Diamond Jubilee of Queen VictoriaPrint Page

The monument, which was originally a drinking fountain commemorates the Diamond Jubilee of the reign of Queen Victoria in 1897. 

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.

A Gala Day was observed in Moama yesterday. Immediately after the Echuca Town Hall fountain had been unveiled the Mayor and councillors, together with many other residents, drove over to Moama, when the Mayor of Moama (Ald. W. J. Martin) performed the ceremony of unveiling the drinking fountain erected as a memorial to the Queen, in honor of the Diamond Jubilee. There was large crowd of spectators present, and the Federal Band was present. The school children of the town and localities surrounding, under the direction of Mr Waters, assisted, of course, by Mr O. L. Blair, were present in large numbers, and they marched to the scene of the ceremony.

The Mayor of Moama, who was very heartily received, said that the council had erected the drinking fountain in honor of the Diamond Jubilee Commemorations. He referred in terms of pleasure to the beautiful Queen's weather, and, after referring in earnest terms to the splendid reign of the Queen and the vast amount of good she had accomplished he unveiled the fountain amidst cheers. The band struck up " God Save the Queen" and the children and assemblage generally joined heartily in. The band played " Rule Britannia." 
Riverine Herald (Echuca, Vic. : Moama, NSW), 23 June 1897.

Location

Details

Dedication