Harrington Soldiers' Memorial Hall and Literary Institute and First World War Honour Roll

About

Harrington Soldiers' Memorial Hall and Literary Institute is a large weatherboard hall that was erected by voluntary labour in honour of those who served in the First World War. It is features a design typical of country community halls, with a gabled roof and a high stepped facade at the front. It also has a small porch at the front above the entrance. At a later stage, a small gabled extension was added at the back to create a L-shape. Planning for the hall was underway by early 1924. By April, the Harrington Soldiers' Memorial Hall Committee called for tenders for the construction of the building and removal of the old Mission Hall. On 4 July, trustees were appointed for the site (The Northern Champion, 26 April 1924; 9 July 1924).  The preliminary opening of the hall was held on 17 September, including a fundraising music concert, fancy dress ball and dancing. The official opening took place on 26 December. The well-attended event included singing and music. Councillor Whatson had the pleasure of declaring the hall officially opened. By that stage, the hall was almost paid off, with 20 pounds still owing (The Northern Champion, 1 October 1924; 10 January 1925). Inside the hall is a polished timber honour roll for the Great War. It is decoratively made, with carved posts on the left and right sides of the board. A painting of a Rising Sun on a blue background is positioned within the curved pediment and the crossed Union Jack and Australian Red Ensign are above the names. The roll lists 11 men who served in the war, their names neatly printed in gold down the main panel of the board. The construction and unveiling dates of the roll are not known.

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