“Lost to time, but not forgotten.” That’s the silent story etched into the granite of the Lieutenant Gideon James Grieve Memorial. This obelisk stands here at the corner of York and Jamison Streets. It stands opposite Scots Church in Sydney. Let me tell you about the man it commemorates.
Lieutenant Gideon James Grieve was no ordinary officer. He was a Scot who found his way to Sydney. He swiftly climbed the ranks of the New South Wales Scottish Rifles. Eventually, he became its adjutant.
When the Boer War erupted, Grieve volunteered. He sailed for South Africa in October 1899 as a Special Service Officer. There, he was attached to the 2nd Battalion of the Black Watch. His skills as a leader were soon apparent. He displayed conspicuous gallantry.
Grieve participated in the Battle of Koodoosberg and operations for the relief of Kimberley. Then came the attack on Cronje’s Laager at Paardeberg. It was February 18, 1900. Grieve showed “most magnificent bravery” according to a fellow officer. He fell in the forefront of battle. He was killed in action that day.
News of Lieutenant Grieve’s death resonated deeply in Sydney. He was highly regarded here. Two memorials were erected in his honor. This obelisk is one. Andrews Brothers in Sydney manufactured it. It was dedicated on January 6, 1901.
The inscription tells a tale of courage. It speaks of his service and sacrifice. It mentions his former roles in the 5th Regiment Scottish Rifles and the 6th Regiment Australian Rifles. It also speaks of the loss felt by New South Wales. His widow and children also lost a devoted husband and father.
There was another memorial to Lt. Grieve. It was a drinking fountain at Watson’s Bay. It originally featured a statue of him in highland dress uniform. Sadly, vandals destroyed the statue.
Lieutenant Grieve’s story doesn’t end with his death. It lives on through his descendants. His grandson Hamish Grieve, granddaughter Roslyn Sweetapple, and great-granddaughter Nicola Grieve, all reside in Woolahra NSW. His great-great-granddaughter Isabella Grieve-Starr also lives there.
Lieutenant Gideon James Grieve was more than a soldier. He was a leader. He was a symbol of courage. He was a man deeply missed by his community and family. This memorial stands as a testament to his life. It is a reminder of his service. It ensures that his bravery will never be forgotten.