Walcha is in the New England region of the Northern Tablelands of northern New South Wales, Australia

AHRENS In memory of Sophia wife of Henry Ahrens Died Sep 2nd 1886

Aged 60 years

CP Lock, Newcastle

A simple Norman stone slab, not very tall, with a minimum of fuss.

ASMUS There rest is in sweet heaven. In loving memory of my beloved husband

Fredrick George Asmus Died 28th July 1883 aged 40 years, also of

Eva Asmus Died 18th July 1885 Aged 3 years & 9 months

Browne, Singleton

This unusual Gothic headstone is of stone carved with ivy leaves. Ivy is a symbol of hope and immortality. The white marble book at the top is symbolic of the Bible, or the Book of Life (note the wrong spelling of 'their'). The epitaph is of lead lettering inlaid into a white marble oval, set onto the face of the stone.

ASPINALL William Vint Aspinall M.D. who was drowned whilst bathing in the

Apsley River December 6th 1862 Aged 34 years Requiesent in pace

This Norman stone monument has a slab head stone showing a carved draped urn, a traditional symbol of death. There is a foot stone on which is carved W.V.A. 1862. It is adjacent to the grave of Tabitha Hardaker which also has a foot stone and they are the only two graves found with foot stones.

Dr Aspinall was the second Doctor in Walcha and his mother was a Stanisfield which was the maiden name of Tabitha Hardaker, so Tabitha may have been his aunt.

ATKIN This is a simple Norman wooden headstone for Mary Aitkin. It is only visible in the morning light. Afternoon shadow render it illegible.

It shares a plot with a concrete headstone with a white marble plaque to

Ernest Manuel 19 July 1904 14 years 11 months

The plot has a simple cast iron fence with 'fleur de lis' round the two graves.

BAIRD Sacred to the memory of Elizabeth Baird who died Sept 12th 1876

Just as I am, without one plea, But that thy blood was shed for me

O Lamb of God I come!

Just as I am thou wilt receive, Will welcome pardon cleans releive

Because thy promise I beleive, O Lamb of God I come!

Just as I am thy love unknown Tis broken every barrier down

Now to be thine, yea thine alone, O lamb of God I come

This upright stone is now broken into two pieces which prop up each other round the base. It is of anthropomorphic design and shows the symbol of the descending dove with a garland of flowers. The dove is taken from Luke 3:22 and Matthew 3;16 to symbolise the Holy Spirit. Note the spelling of 'beleive' and 'releive'.

BATH In memory of Mary Elizabeth the beloved wife of Joseph Bath of Walcha

Died Sep16 1882 Aged 56 years Also Mary Eleanor Bath their daughter

Died Oct 1 1882 Aged 25 years

I waited patiently for the Lord and he Inclined unto me and heard my calling

Also Joseph Bath died 26th July 1896 Aged 72 years

Also William Ralph Cooper Died 23rd May 1919 Aged 69 years

L.Owens, Walcha

This stone Gothic headstone has a variety of carved letters. It also has a pair of the tenacious ivy leaves at the top, symbol of hope.

BATH In memory of Sophia Caroline The beloved wife of Alfred Bath

Died May 27th 1887 Aged 42 years

Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me,

O Lord God of truth PSA XXXI 5

L.Owens, Walcha

This Gothic stone shows a 'roof' and some foliage, possibly willow to represent grief and loss.

In loving remembrance of Walter George Bath who departed this life

July 6, 1886 Aged 14 years

L.Owens, Walcha

In loving remembrance of Frederick George Bath Who departed this life

April 17 1889 Aged 43 years This stone is placed here by his loving wife and children in Remembrance of a kind husband And an affectionate parent.

Ambrey, Walcha, Uralla

BENNETT In loving memory of William Bennett of 'Dromore' Dungowan

Died at Walcha 17 October 1910

Browne, Maitland

The Anchor on the top of this carved stone block style monument is an anchor of hope, derived from St Paul 1 Cor. 9:25. The epitaph tells us where he died.

BLAKE Sacred to the memory of Hannah the beloved wife of James Blake of Irishtown, Walcha who died 5th Nov 1881 aged 63 years.

Browne, Maitland

In loving memory of James Blake Died 28th April 1896 Aged 79 years

Gone but not forgotten

Browne, Maitland

These two anthropomorphic headstones are adjacent to each other. Hers is very simple in design, whereas his contains the ivy and anchor as symbols of hope. The white marble epitaph has lost most of the lead inlay from the letters

BOWDEN In loving memory of our dear mother Sarah Bowden died 7th Aug 1883

aged 53 also William Bowden died 15th Sept 1886 aged 42

Gone but not forgotten

Bowden is frequently mentioned by Ludwig Schrader in his diary of 1873-4.

This simple marble and stone headstone has a sprig of foliage in the epitaph. There is a stone surround and a concrete surface.

BLAKE In fond memory of our dear parents Richard Blake Died 29.9.1945

aged 94 years Dorothea Blake Died 18.6.1926 Aged 69 years

Also their infant children Ellen Died 12.9.1882 aged 2 yrs10 mths

Richard Died 17.5.1885 aged 3 yrs

Albert Died 12.5.1896 aged 14mths

Emma Died 19.10.1904 aged 4 yrs 7 mths

Loves Tribute

A family grave from a similar time, with an anthropomorphic design for the headstone. The epitaph is on a plain white marble plaque. Above is a white marble cherub, a common symbol of the departing soul when children die.

BRAZEL In loving remembrance of our darling little girlie Doris Isabel Brazel

27th November 1908 2 years 8 months

This lovely bud so young and fair Called hence by early doom

Just came to show how sweet a flower In paradise could bloom

Ere sin could harm or sorrow fade Death came with friendly care

The opening bud to heaven conveyed And made it blossom there

Deeply mourned

Also Donald Died 16th September 1913 Aged 1 year 11 months

The three steps on the gravestone represent faith, hope and charity. a simple monument with an elaborate verse.

BRAZEL In loving remembrance of Mary Amelia Brazel who departed this life

9th April 1921 aged 74 years.

In loving memory of Samuel Brazel died 17th Oct 1922 aged 75 years

Earth to earth and dust to dust Calmly now the words we say

Leaving thee to sleep in trust Till the resurrection day

Father: in thy precious keeping Leave we now thy servants sleeping

Browne, Maitland

This elaborate monument of white marble depicts the shrouded urn, symbol of death, on top of a shrouded column. It contains an elaborate verse and the epitaphs are on opposite sides of the column.

Was the "s" added later to make "servants" plural. The spacing suggests so!

Was she the Mary Amelia Hobscroft who went, as a young girl, from Port Maquarie to Walcha in the 1860s with Dr. C.U.D. Schrader and his family?

BUCHANAN In loving memory of Nat Buchanan who passed away

23rd Sept 1901 aged 72 years

Also Catherine McDonald beloved wife of the above

who passed away 24th Sept 1924 aged 82 years

Callcott, Tamworth

This white marble upright slab, of anthropomorphic design, contains a carved lily flower, symbol of purity . The grave has been covered with white gravel and a bronze plaque set in to the foot of the monument, giving some history of Nat Buchanan as a drover. There is no indication who erected the plaque. It was not there in 1988.

BUCKLAND Sacred to the memory of Hannah Maria beloved wife of George Augustus Buckland who departed this life at Walcha 19th April 1874 Aged 55 years

She sleeps in Jesus and is blessed How sweet her slumbers are;

For suffering and from pain released And free from every snare.

Far from the world of toil and strife She's present with the Lord

The labors of her mortal life End in a large reward.

Browne, Maitland

A stone headstone of Gothic design with a delicately carved inscription.

Note the spelling of 'labors'.

BURGESS In loving memory of Rhoda Margaret Burgess Died 18th March 1921

Aged 35 years Also

Heather Burgess Died 1st April 1921 Aged 3 weeks

This white marble epitaph represents an open book, the Bible or Book of Hope. Note the dates of death of the two, Rhoda obviously died due to complications of childbirth, and her infant daughter soon followed.

COLLEDGE In loving memory of Norah Colledge Died 18th April 1934 Aged 80 years

George Alfred Colledge Died 19th Sept 1943 Aged 98 years

There is some symbolism on this headstone. The epitaph is written on a white marble open book to show the Bible, complete with bookmark. Above the epitaph is a white marble design with the handshake to signify the farewell of death or the reuniting in heaven.

The stone is of a general scroll design on the three steps of faith, hope and charity, with the surname engraved in the front. The area is enclosed by a stone surround and covered with gravel

CRAWFORD In loving memory of Marion Jane Crawford Died 14th January 1884

Aged 1 year 11 months Suffer little children To come unto me and

Forbid them not for Such is the Kingdom of Heaven

Ambrey, Walcha

White marble Calvary cross, a symbol of faith, mounted on a stone base, the garland of poppies symbolising sorrow and sleep.

This plot, surrounded by a milled iron fence, contains a variety of styles of stone. Most are of the style of a simple Calvary cross, the three steps symbolising faith, hope and charity.

On the two black diorite Gothic stones, the epitaphs are surrounded by ivy and lilies for hope and purity.

From L to R, back row:

1. Richard, died Feb 26th 1888, aged 47 years

Black Gothic, Browne, Maitland

2. Beauchamp, died 15th August 1878, aged 22 years

Stone Calvary Cross, Curran, Maitland

3. Elizabeth, died October 1893, aged 83 years

White Marble cross

4. Alexander, died March 6th 1873, aged 82 years

Anthropomorphic stone

5. Alexander, died March 27th 1912, aged 72 years

CRAWFORD In loving memory of Thomas Crawford 6th November 1924

Marion Galbraith Crawford 14 Oct 1947

This is a simple ledger slab with a black diorite scroll for the epitaph which is carved into the stone.

DANIAL James Hill Danial born 1817 died 1861

Jane Danial b 1811 died 1894

These graves are in the Hardaker plot. Mrs Danial was Postmistress in Walcha

DAVIDSON Sacred to the memory of Elizabeth Jessie only daughter of William & Jessie Davidson Died June 25th 1865 aged 1 year & 3 months

Sacred to the memory of Janet Davidson died Dec 26th 1859 aged 38 years

This stone is erected by her only son T.R.Davidson April 11th 1885

These are among the oldest stones in the cemetery, with Janet's being one of the earliest dates of death. The two stones are of anthropomorphic design.

ERRATT In loving memory of George Hope Erratt Entered into rest 29th January 1904 Aged 69 years Thine eyes shall behold the King in His beauty

Isiah XXXIII 17 Sleep on beloved, sleep and take thy rest

Lay down thy head upon thy Saviour's breast

We love thee well but Jesus loves thee best Goodnight

Also his beloved wife Susannah Margeret died 8th April 1933

aged 87 years

Browne, Maitland

The Erratt plot is covered with black gravel and surrounded by a cast iron fence. This impressive monument is white marble. It shows a draped urn, a symbol of mourning. The details of George are written on an open book, symbol of the Bible.

George Erratt was a J.P. and a successful businessman in Walcha. He was appointed postmaster in December 1867. He was frequently mentioned in Ludwig Schrader's diary of 1873-4.

ERRATT In loving memory of Hariot Maude Hope beloved daughter of

George Hope and Susan Margaret Erratt

Died 17th December 1874 aged 4 years and 3 months

Also of Arthur Leslie Born 15th August 1880 Died 11th Feb 1881

J .Curran

This monument not in the family plot. The stone mason made an error and the name was recarved.

FARRELL Sacred to the memory of Allen Ernest Farrell Died Nov 13th 1881

Aged 13 years Christ will gather in His own To the place where he has gone

Where their heart and treasure lie When our life is hid on high

Also Ada May Farrell Died May 6th 1882 Aged 10 years

Tender Shepherd thou hast stilled Now thy little lamb's brief weeping

Oh how peaceful, pale and mild In its narrow bed 'tis sleeping

And no sigh of anguish sore Heaves that little bosom more.

Browne, Maitland

This upright anthropomorphic stone is delicately carved with the verse.The head of the cherub symbolises the flight of the soul and are often found on the headstones of children.

FLETCHER In memory of our beloved son and brother Fred k Lind Fletcher

Died 21st August 1936 11 years & 4 mths "In God's care"

Some day we will understand

This white marble monument depicts two children who are saying prayers for their lost brother. Sad faced figures, derived from the medieval 'weepers' symbolised feelings of loss and grief. Children do not "understand", especially as Frederick died from the complications due to influenza.

FLETCHER Sacred to the memory of Helena Mary Fletcher born at Branga Plains

April 28th 1880 Died at Orundumby March 9th 1884

Suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God St Luke XVIII Ch8 16 Verse

Browne, Maitland

This is a stone with anthropomorphic design with carved lettering. There is a carving of foliage above the epitaph.

FLETCHER Sacred to the memory of John Fletcher late of Orandunbie who died

31st July 1890 aged 81 years Also his beloved wife Helen who died at Orandunbie 15 July 1890 Aged 76 years Clarke, Armidale

Gothic, black diorite showing foliage in the carving underneath the expanding growth of lichen. There is a white marble column supporting each side.

The spelling of the property name differs on this headstone from the spelling on his daughter's headstone.

John Fletcher was a well known man in the area. He was a J.P. He sold some rams to Ludwig Schrader in 1873. Ludwig considered them to be "worthless mongrels"

FOSTER Sacred to the memory of Amelia Ann beloved wife of Henry Foster

who died March 25th 1886 aged 22 years

Long days and night she bore with pain To seek for rest but all in vain

Till God himself who thought it best To end her suffering gave her rest

Browne, Maitland

Anthropomorphic stone with an appealing epitaph.

FURNIFELL Robert Robin Furnifell Died October 27th 1868 Aged 19 years

Jane Griffen Furnifell Died October 1878 Aged 30 years

Anne Maria Furnifell Died November 4th 1899 Aged 77 years

Robert Furnifell Died December 6th 1877 Aged 59 years

Wilson, Armidale

This area is bounded by a twisted wrought iron rail with decorated supports mounted on stone. There is evidence of decorative terra cotta tiles between the uprights. The white Calvary cross is of marble, the base level being stone. It is unusual in that the cross is set diagonally to the plot, so a corner faces the east. Furnifull was a chemist in Walcha.

GARDNER In Loving Memory of our dearest Father James Irby Gardner

Died 10th Sep 1914 Aged 52

Mother Catherine Mabel died Jan 1917 aged 28

also sister Doris Died March 1917 Aged 6

The epitaph on this white headstone is surrounded by lilies, to represent sorrow, on one side and poppies, to represent sleep, on the other. The epitaph is written on an open book to symbolise the Bible.

The lack of specific date for the death of Catherine and Doris suggests that the sister who erected the headstone was a child at the time of death and unaware of the date. It also suggest that the two died due to some infection rife at the time. It is interesting that Catherine was much younger than her husband, she would have been just about 24 when he died. I wonder who looked after the children after they had lost both their parents.

GIBSON Mary relict of Samuel Gibson Late of Richmond River 3rd daughter of

Mary and C Scott who died April 11th 1876 aged 28 years and also her son James Gibson died Dec 6th 1875 aged 15 months

Also George Alxr Scott died Nov 29th 1879 aged 31 years

Also James Scott, son of G and MA Scottt of Blinkbonnie who died

Sept 25th 1893 aged 34 years

Be ye also ready for in such an hour as ye think not the son of man cometh

W. Ambrey,Uralla

An anthropomorphic stone for this family, note that Mary was the 'relict' of Samuel i.e.his wife.

GILL Eleanor Francis Gill, born 28 April 1915, died 13th August 1917

Alexander Sydney Gill, born 30th September 1871, died 29th December 1957

Betty Gill, born 29th May 1888, died 26th January 1972.

There are three black diorite crosses in this family plot which is covered with gravel and surrounded by a brick and iron fence. Each cross sits on a granite base.

GILL IHS George Robert Gill Born at Emu Creek 23rd July 1872

Died at Emu Creek 5th August 1929

This white marble Calvary cross has the three steps for faith, hope and charity. The letters IHS are engraved, the first three letters of the name Jesus written in Greek. The grave is covered with white gravel and has a stone surround. It looks as if George Robert spent all his life at Emu Creek!

GILLIES Russell Gillies Born and died 11th Feb 1920

Safe in the arms of Jesus

An open urn is a traditional symbol of death and mourning, a representation of a Greek cinerary urns. This child's grave has a stone surround. The white sea shell, symbol for the resurrection, has been broken.

GOMAN In loving memory of my dear husband William John Goman

Died 23rd May 1909 Aged 49 years

This white marble obelisk contains a wreath of flowers surrounding the compass of the Freemasons to indicate membership of a Masonic Lodge.

The epitaph is written on a scroll with carved foliage, including ivy, below.

GREEN In loving memory of Elizabeth beloved wife of David Green

Died 14th Nov 1904 Aged 39 years

Also David Green Died 10th Nov 1911 Aged 74 years

A white marble column with a shroud and topped by a shrouded urn, symbols of death. It is mounted on the three steps to represent faith, hope and charity.

Plot surrounded by an iron fence with fleur de lis.

GREEN In loving memory of Walter Green Died 9th of August 1884 Aged 8 years

Also his loving sister Annie Maria Green Died 2nd of February 1886

Aged 1 year and 4 months Safe in the arms of Jesus Safe on his gentle breast

There by his love o'ershaded Sweetly my soul shall rest.

White marble, anthropomorphic with a sprig of willow to signify grief and loss.

There are 6 white marble monuments in this fenced area, the milled iron has wrought fleur- de- lis and arrowhead filials. The surface is covered with white gravel and there are inlaid the words "In Memory" in white marble.

Susan 23 November 1912 Aged 29 years

Browne, Maitland

Mary Elizabeth 7 September 1906 Aged 60 years

Thomas Hardaker Aged 21 years 1905

James Hill Danial born 1817 died 1861

Jane Danial b 1811 died 1894

James Hardaker died 13 June 1900 aged 32 years

The four white marble Norman upright slabs have inlay of lily of the valley, a symbol of the return of happiness

Three Hardaker headstones which are all anthropomorphic stone upright slabs and located immediately behind the plot with the marble ones.

Erected by T.O. Hardaker in memory of his beloved brother James who departed this life January 11th 1881 aged 40 years

I shall see you again and your heart shall rejoice

and your joy no man taketh from you St John 16 22

Sacred to the memory of Benjamin Haraker who departed this life

13 September 1877 in his 80th year

Erected by B. Hardaker In memory of his beloved wife Tabitha who departed this life July 6th 1868 aged 59 years Be ye also ready for in such an hour as ye think

not the son of man cometh

Browne, Singleton

Tabitha's grave has a footstone.

HARDAKER In loving memory of Thomas Hardaker who died at "Apsley" Walcha 9th June 1905 Aged 21 years

"It is Well"

Safely, safely gathered in Free from sorrow, free from sin

God has saved from weary strife In its dawn this young fresh life

Which awaits us now above Resting in the Saviour's love

Jesus grant that we may meet There adoring at thy feet.

White marble headstone in the Norman shape, with lilies of the valley as a symbol of the return of happiness.

HAVISIDE In loving remembrance of Percy Hugh Haviside

who died 8th Dec 1906 aged 49 years

The Lord gave and the Lord hath taken away

Blessed be the name of the Lord

Erected by his dear wife Elizabeth

"Deeply regretted"

The image of the crucifiction of the Lord symbolises the religious thoughts of death for this man and the suffering prior to the resurrection. The three steps to the cross represent faith, hope and love.

The death registration reveals he was a Selector who died of a gunshot wound to the head.

HEAD Charlotte Olive Head 22nd Sept 1876 Died Waterloo January 5th 1892

Aged 15 years 4 months

She is not dead the child of our affection But gone into the school

Where she no longer needs our poor protection And Christ himself doth rule

A white marble scroll for the epitaph is surmounted by symbols of grief. Again the three steps of faith, hope and charity.

HOLLIS In loving memory of Emma Hollis departed this life

21st August 1916 Aged 88 years

Browne, Maitland

A trend to smaller headstones with 'non-conventional' shapes. This square one is in white marble set on a stone surround. It has inlaid lead lettering and a motif of foliage.

Note the heart shaped monument in the background.

HOY Sacred to the memory of John Hoy who died May 23rd 1890 aged 70 years

Be ye also ready for in such an hour as ye think not the son of man cometh

Gothic shape with a carved design of clinging ivy to symbolise hope.

JOBLING Annie Jobling 22 August 1876

Patten Bros, Pitt Street, Sydney

White marble Celtic Cross surrounded by an iron fence with fleur de lis. There is no indication of Annie's age at death. The stone is from Sydney and was most likely transported to Walcha by a bullock waggon.

JONES Sacred to the memory of Sarah Jones who departed this life

10th December 1879 aged 60 years

Therefore be ye also ready for in such an hour as ye think not the

son of man cometh

This Gothic shaped stone has a disembodied hand holding the scroll for the epitaph, and the leaves around the hand. This probably was derived from the Divine Hand or the Right Hand of God. There is also a brass plaque. In memory of Sarah Jones c 1816-1879

arr 1835 nee Provost and Alfred Jones c 1813-1886 arr 1835

KERMODE Sacred to the memory of Thomas Benjamin Kermode who died

20th September 1894 aged 76 years also to his wife Sarah

who died 4th August 1894 aged 68 years

Browne, Maitland

Anthropomorphic white marble headstone with lead inlay letters, some of which are lost. Lily of the valley design to symbolise a return of happiness.

Kermode was frequently mentioned in Ludwig Schrader's diary of 1873-4.

KERMODE Five of a kind! All similar in design and all have a similar inscription which starts: In loving memory

Thomas Leslie Kermode Arthur Jone Kermode

Born 19th April 1903 Born 12thApril1907

Died 15th October 1989 Died 4th Feb 1992

Aged 86 years Aged 84 years

John Kermode Hannah Lillias of our dear son and brother

who entered into rest Kermode Lancelot Ian Kermode

20th Feb 1943 who entered into rest Died 3rd May 1968

Aged 82 years 3rd Oct 1960 Aged 27 years

Aged 82 years

There is no name of the monumental mason. Obviously such a simple ledger style remains available from the 1940s through to the 1990s.

KINGSBURY In loving memory of George Sydney Kingsbury

Died 29th March 1919 Aged 61 years.

This anthropomorphic white marble slab shows beautifully carved lilies and also the handshake. This shows the distinctive lace cuff of a ladies blouse and a man's jacket. It symbolises either the farewell of departure or the welcome of a reunion. Interestingly there is no wife's name added to the epitaph. Perhaps she died and was buried away from Walcha.

LANGSTON Sacred to the memory of Alison second eldest and beloved daughter of

W.H. & A. Langston who departed this life December 3 1881 aged 27 years

In the blessed hope of a glorious resurrection

Also Catherine Langston sister of the above who died May 29th 1892

aged 29 years Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown

of righteousness which the Lord the righteous judge shall give me at that day and not me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing Tim 4.8.

L.Owens, Walcha

Gothic design with very delicate lettering in the stone. There are ivy leaves of hope above the epitaph. Surrounded by an iron fence with fleur de lis.

LOVE In loving memory of John Love Died 12th Oct 1907 Aged 47 years

To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.

Also in France

Killed in action Died

24 Dec 1916 14 Aug 1917

For King and Country

Died 14th Sept 1944

In loving memory of my dear wife and our mother Ivy May Phelps

Died 31st May 1962.

The white marble plaque, shaped like a scroll, records the main epitaph. It is mounted on a monument of rock set on brick. The carved allegorical figure clinging to the Cross is thought to derive from the popular hymn "Rock Of Ages" which was written in 1775 by the Rev A.M.Toplady.

The whole plot is surrounded by a stone enclosure.

MAHONEY In memory of Gwen Mahoney Died 22nd October 1936

Aged 9 months

A painted white monument to a child, with a metal plaque for the epitaph. There are three large sea shells on the top, a symbol of fertility and therefore the resurrection.

MALCOLM In loving memory of Mary J. Malcolm who departed this life

13th April 1907 aged 62 years

The name Malcolm is engraved into the stone base. There is an anchor of hope carved into the front of the column, surrounded by ivy, also symbolising a clinging to hope. This is very difficult to see in afternoon light, but is clearly visible in the morning sunshine.

There is a white marble angel forever dropping fresh flowers from the top of a polished red granite or marble base. The grave surface is white gravel, surrounded by white marble kerbing.

I found only two monuments of this column style in this red material.

Mary Malcolm, a daughter of Abraham Nivison, was the wife of Rev Gavin Malcolm who was inducted to Walcha Presbyterian Church in 1866. He resigned due to ill health in 1888.

MANSTON Lest we forget Charles Lewis Manston

7020 Ptl 4 Bn A.I.F. Died 3.3.1947

This is another example of a War Grave. The metal plaque at the head is mounted on a concrete block. The design is a wreath with "Lest we forget" imprinted in it. The grave is covered with concrete and a simple metal plate at the foot gives the epitaph.

Ernest Thomas Rose Annah In loving memory of

Marchant Marchant James

Born Tia 1898 died 9th May 1949 Born Kempsey 1847

Died Walcha Aged 94 years Died Tia 1937

27th July 1943 Aged 90 years

The Marchant area contains three terrazzo graves, each bearing a simple cross. The epitaph of each is engraved on a marble plaque which is set into the headstone. A white marble cross is laid on top of each ledger.

Ernest Thomas was apparently killed with a circular saw whilst helping his brother William to strip battons.

MARSHALL Nancy Marshall who departed this life May 5th 1887 Aged 38 years

Though we know there must be trials And there will be tears below

Yet we know his glorious purpose And his promises we know

Each amen becomes an anthem For he surely will fullfil

All the pleasures of his goodness And the splendour of his will

G Wilson, Sydney

White, anthropomorphic with poppies to symbolise sleeping. Another Sydney headstone which may have come by train to the Tablelands.

McCORMACK In loving memory of Revee H.S. McCormack Oak Hill

Died 2nd Jan 1927 age 36 Thy will be done

A Logan, Walcha

Note the scroll shape of this white marble headstone whic incorporates a symbolic dove representing the Holy Spirit. The lead inlay letters are starting to fall out.

Should the name be Reeve, or is Revee correct?

In loving memory of Arthur Mervyn McCormack died at Oak Hill 25th Nov 1922

aged 37 years

A.Logan, Walcha

From the clock carved into the white marble headstone we can assume that death occurred at 12.30. The ivy is a further symbol of hope.

Why did these two men, presumably brothers, die so young?

MILEN Sacred to the memory of Warden Lawes Milen who died April 18th 1884

aged 65 years Native of Edinburgh N.B.

W. Ambrey, Uralla

This plain,Gothic stone monument is now broken and lying on the ground.

It is another which indicates the origin of the person.

MITCHELL Sacred to the memory of Maggie A. Mitchell who died 2nd June 1873

aged 2 years Also of Alexr Wm Mitchell who died 11th April 1874

aged 6 months

Curran, Browne and Co, Maitland

This fancily carved stone includes the mourning lilies and poppies at the base and above the epitaph is a cherub, symbol of the flight of the soul and so often seen on the graves of children. There is also a small wreath, a symbol of sorrow and death. These two graves are in a plot surrounded by stone and covered with white marble tiles.

MURREY Sacred to the memory of Thomas Murrey Late of Galeshiels Railway Hotel

Scotland Who departed this life at Surveyours Creek 18th Febuary 1865

Aged 18 years

Upright stone slab; anthropomorphic shape.

This grave lies with in the Scott family area. The plot is surrounded by a milled iron fence, with cast filials, on a surround of stone.

One must assume Thomas Murrey was killed whilst living at Surveyor's Creek. John Scott was from Roxburgh, Scotland, settling at Surveyor's Creek in 1848. Galeshiels is also in Roxburgh, so there was probably a family association between the Murreys and Scotts.

Note the spelling Surveyours Creek.

NIVISON Sacred to the memory of Mary the beloved wife of Abraham Nivison

of Ohio, Walcha who died 14th Nov 1873 aged 61 years

Also of Abraham Nivison Died 25th April 1895 Aged 85 years

Alexander Adam Wightman Nivison Born 20th June 1850

Died 21st August 1922 Aged 72 years

William John Abraham Nivison Died 26th Aug 1937 Aged 84 years

also Sarah Anne wife of WJA Nivison March 1949 Aged 73 years

This large, impressive monument is made of stone and marble. The plot is covered with white gravel. Abraham Nivison was a J.P. and a man of importance in the area. His wife died on 14th November 1873 and her funeral was held on Sunday the 17th. It was attended by Ludwig Schrader who reported in his diary that "a great number followed her remains to their last resting place, the burial grounds on Bell's estate. I returned home after dark very weary. The procession having moved very slowly and over a dusty road for 4 miles. Mr Nivison whom I had not seen for a very long time looked under the circumstances quite as well as could be expected."

QUINN In memory of John Quinn Native Missionary

Died 27 Sep 1950 while serving his own people

Aged 36 years Gift of God is eternal life.

A simple white marble plaque for the epitaph. Where was John Quinn when he died? Who were 'his own people'?

ROBSON In loving memory of Elizabeth Fannie Robson who departed this life

on 7th Nov 1906 aged 25 years

A dear daughter and sister

Peaceful be thy silent slumber Peaceful in thy grave so low

Thou no more will join our number Thou no more our song will know

Yet again we hope to meet thee When the day of life is fled

And in heaven with joy to greet thee Where no farewell tears are shed

Callcott, Tamworth.

The white marble stone of anthropomorphic design has some carefully carved symbols including a thistle and shamrock to show her origins, and the anchor of hope with the chain, surrounded by the poppies to show sleep

RODEY In loving memory of Frank Rodey who died 26th April 1910 Aged 19 years

Oh loved one dear we miss you here From the home you loved so well

We pray that God has found you rest With the angels of the blest.

White marble, anthropomorphic shape, no symbolic designs.

SAMUELS In loving memory of Morrie Samuels

died 21st July 1902 aged 9 years & 4 Months

Browne, Maitland

Here is another example of a memorial to a young child, this is an example of a Hebrew inscription. The stone is an anthropomorphic slab with a milled iron fence around and a metal stand like a music stand for further inscriptions and flowers. Morrie Samuels’ father was a tailor.

SCHRADER In loving remembrance of my dearly beloved husband Charles Schrader

died January 29th 1894 Aged 45 years

Farewell my dearly beloved husband farewell Adieu to thee Adieu

Until we'll meet again in heaven Farewell, farewell to you

Though you are gone and I am left To tread this vale alone

We'll hope to meet again in heaven With Christ before God's throne.

Browne, Singleton

This stone has been damaged and has been wired to a steel post behind. Concrete has attempted to hold it in place, with little success.

The verse, now difficult to read, indicates the sorely felt loss of a loved one.

The Armidale Express of 2 February 1894 reports the death of Mr Charles Schrader who died on Monday Morning and was buried on Tuesday afternoon in the Church of England Cemetery. Deceased was a boundary rider at Bergen-op-Zoom and his death was caused from suppressed measles. He also leaves a widow and two children. He was an old resident of Walcha and there was a large attendance at the funeral.

SCHRADER In loving memory of Fredrick Schrader Died 5th Feb 1924 Aged 72

At rest

Also Frances Hull Wife of the above Died 15th Aug 1929 Aged 77

A white marble scroll for the epitaph, mounted on stone, with a marble anthropomorphic shape to the top of the stone with a twig of foliage.

In loving memory of John Schrader Died 24th Sept 1928 Aged 84 years At rest

A very plain rectangle of white marble, almost a very simple version of the open book, mounted onto a stone headstone.

These two Schraders, Fredrick and John, along with William Schrader, were in the Walcha area in the 1870s. A study of the Conditional Purchase records located in the Walcha Court House reveal that they made a number of conditional purchases of land, for example on 1st July 1873 an area of 120 acres C.P. 3683 in the County of Vernon, Parish of Norton, District of Armidale (in the days before Walcha became a separate District). They also took out an Aureiferous lease on January 28th 1873, for 2 acres on the Homeward Bound Reef, Tia Run in 1873. (1873 Government Gazette of 1873

SCOTT Sacred to the memory of John Scott who died 7th February 1875

aged 39 years Also his daughter Margaret Euphemia who was accidently drowned at Surveyor's Creek 19th December 1871 aged 19 months

Hanson, Lewis and Co. Sydney

Sacred to the memory of James Scott late of Surveyor's Creek who died 11th March 1867 aged 61 years

Honoured and loved and full of days We laid thee in the silent earth

And here the humble stone we raise A tribute to a parents worth

Also his beloved wife Agnes Brydon who died at Surveyor's Creek

29th Dec 1885 in her 75th year

Faithful and true in all the relations of life

The two Scott headstones are Gothic shape in black diorite. Each is heavily designed with the tenacious ivy of hope and the poppy to symbolise sleep surrounding the epitaphs. They are of identical design from a monumental mason in Sydney.

The Scott family plot is surrounded by a fence made of milled iron with cast filials on a surround made from stone. There is a gate in and a large tree growing to shade the whole area. Within the plot is also the grave of Thomas Murrey, who died at 18 years.

SEATON In loving memory of Eliza Seaton ( nee Langford)

Who died 18th February 1906 At "Darjeeling" Walcha Aged 75

"A lady of many accounted beautiful, yet thus

Far will I boldly publish her - she bore a mind

That envy could not but call fair"

"The cloud capp'd towers, the gorgeous palaces

The solemn temples, the great globe itself

Yea all which it inherit, shall dissolve

We are such stuff

As dreams are made on and our little life

Is rounded with a sleep."

Shakespeare

Browne, Maitland

A white marble Gothic headstone with the ivy of hope and the poppy for sleep. One of the few verses where the author is acknowledged.

Grave adjacent to that of

William Fletcher of Langford 13 December 1926 Aged 72 years and my dear wife

Edith Fletcher nee Seaton of Langford died 20th Dec 1922 aged 58 years

Logan, Walcha

In loving memory of In loving memory of

Our dear mother our mother

Jessie Catherine Smith Jessie Catherine

Passed away 17th July 1910 (Cath) Burr nee Smith

Aged 25 years 25.6.1910 - 6.12.1989

Erected by her son and daughter

Adjacent headstones to the memory of a mother who died three weeks after giving birth to the daughter who bore her name. The daughter grew up to become a mother herself and lived to be 79 years old.

SPENCE In loving memory of David Spence Jnr Died April 22nd 1889

aged 20 years 8 months

Brother rest from sin and sorrow Death is o'er and life is won

On thy slumbers dawns no morrow Rest thine earthly race is run

This Gothic stone slab has been broken and is becoming difficult to read.

STEEL Sacred in memory of Annie Margaret died January 1896 aged 4 years

Also Elizabeth Alice died January 1896 aged 2 years

daughters of Robert and Ellen Steel

The Lord gave and the Lord hath taken away Blessed be the Lord

Browne, Singleton

The Divine Hand or Right Hand of God holds the scroll on which the epitaph is written on this anthropomorphic stone slab.

STIER In loving memory of Annie Catherine Stier of Cherry Bank

died 25th May 1914 aged 84 years also

John G Stier died 12 Nov 1914 aged 85 years He giveth his beloved sleep

This red marble column is topped by an urn, a traditional symbol of death. It is mounted on the three steps of faith, hope and charity. It is surrounded by a cast iron fence. The grave is covered with white gravel.

Anna Rabe and Johann Stier migrated from Germany about 1850 and may have come to the area with the Schraders. Johann worked for C.D Fenwicke on Europambela. Fenwicke gave him some land which he called Cherry Bank.

They had several children including Wilhelm Friedrick who was born in 1865.

STUDDY Thy will be done Sacred to the memory of Marmaduke Redmund Studdy

who died April 6th 1875 aged 2 years 10 months

Also of John Chapman Studdy who died April 7th 1875 aged 6 months

He shall gather the lambs with his arms and carry them in his bosom

Is.II.11

Browne, Maitland

TUFREY In loving memory of a dear mother and grandmother Norah Tufrey

Died Dec 19 1949 Aged 68 years

Headstone with white marble epitaph set onto a ledger made from a slab of concrete. Definitely not to be picked up!

UHRIC In loving memory of Elizabeth Catherine Uhric who departed this life

October 25th 1885 aged 3 months and 2 weeks

Catherine was our darling Pride of all the hearts at home

but the angels came and wispered Darling you must come

W Ambrey, Uralla

This simple Norman headstone is dedicated to another lost infant.

Note the leaves and the spelling of "wispered".

VAN DE-MEENE-KOYL In loving memory of our dear wife and mother

Antonia Van De-Meere-Koyl

Born 24-2-1913 Leiden Holland Passed away 11th May 1954

She lived for those she loved and those she loved remember

Granite headstone slab set onto a stone base. A headstone indicating place of origin.

WATTS A tribute of love to Samuel R. Watts who left us on Anzac night 1923

aged 64 years "The night cometh"

A Logan, Walcha

This white marble pedestal is topped by an urn, symbol of mourning. Above the epitaph there are lilies. The metal plaque is to Mary Jane Watts The surround is stone.

WATERSON This is a tiny metal plaque squeezed between two stones with names which were not Waterson!

In loving memory of Arthur J Waterson Died 3rd April 1926

WAUCH In memory of Constance dearly beloved wife of Arthur Wauch

who died at Branga Park 12th June 1931 Thy will be done also

Arthur Wauch passed away 10th January 1946 At rest

Plain black ledger with the epitaph etched into the surface, with no headstone.

WILLIAMS In loving memory of Alice Mary Williams Born Concord NSW

Died 26th September 1914 Aged 9 years 5 months

Suffer little children to come unto me

Browne, Maitland

This white marble, heart shaped headstone is a symbol of love for a lost child. There is a carving of the clinging ivy and possibly IHS set into the cleavage of the heart. The lead inlay lettering is falling out.

WILLIAMS John Williams of Monmouth, England Age 23 years

Who died near Walcha through loss of blood by accident to hand

Browne, Maitland.

This white marble Calvary cross is broken. There is no indication as to what caused the 'accident to hand', nor the year that it occurred.

WOODS This brick grave is In loving memory of our dear father

William J Woods died 16 Jan 1923 aged 95 years

Unfortunately the plasterwork is deteriorating, exposing the underlying brick.