Coffs Harbour Methodist Church First World War Honour Roll

About

This intricate timber honour roll lists the names of 16 members of the Coffs Harbour Wesleyan Methodist Church who served in the Great War. It was dedicated and unveiled at the church on 27 September 1917.  The Daily Examiner (Grafton), 19 September 1917, published that the memorial was a gift from Mr A.W. Fowler of Korora. The article described the roll as being made of silky oak and measuring six by 5 feet. It features an ornately carved pediment, columns with Corinthian capitals and gold paintings of a lion and unicorn, flanking a portrait of a soldier. The soldier is framed by a laurel wreath and the Union Jack and Australian flags, both painted in full colour. Other decorative details include paintings of a rose, thistle and shamrock. The decorative work was completed by Adamson and Sealby. At the time, the roll contained 12 names, with four names added at a later date. The Daily Examiner, 29 October 1917, published a detailed report of the unveiling by Captain Earle Page before a large attendance. Reverend Sabin presided assisted by Reverends R.K. Robinson (Anglican) and Thomas (Presbyterian). Reverend Sabin outlined the care taken in selecting names for the board. The names were those of men who had enlisted from the mission district of Coffs Harbour, which included Bonville and Woolgoolga. Captain Page spoke in detail of the need to serve, as well as the conditions at the front where men faced battle and increasing danger. He was followed by Mr P.J. MacNamara, secretary of the Chamber of Commerce. The function closed with the singing of the National Anthem and a prayer said by Reverend Sabin. The church is now known as Coffs Harbour Uniting Church. The roll is now located in 'The Soup Place', which is the former Methodist Church Hall.