Alexander Eagleton Memorial Gates

About

The Alexander Eagleton Memorial Gates consist of two wrought iron gates, supported by two white pillars. The words 'A.D. 1902' are displayed at the top of each pillar. A marble plaque in the shape of a shield bearing an inscription is attached to the front of each pillar. The memorial was originally erected following the death of Trooper Alexander William Eagleton, a member of the 9th Queensland Imperial Bushmen, who was killed in action in the South African War (Boer War) on 4 January 1902 (Dungog Chronicle, 4 March 1902).  A public meeting was held in the School of Arts on 10 March 1902 to consider erecting the memorial and the Dungog Chronicle, 14 March 1902 reported that a committee was formed and collectors appointed. Later in the year the Chronicle, 30 September 1902 reported the tender of monumental sculptor Mr Thomas Brown of West Maitland had been accepted by the Committee for the work. The iron gates were to be erected on massive stone pillars with a ten foot entrance. A month later, the Chronicle, 24 October 1902 reported the gates were to be put up the next week at the entrance to the park on the Town Common. The official opening took place on 8 December 1902 (Dungog Chronicle, 7 November 1902). The memorial has since been relocated to the Clarence Town Memorial Park, where Anzac Day services take place.