Bravery honoured by a leading Australian Impressionist
As a social media fan, I am a member of a number of Facebook Groups. Last week I noticed a photo of a painting I am very much aware of – “The Fireman’s Funeral 1894” by Arthur Streeton. Of course, I had to comment, and a long, long thread followed. So, today’s blog is about the subject of that painting who lies in Rookwood. EDWARD CHARLES BROWN Edward was born @ 1850 in Norwich England to Charles and Mary Brown. He came to these shores sometime in 1877 and met and married Rebecca Regan and they went on to have 5 children. Edward was listed on the English census in 1871 as a carpenter's apprentice but when he arrived in Australia it wasn't long before he trained as a Fireman. Edward became a member of the United Insurance Brigade and joined the Metropolitan Fire Brigade which was formed by Richard Torning (who also calls Rookwood "home") when it was established in 1884. He rose through the ranks to take charge of the Newtown Branch Station and it was said he wa...