General News
21 June, 2025
Local researcher unveils historical insights
Around 40 people from Jeparit and the district attended the centenary celebrations of the Jeparit Soldiers’ and Citizens’ Memorial Hall on Friday, June 6, to gain knowledge about its rich history.
Hindmarsh Shire Council organised the event, with the involvement of the hall committee, featuring a special presentation about the hall’s origins by local historian and researcher, Craige Proctor.
Three councillors attended the opening of the hall, including the mayor, Ron Ismay.
The Cr Ismay welcomed everyone and introduced Mr Proctor to the attendees.
“I felt fortunate that I’ve been given the opportunity to provide all these historical insights to the public,” Mr Proctor said.
“I am essentially a researcher, and I love telling people all these historical stories.”
Mr Proctor shared an overview of the hall’s origins, including the Old Mechanics’ Institute, which was located on the site of today’s Post Office and the change of site in 1922.
He also shared some insights about the construction of the hall, the community rally behind it, and the foundation stone that the former Minister of Trade and Customs laid.
The night revealed that the official opening of both the Soldiers’ Clubrooms and the Memorial Hall was held on May 27, 1925, with a grand concert along with the unveiling of the Honour Roll (120 names).
Before the opening, there was still a minor debt, and 48 locals raised their hands to pay the remaining debt, so the hall opened debt-free in 1925.
At the end of his presentation, Mr Proctor sheds light on what the multipurpose hall has been used for over the years, as well as the involvement of the Historical Society and Jeparit Leaders.
The organisers also opened the upper story of the hall to let people know what they are doing at the historical society.
“Everyone was quite taken aback by all the details,” Mr Proctor said.
“My job was to provide the background about what the community originally had and what we have now.”