Pioneer Women's Memorial (Perth) facts for kids
The Pioneer Women's Memorial is a special place found in the Western Australian Botanic Garden, which is part of Kings Park in Perth, Western Australia. It includes a beautiful lake, a statue, and a fountain. This memorial was built to honor the important work of the pioneering women. These were the brave women who helped build and develop the city and state of Western Australia from its early days.
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What is the Pioneer Women's Memorial?
The Pioneer Women's Memorial celebrates the strength and hard work of women. These women were among the first to settle in Western Australia. They played a huge role in creating the communities and industries we see today. The memorial helps everyone remember their courage and dedication.
How the Memorial Was Designed
People started planning this memorial in 1963. They wanted to create a lasting tribute. The main part of the memorial is a nine-foot-tall statue. It is made of bronze, a strong metal often used for sculptures.
The statue was created by an artist named Margaret Priest. It stands on a stepping stone in a calm, decorative lake. Around the statue, there are five other stepping stones and fountains. These elements make the memorial a peaceful and reflective place.
A Symbol of Progress
The memorial was officially opened on January 14, 1968. The Governor of Western Australia unveiled the statue and started the fountain. The Governor is the Queen's representative in the state, like a leader for Western Australia.
During the opening, the architect, Geoffrey Summerhayes, spoke about his vision. He described the statue as "the figure of a woman apparently mounting a stream by stepping stones." He explained that these were "stepping stones of progress." This means the memorial shows how women helped society move forward, step by step.
Changes Over Time
In 1999, the area around the memorial was improved. More features were added to make it even better. Close by, another important memorial was built. This was the Centenary of Western Australian Women's Suffrage Memorial. It celebrates 100 years since women in Western Australia gained the right to vote. This shows how the area continues to honor women's achievements.
