918             Essendon Council to Mr Higginbotham re memorial in Reserve 

  8 Apr 1919             Welcome Home at the Showgrounds    

 19 Apr 1919            Maribyrnong Hill & Bagotville Progress Association to the Soldiers' Reception

                                 Committee re Arbor Day   

22 Apr 1919             Letter of condolence to Mrs Boundy from the Returned Soldiers' Reception

                                 Committee 

  c  Jul 1919             Joint application by Soldiers' Reception Committee and Progress Association for

                                  tree planting at new Reserve  

16 Jul 1919              Arbour Day at Essendon   

11 Aug 1919            Receipt for supply of gold and silver medals   

27 Aug 1919            Newspaper clipping ad Presentation evening 27 Aug 1919  

29 Apr 1920             Presentation Evening at the Showgrounds 29 Apr 1920       

27 Mar 1921            Ballantine Monumental Masons re erection of a monument  

  11 Jul 1921            A & G Ballantine monumental masons to MBRSRC  p1  

  11 Jul 1921            A & G Ballantine monumental masons to MBRSRC  p2  

no date circa 1921  Leaflet asking for donations for a memorial in Victory Park.   

no date circa 1921  Plan for Victory Park, Ascot Vale   

25 May 1922            Maribyrnong-Bagotville RSRMC Report 1915-1922 25 May 1922, pp 1 to 4

25 May 1922            Report on meeting held, published in the Essendon Gazette 

circa 30 May 1922   Report of meeting held on 25 May 1922   

6 Nov 1949              Commemoration Service, Ascot Vale West Progress Association  

 

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20 Aug 1915               Meeting to form a Welcome Home committee

 

RETURNED SOLDIERS.

A meeting of residents of Maribyrnong and Bagotville Hill was held at the residence of Mr. Jones, Charles st., Ascot Vale on 10th August, to devise ways and means to Welcome home any of the lads who have left the hill to serve their country in Gallipoli. A strong working committee was formed, consisting of Messrs. Butt, Eddy; Story, Noble, Jones, Rust, Snape, Louden and Boyd; ladies: Mesdames Louden, Quinn, Garbutt, Lewis Coleman, Eddy, Butt and O'Connell. Mr J. Garbutt was elected hon. secretary, and Mr. J. Higginbotham hon. treasurer. It was decided that suitable tokens and receptions be given to the boys (either collectively or individually) on their return from the front. A fund was initiated, and the following donations were received:-Mr. Butt, £2 2s; Mr. Jones, £1 1s; Mr. Story £1 1s; Messrs. Higginbotham, Garbutt Noble, Rust, Snape, Norris and Boyd, 10s 6d each; Mrs. Louden, 10s 6d; Mrs. Payne, 10s 6d; and Mrs. Jones. 10s 6d, being a total of £9 9s collected in the room. Others have promised their hearty support, and the movement tends to be a great success. It was decided that a reception be tendered at an early date to Mr. Chas. Dangerfield, who was wounded and invalided home, and returned by the Ballarat. The meeting expressed its appreciation of the thoughtful action of Mr. Jones in convening same for such a deserving object. Mr. Jones, in reply, said that the least the residents could do was to show the lads on their return that their friends of the Hill had not for gotten the noble sentiment that sent them forth to assist the motherland in her time of trouble. An enthusiastic meeting then closed with the singing of the National Anthem.

 

RETURNED SOLDIERS. (1915, August 26). The Essendon Gazette and Keilor, Bulla and Broadmeadows Reporter (Moonee Ponds, Vic. : 1914 - 1918), p. 3 Edition: Morning.. Retrieved January 14, 2012, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article74589889

 

 

1 Sep 1915       Reception for Private Charles Dangerfield

 

RETURNED SOLDIERS.

A reception, tendered to Private Chas. Dangerfield, in honour of his return from active service in Gallipoli, was held in the Temperance Hall, St. Leonards road, on Sept. 1st. The hall was handsomely decorated with flags of the Allies; the tables were taste fully dressed in red and blue, the regimental colours of the guest of the evening, and wattle blossom. The attendance exceeded all expectations of the committee, there being between 250 and 300 persons present. To an accompanying skirl of bagpipes, ably played by Piper Currie, Private Dangerfield was conducted to his seat. The chairman, Mr. Louden, in his opening remarks, expressed his pleasure at seeing so many present to welcome one who had so gallantly responded to the call of the Empire. During the evening, Mr. Eddy proposed a toast to the Boys in the Trenches. He spoke of the noble cause for which they were sacrificing their lives, and concluded by impressing on the younger members of the audience the necessity of putting their shoulders to the wheel to help to bring victory to our Empire. The musical arrangements were ably carried out under the capable supervision of Mr. C. Payton. The songs and comicalities rendered by Messrs. Park and Price were very amusing and kept the audience in constant laughter. Miss L. Denshaws recited the "Heroes of Gallipoli," and the other items were well received and thoroughly appreciated. The Burns Choral Society also rendered some very fine choruses. During the evening the chairman presented Private Dangerfield with a gold medal from the residents of the Maribyrnong and Bagotville Hills, and congratulated him on the fine example he had set to his fellow citizens. Private Dangerfield, in response, briefly stated that he had only done his duty. The evening then concluded with a hearty vote of thanks by Mr. Jones to the artists. Receptions similar to the above will be tendered to each returned soldier who has been a resident of the above Hills.

 

RETURNED SOLDIERS. (1915, September 30). The Essendon Gazette and Keilor, Bulla and Broadmeadows Reporter (Moonee Ponds, Vic. : 1914 - 1918), p. 5 Edition: Morning. Retrieved January 15, 2012, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article74590222

 

6 Jan 1916      Returned Soldiers Report and Balance Sheet

 

 

Source: The history of Maribyrnong Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers'

Reception and Memorial Committee, by Frank N T Williams, Ascot Vale, 1979.

 

20 Jan 1916                        Returned Soldiers Reception

 

RETURNED SOLDIERS.


The Returned Soldiers' Reception Committee at Maribyrnong, Bagotville, are doing good work and have already entertained several returned soldiers, the functions having been distinctly successful. The first report and balance sheet of the committee have been published, and the document shows that the total receipts amounted to £35 5s 6d, including £26 18s 6d from donations, £7 2s from sale of tickets, and £1 5s cash at the door. The reception to Mr. Charles Dangerfield cost £6 16s 11d, which amount was more than met by the door receipts of the evening. The credit balance now amounts to £28 8s 7d. The hon. secretary, Mr. James Garbutt, requests that the public will acquaint the committee with the names of any boys who have joined the colours, also those who have returned home. The visiting officer (Mr. Jones) will then call for further particulars. The committee are doing excellent work, and are to be commended on their action. The next function to take place will be a musical and presentation evening tendered to Mr. Edward Williamson, who has returned from active service, and this will be held at the Temperance Hall, St. Leonards road, Ascot Vale, on Thursday, 10th February. The tickets are one shilling each, and refreshments will be provided. Mr. J. Higginbotham is the hon. treasurer, and Mr. James Garbutt hon. secretary, and early application should be made for tickets.  

 

RETURNED SOLDIERS. (1916, January 20). The Essendon Gazette and Keilor, Bulla and Broadmeadows Reporter (Moonee Ponds, Vic. : 1914 - 1918), p. 5 Edition: Morning.. Retrieved January 23, 2012, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article74591633

 

4 Feb 1916   Letter from Samuel Pynor re invitation to a reception for Pte E Williamson

 

SAMUEL PYNOR

Architect, House, Land, Estate, Commission

Insurance and Financial

Agent for

Guardian Assurance Coy Ltd

 

The Property Mart

224 Union Road,

Ascot Vale

 

4/2/1916

 

Dear Mr Higginbottom,

 

Your kind invitation to hand requesting the company of Mrs Pynor & myself to a reception to be tendered to Pte E Williamson on the 10th Inst.  I feel extremely sorry that I cannot see my way to be present with you on that night.  I have to give an address at a meeting to be held at Moonee Ponds on that night which had been arranged for at the latter end of last year & the date could not be altered.  If by any means I can get away I will give a look in late in the evening & I think it a splendid thing to recognise the sacrifice that our splendid men have made & they deserve it and should have all the expressions of thanks & appreciation we can give them. Thanking you very sincerely for kind invitation.

I am yours sincerely

 

S Pynor.

Source: The history of Maribyrnong Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers'

Reception and Memorial Committee, by Frank N T Williams, Ascot Vale,1979.

 

 

 10 Feb 1916        Program of the Welcome Home given to Cpl J F Callaghan and Pte E Williamson

 

 

Welcome Home rendered to Cpl J F Callaghan and Pte E Williamson.

Source: The history of Maribyrnong Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers' Reception and Memorial Committee,

by Frank N T Williams, Ascot Vale, 1979.

 

10 Feb 1916              Ticket for the Welcome Home for Pte Edward Williamson 10 February 1916

 

Source: The history of Maribyrnong Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers'

Reception and Memorial Committee, by Frank N T Williams, Ascot Vale,1979.

 

 

17 Feb 1916                      From Active Service - Welcome Home to Callaghan and Williamson

 

FROM ACTIVE SERVICE

CONCERT AND PRESENTATION TO RETURNED SOLDIERS.

 

At the Temperance Hall, St., Leonards road, Ascot Vale, last Thursday, the people of Maribyrnong and Bagotville Hills assembled to honour the return of two of their number from the front, Corporal J. F. Callaghan and Private E. Williamson. The arrangements were in the hands of the Returned Soldiers' Reception Committee, and took the form of a, concert and presentation, followed by dancing. After the National Anthem, Miss Renshaw contributed a selected song, followed by a comic song by Mr. F. Parker. Mr. F. Lambert, in his contribution, "Till the Sands of the Desert Grow Cold." was heard to perfection, and also drew considerable applause by his rendering of the popular "Mother Machree" in the latter part of the programme. Mr. Will Elder was very amusing in his comic recitation, and, drawing roars of laughter from the audience, he was recalled. Miss Renshaw again contributed a pretty song, also Mrs. Henderson and Mrs. Draper the latter singing, "Sunshine of Your Smile," thereby touching the feelings of the audience. Miss M. Prout per formed the Irish Jig and Sailors' Horn pipe.   The chairman, Mr. Louden, in presenting the two returned soldiers with medals, remarked that within a very little time the parishioners had raised sufficient funds for such a movement, but as yet none of it had been touched. He hoped that this reception would pave its own way for others and leave the money intact as the people intended welcoming all their heroes in the same way and erecting a tablet in their memory. So far, 30 boys from the hills had enlisted, and when they came back they should get a fitting reception, and be looked after and provided for. He had heard the remark that this was not our war, but Britain's. Most assuredly it was our war, and all eligible and able-bodied men should enlist. As Australia would be a great prize to Germany, it behoved us all to carry the war to a bitter end. On behalf of the people of Maribyrnong and Bagotville Hills, he had much pleasure in presenting the soldiers with a medal each and wishing them long life and every prosperity. Musical honours and cheers were then accorded the guests of the evening, who returned thanks in brief speeches. One of the musical directors, Mr. R. L. Jones, in endorsing the remarks of the previous speaker, extended, a hearty welcome to the artists who had helped to make the evening a success. "Where's me shirt? Where's me 'at?" was a voice from behind the stage, and introduced "Fun and Frolic" by Messrs. Parker and Pike, who presently came on view, the latter minus coat and hat, and with a dilapidated collar hanging by the back stud. While that comedian retired to finish his toilet, the other sang "It's the Girls that Make the Seaside." The audience were kept in laughter by the humorous repartee and comic songs of this pair; and loudly applauded them. The chief comedian of the evening was Lal Logie, a skilled artist from the Vaudeville stage, who described his acquaintance with "Priscilla Plaster." According to him, "She was a fair dinkum, boshter girl, with a lovely face, like a fried egg." He told how he went to see her "pa," and how he found his way out of the window. He contributed a so-called song, entitled "Bony Mary" containing selections from "Cissie Hold the Candle While I Shave the Chicken's Lip" and "Lanolin Squeeze - Me and I'll Come Out." Throughout his several items, "Lal" kept the house in one continuous roar from beginning to end, and was compelled to make several encores. In concluding the programme he sang a recruiting song of his own composition, the music being by his pianist. After refreshments had been handed round, dancing was commenced; and midnight saw the end of an enjoyable evening.

 

FROM ACTIVE SERVICE. (1916, February 17). The Essendon Gazette and Keilor, Bulla and Broadmeadows Reporter (Moonee Ponds, Vic. : 1914 - 1918), p. 4 Edition: Morning.. Retrieved January 24, 2012, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article74591969

 

 19 Oct 1917      State War Council to J E Higginbotham re Christmas Club,

 

 

Source: The history of Maribyrnong Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers' Reception and

Memorial Committee,  by Frank N T Williams, Ascot Vale, 1979.

 

 

 29 Oct 1917               Crown Law Office to J E Higginbotham re Christmas Goose Club,

 

 

Source: The history of Maribyrnong Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers' Reception and Memorial Committee,

by Frank N T Williams, Ascot Vale, 1979.

 

 

11 Jan 1918  Maribyrnong-Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers Reception Committee, circular letter about a reception 

 

Letter from J E Higginbotham and F Rust regarding a 'Welcome Home' to be held for Corporal Madden,

Fitter Ball, and Privates Neale, Gideon, Earl, Mackinnon and Langham, to be held on 5 February 1918.

Source: The history of Maribyrnong Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers' Reception and Memorial Committee,

by Frank N T Williams, Ascot Vale, 1979.

 

24 Jan 1918      Musical Presentation evening, Ascot Vale Picture Theatre 

 

ROLL OF HONOUR

A musical and presentation evening is to be tendered to L.-Cpl. D. Madden, Fitter A. Ball, Ptes. J. Langham, H. Mackinnon, F. Earl,  G. Gideon and L. Neale by the Maribyrnong Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers' Reception Committee. The function is in honour of their return from active service, and will be held in the Ascot Vale Picture Theatre, on Tuesday, 5th February.

 

ROLL OF HONOUR. (1918, January 24). The Essendon Gazette and Keilor, Bulla and Broadmeadows Reporter (Moonee Ponds, Vic. : 1914 - 1918), p. 2 Edition: Morning. Retrieved June 3, 2012, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article74604916

 

 

8 Feb 1918         Thank you from Chas Rayner to H E Higginbotham for condolences on death of son Rayner G J Pte 2268   

 

Source: The history of Maribyrnong Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers'

Reception and Memorial Committee, by Frank N T Williams, Ascot Vale, 1979.

 

14 Feb 1918              Welcome Home to Maribyrnong-Bagotville Soldiers  

 

WELCOME HOME TO MARIBYRNONG-BAGOTVILLE SOLDIERS.

 

The residents of Maribyrnong-Bagot ville tendered a welcome home to soldiers in the Ascot Vale Theatre on February 7th, the reception taking the form of a banquet, and a first-class musical programme.

 

The names of the soldiers who were welcomed are L.-Cpl. D. Madden, Fitter A. Ball, Ptes. J. Langham, H. Mackinnon, F. Earl,  G. Gideon and L. Neal. Each was presented with a medal, the chairman (Mr. Loudon), in making the presentation, said that out of 120 residences on the Hill, 54 boys had gone to the front. Nine had made the supreme sacrifice, and ten had returned. By means of donations from the Hill residents, £117 had been raised, of which £36 had been spent on medals and receptions, leaving a balance of £81. It was decided to erect, at a future date, a permanent memorial to perpetuate the memory of their brave lads. After the presentation, refreshments, which had all been donated, were served by a band of voluntary lady helpers, under the direction of Mrs. Butt.

 

Mr. T. Ryan, M.L.A., in proposing the toast of "The King" and "Our Soldiers Abroad and at Home," said the word King meant more to-day than at any other period of our history. The noble example of the King of the Belgians had elevated this office to the highest pinnacle of respect. The boys had left their homes and families because they recognised their duty, and had made the sacrifices so that we might enjoy such liberty as we had never had before. We must be as faithful to those who went away as they have been to us. The greatest women were those who had made sacrifices.

 

Cr. H. S. Cole, in supporting the toast, hoped when the time came for erecting a memorial on the Hill, he would share the cost. They were proud of our boys, and the name "Anzac" was immortal. The Australian army in all its branches was equal to any troops that have ever lived. This was not only his opinion, but that of British generals, war correspondents and others capable of judging. The troops were endowed with patience and endurance typical of the "Old Bulldog Breed," were not degenerate, and still had the British pluck. We were grateful because they had fought for us, and we must keep our promises to them. In Essendon a small committee met each week and dealt with applications from returned soldiers and widows or dependents of the fallen or those still at the front. Financial help was given where necessary. A number had been started in business and were doing well.

 

Cr. Pynor said it was an honour to welcome home these boys, most of whom he had known from childhood. A higher percentage had enlisted from Maribyrnong-Bagotville Hill than from any other part of Victoria. The boys from this part had done credit to their people, and had done their share in keeping the Empire intact. During 3½ years of war, we had not lost a foot of land, and had gained hundreds of thousands of miles.  

 

The, following artists contributed items:-Mrs. Fraser, Misses L. Paton, Rossi, Knowles, Lanyon, E. Dwyer, Butt and Messrs. Clem. Kerville, Harry Shilling, N. W. Pill, Pontin and Ashton. Miss L. Paton was an efficient accompaniste, and Messrs. C. Paton and R. Jones were musical directors. Praise is due to Mr. J. E. Higginbotham, who carried out the secretarial duties in a capable manner.

 

WELCOME HOME. (1918, February 14). The Essendon Gazette and Keilor, Bulla and Broadmeadows Reporter (Moonee Ponds, Vic. : 1914 - 1918), p. 4 Edition: Morning. Retrieved June 4, 2012, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article74605065

 

21 Feb 1918                  Correction to Essendon Gazette story

 

 

A Correction.

 

In our report in last issue, as regards the Maribyrnong-Bagotville soldiers, the name of Mrs. W. Eddy should have appeared instead of Mrs. Butt.

 

A Correction. (1918, February 21). The Essendon Gazette and Keilor, Bulla and Broadmeadows Reporter (Moonee Ponds, Vic. : 1914 - 1918), p. 2 Edition: Morning. Retrieved October 5, 2012, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article74605168

 

no date c 1918               Concert program and Roll of Honour

 

 

20 Aug 1918              Congratulations to parents of Pte Williams on winning the Military Medal  Williams H J Pte 1791

 

Source: The history of Maribyrnong Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers' Reception and

Memorial Committee, by Frank N T Williams, Ascot Vale, 1979.

 

1 Oct 1918                 State War Council  re War Savings

 

 

3 Oct 1918              J E Higginbotham to James MacLeod of the Commonwealth War Savings Council

 

 

 

4 Oct 1918                      Victorian War Savings Committee to Returned Soldiers' Reception Committee

 

 

11 Oct 1918      Returned Soldiers' Reception Committee to Essendon Council re placing a war memorial in the new reserve

 

 

18 Oct 1918                 Essendon Council to Mr Higginbotham re memorial in Reserve

 

 

8 Apr 1919                    Welcome Home at the Showgrounds

 

WELCOME HOME

 

SOLDIERS WELCOMED.

A SPLENDID GATHERING.

 

A highly successful gathering of the residents of Maribyrnong and Bagotville hill took place on Tuesday evening, 8th April, at the Council Hall, Royal Agricultural Society's Grounds, to welcome home a number of their returned soldiers. The reception took the form of a banquet, accompanied by a first-class musical programme.

 

The hall was artistically decorated with bunting and foliage, and the tables were tastefully laid, reflecting the highest credit on Mr. J. Harrison, of the Show Grounds staff, and the ladies' committee, whose services in this direction were much appreciated, and are worthy of no small measure of praise.

 

At 8 o’clock, amidst great cheering, Lt. W. Kennedy Smith, Privates J. Garbutt, A. Hyde, Theo Anderson, R. Sparks, R. Bullen, Cpl. J. Anderson, Dvr. H. Hyde were conducted to their seats to the swirl of bagpipes ably played by Committeeman Granger. After a short opening address, the guests settled own to a splendid musical programme rendered by the Jovials Select Entertaining Company, whose services were given free. That the audience enjoyed every item was demonstrated by the enthusiastic applause given to each number.

 

Upon rising to make the presentation of medals, the chairman (Mr. G. Loudon) said that out of the residents of the Hill (112) 58 boys had gone to the front; four had been in camp and numerous others had been rejected. Of the boys 19 had returned and 10 had made the supreme sacrifice. By means of donations from the residents and friends of the committee, they had been able to build up a fund that would assure all the boys who were still away a fitting welcome on their return. It had been decided to erect at some future date, a permanent memorial to perpetuate the memory of the brave boys, and he trusted the hearty support of the residents would attend the committee's effort in that direction.

 

In a neat speech Lt. W. Kennedy. Smith thanked the residents and committee for their great welcome. He felt that a home-coming such as this was worth all the hard-slogging they had been through.

 

Refreshments were partaken of, and I might be added that the whole of these—and there was more than ample for all—were donated. A willing staff of voluntary lady helpers under the capable direction of Mrs. Eddy, worked splendidly and helped considerably to make the evening successful. ln proposing "0ur Boys at Home and Abroad," the Mayor (Cr. A. Fenton) expressed his pleasure at being present at such a reception, of which the boys were more than worthy, and he had no doubt that the boys in general had staunch friends in the Maribyrnong and Bagotville residents.

 

Cr. H S Cole, who supported the toast, said that home seemed purely a British product, its meaning being everything that our boys held dear mothers, fathers, wives, sweethearts and country.

 

Cr. S. Pynor, who also spoke, said that it was an honour and privilege to take part in welcoming home these boys. The 58 who had left this part of the city had done credit to their people here at home and their share of keeping the Empire intact, and we must be as faithful to them as they have been to us.

 

The hon. sec. and treas., Mr J E Higginbotham, was indefatigable in his efforts to make the evening enjoyable, and to his unremitting attention to details, together with the untiring efforts of the  committee, the success was chiefly due.

 

[Newspaper clipping event 8 April 1919, probably from the Essendon Gazette]

 

 

19 Apr 1919      Maribyrnong Hill & Bagotville Progress Association to the Soldiers' Reception Committee re Arbor Day

 

 

22 Apr 1919              Letter of condolence to Mrs Boundy from the Returned Soldiers' Reception Committee

 

 

July 1919          Joint application by Soldiers' Reception Committee and Progress Association for tree planting at new Reserve on Peace Day

 

16 Jul 1919               Arbour Day at Essendon

 

ARBOR DAY AT ESSENDON.

An Arbor Day will be held at Lang's road, Ascot vale, on Saturday next (Peace Day), when trees  will be planted by relatives of returned soldiers. The Essendon city councilors will take part.   

 

ARBOR DAY AT ESSENDON. (1919, July 16). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1956), p. 5. Retrieved October 7, 2012, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article4715693

 

 

11 Aug 1919              Receipt for supply of gold and silver medals
       

 

 

27 Aug 1919             Newspaper clipping ad Presentation evening at the Showgrounds

 

Presentation tendered to Capt P H Heywood, Sgt Major R Paton, MM, Air Mechanic H McKenry,

Sergeants L Harvey, E Boreham, C Robertson,   Lance-Corporal J Simonsen, Sapper W Coutts,

Privates F Quinn, J A'Hearn, S Woods,  J Rust, A Rust, J Johnston, G Johnston, F Wasley, Drivers,

S Quinn, G Simonsen, O Sjostrom, G Hyde, H Butt, J Gideon, Gunner A Williamson, Trumpeter

Charles Williamson.

 

 

29 April 1920               Presentation evening at the Showgrounds

 

 

Sgt S D Neale, L Corp H Williams, MM, Gunners R N Debney, W Dorain, H J W Eddy,

Trpr R Crompton, Privates Brown and Maloney

Source: The history of Maribyrnong Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers'

Reception and Memorial Committee, by Frank N T Williams, Ascot Vale, 1979.

 

 

27 Mar 1921  Ballantine Monumental Masons re erection of a monument

 

Source: The history of Maribyrnong Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers'

Reception and Memorial Committee, by Frank N T Williams, Ascot Vale, 1979.

Letter from A Ballantine to H E Higginbotham, mentions John Oliver.

 

11 Jul 1921     A & G Ballantine monumental masons to MBRSRC  p1

 

 

 

11 Jul 1921  A & G Ballantine monumental masons to MBRSRC  p2

 

Source: The history of Maribyrnong Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers'

Reception and Memorial Committee, by Frank N T Williams, Ascot Vale, 1979.

 

no date circa 1921   Leaflet asking for donations for a memorial in Victory Park.

 

Leaflet mentions George Loudon, chairman, and J E Higginbotham, Hon Sec.

Source: The history of Maribyrnong Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers'

Reception and Memorial Committee, by Frank N T Williams, Ascot Vale, 1979.

 

No date circa 1921   Plan for Victory Park, Ascot Vale

 

 

 

25 May 1922          Maribyrnong-Bagotville RSRMC Report 1915-1922, 25 May 1922, pages 1 to 4

 

Names mentioned - J Fraser, J Garbutt, Amoore, Garside, J G Higginbotham.

Source: The history of Maribyrnong Bagotville Hill Returned Soldiers'

Reception and Memorial Committee, by Frank N T Williams, Ascot Vale, 1979

 

 

Names mentioned:  R P Jones, Geo Loudon, J H Garbutt, J E Higginbotham, Messrs Butt, Paton,

Eddy, Snape, Rust, Jones, Noble and Storey.  Mesdames Butt, Loudon, Jones, Coleman, Lewis,

Quinn, Barbutt and Miss Morrison.  Mrs Eddy.  Silver medals present to Butt, Stewart, Craig,

and Williamson.  New Committee men 1918, Morton, Grainger, McHenry, McWilliams, Boreham,

Donnelly, Williams, Mr & Mrs Drysdale.

 

Names mentioned: H Schweiger, J Harrison; Messrs Storey, Noble, and McWilliams; Cr H Cole,

Dr Mannix, Mr Morton, Mrs Quinn, Cr E Kinnear;  R Paton, MM, H Williams, MM, and L Harvey, MSM;

 

Names mentioned:  Mr Oliver, John E Higginbotham, Geo Loudon.

 

25 May 1922         Report on meeting held 25 May 1922

 

Essendon Gazette, no date May 1922

 

Creditable Patriotic Effort.

On Monday last, the Mayor of Essendon (Cr. Kinnear) drew attention to the remarkable activity which had been recorded in connection with the Maribyrnong Hill and Bagotville Returned Soldiers' Reception Committee, the outcome of a meeting held sometime ago at the house of Constable R. P. Jones at Bagotville. The area dealt with by the Committee covered 114 houses, and of these, 40 contained no residents eligible for active service. From the 74 houses remaining, no less than 67 men were sent to the front. Of these, 44 have returned home and been welcomed and each presented with a gold medal. Nine were killed, and their mothers or next of kin were also the recipients of medals. The total cost to the committee was £99. Altogether the movement was responsible for raising £265, in addition to £26 handed to the Repatriation Fund. The committee has now in hand a project to erect a Soldier's Memorial in Victory Park at a cost of £200.

 

no date circa 30 May 1922

 

Report of meeting held on 25 May 1922

 

SOLDIERS' RECEPTION COMMITTEE

 

MARIBYRNONG-BAGOTVILLE'S ADMIRABLE EFFORT

 

The story of the stimulating efforts of the Maribyrnong Hill and Bagotville Returned Soldiers' Reception Committee was given at a meeting of  residents held in the School Hall, James street, Ascot Vale, on 25th May, to receive the report and balance sheet, embracing the activities of the committee. Mr. Geo. Loudon occupied the chair.

 

The secretary (Mr J. E. Higginbotham, in his report, gave some interesting details of the work carried out by the committee during the war period,  which included assistance in floating the War Loan, also organising carnivals and other patriotic movements. The report and balance sheet were  adopted, and, speaking to the motion, several present, including Cr. J. Grainger and Mr. W. Donnelly (sec. Progress Association) eulogised the work of the committee and expressed a hope that the proposed  Commemoration and Reunion Day movement would meet with equal success.

 

The retiring committee were appointed (with power to add) to carry out the arrangements in connection with the commemoration and reunion scheme, which may possibly be fixed for Armistice Day. The intention is to make the fixture a day of enjoyment for the juveniles.

 

The proceedings were interspersed with musical items rendered by well-known artists, each number being thoroughly enjoyed.

 

During the evening Cr. J. Grainger made a presentation to the hon. secretary (Mr. J. E. Higginbotham) of a handsome secretarial case as a token of appreciation from the members of the committee.

 

Mr. Higginbotham, in thanking the committee for their kindly gift and expressions of goodwill, hoped that the good fellowship which prevailed during their long association would continue during their extended term. He also thanked residents and helpers for their unfailing support. The meeting closed with the singing of the National Anthem. Report Describes Activities. The following are extracts from the report:-

 

The committee was appointed at a meeting convened by Mr. R. P. Jones on August 8th, 1915. The duties of the committee were to welcome home returned soldiers who were enlisted from the Hill, and to make  presentations as a token of appreciation of their great sacrifices in the cause of Empire, also to erect a fitting memorial in their honor at the close of the war.

 

The following ladies and gentlemen constituted the office-bearers and committee: - Chairman, Mr. Geo. Loudon; hon. secretary, Mr. J. H. Garbutt; hon. treasurer, Mr. J. E. Higginbotham; general committee:  Messrs. Butt, Paton, Eddy, Snape, Rust, Jones, Noble and Storey; ladies' committee:  Mesdames Butt, Loudon, Jones, Coleman, Lewis, Quinn, Garbutt and Miss Morrison. Mrs. Eddy, chairwoman.

 

The first reception, held in the Temperance Hall, on lst September, 1915, was the first reception tendered to a returned soldier in the State of Victoria. Clunes being the next to follow. Various other receptions were held later, and at these gold medals were presented to our returned boys, and silver medals to Messrs. Butt, Stewart, Craig and Williamson, who were discharged from camp medically unfit. Gold memorial medals were also forwarded to the next-of-kin of our brave boys.

 

In 1915, a suggestion was made by your committee to the Essendon Council that printed testimonials be presented to each soldier who enlisted from the City of Essendon, and certificates were so issued. During 1916. Mr. Garbutt resigned the position of secretary. Mr. J. E. Higginbotham was elected to the vacancy. Early in 1918 Messrs. Morton, Grainger, McHenry, McWilliams, Boreham, Donnelly and Williams, and Mr. and Mrs. Drysdale were added to the committee.

 

Owing to difficulty in procuring halls suitable for reception purposes, Mr. H. Schweiger, secretary of the Royal Agricultural Society, was approached for permission to use the Council Hall. The request was granted, with the Soclety's best wishes for the success of the movement, and the committee desire to place on record the residents' appreciation of the valuable assistance rendered by Mr. Schweiger and Mr. J. Harrison, of that Society. At this stage occurred the deaths of Messrs. Storey, Noble and McWilliams, valuable members of your committee, also Cr. H. Cole, a most enthusiastic supporter. The committee pay humble tribute to their memory.

 

The Essendon Operatic Society forwarded a handsome donation of £63 4s 1d. and was quickly followed by the V.R.C. with one of £15 15s; Dr. Mannix, £5; Moonee Valley, £20; Mr. Morton, £5; Mrs. Quinn, £5; and others too  numerous to mention. The feeling of optimism was further revived by the promise of £5 5s at our final reception by Cr. E. Kinnear, then Mayor of Essendon. The following local boys won distinctions: - R. Paton, M.M.; H. Williams, M.M.; and L. Harvey, M.S.M.

 

The final reception, notwithstanding a loss of £10 thereon, was a great success, and a fitting climax to the work which was passing over to the Memorial Fund a credit balance of £166 6s 9d. The total attendance at receptions was 2054. A further appeal, supported by various financial schemes, resulted in the committee completing the work they were appointed to carry out, thereby enabling the residents to fulfil the pledges given in 1915. The erection of the honor column, and subsequent unveiling ceremony performed by Brig.-Gen. Elliott, are too fresh in the memory for further comment.

 

The committee record having received £17 6s, result of collection at close of ceremony by the "Dads" on behalf of Distressed Diggers' Fund.

 

The committee assisted in connection with numerous carnivals and other war work in aid of the returned men, and acknowledgments for services rendered were received from the State War Council, the State War Loan Committee, Braybrook Repatriation Committee, Returned Soldiers' League, River League, Patriotic Carnival Committee, and "Dads" Association. The  committee wish to record the valuable co-operation and support of the Progress Association, especially in connection with the planting of the Avenue of Honor in Victory Park, the first Avenue of Honor planted north of the Yarra in the .......

 

From an undated and incomplete newspaper clipping, probably Essendon Gazette.

 

6 Nov 1949     Commemoration Service, Ascot Vale West Progress Association

 

 

 

 

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