Kyogle Public School First World War Honour Roll

About

The Kyogle Public School Honour Roll is a large, polished timber board which commemorates those from the school who served in the First World War. The honour roll features a decoratively carved pediment with ornate gold painted scrollwork at the top. Carved cedar columns frame each side of the board between supporting cedar shelves at the top and bottom. A black and gold painted banner sits above the name of the memorial which is painted in gold lettering. The names of 48 ex-pupils and teachers are divided into three columns painted in gold within panels of polished silky oak.  The Kyogle Examiner, 16 February 1918, reported that arrangements were being made for the installation of an honour roll at the school. In September 1918, the memorial was donated by Mr G J Grove, who had designed and made the board with considerable artistic skill. Preparations then followed for the inscription of the names of those who had served (The Kyogle Examiner, 18 September 1918).  Two months later the unveiling ceremony was held at Kyogle Public School on 22 November 1918. A large assembly gathered for the event, which was chaired by Mr J G Fegan, the Headmaster. After his address, The Shire President, Cr Alcorn spoke, and Mrs A W Campbell was invited to unveil the honour roll. Following much cheering, singing and applause the assembly moved to the playground for a celebratory picnic (The Kyogle Examiner, 23 November 1918). Sadly, the honour board was removed from the school years later and placed on the Kyogle tip. Fortunately, workmen from Council retrieved the honour board and it is now on display at the Kyogle Historical Museum.