Yass History

March 1921 marked Yass’ centenary and the following is an abbreviated account of the celebration in the town as reported in “The Yass Courier”, on the 3rd March 1921, p. 5:

“The Centenary.

“Yass Centenary celebrations began on Monday with uncertain weather conditions, rain falling at intervals. Cooma street was beautifully decorated from the bridge to Lead street, and the shops made special displays. The history of Yass is a long one, but the outstanding features are not those of the very early days, but of 30, 40, 50 and 60 years later. From 1850 right on until the early 70s the full stress of pioneering hardships was felt. It was then that the developmental work was being done, often under the most trying conditions. It was then that there were gold rushes, floods and droughts, perils from blacks and bushrangers; and withal the successes and joys that only the pioneers of the interior know… “Mayoral Reception - One of the first functions was the Mayoral reception at the Mechanics’ Institute. It was an auspicious event, and was attended by visitors and leading local citizens, who were met at the entrance by Mr and Mrs James Duffy (Mayor and Mayoress of Yass) and Mr A. J. Poignand (Town Clerk) and given a hearty welcome…

“Historical Museum - The temporary Museum of Yass relics is fortunate in being housed in Mr A. B. Trigge’s office, an ideal place for such a display. The Museum originated with an offer made by Miss Mary Yeo, the local historian, to lend her Hume and other relics. A sub-committee consisting of Mr. E. Howard, Mr Carruthers and Miss Yeo was appointed. To the latter has fallen most of the work of a curator. A surprising number of relics of all descriptions has been collected from all sources. Views of Yass in all stages of its development are shown, chief being the large painting by Grube lent by Rev. Father Leonard. There are many photos, etc., of Hamilton Hume, and books giving various aspects of the growth of Yass, notably Bennett’s book of 1834…

“The Procession. The event of Monday night was the big procession from the park down Cooma street. If was late in starting, but the spectacle made up for the patience exercised by the great crowd of people who lined the footpaths. The street decorations, mingled with the decorated vehicles and the gay colours of the fancy costumes, added to the effect, which was a pretty one. It was led by the mounted police, after whom came the band. The aboriginals, in full corroboree dress came. next, making a fine display…

“Monday Night - After the opening on Monday night the girls of Yass District School, under the direction of Mr E. Lewis, headmaster, Mrs Lewis, and Misses Ledger, Craig and McGregor gave pretty maypole dances. Mr Levenson’s side shows were well patronised particularly the captive aeroplane and Giggleville. A dance for the Digger’s Queen was held in the Oddfellows’ Hall. In the evening a beautiful fireworks display was given, and was highly appreciated.

“Mr. and Mrs- E. Howard’s At Home - A very enjoyable “At Home”, was held in the Mechanics’ Hall on Monday evening, when Mr E, Howard, President of the Centenary Celebrations, and Mrs Howard gave the visitors and ex-residents of Yass an opportunity of meeting old friends and residents of the town and district. Mrs Howard, who received the guests, wore a dress of black georgette and taffeta silk. The ball was beautifully decorated with palms, pot plants and gay coloured flowers, refreshments being arranged on the stage. Musical items were rendered during the evening by Mrs A. Crago and others. The Acting Premier, Mr Dooley, was present, and seemed to enjoy himself chatting to several of the guests….”

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