St Joseph's Catholic Church First and Second World War Memorial Foyer, Cessnock

About

Inside St Joseph's Catholic Church in Cessnock is a memorial foyer. It was established in honour of those who died while serving in the First and Second World Wars, as well as those who died working in the town's coalmining industry. The foyer features a timber shrine, positioned around a doorway that leads to a set of stairs. The shrine is decorated with two golden figures. On the right is an Australian soldier and on the left is a coalminer. They represent the memorial's themes of 'Defence' and 'Work'. Below each figure is a shelf, made of the same timber. Each houses a book listing the names of the veterans and miners respectively.  The large brick church was built over three years, and was officially opened on 24 October 1954. The memorial foyer was finished prior to the event, which was attended by more than 1,000 people. The building also contains the St Joseph's Catholic Church First and Second World Wars Memorial Tower.