Here stands the Wilberforce District Memorial War Memorial. It stands as a testament to sacrifice and remembrance. This memorial is not just stone and marble. It embodies the spirit of a community honoring its fallen heroes.
Let’s step back in time to May 1918. The community of Wilberforce gathered at the Australian Hall. They organized a fundraising sale. Their goal was ambitious to erect a permanent Soldiers’ Memorial. This was to honor the young men of the district. These men served during the recent conflicts overseas.
The Windsor and Richmond Gazette detailed the event’s success on 24 May 1918. Over the next four months Mr. Kingsley and his partner Mr. Cook constructed the memorial. It was unveiled on 12 October 1918. Robert Bruce Walker a Hawkesbury member of the NSW Legislative Assembly did the honors. The Windsor and Richmond Gazette announced the celebration on 20 September 1918. The event included a market day in the Australian Hall. This was in aid of the Red Cross following the ceremony.
The white marble memorial included names from Wilberforce Ebenezer and Freemans Reach. Two crossed Lee-Enfield rifles were carved in relief on the top obelisk. For fifty years the memorial stood near David Street. It was opposite the general store near Wilberforce Road.
In 1968 the monument was relocated to this park. Colo Shire Engineer Stan Brown organized the move. It was rededicated on Anzac Day 1968. The service was conducted by multiple reverends. Mr Harrison gave a brief history of the Memorial. He reminded everyone of the service and sacrifice of those named on the monument.
Representatives from various organizations attended. These included R.S.L. Windsor Richmond and Kurrajong. Boy Scouts Cubs Girl Guides and teachers were also present. Children from local schools and council members attended too.
This Wilberforce District Memorial War Memorial now commemorates several conflicts. These include The Great War 1914-1919. It also honors those who served in World War II 1939-1945. Korea 1950-1953 and Vietnam 1965-1972 are also remembered here.
The memorial’s entrance faces the intersection of George and Duke Roads. Mature trees line the avenue leading to it. The gates were unveiled on 19 August 1947. Cr H. C. Matheson President of Colo Shire Council performed the unveiling.
Take a closer look at the details. The sandstone base supports marble tablets. These tablets bear the names of soldiers. A soldier’s cap and the Union Jack are carved on the front. Bayonets an anchor and a bugle adorn the other sides. A spire of sandstone tops the memorial. Carved into it are two crossed Lee-Enfield rifles. The names Wilberforce Freeman’s Reach and Ebenezer are inscribed on the base. It also reads Erected by the Residents of Wilberforce.
The Empire called and they answered from Wilberforce. This sentiment is etched into the stone. It echoes the dedication of those from Ebenezer and Freemans Reach. They served in the Great War. Peace with Victory is inscribed. This acknowledges those who served in World War II Korea and Vietnam.
This Wilberforce District Memorial War Memorial is more than a monument. It is a place of reflection. It is a symbol of gratitude and a reminder of the cost of freedom. It is a tribute to the enduring spirit of the Wilberforce community.