By Belinda Nolan
Members of the St Albans Historical Society raised more than $1000 in a bid to pay tribute to Alice Errington, a well-known St Albans benefactress.
The much-loved historical figure played an active role in the St Albans community, donating Errington Reserve to its residents in 1910.
But despite her popularity, Mrs Errington died in obscurity, languishing in an unmarked grave in Footscray Cemetery, following her death in 1931.
After stumbling upon her grave, local historian Tom Rigg decided to take action, mounting a campaign to erect a memorial at the site, as previously reported by Star (09/11).
Mr Rigg and fellow society members are now toasting their success after successfully raising enough funds to pay for plaques at both the grave and reserve.
The money was donated by Tobin Brothers and the St Albans Sporting Club.
Mr Rigg said the group was thrilled with their success.
“It is just amazing to think here is this lady who did so much for St Albans and to look at her grave you wouldn’t know it,” Mr Rigg said.
“It was nothing but bare earth.
“Given what she’s done for this community it was only fitting that we give something back as a way of saying thankyou.”
The society recently celebrated 100 years since the gift of the reserve with a morning tea and the unveiling of the new plaque.
