Golden Jubilee of Queen VictoriaPrint Page

The fountain, which was previously sited in Russell Street, was erected by the women and girls of Bathurst in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee.

Victoria (24 May 1819 – 22 January 1901) was Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland from 20 June 1837 until her death. From 1 May 1876, she adopted the additional title of Empress of India. With a reign of 63 years, seven months and two days, Victoria was the longest -reigning British monarch and the longest-reigning queen regnant in world history until her great-great-granddaughter Queen Elizabeth II surpassed her on 9 September 2015.

Queen Victoria`s birthday, 24th May, used to be called `Empire Day`. There were special assemblies at school with songs praising the British Empire. Children were then given a half-day holiday. Up to the 1950s, Empire Day was celebrated in Australia with huge bonfires and fireworks.

BATHURST. Thursday. The ceremony of handing over the Jubilee Fountain, by the ladies of Bathurst to the municipal council, took place today. The fountain, which consists of a pillar 15ft. high, surmounted by an ornamental lamp, and provided with a trough for horses and pans for dogs, is constructed of cast iron and bronze, and is erected in Russell-street, in front of the public buildings. There was a large attendance. A band was in attendance, and flags were suspended across the street. An address was read by the ex-Mayoress, Mrs. McHattie, on behalf of the committee, and she formally presented the fountain to the Mayor, Mr. E. T. Webb, as a gift to the citizens.

The Mayor made an appropriate reply, and Aldermen Halliday and Tremain also responded. Dr. Spencer moved a vote of thanks to the women and girls. Mr. W. H. Paul, J.P., seconded the motion, which was supported by Mr.W. G. Stephens, and carried. Mr. W. G. Thompson acknowledged the vote on behalf of the ladies. Mr. F. B. Sutter moved, and Dean Marriott seconded,-"That a vote of thanks be tendered to the committee and office-bearers." The motion was carried, and Dr. McHattie replied as hon. treasurer.
The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW), 30 November 1888.

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