Fanfare as Sir Reginald Talbot lays foundation stones for two cottages

Bunting flapped, flags flew, and everyone dressed in their best glad rags to welcome the Governor of Victoria Sir Reginald Talbot at the ‘homes’ to lay two foundation stones.

It was not Sir Reginald’s first trip to the homes to lay foundation stones. In 1904, he and Lady Talbot arrived to a large gathering of spectators for the laying of stones outside four cottages. They were met at the entrance by Mr H Grice, Mr John Blyth and other Association members. At that time, there were 49 residents in the homes.

The Weekly Times reported on Saturday 18 June 1904, that “His Excellence expressed the great pleasure that he had derived from the visit, and a paid a high tribute to the forethought and consideration of those who were responsible for the creation of the institution.

“The founders were moved by a desire to provide for their fortunate comrades on life’s highway, and place them in homes where they could spend their declining days in ease and comfort, and free from any anxiety, as to the remainder of their days (hear hear).”

The cottages were erected and donated by Sir Joseph Kronheimer and Charles Franklin.

The association provided four cases of champagne, while ‘a large body of constables and three mounted troopers were supplied by the Chief Commissioner without charge.’
One Council member resigned over the extravagance.