NQ 100 years ago – vol 26 no 1
May 2026
1914 Commemoration Day 1926
The commemoration ceremonies of July 4th, were participated in by large gatherings, both at the Sergeants’ Monument and the National Memorial. The precision with which the programme was carried out and the order which prevailed amongst the gathering, particularly the younger generation, add not a little to the Solemnity of the occasion. The weather, was ideal, the Memorial showed the careful attention of the caretaker, and no untoward incident marred the proceedings. The grass around the base of the Sergeants’ Memorial was strewn with forget-me-nots and Flanders poppies. The Water Street entrance to the National Memorial was neatly draped in black and white, and a crowning touch was given by the numerous wreaths laid during the ceremony.
The singing by the choir under Professor Hutton of O God Our Help In Ages Past and the Recessional, the accompaniment of which were taken by the CIB Band, were very inspiring. The Salvation Army selections were very appropriate, while the Hallelujah Chorus was well rendered by the CCC Band. The latter wore white trousers and looked neat in their new uniforms.