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ST ANDREWS CHURCH AND ST JOSEPHS CONVENT
This material is taken from the book published at the time of 75th Anniversary of St. Joseph's School,
originally compiled and edited by Ian Blyton - Transcribed by Pattrick Mould 2002

Today as we gather around our "Old School", and renew old memories of years past, joyful and at times "painful", we cannot help but be aware of the debt which the Catholic community of Nimmitabel owes to the many Sisters from the Order of St. Joseph who have served here as teachers since 1902. The Order of St. Joseph was founded by Mother Mary McKillop who had close family ties with the local McDonald's.

This publication produced to mark the occasion of the 75th Anniversary of St. Joseph's School, attempts to take you along the path which our ancestors have trodden from early times to 1982.

Records show that some of the needs of the early days were met by Fr. Micheal Kavanagh, who was described as a "roving priest". His mode of transport was by horseback.

It has been a popular belief that St Andrew's Church was built in 1856.

The following extract is from the Sydney Morning Herald. QUOTE - 27th July 1863 - "The Foundation stone of a new R.C. Church at Nimitybelle was laid by Rev. P. Newman, Pastor of Cooma on the 14th inst. There was a very large attendance at the ceremony. The style of Architecture is Gothic, and the edifice is considered a pleasing addition to this rising township."

Does this answer our question or was there something before in the line of Church property?

The following suggests there may have been.

QUOTE - Nimmitabel Public School Record - "There were 44 children on the roll at the end of that year. The teachers were Mr J. Darragh, and his assistant Miss Darragh, presumably his daughter.

It was stated in the report of the denominational school board for 1863, that there was a school building and a masters residence in good repair. Despite considerable enrollment the school was disbanded in 1867."

In 1910, Most Rev. Dr. Kelly, Coadjutor Archbishop of Sydney, while in the area, expressed a desire that Fr. J. Moore should compile a record of the fast vanishing traditions concerning things ecclesiastical in the district.

QUOTE - William Hayes - 27th October 1912 - "Archbishop Polding visited the district in 1866. The Church was then completed, and the Archbishop dedicated it. He was accompanied by Fr. Colleti, an Italian, and the late Dean Slattery. The foundation stone of the Church at Nimitybelle was laid by the Rev. Fr. Newman, assisted by Fr. Kavanagh, on or about 14th April, 1863, the late John Geldmacher being the contractor. The masons who built it were Beileiter, father and son from Bombala."

QUOTE - Mr Christopher Geraghty - "Amongst those who have memories of early days of Nimitybelle is Mr Christopher Geraghty (a Westneath man). He confirms much of the history narrated above and tells how, when a lad he once met a Fr. Birch, who was coming on his visit from Cooma, and had got bushed. Geraghty had inadvertantly misdirected him and the poor priest got into great difficulties. He was riding on horseback. After a while Geraghty met the priest returning on his track, with his uncle Thomas Geraghty mounted behind acting as guide. Doubtless there were some scathing remarks about stupidity, which causes Chrissv to laugh even now."

Due to there not being any means of education in the town, in December 1867, an application was made to the council of education which administered education between 1867 and 1880 for a Public School to be established here.

Some of the signatures of this application had second thoughts, due to the number of Catholics in the area, withdrew their support and had Fr. Kavanagh apply for a denominational school. This application was rejected because the public schools act at that time stated "a denominational school could be established only in a locality where a public school was already established, and not within two miles of such a school unless the attendance of pupils at both schools exceeded 120. "

By 1869 a provisional school had been established by Dean White, and was in the hands of Mr. J. Whyte. There were 29 children, and the Council of Education decided to pay him 48 pounds per annum. The school prospered and in 1870 Fr. Patrick Birch submitted the names of four men to help form a school board.

QUOTE - Nimmitabel Public School Records - Mr Inspector McIntyre: "1871. This school is held in the Roman Catholic Chapel, which is a substantial stone building, but as there is no fireplace it is very cold for the pupils during the winter. There are no closets, nor fencing, but the supply of furniture, apparatus and books is nearly sufficient. The cleanliness, order and attention require much improvement, and attainments of pupils are small. "

In 1873 Mrs. Catherine Hogan was appointed to the school in May. She was to be deemed an unsatisfactory teacher, and Fr. Carroll of Bombala wrote to the School Council saying "I have no desire to retain her one moment if the Council disapproves of her. On the contrary, I shall feet obliged if you will have the goodness to select and send us an approved teacher as soon as may be. "

The subsequent teacher was to be in 1874, a Miss McMahon. Her only qualifications were "I like teaching", and two months in the latter part of 1873 of training.

The report of Inspector Maynard of 1875 stated there had been a great improvement. For the first time for many years this school has been admirably governed. The discipline is good, but those of the pupils, who have hither been spoiled by indulgence, do not take kindly to obedient and industrious habits. 1880 - The building being used was rented from the Rev. T.W. Keating; evidently the parish priest of Bombala. "

So in the "early years" of Nimmitabel our Catholic Priests were actively working for the betterment of education in our district.

The St. Joseph order of Nuns began their association with Nimmitabel on the 8th May, 1902 when a Convent was opened. The classes were conducted in the Church building.

QUOTE - St. Joseph's Archives - "The little township of Nimmitabel is situated high on the Monaro Plateau in the Southern Alps, rather a bleak, craggy place for a settlement. The township has changed little over the years. Today most of the people there are engaged in the sheep and cattle industries, just as the pioneers were also engaged.

A few crops are, and were cultivated, but mainly fodder crops for the feeding of stock during icy barren winter months, or during the time of drought. The Parish Priest of Cooma cared for the spiritual needs of the people of Nimmitabel and Bombala, though later Bombala became a Parish centre. Even before this the spiritual needs of the people of this part of NSW were provided for by the priest of Queanbeyan, Fr. Michael Kavanagh.

A move was made in 1901 to have a Convent built. Most likely because of Mother Mary McKillop's family ties, it brought the St. Joseph nuns here.

QUOTE - The Catholic population around the little town grew rapidly, and by 1901 tenders were being called for the erection of a Convent, to be occupied by the Sisters of St. Joseph, who would provide a Catholic education for the children. The lowest tender was that of McArthur of Cooma for 450 pounds. He got the contract and work began at once. The Sisters moved into the Convent on May 8, 1902. There were approximately 90 children enrolled at the school. Some of the teachers who pioneered Nimmitabel were Sisters Colman, Gabriel, Wolston, Augusta, De Pazzi, Placid, Edna and Cordula. An interesting extract from a letter written to Sr. La Merci, dated 7th June, 1902 states: "We haven't the Blessed Sacrament yet, workmen in the town are making an altar for the oratory, Fr. Norris got them to do it."

A student between 1903-1907 was Maude (Ciss) Crawford, -1982. (Nee Taylor). When she attended St. Joseph's, school was taught in the Church. She remembers arranging the furniture on Mondays for school during the week. On Fridays it had to be re-arranged for Sunday Mass when scheduled.

During these years she boarded with her grandparents, who had moved to live in town. On one occasion, about that time Mother Mary McKillop came and stayed three days with her grandparents. On leaving Nimmitabel, Mother Mary travelled to Melbourne in a coach, hauled by a team of four horses. The interior had two bench seats facing each other, and it was driven by Mother Mary's brother.

The people of Nimmitabel constantly urged the Archbishop to make Nimmitabel the centre parish, and in his letter dated 18th July 1907 from St. Mary's Cathedral, Sydney came as a mixed surprise to the Pastor of Bombala, Fr. Moore,

QUOTE - "I have forwarded the names to the Under Secretary of Lands for the Catholic portion of the cemetery, I hope after some weeks to erect the new Parish of Nimmitabel. I suppose the present Convent would have to be used as a Presbytery. Could a convenient site be got for the Convent and School? Yours faithfully, Patrick Cardinal Moran, Archbishop of Sydney".

After some correspondence the Cardinal settled matters as follows -- "A new school was to be built, so that the Church where the school had been taught could be repaired after the wear and tear of the constant presence of children, who at this time were 120 in number. By October 1907 things were ready for the laying of the memorial stone, and as the Coadjutor Archbishop of Sydney, Most Rev. Dr. Michael Kelly was passing through to Bega to conduct a similar ceremony at Bemboka, he was asked and he consented to perform the ceremony at Nimmitabel."

In the early years of the Convent and school, provision was made to board students who lived a distance from Nimmitabel. Five of the first known boarders were Isabel Driscoll (Buckley), Mina Clarke (Rolfe), Dorothv and Phyllis Chapman and Dorothy Keane (a teacher at the Public school).

Compiled from an interview with Dorothy Keane (now Mrs. Eltherington 1982). In about 1912 Dorothy Keane was appointed assistant teacher at the Nimmitabel Public school. The train trip from Cooma was very slow as the guard had to walk along the train line at times, hunting the sheep which kept straying into the path of the train. On reaching the Nimmitabel station she wasn't met so made her way to the school to find that due to the death of the teacher's mother-in-law, she couldn't stay there. She proceeded to the hotel where the unfortunate death of the son of the widowed inn keeper didn't allow her to stay there either. Dorothy then inquired at the convent where she was accepted by Sister Gabriel for 1 pound per week

At the time there was no front verandah on the Convent. There was one room for music, one for the boarders, one for the four Sisters, the kitchen and Chapel, and the refectory was a room at the back. The small room near the Chapel was occupied by the two small Hore boys from Delegate. Dorothy did some tutoring in shorthand, and supervised some music at the Convent school. The cold climate didn't agree with her health so she only stayed for one and a half years. When she told the doctor where she lived, "Nimmitabel", he told her for the sake of her health to get out of that "hole of a place". She said that when Fr. McCormack took over from Fr. Moore, he arrived in a new car which wasn't strong enough to proceed to Bombala

It was common practice to have a concert in the School of Arts each year. These were written up in great detail in the newspaper "Nimitybelle News". They are too detailed to write up completely in this publication, but the following people were in the undated report under the title, "Convent Concert" another big success. Misses Ida Morton, Isabel Driscoll, Master Hore, Master Bertie Breen, Miss M. Driscoll, Master Fred Thornton, Master W. Hore, Miss Phyllis Chapman, Miss J. O'Reilly, Master Atwell, Master R. Ahkin, F. Driscoll, Miss Mona O'Reilly.

After the concert Rev. Fr. McCormack made mention of the high number of marks received by the pupils at the last music exams. The report of the second concert, 1913, with a record reserved seating, numbering 130.

Participants were Miss F. Sheehy, Master George Sims, Master W. Hore and F. Silk Master E. Breen, Misses Ida Morton, and Greta Thornton, Miss Mary Sims, Miss D. Chapman, Miss B. Wren, Miss Lucy Sims, and T.

Driscoll, Master F. Hore, Misses E. and J. O'Reilly, M.P. and G. Thornton, Master Jack Thornton, Master Jack Ahkin, Master F. Driscoll and Miss Monnie Thornton.

Accompaniments during the evening were Misses C. O'Reilly and L. Sims. Recipients of the Jardine Gold Medal for girls and boys were Jane O'Reilly and Willie Hore. Those receiving class prizes were: 6th class - Monica Thornton, Jack Thornton. 5th class - Dorothy Chapman, Mary Sims, and Fred Driscoll. 4th class - Ida Morton, Reg. Ahkin. 3rd class - Isabel Driscoll, Percy McDonald. Lower 3rd grade - (1st George Sims, Doris Buckley. 2nd Willie Morton, Gladys Buckley). 2nd class - Doreen Wellsmore. Lower 2nd class Ethel Buckley, Frank and Charlie Hore. 1st class - Reggie Morton, Rupert McDonald. First prize winners were awarded money prizes.

The following Saturday night a Juvenile Ball was held with door takings of five pounds and ten shillings. At this time St. Joseph's school advertised in the Nimitybelle News to acquire students, "The course of Instruction includes religion and all subjects necessary for the various musical practical and theoretical examinations - Piano, Plain and fancy work is also taught."

November 25, 1914, saw another concert at the School of Arts. The program was described as a lengthy one, containing some splendid items. Participants were Miss Ida Morton, and F. Sheehy, Fred Thornton, Miss E. Wellsmore, Bourke, Deegan, and Ahkin, O'Reilly, P. Chapman, Master G. Sims, Miss M. Fagan, G. Peters, R. Manning, Reg. Ahkin, J. Ahkin, C. Horton, C. Hore, W. Morton, C. Buckley, J. James, J. Rankin, W. Attwill, Miss Buckley and G. Buckley.

At the conclusion of the Concert, Mr. Jardine thanked those present. Due to the absence of Fr. McCormack, he had been asked to convey the Sisters thanks. Mr. Jardine then distributed to the candidates, the certificates won at the last examination held by the board of the London College of Music.

Diplomas - Ida Morton 82, 1st class pass Dorothy Bourke 87, Phillis Chapman p.p. 92, Datie Manning 90, Charlie Hore 92, Eileen Wellsmore 89, Doreen Wellsmore 91, B. Peters 95, Phillis Chapman (V.P.) 81, Ivy Mabel Roddan 77, Honors Isabel Driscoll (P. Sen) 86, Willie Hore 87, Isabel Driscoll N. Elem) 87. Those to receive class prizes were: 6th Florrie Sheehy, J. Ahkin, E. Breen, R. Ahkin. 5th Mabel Fagan, B. Breen, M. Peters, 0. Brotherton. 4th Thelma Clarke, Doris Buckley, Phillis Chapman, Mona O'Reilly, Jack Rankin, Doris Freebody, Cissie Thornton, Eileen Wellsmore, Carl Buckley, W. Morton, George Sims. 3rd Mary Peters, Alice Keegan, Dave Peters, Eugene Buckley, Mary Ahkin, W. Atwell, J. James, Dorothy Burke, Doreen Wellsmore. 2nd Marion Buckley, D. Callaghan, T. Gait. 1st Eileen Moore, Katie Thornton, Leo Bell, Charlie Roach.

This stone was blessed and laid by The Very Rev. J.J. Norris, P. P. V. F., Cooma. Rosary Sunday, October 6, 1917. Rev. J.A. Roche (Priest-in-charge). Gloria in Excelsis Dec.

April 7, 1918 saw a large gathering at St. Andrew's Church as the following extract from Cooma Express April 8, 1918 states - "Yesterday may be justly termed a "Red-letter" Day for the Catholics of Nimmitabel. The old historic church of St. Andrew's was built over 60 years ago, and is a structure of rough stone with a shingle roof. For want of repair in past years the old Church fell into a dilapidated condition. Soon after the Rev. John A. Roche assumed charge of the Bombala Parish twelve months ago he started a movement for the completion of the Church. A contract for 850 pounds was let and successfully carried out by Mr. Mawson, of Cooma. For this sum a new sanctuary and sacristy have been added to the Church, the shingle roof supplemented by iron, and the whole interior and exterior of the building renovated. Not content with this, the Rev. Fr. Roche (whose genial disposition and pleasing manner has won for him the esteem and admiration not only of the Catholics, but also of non-catholics in his parish) made another appeal two months ago to have the interior of the Church newly furnished in memory of the dead, and this appeal met with general response, for articles to the value of 200 pounds have been handed in."

Yesterday great enthusiasm was manifested at Nimmitabel, for the ceremony of blessing and additions. High Mass was sung at 11 o'clock by the Rev. Fr. Roche (the first High Mass in Nimmitabel), and a full choir, engaged for the occasion, with full orchestral accompaniment. Motor cars brought visitors from Delegate, Cathcart, Bombala and Cooma, and St. Andrew's Church with its new additions was found to be far too small to accommodate the large congregation of Catholics present. At the end of High Mass Father Roche delivered an eloquent and instructive discourse on the CHURCH AND EDUCATION."

During the years the Sisters have served this community, there have been times when their service through their vocation has shone out like a beacon. One of these times was brought to notice in a letter from Monsignor John Kelly.

QUOTE - "The most wonderful thing the Sisters ever did was to take us children, and other children, I believe, and care for us at the Convent when my father had the post-war plague in 1919. Dave McDonald had it at the same time, and both recovered. I buried Dave, and my father lived until 1945, my mother until 1964."

By 1922 room for boarders had become quite cramped due to heavy demand, so it was decided to extend the Convent by adding a large dormitory.

Extract - The Freeman's Journal July 6, 1922. "St. Joseph's Convent.

Dean Norris blesses and opens additions.

Extract by Fr. John Roche.

"On Sunday afternoon last a very large gathering of all denominations assembled in the grounds of St. Joseph's Convent, Nimmitabel, to witness the solemn blessing and opening of the new additions to the local Convent by the Very Rev. Dean Norris, P.P.V.F. Cooma. The Rev. John A. Roche, who is the first Australian native born priest to be in charge of the Bombala Parish, assisted the Dean. During Fr. Roche's past term of six years in charge of Bombala he has spent over 7,000 pounds in the erection and improvement of Church buildings throughout the Parish. The Convent at Nimmitabel needed more accommodation for boarders, and Fr. Roche, during the past two months, has had an extra large dormitory with two additional rooms added to the Convent, and Sunday last saw the blessing and opening of these additions by the Dean of Monaro.

After the ceremony of blessing, Fr. Roche, in welcoming the Dean, said that he felt proud of the good work of the nuns in the school at Nimmitabel, for last year, in annual examinations of Catholic schools in both the dioceses of Goulburn and Wagga Wagga, the inspector had given the honor of first excellent school in the two dioceses to the Sisters of St. Joseph, Nimmitabel. This school had won the great honour and he hoped was going to retain it for years to come. Fr. Roche then congratulated the residents of Nimmitabel for their grand spirit of unity, and the Protestants as well as the Catholics for their loyalty to the Convent".

Father John Roche while he was administering our part of the Parish made himself well known. Quite often his sermons made headlines in the Nimitybelle News, Freemans Journal, Sydney Sun, Sydney Fair Play, Bombala Times, Delegate Argus, Queanbeyan Age, and Cooma Express, also letters to the Melbourne Tribune.

The subjects included were The Orange Lodge, His disagreement with the Anglican Bishop Radford over raffles. The Divorce Mills of Sydney and why Catholics attend Mass in such large numbers. He also had poems printed in Freemans Journal. Father's mode of transport was to catch a train up from Bombala on Saturday afternoon, stop over and say Mass and then return by train. Needless to say Mass wasn't held as often as it is now.

Known Roll Call for boarders and staff.

Staff - Sr. Hilary, Sr. Ignatius, Sr. Finbar, Sr. Berturnis.

Boarders - Flora Haylock, Mary Cotter, Audrey Witts, Ina Helmers, Kathleen Agnew, Jean Agnew, Tilly Warren, Kathleen Thurston, - Thurston, Blanche Parkes, May Madden, Tont Burke, Eva Murphy, Veronica Gaunson, Norma Brooks, Annie Burke, Daphne Burke, Eilene and Kathleen Warwick.

For many years the only income the Convent had was a school fee of two shillings, together with a fee for boarding. To supplement this meagre income the Sisters had to rely on an annual effort during November, and periodic gifts of food like butter, milk, vegetables and meat, by those generous enough to give.

Sometimes things like a pound of butter were substituted for the school fees.

In 1941 there were four Sisters stationed in the Community. They were Sister Anastasia, who was music teacher, Sr. Everilda, Celestine, and Dorothy, who all taught at the school.

The following is an extract from a letter from one of those four Sisters.

QUOTE - "After passing the Sixth class examination, most pupils stayed for further study for Intermediate, State Bursary, Commercial subjects, or till they reached the school leaving age.

Others went onto boarding schools for their education. The priest-in-charge was resident in Bombala. Up to the early part of 1941, the parish was administered to by Fr. Keating. When he was transferred to another parish, Dean Griffin was appointed from Bribaree to Bombala. At Nimmitabel, Sunday Mass was only twice a month. On one weekend, Dean Griffin would arrive on Saturday afternoon for Confessions, and Mass would be celebrated at 8 am on Sunday. He then left for 10 o'clock or 10.30 Mass at Bombala.

On the third weekend he would come to Nimmitabel for the 10 o'clock Mass, stay for lunch and tea, conduct the Holy Hour with Rosary and Benediction, spend the night in the Priest's room, and celebrate a morning. Mass in the Convent, to which the parishioners were welcome to attend. Before he came to the parish, he was well known for his zeal and ability, especially in the formation of the Holy Name Society in the Diocese of Goulburn. He had a devotion to Our Lady and the Blessed Sacrament, and always had a Holy Hour with Rosary and Benediction once a month in Nimmitabel, when there was a late Mass Sunday.

The Priest's room was a small solid grey stone building beside the Church, more often than not it was referred to as "the Morgue" - as both outside and inside it had a very bleak appearance. It contained two rooms heated by a large open fireplace. For meals the Priest came over to the Convent.

Dean Griffin began almost immediately after his appointment, to renovate the Church buildings in each parish, beginning with the Bombala Church. A very memorable occasion for the Nimmitabel parishioners was the blessing and the opening of the new Bombala church by Bishop Maguire in 1941. The Dean arranged for a special train (steam, of course) to run from Cooma to Bombala on that Sunday to enable as many as possible to attend the ceremony. The carriages were the old box style - twelve passengers in each compartment, and a door on either side. In the compartment with the Sisters were some of the older folk, and they entertained us during the trip.

In 1941, the renovations and extensions to the Nimmitabel School were blessed. Previously there was no verandah - just two classrooms (which opened on to the playground) and a small annex in which K. 1, 2 were crammed. Each room had an open fireplace which on occasions gave as much smoke as warmth, when the wind changed. On the day Fr. O'Shea the Inspector of Catholic Schools called to examine the pupils, it was snowing, and the fires were smoking. He recommended that the pupils be dismissed for the day at 1 o'clock after they had eaten their lunch. The desks were simply the table style on iron supports, with a stool to seat four or five children. There were no shelves in the desks for books, so each child kept his books on the seat beside him. Most of the pupils walked to school except the Buckleys, who rode down from the Brown Mountain on horses.

Sales were conducted regularly at the saleyards next to the school. By Friday the cattle would have been yarded, and it was interesting to listen to the comments of the boys (especially the seniors) as they leaned over the school fence, and like experienced stockmen yarned about the quality and condition of the cattle.

Some of the family names at this period were - Buckley, McDonald, Pilley, Peters, Freebody, Clarke, James, Morrissey, Bales, Jardine, Achurch (station master), Madden, Ireland and Manning.

For some years there had been boarders, but as this was considered no longer necessary, no more were taken. In 1941, only one remained, Mel Agnew - from beyond Numeralla, because her parents requested that she stay till she had received First Holy Communion, she was about eight years old.

The parishioners were generous to the Sisters and supplied them with firewood, milk and vegetables. On one occasion the butcher remarked 'if you are running short of milk, just ring me. I've got a cow up there in the saleyards, waiting to be sold, I'll come over and milk her'.

The four Sisters had previously come from city Convents, but with true Josephite spirit and good cheer, which in its wake brings its own reward of happiness, adapted to lack of electricity and a town supply of water which meant fuel stove, log fires, flat irons, a spirit iron for Altar linen, and a kerosene heater in the chapel, and tank water. True, this was and remained a Mother Mary foundation.

Top Row left to-right - E. Burke, R Smith, K Doggett, B. Reed, L. James, L. Burke, B. Peters,

QUOTE - Sr. Raymond 1942 - 1947 - "I have the happiest memories of Nimmitabel. From the moment I stepped from the train, I felt at home.

Dean Griffin, that great priest of God, who had a heart of gold underneath a gruff exterior, and his dogs 'Mike and Rags'.

I remember too with admiration the prowess of the boys as they would wield their axes, splitting logs brought in on wood days to keep the Convent fires burning, and the nuns cosy and warm through the winter days and nights."

Other Sisters in the 40's - Sister Justin, Sister Fidelmia, Sr. Alphomsus, Sr. Doris Mary Nebauer, Sr. Lucy, and Sr. Michel Griffiths.


Back row - Bill Reed, Joseph McKee, Kerin Morrisey, Kevin Turner, Tim Buckley, Reg Roach, John Haigh, Lloyd Reed, Alex McDonald.
Second Row - Nola Buckley, Marjorie Clarke, Mary Markee, Kathleen James, Beryl Campbell, Valerie Bales, Lynette McDonald, Patty Peters, Esther James, Shirley Grimes.
Third Row - Moya Buckley, Rose McDonald, Ethel Burke, Elen James, Nancy Doggett, Naureen Turner, Gwen Rankin.
Front Row - Lucy McDonald, Tony Burke, John Adams, Bernie Buckley, Terry Buckley, Bill Clarke, Patty Burke.

Dean Griffin was Irish and quite a character. When he visited and stayed overnight he would park his car near the 'Morgue', next day he would run it down the hill through the church yard, and by the time he hit the main street it would be running smoothly.

He was replaced by Fr. Bartley, and later Fr. Bartley's assistant in 1951 was Fr. Lohan.

Fr. Bartley began to have a news sheet printed called the Parish Record, in it was general instruction and the doings of the Parish. Some things of note were - the conveying of a water tank from Bombala for the Convent by Laurie Thornton and his donation of 2 bags of cement. This tank was erected by Jack Burke and Myled Bastany.

Another item demonstrated the local community involvement in fund raising for the Convent effort each November.

Extracts - 1951. There's no place like Nimmitabel, every time there is an attempt to repair the snow torn guttering, another blizzard blows up. To add insult to injury, one of the latest tornadoes has cracked both school chimneys, which will have to be demolished by some strong men with ropes. It looks like stoves in the school from now on.

April. 1951. Mr Jack McDonald and his sister Mary, started something when they generously gave 200 pounds for a new organ.

June 1951. Nimmitabel blew some of its cheque recently on new rubber flooring for the Church.

December 1951. Thanks mainly to Mrs Pierce and her helpers income for the year was 59 pounds and 11 shillings. The auxiliary spent on repairs 2 pounds and 15 shillings, sporting 4 pounds 10 shillings, school sundries 10 pounds 7 shillings and picnic and prizes 10 pounds and 17 shillings. The Convent Ball had a profit of 107 pounds and 17 shillings.

Prizes were awarded at the concert were 3rd class 1st Janet Norton, 2nd Dawn Ward. 4th class 1st Rosalie Burke, -2nd Philip Buckley. 5th class 1st Allen Reed, 2nd Jean Clear. 6th class 1st Barry Reed, 2nd Anthony Williams. 1st year 1st Bill Peters, 2nd Nancy Buckley. 2nd year 1st Lucy McDonald. Mission cups Max Buckley, Trevor Pratt. Jardine cups Frances Silk, Robert Cummins, John Williams.

April 1951. Those three nice girls Rae Buckley, Frances Silk and Ann Clear are keeping Nimmity busy these days and nights. House parties, street stalls and juveniles. Crowning night April 30th. Winner - Ann Clear, 2nd Frances Silk, 3rd Rae Buckley.

June 1952. Soon we hope to spend some of Nimmitabel's hard earned 500 pounds. The Wonder heat stoves for the Convent school.

Sept. 1951. The plastering of the exterior of Nimmitabel Convent School is finished.

Dec. 1952. The late Joseph and Mrs McKee did not forget their parish church and have left 100 pounds towards some article in their memory. It has been decided to erect a stone wall fence around the church.

Jan. 1953 Nimmitabel. Here too most parents left it to others to look after the comforts of other children in the school.

Feb. 1953. For vocations Nimmitabel has set the pace. One of the most popular girls in these parts Rose McDonald has entered the Novitiate of St. Joseph. Loy Buckley has entered the Juniorate to receive her preparatory education, and Harold Owers has left for St. Patrick's Goulburn with a view of entering the seminary later. Nimmitabel Convent has been equipped with an up to date radio.

April 1953. At Nimmitabel, children's month is in full swing. The boys thought up and staged a real dinky di rodeo.

May 1954. Fr. Bartley will be absent from the parish while he has an operation.

June 1954. Fr. Downey received a typical Monaro welcome, 9 inches of snow March 1955. The envelope collection at Nimmitabel will be weekly from April. All donations will go to the school.

When a big pine was brought down at Nimmitabel Convent, its age was estimated at 69 years.

April 1955. Five quotes were received for the priest's new flat. The lowest of these was F. Mawson of Cooma which was accepted, it was 1, 876 pounds, which includes floor coverings and blinds etc. The weatherboard walls will be lined with insulwool and the price includes a front stone fence.

May 1955. Fr. Lohan transferred.

August 21. The new Presbytery was opened by Dean McKenna before a large gathering of parishioners. The carpenters were Terry Buckley, Athol Blyton, and Noel Anderson.

Notes from Sisters of St. Joseph Diary beginning 1954. This diary included items from day to day which were of importance. The following are extracts:

1954 Enrolments 73 Sisters Aelred, Delores and Anthony in attendance at the school.

Feb. 21 to 28 A Mission was conducted. Visit by Bishop Young,

Fr. Kelly examines the children.

April 30 Children's Ball. Fr. Keogh came to receive debs.

May 19 Heavy snow

Nov. 28 Children's concert

December 16 School picnic at Mushy Flat.

1955 Enrolments 77 Sisters Aelred, Delores and Jean Marie.

Feb. 2 Electric stove arrived.

March 8 Visit by Archbishop Eris O'Brien

March 17 St. Patrick's Day - children and Sisters assembled

in Church yard and recited the Rosary and Hymn to

St. Patrick

Sept. 29 First Holy Communion for 10 children

Nov. 6 Garden Party at Mushy Flat for Sister's appeal

1956 Enrolments 68 Sisters Aelred, Eleanor and Dominic

July 28 Two teams of basketball went to Cooma. Junior team won.

Nov. 26 Children went to Cooma to greet the Duke

1957 Enrolments 59 June 9, Mass at Bungarby Hall, first time Mass said for these people

July 10 No school, heavy snow. School being renovated. Hall finished on Monday.

Oct. 7 Centenary celebrations in Nimmitabel. Cantata sung at 10 am Mass, Fr. Byrne, Dean

McKenna, Fr. Bartley, Fr. Mark, Fr. Lohan. Dean McKenna spoke feelingly at work of early Priests and nuns who were warmed by the fire of love of God in these parts.

Parish picnic and BBQ in the afternoon at Mushy Flat Children danced the Maypole.

1958 Enrolments 65 Sisters Geraldine and Eleanor

Aug 11 and 12 School closes due to sickness

1959 Jan 31 Hot water tank installed

1960 Enrolments 82 Sisters Teresa and Rita

March 28 Mr Scarlett commenced painting the outside of the Convent

1961 Enrolments 92 Sisters Columba and Cyril

July 23 Fr. Monaghan newly ordained visited the school and offered Mass for the children

1962 Enrolments 92 Sisters Columba and Cyril

1963 Enrolments 70 Sisters Columba and Cyril

March 10 Mission

March 29 Children went to Cooma to see the Queen

20 Water supply from McLaughlin River, no more empty water tanks

1964 Enrolments 85 Sisters Columba and Cyril

Oct. 3 New Altar and Tabernacle installed by Sisters

1965 Enrolments 67 Sisters Fulgentius and John

1966 Enrolments 68 Sisters Teresa and John Father Kelly left the Bombala Parish and Fr. O'Brien came to take his place.

March 29 Mission

April 7 Septic tanks completed after many months of construction

May 7 Frank Ireland completed partitions for Sisters sleeping quarters, John Green painted them. Both offered their services free.

1967 Enrolments 77 Sisters Gregory and Sebastian

Feb. 3 New fence between school and Convent erected

Feb. 12 School painted

May 10 Men concreted the square in front of school.

1967 July 24 Fr. Philip Buckley formerly of Nimmitabel newly ordained offered Mass and was then given a public reception in the Hall

1968 Enrolments 73 Sisters Gregory and Sebastian

March 20 Church, school and front of convent painted.

1969 Enrolments 76 Sisters Gregory, Sebastian and Mrs Golby

Aug. 1 Fr. O'Connor is taking the place of Fr. O'Brien while he is holidaying in Ireland

Nov. 17 47 confirmed

Aug 15 Sisters wore their new habit

1970 Enrolments 77 Sisters Gregory and Sebastian, Motor Mission Sisters Casimir and Kieran

Feb. 8 Furniture from Jindabyne conveyed by Lloyd Reed (Lloyd booked for faulty muffler) and Chris Kelleher

Feb. 27 Garage built cost of $888.96

May 21 Oil heater installed in infant's room

Dec. 2 Visit to Sydney to see Pope Paul by bus

1971 Enrolments 78 Sisters Gregory, Sebastian, M.M. Barnabus and Casimir

Sept. 20 Walkathon from the TV Tower at Brown Mountain to raise funds for the school, a total of eleven miles

1972 Enrolments 75 to 80 Sisters Gregory, Petra, M. M. Sisters Kevin and Jacqueline

June 16 Church council first meeting, Sr. Gregory, Fr. Pierse 5 ladies and 10 men. Frank Ireland President, Mrs. J. Walsh Sec.

Nov. 27 First swimming lessons from school to be conducted

at the Cooma swimming pool

1973 Enrolments 78 Sisters Marcia Therese and Petra, M.M. Sisters Kevin and Columba

June 19 Spellathon raised $321

1974 Enrolments 71 Sisters Marcia Therese and Petra and Mary Patton

June 19 Adult Education meeting in the Convent

Sept 9 Christian living group meeting with Fr. Gannon

1975 Enrolments 62 Sisters Marcia Theresa and Petra, M.M. Sisters Kevin and Andrew

April 23 Church board meeting regarding the Oval

1976 Enrolments 57 Sisters Marcia Therese and Zita, Mrs Campbell, M. M. Sisters Mary Therese and Anne

May 31 New teacher Miss Norris took up position

Nov. 30 Sister Marcia Therese attended meeting in Canberra on disadvantaged schools

1977 Enrolments 53 Sisters Anne Martin, Zita, Mrs Barbara Howell, M.M. Sisters Kathleen

and Ann O'Connell

May 6 Nimmitabel became part of Cooma Parish

May 7 Dean Coffey P.P. of Cooma celebrated Mass in the Church and assured people of his keenness to help and welcomed them into his pastoral care

Oct. Fridays Rosary recited in homes in honour of Mary

1978 Enrolments 42 Sisters Anne, Patricia, M. M. Margaret and Kathleen

April 7 Bishop Doggett visited for the weekend

May 21 Death of Dean Coffey (23 years in Cooma)

Dec. 8 Carols by candlelight in Memorial Hall

1979 Enrolments 36 Sisters Anne and Patricia, M. M. Sisters Kathleen and Marie Ellen, Sally

Reed (assistant)

Feb. 24 Farewell to Fr. Murphy and welcome to Fr. Barry Cotter

1980 Enrolments 26 Sister Christopher and M.M. Sister Marie Ellen, Miss Julie Coleman and

Mrs Sally Reed

March 19 Centenary of Sisters of St. Joseph marked by Mass celebrated by Fr. Barry-Cotter recalling our history and thanking the Sisters for their work

May 19 Electric heaters installed by the P Et F costing $1,300.

Warren Power installed them

June20 P & F fashion parade for sewerage expenses

July 8 Parent teacher meeting despite heavy snow falling

Oct. 8 Work began on the sewerage

Nov. 2 Fr. Jackson celebrated three Masses in our chapel despite his paralysed side.

1981 Enrolments 22 Sisters Christopher, Julie Coleman, Sally Reed (assist), M.M. Sister

Marie Ellen

Feb. 22 Fr. Brown celebrated Mass and had car trouble

1982 Enrolments 21 Sisters Christopher, Julie Coleman, Sally Reed, M.M. Sister Marie Ellen

Feb. 14 Sister Christopher attended blessing and dedication of the new cemetery gates. Leaving us is Fr. Kirwan to be replaced by Fr. P. Smyth

At a meeting of the Parents and Friends held November 21, 1977, it was decided to have twelve pine trees from around the Convent felled. Due to their age they had become very dangerous to the children on windy days.

The contract was let to Mr Fred Stove at $75 per tree, and the job was carried out during the 1977 Christmas break.

Since the motor mission sisters have been stationed in Nimmitabel they have served the areas of Adaminaby, Berridale, Dalgety, Bombala, Delegate, Cooma and Jindabyne.

The students have always been blessed with a talent for music, both vocal and instrumental. Their talents have also stretched to composing their own songs.

OUR SCHOOL

by Linda and Sandra Rolfe

It's a school of laughter, A school of tears,
it's a school of hopes, And a school of fears

There's so much that we learn, That it's time we're aware it's a great St. Joseph's school.

It's a small school after all (repeat three times)

There's Sr. Christopher, Mrs Reed, Miss Coleman, Mrs Burke

Though the work is hard and the hours are long,

It's a great school after all.

It's a small school after all (repeat three times) It's a great, small school.

It has been customary for the pupils to entertain parents and friends with song and dance. They have joined in the Cooma Choral festival and acquitted themselves admirably. They have taken part in the Anzac day parade supplying the music with their recorder band occasionally.

Sister Christopher says -

QUOTE - "The children of Nimmitabel appreciate music and have a natural 'mountain clear' voice. The mountain air must affect them. They can sing unaccompanied in the Church when it is required, and they pick up tunes very easily. My hope for their future is that this talent will continue in the future, so that through it they may praise God."

A tribute must be paid to Mrs. Nancy Burke for her love of music, and generosity in being so readily available to play the piano each week for hours of practice, especially before concerts. Nancy began playing the organ for Mass in 1950-51. Since she returned to our community in 1964 she once again became our organist.

During the life of St. Joseph's Convent school a number of students have answered the call to Religious vocations.

EILEEN BRYANT educated at St. Joseph's entered the order of Daughters of the Sacred Heart, Kensington in 1919. This being a Missionary Order, her life has been spent working at Nauru.

ALICE O'NEILL completed her education at St. Joseph's, then entered the Order of The Sisters of Charity, Potts Point. After her profession in 1930 she spent the years teaching in Sydney, Melbourne and Hobart. In recent years, social work has taken up most of her time. Sister Leonard, as she is known, celebrated her Golden Jubilee in 1980; she is at present stationed in Hobart.

JOHN KELLY, now known as Monsignor Kelly was ordained in 1940, then attended Sydney Uni to study education from 1941-45. He was the Diocesan Inspector of Catholic schools from 1946-58, with study leave in U.S.A. in 1949. He was at Bombala then from 1958 until 1966, and after two years at Braidwood, he became Parish Priest of Garran, ACT in 1968.

ROSE McDONALD, was educated at St. Joseph's. From here she won a scholarship to attend boarding school at Braidwood. After two years working in Cooma, she entered the Order of St. Joseph's under the name of Sister Magdalene in February, 1953. Her work, teaching in schools has taken her to many parts of Sydney and country areas of NSW.

LOY BUCKLEY, finished her primary education at St. Joseph's. Her secondary schooling commenced at St. Joseph's Juniorate in Feb. 1953. Loy entered the Novitiate under the name of Sister Gabriel, and after her profession taught in Sydney and country schools until 1975, when she returned to lav life.

PHILIP BUCKLEY, completed his primary education at St. Joseph's. Philip attended St. Patrick's, Goulburn, after he won a Wests Secondary Scholarship. He went to the seminary at Springwood and Manly, and was ordained at St. Patrick's Church, Braddon in July, 1967. After serving in various parishes as assistant priest, and as Chaplain to Canberra and Woden Hospitals, he was appointed Parish Priest of Yass in May, 1981.

A major feature of fund raising over the years has been the Convent Ball, later to be named the Catholic Ball. They have been held almost from the establishment of the Convent.

These were held in the School of Arts, later called the Pioneers Memorial Hall. Preparations always were carried out by a large number of parishioners. A list would be drawn up of things required well before hand, and the ladies could count on them being donated. All the people in Nimmitabel whether they were Catholic or not, would be approached to fill that list. As a requirement was filled, it would be ticked off.

It is remembered that once Dean Griffin entered the Hall and saw that the streamers were a little out of line, so he made a fuss until they were taken down and replaced more in line.

The Convent Ball of 1916 had Mrs Sarah Ireland as secretary. Double tickets were two shillings with sixpence for an extra lady. Due to the war at that time there was a surplus of ladies.

The supper room was behind the stage. The only conveniences were an open fire with a fountain for hot water, and a round tub to wash up in. The floor had wide cracks, which claimed many a high heel from a shoe. Supper used to begin after 12 midnight, remember Friday abstinence.

Many a story is told of how the ladies spun out the food when the crowd was larger than expected.

Debs were usually the big attraction and most of the young ladies who lived at Nimmitabel can remember making their debut at the Convent ball.

Remembered by many also is the Juvenile held the following night often fancy dress. I hear people remembering these with a far away glint in their eyes, thinking of the left over sandwiches and the trifles from the previous night's ball.

The garden parties were organised in the same methodical manner. The only difference- was that those organised to collect items would, as well as Nimmitabel go to the business houses in Bega and Cooma. The Sisters were held in such high esteem that very few knockbacks would occur. When asked what they would like, the ladies would choose an iron, or cake dish, in fact anything which could be used in a raffle, on the old spinning wheel, or a stall like knockems or lucky dip.

Many of the local gardens were used, sometimes those owned by noncatholics.

Before St. Joseph's school was built, John Jardine Senior commenced giving an annual award, senior and junior to our pupils. The first awards were known as Jardine medals, but over the years have taken the form of books or cups. We say 'thank you' to the four generations of Jardines who have presented these awards. It Is an affiliation with our school which has been most appreciated.

In 1974, Fr. Peter Gannon organised the first of several Adult Education programmes. These held in the Presbytery proved very popular and the interest generated always ensured a good attendance. Fr. also encouraged the mid teen children to form a youth club. This lapsed when Fr. was transferred.

Fr. Murphy encouraged us to continue the adult education group while he was administering us from Cooma.

Easter 1982 saw the introduction of five weekly programmes designed by the Catholic Education office. It is planned for the parish to be engaged in one programme each school term.

The Lion's Club of Nimmitabel have been strong sponsors of our school. Since its formation, this club has presented citizenship prizes to senior and junior classes. Financial assistance has also been given each year towards school equipment, and the bus fares to swimming classes.


PARENTS AND FRIENDS

That band of wonderful, hard working people who have been the backbone of the school, have operated under several titles. They have been known as Ladies Auxiliary, Mothers Club and more recently Parents and Friends. Their names are many and their service long. It would not be fair to single anyone out in case someone is overlooked. So thank you all.

The most consistent sport in which the boys from St. Joseph's School have taken part has been Rugby League football.

Abby Payten became involved with the boys when he came to Nimmitabel in 1937. He trained teams firstly in competition with the Public school, and later combined sides of both schools in Cooma district competition. His association spans the years from 1937 to 1969, and often meeting with success.

In 1970 Bob Warren commenced coaching the combined schools sides playing in the Cooma competition, with the assistance of Ian Blyton. Ages were under 9, under 10 and under 11.

1971 saw the combined sides enter the Bombala competition and the forming of a School Boys Football Club, to spread the responsibility of organising and training the boys more evenly to more people.

Boys from St. Joseph's have been prominent in selected district sides.

Peter Payten went on to represent Australia in Rugby Union.

The girls played netball in Cooma until 1977, when a netball competition parallel to the schoolboys football at Bombala was organised. The need for a girls' competition surfaced when girls wanted to join the boys in football. It was Ian Blyton who began the move to commence the girls' competition. It has been a big success with Nimmitabel having strong teams most years.

The Sports Oval on land previously owned by St. Andrew's Church was formed in 1975-1976. This area used for many years as a 'rough' playground was purchased by the Monaro Shire Council, who received government grants to cover most of the formation costs. Although it is a town sports ground, the children of both schools have first call on its use.

At this point I must pay tribute to the principals and staff of both schools, who have co-operated so well with each other, over the combining of the children to make up numbers to form teams, and to the many men and women who have given up their time to assist the children.

Children enrolled at St. Joseph's Nimmitabel, Friday, October 1, 1982. 6th class -Bernard McDonald, Jason Green. 5th class - Cathy Hart, John Blyton, Greg Jackson, Craig Jackson. 4th class - Philip Rayner, Lisa Crowley, Ryan Henderson, Justin Smith. 3rd class - Simon McDonald, Clinton Henderson, Glenn Buckley. 2nd class -Elisha Rayner, Skye Henderson. Ist class - Chrissy Hart, Emma Dance, Renai Sims, Ross Blyton, Dean O'Reilly. Kinder - Brooke Smith.

First Communion Class 1982 - Elisha Rayner, Skye Henderson. Confirmation Class 1982 - Kathy Hart, John Blyton, Greg Jackson, Craig Jackson.

Teachers - Sister Christopher, Miss Julie Coleman, Mrs. Sally Reed (Assistant). Motor Mission - Sister Marie Ellen, Mr G. Moyes, Maths Tutor.

Parents and Friends Executive, as at October 1, 1982 - Isabel Rayner President, Pam Hart - Secretary, Rae Blyton - Treasurer, Mary Green Vice President.

Parish Priest - Fr. Kevin Barry-Cotter, Dean of the Monaro, Fr. Paul Smyth - assistant priest.

I believe we would all like to express our gratitude and love to the Sisters, this letter by Isabel says it all for us.

QUOTE - "As I begin to write and look back over my life I ponder over who in the community has helped shape my life and brought to me to who I am today. The Sisters of St. Joseph stand out very much in my mind, as from when I started school I have met many nuns, and I have found in them some of my greatest friends. This friendship I treasure, as in joy and sadness, I have always found them ready to help in any way possible, nothing was ever too much trouble.

Our family association goes back to my grandparents as Dad and Mum were both students, Mum being among the first boarders at the Convent. Their support and respect was always there, and my three brothers and I attended St. Joseph's. I'm sure Jerry and Isabel Buckley would be well remembered for their work around the school, and the esteem they held for the Sisters was very evident, but this goes further than family. As we have prepared for these celebrations, went through records, talked to many people in their nineties, to our present day pupils, all have spoke of the great affection and pride that being a student of St. Joseph's has had upon them.

From the time these celebrations were first mentioned, I have felt very strongly about the love and affection I have for the Sisters, and I have been driven by an enthusiasm and loyalty, that this day would show them the honour their presence in the community so richly deserves.

Barry and I feel very proud that ten of our eleven children have been taught by them, and as we have just been told our dear little school will close at Christmas, I am torn apart. I shed many a tear, and have sleepless nights because in those 75 years which St. Joseph's has stood on the hill it has become a landmark, and Nimmitabel will feel the loss very deeply. The closure of the school is a backward step for our community.

Today let us pay honour and love to these wonderful women, and let us all pray they carry on their wonderful work and bring God's love to many more people.

Ex-student and present day parent, Isabel Rayner.


ANNOUNCEMENT OF SCHOOL CLOSING

On Sunday night August 15, 1982, Dean Barry-Cotter broke the news to the parents of St. Joseph's Nimmitabel that the school was to cease operating at the end of the school year of 1982. Fr. Barry-Cotter's address to the parents

QUOTE - "Because of the falling school population and of staffing difficulties, I have decided that for the good of the children, St. Joseph's School should close at the end of 1982. I came to this decision after much prayer and discussion with teaching authorities as I will explain.

About this time last year, Sister Teresita, the Sister Provincial of the Sisters of St. Joseph, told me of her difficulties in finding staff for the Order's bigger schools. She informed me that Sister Christopher would be transferred at the end of 1982 and that it was unlikely that a Sister would be sent to replace her in the running of the Nimmitabel School. If a Sister could not be found as a companion for Sister Marie Ellen, the Convent at Nimmitabel would have to close and the Motor Mission located elsewhere.

Sister Christopher and I discussed the matter and we felt then that the school would be strong enough to continue with a lay teacher and a Sister to do part time in the school. I discussed this with Mr. Peter Moore, Director of the Catholic Education Office and he informed me that the Catholic Education Office would supply us with one lay teacher provided there were twenty children in the school. The Archbishop was informed of these discussions in September 1981.

At the beginning of the school year, 1982, the school looked strong enough to continue. Sister Teresita also indicated that all efforts were being made to keep the Nimmitabel Convent open at least as the headquarters of the Monaro Motor Mission with Sister Marie Ellen and a Sister companion. I was confident that we would have a lay teacher running the school with a Sister doing a bit of Religious Education and helping out here and there.

However, the school population did not remain stable, with two families leaving and it became increasingly more obvious that very few enrolments could be expected for 1983. I discussed the matter with Miss Coleman, who, I had hoped, would be interested in taking over the running of the school because she is an excellent teacher and knows and likes the children and is known and liked by both children and parents. However, Miss Coleman had planned to marry at the end of the year and was hoping for a transfer to another school, having served three years at Nimmitabel, which I believe was the most reasonable thing for her to do.

As the school population stands now and for next year, neither Sister Christopher nor I can see the school lasting beyond the end of 1983 anyway. With a new lay teacher running the school, even with a little help from a Sister, which is not definite anyway, it would take about 4 or 5 months for the children, the teacher and the parents to get used to a new system, and I feel that the life of the school would just drag on and no one would be really satisfied anyway. I see the school under these circumstances, just dragging on to a miserable death, and the children would waste a year of their education.

I therefore believe that for the good of the children, the school should close at the end of the school year 1982 while we all have happy memories of great days at St. Josephs. Our planned celebrations then, sadly take on the nature of a farewell to an era of Catholic Education in Nimmitabel."

The following is from Mr Ian Blyton who compiled and edited this brief history:

'That our school is closing leaves us filled with sadness. Let us not dwell on the feelings of loss, so much, but to thank God for the blessings He has bestowed on us during the 80 years in which the Sisters have worked in our midst.

Let us all pray regularly that those young people, who may be offered vocations to the Sisters, Brothers or Priesthood, receive the courage and support necessary to answer that calling. This is also surely a time when we must all realise that the lay person is being called on to accept a greater and more active role in carrying the Word of God to all people.'

Roman Catholic Churchyard

My earliest recollection of the Churchyard were the pine trees, which had been set about three years. They were about six feet high with trunks or stems about as thick or a little thicker than your arm.

The paling fence around the yard was in a bad state of repair, palings rotting and falling off, nails rotting and breaking and posts leaning at various angles. It was not long, however, before the old fence was demolished and a new one erected. This would be about 1909.

From; NIMITYBELLE, 70 YEARS OF MEMORIES by J W Evans. Transcribed by Pattrick Mould 2004, with permission from Peter Evans.