This year marks 100 years of the Kelmscott cenotaph, which resides in Rushton Park and the City of Armadale is appealing for any photographs of the memorial.
A century ago, the stone obelisk was built to commemorate and honour residents of Kelmscott, Roleystone and Karragullen who fought in World War One.
The cenotaph stands as a record of the names of service women and men who lost their lives during the war.
Member for Armadale Tony Buti said it stands as a permanent reminder of the sacrifices of local service men and women.
“While the Kelmscott area has evolved around it, the memorial has been a lasting tribute to fallen soldiers for multiple generations to pay their respects,” Dr Buti said.
“It would be wonderful to add more photos and memories of various generations at the cenotaph to commemorate its 100 years at Rushton Park.”
Major General Sir Talbot Hobbs laid the first stone of the foundations on May 21, 1921.
His Excellency Sir Francis Newdegate, Governor of Western Australia unveiled the completed structure on May 29, 1921.
City of Armadale mayor Ruth Butterfield said they are looking for more photographs, as the collection the city has is limited to three.
“We are appealing to the public to have a look through their old photos, perhaps handed down through the generations, to locate images of the Kelmscott War Memorial in days gone by,” she said.
“The City of Armadale only has three old photos of the memorial in the Picture Armadale online collection, from 1925, 1956 and 1973.
“ANZAC Days and Remembrance Days have been held at the site for 99 years, there must be more images out there.”
Over the years names and plaques have been added to include all those who lost their lives or gave service in conflicts up to 1995.
“Many families of those named on the Memorial, are still living in the area today,” Ms Butterfield said.
“Sharing photos of the Memorial, and those who attended services to pay their respects, is an important way to highlight the significance of the cenotaph for future generations.”
During ANZAC Day on April 25, the Kelmscott Scouts will be holding an overnight vigil and dawn service at the cenotaph in Rushton Park from 6am.
The ceremony will provide a timely opportunity to commemorate this 100-year anniversary and pay our respects to those fallen soldiers.
Anyone with historic photos of the Kelmscott War Memorial that would be willing to share, please contact BLSL@armadale.wa.gov.au.
