Extract from the "Kiama Independent" of March 12th, 1901 WELCOME TO RETURNED SOLDIERS (From a Correspondent) King Edward the Seventh's subjects are not more loyal in any part of his vast dominions, than those who dwell in that little corner of the earth in and around Gerringong. To say that the hearts of the people were swelling with pride on Friday evening last gives a very faint idea of their true feelings. That enthusiasm and patriotism reigned supreme very mildly expresses those feelings. The hall of the School of Arts was packed to overflowing, sitting room was out of the question, such a gathering was never seen in the town in the memory of the oldest inhabitant. The occasion was a welcome back and presentation to Lieutenants E. Blow, W. Moffitt, H. Hindmarsh, and trooper Rankin, returned soldiers. The ladies of Gerringong and locality provided a most tempting repast. The best of everything, including fruit in abundance, with cheerful and kind attention to the wants of everyone. Noticeably may be mentioned the Misses Campbell, Hall, Keys, Deitz, Carroll, Sharpe, Johnston, Devery, Dooley, Miller, Hindmarsh and Mesdames T. Hindmarsh, Carroll and Dunster. In consequence of the number who partook of refreshments, it was nearly ten before the meeting began. Mr. Alex. Campbell, M.P. in the chair. Mr. Campbell expressed the very great pleasure he felt on occupying the chair at so large and representative a gathering of the people of Gerringong and locality. It proved more forcibly than words could do the sympathy with, and the pride in our Australian soldiers by the people in this portion of the district, and it must indeed be gratifying to Lieutenants Blow and Moffitt, and Trooper Rankin to receive this kindly and heartfelt welcome from the people of Gerringong. Mr. Campbell, on behalf of the residents of Gerringong and locality, then presented Lieutenants Blow and Moffitt with a handsome gold medal, suitably inscribed, and Trooper Rankin with a dressing case. Mr. Hindmarsh, sen., received on behalf of Lieut. Hindmarsh, a pair of handsome gold sleeve links. Each of the recipients thanked the donors for their beautiful gifts. Lieutenant Blow referred in glowing terms to his comrades Lieutenant Moffit and Sergeant-Major Dooley. He also passed a high eulogism on their Captain, now Major Cox. The Rev. T. Moore, in a very happy and humorous speech, described the formation of that celebrated regiment, the Gordon Highlanders. He did not think our Australian soldiers required the incentive of kissing to make them fight for their King and country, and while heartily joining in the welcome to those returned from the war, he sincerely hoped Divine Providence would watch over those returning to the war, and bring them back in safety to their homes. Mr. Robert Miller, J.P., said he would not detain them, only to express the pleasure he felt at being with them that evening and taking part in the cordial welcome extended to our returned Australian soldiers. He thought we should be very thankful that no calamity so far had overtaken any of the soldiers from this part of the district. Mr. Miller concluded by reciting, with much pathos, that pretty little poem "The Soldier's Dream". Mr. John James, J.P., expressed the pleasure he felt at being present and paid a high tribute of praise to the Australian soldiers, and especially to those of this part of the district. He was sure they would always be to the front and uphold the honour of their country. He had much pleasure in joining in this cordial welcome to their soldiers, and congratulated them sincerely on their safe return. Songs were rendered during the evening by the Misses Johnston, Farrell, Phillips, Kelly, and Mrs. D. F. Bailey. Apologies expressing regret at not being able to be present were received from Major Stanley, Messrs A. Blow, R. Wilson (Mayor), H. Hindmarsh and H. C. Foreman. Mr. Phillip Deitz made an efficient and obliging secretary to the movement. At the conclusion of the meeting, after a vote of thanks to the chairman, God Save the King was sung. Cheers were given for the returned soldiers. The hall was cleared and swept, and when your correspondent left about 2 a.m., everybody was enjoying the dancing to the strains of piano and two violins, by a trio of very clever musicians, who were quite a treat to listen to. John Graham johngrah@ozemail.com.au GENEALOGY FROM GERRINGONG http://www.ozemail.com.au/~johngrah/