The Esplanade Reserve showing the Maitland Brown Memorial

DESCRIPTION

Reference numberES00367DescriptionAlso known as the Explorers' Monument, it is the subject of some controversy. Maitland Brown, a pastoralist and explorer was sent to look for three explorers, Frederick Panter, James Harding and Henry Goldwyer who went missing while surveying the country south of Roebuck Bay in 1865. He discovered the men's bodies, speared to death by local Aborigines. A number of Aborigines were then killed by Brown's party, supposedly in defence, but often since described as a punitive massacre of Aborigines by white settlers. Brown returned the explorers' bodies to Perth, receiving a public tribute of thanks from the Government. George Julian Brockman, a fellow pastoralist and explorer, commissioned the sculptor Pietro Porcelli to make the memorial which was unveiled by Lady Forrest in 1913. The Aboriginal communities have long held that the monument is a racist work that presents a flawed interpretation of events. In 1994, an attempt was made to redress this perceived bias by placing an additional plaque on the monument. The new plaque commemorates all Aboriginal people who died "during the invasion of their country."Date1972PhotographerEdmonds, MurrayPhotograph FormatSlideDigital ItemYes

SubjectEsplanade ParkCollectionPhotographic Collection

ACCESS

RestrictionsContact the Fremantle History CentreConditions of useYou may print copy or download images for private research. This image may be reproduced for non-commercial purposes with acknowledgement e.g. [Image courtesy of City of Fremantle History Centre - Reference number]. To obtain copies for commercial purposes or of a higher resolution contact the Fremantle History Centre via email lhc@fremantle.wa.gov.auLocationPhotographic Collection

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The Esplanade Reserve showing the Maitland Brown Memorial