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John Oxley Library

First World War reflections of Brisbane Open House

By JOL Admin | 11 October 2016

St Andrew's Anglican Church, South Brisbane, 1947. Collection State Library of Queensland. Neg No: 189987.

St Andrew's Anglican Church, South Brisbane, 1947. Collection State Library of Queensland. Neg No: 189987.

On visiting a number of buildings in last weekend's Open House, I could not help but notice how the First World War has been reflected in a couple of the buildings which were open to the public

The first one is St Andrew's Anglican Church in South Brisbane, built in stages 1878-83, 1887, and 1931-32. Inside the church is their honour board to the soldiers from the parish who served in the First World War and one of the stained glass windows depicts military scenes. This was able to be incorporated into the building when building work recommenced in the 1930s.

Honour Roll in St Andrew's Anglican Church South Brisbane. Image courtesy of Kevin Haley.

Honour Roll in St Andrew's Anglican Church South Brisbane. Image courtesy of Kevin Haley.

The second building visited was the United Service Club located at 183 Wickham Terrace, Spring Hill. Originally established for officers of the armed services, the club has many connections with military conflicts and the individuals who served. On entering the front door, the visitor to the building sights a series of honour boards commemorating these conflicts.

United Service Club, Wickham Terrace Brisbane during Open House October 2016. Image Source: Niles Elvery.

United Service Club, Wickham Terrace Brisbane during Open House October 2016. Image Source: Niles Elvery.

The main function room is named the Glasgow Room, remembering Sir William Glasgow or Major General Glasgow, the highest ranking Queenslander to serve in the First World War, and whose personal correspondence is held by the John Oxley Library. During the tour of the building, many artworks connecting to the First World War and other conflicts could be seen including a bust of Sir Donald Cameron who commanded the 5th Light Horse Brigade.

The rose garden at the front of the building is planted with 22 blood red roses representing the 22 members of the club who died during the First World War.

Plaque and rose in the WWI Commemorative Garden at the United Services Club. Image source: Niles Elvery.

Plaque and rose in the WWI Commemorative Garden at the United Services Club. Image source: Niles Elvery.

Niles Elvery, Regional Coordinator, Q ANZAC 100, State Library of Queensland

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