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GILLESPIE Claude "Pop"

Claude Gillespie was born in South Australia in 1887, and he came to W.A. in 1907 So far as his life up til he came to Gnowangerup in 1911 is concerned, not much can be recorded, but from then on... some 40 years...his unbroken service in district activities has been unwritten history to most of the community who knew him only as "Pop" Gillespie, a kindly disposed citizen with a generous smile for everyone. Most of our older generation can however recall that he had unbounded faith in the district he had chosen as his home and he gave tirelessly of his energy in endeavours to promote harmony and prosperity.
We can remember him after the first World War and his enthusiasm for the Soldier Settlement Scheme initiated on the Pallinup-Estate. From 1921 onwards he helped in a great measure with the work of the Agricultural Society, R.S.L. and all public activities concerned with the building up of what has now proved one of the best agricultural districts in Australia.

CLAUDE "Pop" GILLESPIE               #1
 


           A CHRISTMAS PARTY ORGANISED FOR THE ABORIGINES IN 1934      #2
CLAUDE GILLESPIE (Father Christmas) TOP REAR WITH JIM GROCOCK, TWO OF THE ORGANISERS
 

To many of us he will be remembered for his fatherly interest in all sporting ventures... with such stalwarts in that direction as John Edgar Rowe and Jim Grocock, he was a foundation member of the Golf Club and it is generally held that it was the Lady Associates of the club who first called him "Pop” because of his interest in the social side of the Royal and Ancient Game.
Were space and time not limited, we could write a book on his ability to be good company on fishing trips to the south coast, duck shooting or tours to golf championships. Anywhere and everywhere he was hailed as one of the best.
Claude Gillespie sadly passed away on Saturday 3rd March 1951. Mrs. Gillespie and her two sons and their families may be a measure of comfort in facing the future to know that “Pop” will be enrolled in the memories of all of us who knew him for a friend and councellor.[sic]

Every endeavour has been made to accurately record the details however if you would like to provide additional images and/or newer information we are pleased to update the details on this site. Please use CONTACT at the top of this page to email us. We appreciate your involvement in recording the history of our area.

 

References:                 Article:      The Gnowangerup Star March 17, 1951

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Copyright : Gordon Freegard 2024