Historical information
After the first world war there was a decision made to create a memorial. Legatees were involved in the process at various times and capacities. In particular Legatee Kemsley was vocal in idea of a structure over a utilitarian memorial (such as a hospital or a park) - see letter at 01182.
Also that 25 sites were selected for consideration in 1921. Although the St Kilda Road site was favoured early on, by 1926 there was pressure to change to a "provision of square" and Cenotaph at the intersection of Spring and Bourke Streets.
'Melbourne Legacy decided to support and work for the Shrine of Remembrance as the National War Memorial.'
It is notable that the initial design 'incorporated certain features of the Mausoleum at Hellicarnasus, which is listed as on of the Seven Wonders of the World and, also, many of the refinements of the ancient Grecian architecture.'
This note describes how the ray of light shining on the Rock of Remembrance was 'something of an afterthought' as Philip Hudson (one of the architects) saw something similar on a trip abroad, in a chapel in France.
The final paragraph is significant 'All materials in the Shrine are of Australian origin. Indeed, with the exception of the marble in the Shrine floor which was quarried at Carloola in NSW, and the Hawksbury freestone in the bas relief panels, the remaining materials are all of Victorian origin.'
This account is written by a Legatee who was heavily involved in the building of the Shrine. It is presumed to be Legatee Kemsley but it is not certain (the handwriting might be a clue if more documents written by him are found). Also the date is not known.
Items were in an envelope with other photos and programmes from different items relating to the Shrine of Remembrance - including discussions on its location and design. Labelled 'Shrine of Remembrance S1 - S14' it was part of an old archive numbering system, that showed there has been efforts in the past to collect, order and save items of Legacy's history. (01181 - 01190, 01206 - 01211).
Significance
A record of the events that led to the construction of the Shrine of Remembrance as noted by a Legatee shortly after. There was an effort to record historical events for the "Archive Committee" which collected this an other documents relating to the Shrine together in a file (see items 01181 - 01190, 01206 - 01211)
Physical description
Four white foolscap pages of black type recording major events in the history of building the Shrine (starting from 1921). Plus several hand written notes which were the draft version, including notes on an envelope and on scrap paper of various sizes.
Inscriptions & markings
Handwritten 'S1 History Shrine' in red pen on top left of first page. Handwritten notes on scrap paper.
