Members and friends have again in enthusiastically taken part March events.
Many residents will remember the Russian families who have lived in our community. At the Society’s March meeting our President, Michael Bell, gave us the background of four families, Ascotchiensky, Bogdanoff, Gollieffe and Molchanoff, who were former members of the Don Cossack Choir.
The talk gave an insight into how the 32 officers had formed a choir after their internment in camps on Lemnos following the defeat of the White Army. The Queen of Romania became their patron. After the astounding first concert in Vienna in July of 1923, the choir toured Europe. In 1926 they toured the east coast of Australia. By 1930 the four families had returned and settled in Middle Dural. We listened to the music they sang, looked at old photographs and studied the art that inspired their songs.
On the 12th March members made a local tour visiting historic homes generously opened for our benefit. There are indeed many gems in our community; which is so rich in history.
Our guest speaker for the 13th April meeting is Judy Dunn, historian and tour guide in Parramatta. Her talk, “Every Migrant has a Story” is a most enjoyable and entertaining tale of a family coming to Australia. It is a reminder that everyone has a unique and important part in our history.
Our meetings are in History Cottage starting at 2.00pm and afternoon tea is served after the talk. All are welcome.
