A free community talk in Galston next month will explore the life and legacy of local stonemason Joseph Aaron Booth, also known as Joe, whose work continues to stand across the district more than a century later.
Hosted by the Dural & District Historical Society (DDHS), the presentation will be held at 2 pm on Saturday, 13 June at Galston Uniting Church.
Local historian Judy Horton will speak about Booth’s contribution to the region, including his role in creating some of the area’s best-known memorials and stone buildings.
Booth, who learnt stonemasonry from his father as a child, became widely recognised throughout the district during the early 20th century. Examples of his work can still be seen today, including the Galston and Glenorie cenotaphs, the Sallaway House and his former home in Johnson Road, Galston.
According to the DDHS, Booth spent months searching local gullies for durable stone to carve the cannons that still sit atop the Galston and Glenorie memorials more than 100 years after they were built.
The talk will also explore the stories of several pioneering local families connected to Booth’s work, including the Hudsons, Roughleys, Senters and Hayes families.
Organisers say Booth completed major stone constructions using only hand tools, a winch and assistance from a horse-drawn dray.
Entry to the event is free, with afternoon tea available for a gold coin donation. All are welcome to attend.
For enquiries, contact Michael Bell on 9653 1365 or Judy Horton via email at [email protected]. More information is available through the Dural & District Historical Society website.
