Expression of face tells of his mental tension

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Emmaville War Memorial

Author: Faithe Jones

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The other day, a Soldier's Memorial was unveiled at Emmaville, a mining town, situated in the north, about 30 miles from Glen Innes. The population of place is about 2000 people, but they are loyal and patriotic to the core.

Here is a description of the magnificent memorial: — The monument, which is 14 feet in height, consists of a grey granite pedestal, set on a foundation of reinforced concrete. On the pedestal stands four polished tablets, on which are engraved and gold-gilded the names of 174 soldiers.

A gilded cross placed opposite the name signifies that the hero rests from his labors. There are 33 of these crosses. Nothing is placed on the stone to signify the rank of the soldiers, but the decorations have been inscribed.

On a polished surface above the names, on the front face is the inscription, "Honor Roll a tribute to the heroic men of Emmaville and District who fought during the Great War, 1914-19." 

The whole is surmounted by the figure of a soldier 6ft in height. Returned soldiers who have seen the figure describe it as true to life. The soldier is standing at ease, preparatory to the command to "hop over." His shirt is open at the throat, his sleeves are rolled up, the expression of face tells of his mental tension, while his whole appearance bespeaks determination, the characteristics that have placed the Australian soldiers in the forefront of fighters.

It is a masterly piece of work and was sculptured by an Italian sculptor from Italian white marble.



The Gosford Times and Wyong District Advocate (NSW), 26 February 1920

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