Coronation Arch Unveiling, 5 June 1937

 

The official opening formalities of Coronation Arch, Enfield, 5 June 1937. Courtesy Strathfield Local Studies

With great fanfare, Coronation Arch was unveiled on 5 June 1937 to honour the crowning of King Charles III’s grandfather, King George VI, just a few weeks earlier. Part of The Boulevarde was officially renamed Coronation Parade on the same day. This photo shows the formalities with Premier, (later Sir) Bertram Stevens and Governor of NSW, Lord Wakehurst in attendance, accompanied by their wives. In keeping with the recent coronation of King Charles III, the weather on opening day was inclement, a reminder of London noted by the Governor during his speech.[1] Several umbrellas can be seen in the crowd. And it was cold. Incredibly, the Weather Bureau even received a report of snow at Randwick that very morning![2]

In the photo, Enfield’s mayor, Alderman Reuben Jenner addresses the audience. Jenner had become mayor just 18 months earlier during January 1936. A widower, his sister, Mrs Olding, assumed the duties of mayoress during his term of office and sits with the official party. Bunting and flags can be seen around the arch, beyond which you can just glimpse the newly-planted gardens of trees, roses and shrubs.[3] Two stone tablets were unveiled on this day, one by the Governor and the other by the Mayoress. Lord Wakehurst was presented with an annual report and illustrated description of the Enfield district.[4]

The Scouts are taking great interest in the photographer, while locals stand on wooden benches for a better view. Children have also climbed the low wall on the left and several ladies watch from the front verandah of a house across the road. Most of these houses still survive, as does the large store which was a produce and fuel merchant business in 1937. Today, 86 years later, Enfield Produce sells pet and garden supplies. The spire of St Thomas’s Church rises behind the produce store.

During his visit to Enfield Lord Wakehurst inspected a Guard of Honour formed by returned World War I soldiers. It seems likely that he also inspected the Scouts lined up alongside. A group of girls hovers just behind the Scouts and several excited dogs are nearby.

Afternoon tea was served to the dignitaries in the St Thomas Church hall after the formalities.

Invitation to the opening of Coronation Parade. Courtesy Strathfield Local Studies

Here are some more photos of the official party during the proceedings from the Strathfield Local Studies collection:

NSW Premier, The Honourable Bertram Stevens addresses the crowd.                  Governor of NSW, Lord Wakehurst (left) and Mayor of Enfield, Reuben Jenner

Behind are Lord Wakehurst, Mayor Jenner, Lady Wakehurst and Mrs Olding             Seated are Lady Wakehurst, Mrs Olding and Premier of NSW, Bertram Stevens

with Mrs Stevens on the far right.

Governor of NSW, Lord Wakehurst inspects the Guard of Honour of returned soldiers     Mayoress, Mrs Olding (left) with Mr Ralph, headmaster of Croydon Park                                                                                                                                                                            School and Lady Wakehurst

Souvenir of the opening of Coronation Parade. From the Strathfield Local Studies collection.

 

By J.J. MacRitchie

Local Studies Advisor

 

References

[1] The Sun 5 June 1937 p.7 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/229397332

 

[2] Glen Innes Examiner 5 June 1937 p.1 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/178487429

 

[3] Sydney Morning Herald 7 June 1937 p.6 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/17395794

 

[4] Sydney Morning Herald 7 June 1937 p.6 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/17395794