Kempsey’s Family History Group has launched its new book, Fallen Brothers of the Macleay 1914-1918 as part of Kempsey Shire Council celebrations for the NSW Seniors Festival.
Council said it was proud to support the publication that “lets the community come together to celebrate the history and culture of the Macleay”.
The book tells the stories of the families associated with the Macleay who lost two or more sons during World War I.
The book launch was well attended by relatives of the soldiers included in the book, along with members of the Kempsey Family History Group, and Kempsey Shire Mayor Liz Campbell.
The book has been a labour of love for local residents and volunteer historians, Debbie Reynolds and Jocelyn Bakewell.
“Thank you and congratulations to Kempsey Family History Group, it is so important that history books like this get made. You have produced an extraordinary book,” said Mayor Campbell.
“We need to remember the contribution of the families from this area. We know these lives will be remembered,” she said.
“History is something that makes our future better.”
The book was made possible by a Community Grant from Kempsey Shire Council and a separate grant from the Kempsey Macleay RSL Club.
Copies of the book can be purchased from the Kempsey Family History Group Meeting Room at the Kempsey Railway Station any Tuesday or Thursday between 10am and 2pm or on Saturday mornings.
The books cost $20 each and can also be posted out to locals. Contact the Kempsey Family History Group at kempseyfhg@hotmail.com for more information.
With Anzac Day around the corner, Mayor Campbell said the book was a fitting tribute to remember the supreme sacrifice that was given by servicemen and their families who were left behind.
