Amazing Stories: Historical Society Explores Galston’s French Past
It is truly amazing what stories can be told by members of our community. Once again the Historical Society called upon a member, Carolyn Broadhead, to tell the 12th July meeting of members about Galston’s French connections. Carolyn suggested all should have a look at the Galston Cenotaph where they will see the name of D.S. Small.
He was a local young soldier who fought in France in WW1, married a girl from Armentieres after much difficulty obtaining Australian Government permission, was interned by the Nazis during WW11 and, after his release at the end of the war, raised a family.
The second half of Carolyn’s talk covered the fascinating story of how English lace makers came to Australia via Calais, France. It was a story of changes in technology, trade tariffs, poverty, unwelcome refugees and the poor treatment and loss of skills of new arrivals. A past situation from which little has been learnt.
The accompanying photograph shows some of the Society’s management committee happily receiving a big cheque from Bendigo Bank Chairman, Ralph Steele and Manager, Mr Salvio Pereira. The Society was able to buy a new computer and upgrade the microfiche reader. The new equipment, already in use, has greatly improved the recording and accessibility of research material. The public is encouraged to make use of this excellent community asset, especially on the 4th Sunday of each month between 1.00 and 4.00pm.
The 9th August meeting will be the June Roughley Memorial Lecture. This is the Society’s was of celebrating its founder, a much respected and long time resident of Kenthurst. The guest speaker will be Mr IAN HEMPHILL.
Many readers will remember Somerset Cottage in Dural and the herbs it sold. Mr Hemphill is an international authority on herbs and spices and the story of how herbs and spices changed world history is a fascinating one. All are welcome to this free afternoon. Coffee and tea are served during chat time at the conclusion.
The meeting is in the Galston Uniting Church, School Road, Galston starting at 2.00pm. Enquiries, Michael Bell 20 9653 1365.
