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Forster's first cemetery upgradedLast modified: October 2, 2009 - 3:39 PM
The cemetery in Forster's Angel Close is not well known to many people but is an important historic site and has been improved to properly commemorate its place in Forster's past. Stage 1 of conservation works planned for the Angel Close Cemetery Reserve has recently been completed. Bunnings Warehouse Forster generously contributed towards the project with the provision of a respite seat and other materials, and Great Lakes Council applauded their efforts. Works carried out in this stage included the installation of a post and rail fence to define the perimeter and protect the area, the establishment of a gravel pathway, the inclusion of a respite seat and the installation of a bronze plaque acknowledging the historic significance of the reserve. Historic records cannot determine exactly when this cemetery was first established, but the oldest headstone found was that of Joseph Tolhurst who died in 1880. The burial ground was gazetted in 1893 for the 'preservation of graves' and was closed for use. It is therefore thought to be the first cemetery in Forster. At some stage a few of the headstones were transferred to the current Forster General Cemetery site and the Angel Close Cemetery was then rather neglected over the years. The actual number of burials in the Angel Close Heritage Cemetery is unknown, however there is evidence that there were at least seven burials, that of the Miles infant sisters Annie & Mary, Joseph and Ada Tolhurst, Captain John Penenton, Alfred Basham and Jane Middlemiss. These burials date from 1880 through to 1892. It is planned that Stage 2 of the proposed conservation works will consist of vegetation plantings, some of which will be endemic species. Other species used, will be in keeping with the existing vegetation in the reserve. Any weed species will be removed. Possible future works will be new signage, retrieval of the headstone of the late Alfred Basham from the Great Lakes Historic Museum and preservation work to Captain John Penenton's grave. Captain Penenton's grave is listed as exceptional heritage value in the 'Conservation Management Plan' held by Council. If any member of the community has any information relating to burials in this historic cemetery, please contact Council's Cemetery Officer on 6591 7240. Any assistance you can offer will be greatly appreciated. Contact details |
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