“Glory to God Honour to the dead” These words etched in cement greet you at the Tramsheds War Memorial. This isn’t just any monument. It’s a tribute to the brave tramway workers who served in World War I.
The memorial stands proudly near its original home at the Rozelle Tramway Depot. It’s a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made. Originally unveiled in 1916 it initially honored six fallen soldiers. More names were added later.
Over 150 tram workers from the depot answered the call to arms. Thirty-four never returned. The memorial itself is remarkable. It was the first in Australia to depict a digger in such a relaxed pose. Think of it an open collar rolled-up sleeves. A striking image. It’s quite unusual for a war memorial.
Imagine the dedication ceremony in 1916. The scene is filled with emotion. The Union Jack draped over the statue. Sixty tram workers stood as a guard of honor. The Massed Tramway Inter Depot Bands played. A moving tribute to fallen comrades. The statue was cast in cement by Edwin McGowan. A young sculptor he was a King’s Prize winner at South Kensington. He also won the Taylor Art Scholarship in Dublin. The workers themselves paid for the memorial. A testament to their camaraderie and respect for their fallen colleagues.
The Tramsheds War Memorial has had an interesting journey. When the Rozelle tramsheds closed in 1958 the memorial moved to the nearby Leichhardt bus depot. Years later it underwent restoration. It returned to its original location in 2018.
More than a simple war memorial it’s a powerful symbol. It reflects the contributions of ordinary workers. It shows their bravery and sacrifice during wartime. It stands as a lasting tribute to their memory. It reminds us of the cost of war. It stands as a reminder of the enduring spirit of the Rozelle tramway workers. Look closely at the names. Each one represents a life lost. A story untold. Remember them today.