Rookwood Cemetery Discoveries

 As you know I love a beautifully sculptured headstone. Many in Rookwood stop me in my tracks and the one that I would never have seen, unless pointed out, is why I investigated the man who it pays tribute to. WILLIAM JAMES GOWANS William was born on the 16th of October 1890, the eldest son of William and Eliza (nee Elms). William (Senior) arrived in Australia from Scotland in 1884, Eliza was born in Collingwood Melbourne to parents formally from England. The couple had four children before marrying in 1896. This may have been due to Eliza having previously been married twice, firstly at the age of fifteen. It seems that both men deserted her and died in other States of Australia. None the less it seems that Eliza was lucky at the third attempt, and they went on to provide William with six siblings, most living long lives. William (Senior) was involved with the Sydney Scottish Borderers Association which aimed to promote interest in Scottish music, literature and sports. William (S...

 This week's blog is written on the eve of Anzac Day 2022, the first one to be commemorated in the manner of the past for the first time in three years.  It is particularly poignant at this point in time to remember the many conflicts that Australians have been involved in over many, many decades with the horrors of war playing out on our television screens on a nightly basis. One can't help but ponder upon what we have learnt from war over hundreds of years - nothing much at all.... On the 25th of April 1915, Australian and New Zealand soldiers formed part of the allied expedition that set out to capture the Gallipoli peninsula. They became known as ANZACS and the pride they took in that name continues to this very day. Norman Lindsay "A Trumpet Calls" c.1918 AWM  - image ARTV00039 In 1916, the first anniversary of the landing was observed in Australia, New Zealand and England and by troops in Egypt. That year, 25 April was officially named 'Anzac Day' by the...