The History and Intriguing Facts about Cammeray Cemetery
Cammeray Cemetery, also known as St Thomas’ Rest Park, is a historical landmark nestled in the heart of North Sydney, Australia. Its history is as rich and diverse as the people who rest there.
A Historical Overview
The cemetery was established in 1845, thanks to a generous donation of four acres by Alexander Berry, a prominent landowner and merchant. Berry dedicated this land to the Anglican Parish of St Leonards as a final resting place for his beloved wife, Elizabeth. A Neoclassical pyramid, which stands as a central feature in the Rest Park, was erected in her honor.
The cemetery is also the final resting place of Edward Wollstonecraft and Alexander Berry himself, along with many other notable North Sydney residents, including descendants of William Blue.
In 1967, the cemetery was handed over to the North Sydney Council by an Act of Parliament, designating the area as ‘community land’. It was renamed St. Thomas’ Rest Park and reopened in 1974, marking North Sydney Council’s first heritage project aimed at preserving a historic site and providing public access to its history and heritage.
Interesting Facts
East-facing Gravestones: Many gravestones in the cemetery face east. This orientation is common in many graveyards around the world, symbolizing the dead facing the rising sun.
Epitaphs: Epitaphs are sayings or phrases inscribed on gravestones. In colonial times, epitaphs often served as warnings about the certainty of death. Over time, they evolved to convey hope, grief, and sometimes even humor.
Material Tells a Story: The type of stone used for a gravestone can reveal a lot about the deceased. Wealthy families often opted for marble and granite, while less affluent families chose headstones made from sandstone, lime, or even wood.
Symbolic Carvings: Carved motifs on gravestones carry meaning. For instance, lambs are often found on the gravestones of children, symbolizing innocence and purity.
Personal Stories
While there are many stories associated with the cemetery, one of the most notable is that of Alexander Berry and his wife, Elizabeth. Their love story is immortalized in the Neoclassical pyramid erected in Elizabeth’s honor, a testament to their enduring love.
Visiting Information
Cammeray Cemetery, now known as St. Thomas’ Rest Park, is open to the public. Visitors are encouraged to respect the peace and tranquility of the park, keeping in mind that it is a place of rest for many.
Conservation Efforts
The North Sydney Council has been actively involved in preserving the cemetery. Their efforts include maintaining the gravestones and the park’s greenery, ensuring that this historical site remains a peaceful place for both the living and the dead.
Cammeray Cemetery is not just a place of rest; it’s a historical treasure trove that offers a glimpse into the past. Each gravestone tells a story, making a visit to this cemetery a journey through time.
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Cammeray Cemetery – Photographed by Mike Fernandes
