27 Carey Street, The Sailors’ Rest

The Sailor’s Rest was located at 23 Wollaston Street on the corner of Ommaney Street before the streets were realigned. The Sailor’s Rest was later known as the Anglican Mission to Seamen, Flying Angel Club and the Seafarer's Rest. It is now approximately 27 Carey Street, where the WorkPac Recruitment offices are located (reference).

Origins

The Sailors’ Rest was built at the instigation of Miss Eliza Cons to provide visiting sailors a hospitable place to go while in port. It was part of a worldwide movement that started in Portsmouth, England in the 1870s by Agnes Weston as an offshoot of the temperance movement (reference). “Finding that the sailors of Portsmouth needed not only physical accommodations ashore but also help with their personal lives, Miss Weston organised a Sailors’ Rest … The house became a meeting place for those who did not want to go to the public house, where many would spend all or most of their money on drink, or, when drunk, be robbed of the remainder.” (Shiman, p.128, reference). 

The first Sailors’ Rest in Western Australia was established in 1892 in Fremantle by Women’s Christian Temperance Union member Rosa Smith, wife of the Fremantle Port Shipping Master (reference). It was successful and in 1899, when Miss Cons was a Bunbury delegate to the W.A. Annual Women’s Christian Temperance Union (W.C.T.U.) Convention, the Fremantle centre was praised for its work and it was reported that “the figures supplied spoke highly for the use made by the sailors of the different advantages provided by the "Rest." (reference). The Albany W.C.T.U. planned to establish a Sailors’ Rest for their port (reference). 

A firm believer in Temperance, Miss Cons saw the need for an alcohol-free venue for sailors visiting Bunbury, as the port had developed a reputation and “the captains of ships quite dreaded coming into the port of Bunbury, as on landing the men made a bee-line for a hotel”(reference). The Bunbury branch of the W.C.T. U., of which Miss Cons was a member, were already catering for the sailors on a limited basis at their headquarters - Willard Hall - the old congregational church on Prinsep Street. Miss Cons thought it was unsatisfactory because it was tiny and, Miss Cons suggested, was also “very inconveniently situated for a Sailors' Rest. It is a mile from the end of the jetty, and Jack, when he comes ashore, has to trudge up Victoria Street, passing five hotels en route. Many times doubtless sailors have left their ships with the intention of going to the Willard Hall, but Jack with a few shillings in his pocket finds it difficult to pass the open door of a public house, and when he has to stroll past five the case is almost hopeless” (reference).

Local Support

The Rest had local support, according to a 1900 Southern Times editorial: “Here in Bunbury, where often as many as 140 sailors are in port at a time, there is no such Rest which they can frequent and where they can spend their evenings quietly and rationally away from the glare and temptation of the grog shops. That it is necessary no one will deny” (reference). The Bunbury Chamber of Commerce also resolved “that the chamber recommends that a portion of 296P be given for the purpose of erecting a Sailor's Rest” (reference). A Sailors’ Rest was one item on the agenda when the Bunbury Council, the Chamber of Commerce and other local bodies made arrangements to meet with the Minister for Lands to discuss the district’s needs (reference).

When the well-known temperance evangelist, Mrs Harrison Lee, visited Bunbury in May 1900, she urged her large audience to subscribe ₤300, so the women who wanted to build the Sailors’ Rest could do so. “Of course in Victoria, where she came from, they had no money, but here in Western Australia where they kicked up gold with their boots they could do that.” (reference; reference). A Southern Times editorial again then came out in defence of the Rest and suggested the ladies could use their newly won suffrage and go to the premier, Sir John Forrest, “as his constituents, for they now have the same voice in political matters as the sterner sex have hitherto monopolised, and they have now as much say in electing a member for Bunbury as their fathers, brothers, and husbands.” In regards to the site which had been rejected by the council, it stated “there could not be a better site for a Sailors' Rest. It is near the jetty and sailors could drop in thereof an evening after work without going up town at all, and thus they would not have to face the many temptations which meet them at every step” (reference). The Chamber of Commerce, in favour of the Rest being established, passed another motion: “that this Chamber heartily approves of the action now being taken by the Bunbury branch of the W.C.T.U. to establish a Sailors' Rest at this port, and that the Right Hon Sir John Forrest is respectfully asked to favourably entertain the proposal." One of the members, Mr Beckendorff, went further to suggest that the Chamber form a committee to help the ladies but was assured by Mr Reading “that is hardly necessary. The ladies will be able to carry it out successfully” (reference).

First Setback - No Suitable Land Available

However, even though there was strong local support, in early August, the Bunbury Council moved: “that the Town Clerk communicate with these people and tell them that the portion of land suggested is too valuable to the town to be granted for the purposes of a Sailors' Rest” (reference).

In late August 1900, Miss Cons went with the W.C.T.U. to see the Premier and “asked for a piece of land at Bunbury, situated at the foot of the lighthouse hill, on which to erect a Sailors' Institute or Home. The Minister of Lands had signified his willingness to grant the site if the Premier was agreeable” (reference). In support of her petition, she pointed out that they had to pass five hotels to arrive at Willard Hall. Sir John replied “they have to pass two or three on the way to the Fremantle Rest, and still they seem to get there.” Miss Cons then informed him that “the captains of ships quite dreaded coming into the port of Bunbury, as on landing the men made a bee-line for a hotel.” The Premier then agreed “that if the block of land asked for a sailors' rest at Bunbury were not already allocated for some pressing requirements he would be glad to grant it” (reference). As it turned out, the land allocated was near the cemetery and unsuitable (reference).

Gordon’s Hotel 

In late August, John Leslie, manager of Gordon’s Hotel, wrote to The Herald explaining that about two years previously he had “offered them rent free for twelve months, or until more suitable premises could be found, one of my shops which would suit the purpose admirably. There is a very large room in front which would make a reading room, also three rooms at the back with fireplaces and all conveniences.” At that time, it was refused by the clergyman because “the smell of the public house bar would kill at a hundred yards.” However, he added that the offer was still available if they wanted it and would be pleased to help in any way (reference). The acceptance of this offer was questioned “that sailors who have not so far displayed a taste for alcohol, might be induced by the proximity of the hotel, and the enterprising manner in which the genial host pushes and promotes business, to make their initial efforts in that direction — I mean in the direction of alcohol” (reference). Nevertheless, at the September meeting of the W.C.T.U. “Mr J A Leslie's generous offer to let the Union have the use of one of the shops on his premises for one year for the purposes of a Sailors' Rest was accepted.” The Rest was expected to be opened in October, and the working committee was Miss Cons, Mrs Haycox, Mrs Manning and Nurse Cutler was invited to be the matron (reference). 

Although under the auspices of the W.C.T.U., Miss Cons was acknowledged as the driving force behind the Rest. Her dedication was recognised from the beginning: “Miss Cons, the hon secretary of the Sailors' Rest Committee, has made up her mind to leave no stone unturned to make her laudable scheme successful” (reference).

There was considerable support to get the Rest ready for opening. When Mr Reading and Mr Robertson arranged an October concert fundraiser, the Southern Times printed tickets for free and both Bunbury newspapers offered free advertising for the cause (reference). Several people donated furnishings and money and a committee of ladies had “done great things in the improvement of the premises, which now have a neat and inviting appearance” (reference; reference).

The Sailors’ Rest was officially opened on Monday 22 October 1900 - the Western Australian Proclamation Day long weekend - by Mrs Captain Smith, founder of the Fremantle Sailors’ Rest. Mrs Smith pointed out that the Rest was not aimed at reforming sailors but was “simply a home institution, where the stranger from over the seas can make himself comfortable, read the papers, enjoy a healthy game, and spend pleasant evenings” and in the long run, it would “be a good advertisement for the port. The memory of kindness and consideration shown to sailors while in Bunbury will be carried abroad, and bear good fruit” (reference). While most reports of the opening were standard, a rather cynical columnist from the Bunbury Herald under the nom de plume ”Rosalind” took a different slant. After noting the lack of men at the opening they added: “Mrs Smith made a very pretty speech, and with that tact that comes from experience gave a few useful hints as to the best way to 'draw' Jack. He must have plenty of girls for evening games, they must be 'young' and they must be 'pretty,' Jack does not like them 'old.' When all things are found, Jack included, it may be fairly assumed, without prejudice, that he will find all his shore comforts and pleasures 'under one roof' (reference).

The Rest, besides other things, began providing entertainment for both the town and the sailors. The first of a series of weekly concerts was held at the Sailors’ Rest the Saturday after opening and continued on Monday nights from November (reference; reference). Mostly, these consisted of local performers but before long, the program started to also include visiting sailors (reference). In November, they had a picnic for the sailors which “was a great success in spite of the boisterous weather. Captain Douglas of the Dunsky, kindly conveyed the party to North Shore and, although all got a thorough wetting, it was not sufficient to damp their spirits or throw a wet blanket over the entertainment. They went out with the determination of having a good time and had it, returning to the Sailors' Rest about 10 p.m., where hot coffee and other good things awaited them” (reference). In December, they provided a Christmas Tea and entertainment for the sailors in port (reference). The concerts, each arranged by different people, were now bringing Perth performers to Bunbury (reference). They quickly reached full to overflowing capacity (reference, reference) and even when the local people had other events on, there was a sizable audience of sailors (reference). Like the earlier concerts, they also got good reviews such as one arranged by Mr. Eastman being declared as “dainty a musical programme as was ever presented in Bunbury” (reference).

Architect Appointed and Building Committee Formed

Early in 1901, it appeared that John Leslie would not be able to renew the lease, so Miss Cons began again to look for their own premises (reference). She asked  Mr F.W. Steere to be the honorary architect and began searching for a favourable piece of land and called a public meeting to ask the community for support (reference; reference). She hired Mr J. L. Walker (Messrs Stanley, Money and Walker) to be an attorney (reference). The Southern Times advertised the meeting and advocated for the Rest because a large number of sailors visited the port, and it enhanced Bunbury’s reputation as a hospitable place (reference).

The public meeting, held on 9 May 1901, was attended by the president of the State W.C.T.U., Mrs Clark. The ladies pleaded their cause, but John Leslie indicated that he had not said he would terminate the lease - Miss Cons had mistaken his lack of response as a rejection - and would assist the ladies as much as possible in continuing. However, Mr Hayward, a prominent businessman, moved that a building committee be formed with himself, Miss Buchanan, Miss Cons and Captain Abrahamson (reference). On 15 May, this committee selected a site “on the sea side of the strand, about a chain from Henry-street. Mr. Thos. Hayward, M.L.A., promised, at an early date, to endeavor to get the Government to give this site in exchange for that on the plains, which is already in the possession of the Sailors' Rest” (reputation). However, nothing seems to have come from this.

The Rift

Towards the end of the year, there were two major changes. First, the matron, Nurse Cutler resigned from her post in September (reference). Miss Cons was not listed as attending her farewell evening in mid October nor were there any apologies from her and Nurse Cutler did not mention her by name in her final speech (reference). Two weeks later, on the night before the annual general meeting (AGM) of the Rest,  the local branch of the W.C.T.U. passed a motion which was read at the Annual State Convention: “proposed by Miss Buchanan, seconded by Miss Laurence, 'That the Union entirely give over the Sailors' Rest to be worked by Miss Cons and the townspeople, if it could be arranged, and if at any time the Rest be given up any property that may belong to the Union may be resumed by them.’ Of course, if the Rest could not be carried on by the townspeople in conjunction with Miss Cons, it would revert back to the Union” (reference). 

At the first AGM, Miss Cons presented her report. The Rest was just meeting its financial requirements and Miss Barnes had been appointed as the new matron. During the year a total of 2197 seamen visited the port which she felt showed the Rest was needed. She then told the meeting of the withdrawal of support from the W.C.T.U adding: “I have decided if I receive sufficient financial support from friends interested in the work to try and keep the Rest open, as Miss Weston does at home, on condition I have sole control, and that it is run on total abstinence principles.” When asked if sole control could include working under a committee, “Miss Cons said she would act under a committee if she were a member of the committee.” The Mayor (chairman) thought the whole thing needed “thrashing out” and adjourned the meeting until the next week (reference). The adjourned meeting fell through due to lack of attendance but Miss Cons did inform those that she had received several donations and subscriptions but all were given on the premise “that she was to have absolute aud sole control of the Sailors' Rest.” The Southern Times commented “It is feared that this is the rock on which the good ship, "Sailors' Rest", will be wrecked” (reference). Miss Cons wrote a letter to the paper refuting this saying she had declined to take financial control but was “willing to work and do my best for the sake of the sailors and the credit of the town.” In the reply under this letter, the paper noted that she said she wanted sole control and Mr James Port  said that a committee should be formed because “if the matter is run by one person it would not do, the public must have some voice in the management.” They added “that we are still of opinion that the sole control suggested would ruin the Rest. It has been the sole cause of the members of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union withdrawing their support from the movement; it was the cause of Nurse Cutler's resignation, (and it will be long before that motherly old lady's place can be so adequately filled as it was when she was matron); and it has alienated the sympathy and support of many ladies and gentlemen vocalists who used to help, and who would still do so but for the prevailing chill which the "sole control" seems to fill the institution with. We have always supported the Rest, and will continue to do so as long as it is run on proper lines. It must be a home for the homeless sailors, and a Rest for the storm-tossed and weary mariners, a haven of refuge for the young apprentice who, by coming under the sheltering care of a matrons kindly influence, is saved from yielding those temptations which are always thrown in the way of "Jack ashore". Everything in the Rest should be joyous and open hearted and above board, and there should be everything to attract” (reference).

While the adjournment was postponed again, Miss Cons was not deterred. When the meeting was finally held in December, she had managed to raise ₤70 and felt confident she could reach the ₤100 required for upkeep over the next 12 months. It was also decided to stay in the same premises (reference). The ministry of the Rest continued as usual and seventy-six sailors were provided with dinner on Christmas evening and over one hundred others came for the entertainment (reference). On New Year’s Eve, the sailors arranged the entertainment: “Mr Gray, the boatswain of the Crusader, arranged the programme. The room had been decorated by the sailors with flags from the various ships and looked very gay. Mr Steele (an officer) presided ; he also recited ‘The Ruined Cottage’” (reference). 

The barque Langston was shipwrecked in early February a day after it left Bunbury. One man died but the twelve survivors ended up back in Bunbury (reference). They were given hot tea and cakes at the Rest and Miss Cons immediately appealed for clothes, which were then provided, as they had lost everything (reference). At the first quarterly meeting in March, Miss Cons said 2,087 sailors had used the Rest in the first quarter and two Sunday services were conducted by Captain Tonneson in Norwegian which proved to be very well attended. Two visiting Captains had also donated money to the Rest (reference). Then at the second quarterly meeting, there were fewer sailors visiting but three visiting captains had donated and the balance was ‘creditable’ (reference). When presenting the annual report in late November, Miss Cons said that 4306 sailors had used the rest and the balance in the bank was ₤17 15s plus ₤16 18s. 1d. in the building fund. She also spoke of the Rest’s interactions with the sailors. As soon as they were paid, many sailors brought their belongings and money to the matron for safekeeping and the Rest also kept a book for those sailors that wanted to return to the sea which had been a help for Captains looking for crew. Mrs Pearson was now Matron as Miss Barnes had left to work in Cottesloe. (reference).  

So, after one year, unlike earlier predictions, Miss Con’s boat was soundly afloat and it had “survived internal dissensions and public criticism, floated through shallows, scraped over bars, weathered all storms, and now it bids fair to sail serenely in deep waters” (reference).

The weekly concerts program and ministering to sailors continued in 1903. The number of sailors using the Rest increased a little in the first quarter to 2,359 and they were breaking even financially (reference). 

A Suitable Site

As the port gradually became busier, the accommodation was becoming inadequate and by September, 1903, a suitable block of land had been chosen which was “situated at the corner of Ommanney and Wollaston-streets near Messrs Hayward & Son's store.” The block cost ₤145 and the building fund raised ₤48 20s. Once the land was purchased, the Southern Times, now back on side with Miss Cons, reported, “the matter of erecting the building will be practically plain sailing, seeing that a gentleman has undertaken to advance the required amount at a small rate of interest” (reference).

The land previously granted by the government for the Rest which “was given with the understanding that it might be sold if desired and the proceeds devoted towards the purchase of a more suitable site” was worth between ₤60 -  ₤70 and if sold, would bring the funds much closer to the target required. However, there was one hitch in that the land was vested with the local W.C.T.U. and they were refusing to sell it. The Southern Times was of the opinion that, “surely there must be some misunderstanding in this matter. It is difficult to believe that the ladies constituting the W.C.T.U. can so far have lost interest in the Sailors' Rest as to wish to block the very laudable movement which is now on foot. The land was simply vested in their hands as trustees, and now that the time has arrived when it would be to the advantage of the Sailors' Rest to sell it the ladies taking a Christianlike interest in the movement could not reasonably do otherwise than approach the Government with a view of having the land handed over for sale.” Unfortunately for Miss Cons, there was no misunderstanding and the W.C.T.U.still owned the land in 1906 when the Bunbury Bowling Club wanted to acquire it.

Fundraising

Meanwhile, to raise funds, the Rest started selling little cardboard bricks for 6d and also planned an “elaborate entertainment” for December and the State Government allocated ₤50 to the Rest. Over the year, 8092 sailors had visited the rest and there were nine different nationalities represented at the Christmas Tea. In August,1904 the building fund only needed ₤40 more to purchase the land and start building and Mr G. Hayward and Mr G. Keith undertook to collect this amount by the end of next September. However, the Rest unexpectedly had their current lease terminated in October and they had to close down until they could build. In November, they were allocated ₤50 in the state budget and in December, Mr Steere, the architect, called for tenders “for the erection of Sailors’ Rest, Bunbury.”

Foundations Laid

At the beginning of 1904, it was announced that “the foundation stone of the new sailors' rest, which is to be erected on the corner of Ommaney and Wollaston streets, will be laid on Friday, January 27, at 4 p.m., by the Mayoress (Mrs C. E. Spencer) and Mrs Robert Forrest. The Lord Bishop of Bunbury has consented to be present and take part in the ceremony. All interested are invited” (reference). At the ceremony, the foundation stones, which were donated by Miss Cons sister from London, had copies of the local papers inserted in niches and “were lowered into position by the Mayoress and Mrs Robert Forrest” (reference).

Mr. N. J. Moore M.L.A “extended his congratulations and appreciation to Miss Cons on the successful accomplishment of the work which had been so dear to her for so many years. The building would be a monument to her untiring energy and perseverance and an evidence of what could be accomplished by one earnest person who was prepared to devote time and talents to charitable undertakings.” He also added “for the success of Miss Cons' endeavors, they were largely indebted to Mr Robert Forrest, who had kindly advanced the money to erect the building”  (reference). Mr George Hayward also “expressed his appreciation of Miss Cons, who had gone to so much time and trouble and who had 'stuck to it to the last,' and who had fortified herself by her determination — ' I must have this Rest'” (reference).

The Bunbury Herald pointed out that many had noticed, although two other ministers were present, only the Anglican Church was represented in the proceedings and they trusted “that it was merely an oversight for the Rest has in the past received keen interest and support from other denominations” (reference).

Wollaston Street

By the end of March 1904, it was reported that the “structure to be known as the Sailors' Rest, having frontages to Wollaston and Ommanney Streets is well on the way to completion. Though not a pretentious building, it is capitally situated, and well designed for the purpose for which it is intended. The entrance at the corner of the thoroughfares named leads into the main hall of the building, a concert room with platform, measuring 30 by 20ft. The main access is from Wollaston Street through a porch and passage opening into the officers' room, 11ft, by 13ft.6in., bedroom of the same dimensions and the matron's room, 17ft. by 12ft, with a kitchen in the rear. The architect (Mr. Steere) anticipates that the building will be handed over towards the end of next week” (reference). On the up side, the W.C.T.U. donated their furniture from the old Sailors’ Rest to the new one for which Miss Cons thanked them (reference) but, unfortunately, the council works committee recommended not connecting the Sailors’ Rest to the water supply because at a cost of ₤14, it was too expensive (reference).

Finally, on Wednesday 3 May 1905, the new Sailors’ Rest Building was opened and “marked another progressive movement in the history of Bunbury” (reference). The Rest had cost ₤550 to build and the trustees of the building were Thomas Hayward, Robert Forrest and Eliza Cons. Eliza emphasised that the Rest was “undenominational, and though advocating temperance principles was not connected with any Temperance Society in the town.” The Mayor of Bunbury, Mr C. E. Spencer, in his address praised Eliza saying “that they were all aware of the history of the Sailors' Rest. They knew also with what energy Miss Cons had worked in its interests, starting in the smallest way and now, after the lapse of several years, had succeeded in establishing such an institution as was to be opened that afternoon. The building was a credit to Bunbury. He personally congratulated Miss Cons and those who had assisted her in working up the Sailors' Rest as they had done, and wished them every success” (reference). Mr Moore M.L.A. added to this saying, “Miss Cons was in the right way of securing the interest and support of all classes and sections of the community. Only by awakening such interest was it possible to secure philanthropic assistance” (reference).

The Sailors’ Rest continued providing amenities for visiting sailors and weekly concerts in the new building. The people of Bunbury put in an effort to support the work as well - the Bunbury Dramatic Society gave a performance at the Lyric Theatre to raise funds for the Rest (reference) and when the Rest approached the council to buy the withdrawn library books which were usually sold by auction, the Councillors decided to donate them free of charge (reference).The Governor of Western Australia, Admiral Sir Frederick Bedford also visited the Rest on his south-west tour and “after expressing his pleasure at what he saw, he signed the visitors' book and left” (reference). Unfortunately, the year ended sadly with the death of Mrs Pearson, the matron at the rest, who at 47 years of age, died “after a short illness, from paralysis of the brain” (reference).

Mrs T. Shaw, teaming with her husband, was appointed the new matron in January 1906 and they were welcomed at a weekly concert when “the Bunbury City Band assembled outside the building and rendered several pieces in honor of the new matron and her husband (Mr and Mrs T. Shaw), and amidst much enthusiasm presented them with two arm chairs” (reference).

From August, 1905, the Rest had begun charging an entrance fee of a ‘silver coin donation’ for entrance (reference) but, according to one person, they had become a little too zealous in making sure it was paid. “A gentleman entered the anteroom,” ‘SOCIALIST’  recounted in a letter to the Southern Times in February 1906, “This person, not knowing the workings of the place, failed to put a coin in the collection box, for which he was treated as if he had committed some great crime, with a threat of being thrown out on his head” (reference). However, with the entrance fee, the concerts were more profitable than in earlier years and had raised ₤31 11s 3d by the time of the 1906 AGM on 1 June (reference).

To help with fundraising, Millars Karri and Jarrah Company offered the use of their tug, Vigilant, under the command of Captain Coalstad, for a Moonlight Excursion around the Bay and the Bunbury City Band also volunteered their services to provide entertainment. The excursion on 8 March 1906 was both enjoyable and a fundraising success - raising ₤13 11s 3d for the Sailors’ Rest (reference; reference). These fundraising trips on the Vigilant became an annual feature continuing until 1912 when the tug was retired (reference; reference; reference; reference).

At the 1912 AGM when Rev. Ernest Crane suggested the Rest should acquire a billiards table, Miss Cons told him “that the Rest funds could not be used for this purpose until the debt was paid off, and the building extended, then they would get as many billiard tables as were required” (reference).

In 1915, there was only ₤40 left to pay off the building and Miss Cons reported there had been some renovations: “at the suggestion of a sailor, a new notice board put up; we have also had the painting of the Rest renovated, and new blinds throughout the building” and they had bought a new flag to replace a stolen one (reference).

Throughout the war years, when most fundraising efforts were directed to the soldiers, donations for the Rest went down, and at times it was a struggle to continue. In January 1916, they were down to only ₤4 (reference) and the Rest came close to not having enough funds to continue on several occasions (reference; reference). Nevertheless, these ladies ‘soldiered on’.

Due to her growing family, Mrs Shaw retired as matron in 1918 and Mrs Parker was hired (reference). The Rest was still struggling with funds as government support had been withdrawn while the war was on. At the AGM, the new Bishop, Rev. Cecil Wilson spoke about the Adelaide ‘Harbour Lights’ who were a group of ladies who supported their local Mission to the Seaman and noted they seemed to have no difficulty in securing enough funds (reference).

Late in 1918, they were put under pressure by the Returned Soldiers and Sailors Imperial League to replace their current caretaker with a returned serviceman. Mrs Parker replied “stating the present caretaker had been ineligible for active service and they did not propose making any alteration so as to give the position to a returned man” (reference). Although they sent a deputation to persuade her, “Mr. J. Blythe, as a member of the deputation reported having seen the matron of the Sailors' Rest, but without coming to a satisfactory arrangement”(reference).

In 1920, “owing to the infirmities of approaching old age” Miss Cons, at the age of  78 years, was obliged “to relinquish her active interest “ in the Sailors’ Rest and handed it over the Sailors’ Rest to the Mission (reference). A Church News item from the Bishop of Bunbury dated 8 December, 1920, announced “The Rev. A. G. Goldsmith, Senior Chaplain of the Mission to Seamen in Melbourne, stayed a few days with us, and Miss Cons welcomed the opportunity of making over her Sailors' Rest to the Bishop in Council in trust for the Mission to Seamen. It has thus become one of their Institutes, and will receive their support in money to a greater extent than before. It is our hope also that an agent may be sent to the Society to work for the seamen who visit the port. A Ladies' Harbour Lights Guild was formed with Miss Cons as patron and Mrs Wilson and Mrs Duce as President and Hon. Secretary. A strong committee was formed, and work for the sailors has begun with fresh zeal and a great sense of responsibility” (reference).

As a testament to Miss Cons’ dedication through troublesome times, the Rest was handed over to the “Mission to the Seamen” debt-free (reference; reference).  

Mission to the Seamen

The Mission to the Seamen began at Bristol, England, in 1835 by the Rev. John Ashley. At that time it was difficult for the sailors to disembark while in port and while Rev. Ashley was holidaying there, he was dismayed by the harsh living conditions and the loneliness of a sailor’s life. Realising the sailors had no one to minister to them, Rev. Ashley became a chaplain to those of the merchant navy and set up The Mission to Seamen Afloat, At Home and Abroad. which went out on a boat to visit the sailors in the port. This soon expanded to other ports and by 1858, when they abbreviated their name, they were covering 14 ports. They also adopted a flying angel as their mascot. With the advent of steamships, the sailors spent more time in port so the Mission began to develop centres near ports where sailors could participate in recreational activities, get cheap food and accommodation and generally find a welcome (reference). The movement  spread to other countries and in 1935, on the 100th anniversary of the organization, Rev. Milton Maley, the Bunbury Methodist minister, reported that “while in 1894 there were 57 mission ships that number has been reduced to 35. But there were then only 72 church institutes, there are now 166, and four times as many institutes outside England. [...] seven of these in South America, three in North America, six in Africa, eight in Asia, five in Europe, ten in Australia (one in Fremantle and one in Bunbury), two in New Zealand, and the rest in Britain” (reference).

The mission was an outreach by the Church of England and had become involved with the Sailors’ Rest a few years before they took it over. In June,1917, at the Sailors’ Rest AGM, Canon Henry Joseph Adams announced “that evening he came before them, not only as the

Rector of the Cathedral Parish of Bunbury, but also as the accredited representative of the great society, the Missions to Seamen. About eight months ago he was asked to take up the honorary position of Chaplain to the Port of Bunbury for the Missions to Seamen. He had received a letter from the committee in London in which they expressed appreciation of all Miss Cons had done for the sailors through the Sailors' Rest. They also had to recognise the good work of Mrs. H. T. Shaw in looking after the sailors, also to thank Miss Violet Baylis and those coming week after week to help in the entertainments” (reference). In reference to the entertainment, Canon Adams also noted “they might get better talent to help in the concerts if some benefactor would give a new piano. The present one was almost past work” (reference).

By the end of their first year, The Mission to the Seamen had purchased two adjacent blocks and “had got a bargain in getting the two blocks of land for £100” (reference) and were considering expansion as the current building was “too small to afford rest and lodging for the seamen.” They hoped “to extend the building itself, to have a chaplain or reader appointed who would visit all the ships that came to Bunbury, and offer the use of the Institute as a home for sailors during their stay in port” (reference). As well, the current buildings had been repaired (reference), a telephone had been installed and the stage removed. The Harbour Guild had started  a Recreation Fund and were looking to purchase a new piano and a billiards table when they had room for them and with the extra land, they were looking  to provide outdoor games (reference).

After several fundraising events, a new piano was duly purchased and used for the first time at a concert in December, 1922 (reference).

In 1924, Mr Charles Sedgwick was appointed as the first full time superintendent to the mission. He had come directly from Melbourne but had earlier worked with Miss (now Dame) Weston of  the Sailors’ Rest. His job as superintendent was “to take charge of the Institute and welcome the different ships which visit Bunbury and generally look after the spiritual welfare of the men concerned” (reference). However, Mr Sedgwick left in 1926, just two years after he arrived (reference). 

At the 1926 AGM, when they were considering whether to get another superintendent, Mr Walter Kaeshagen said “The recent superintendent had been a man who seemed to have the unhappy knack of locking horns with all he came in contact with. He was not diplomatic. [...] He had come much in contact with the late superintendent and he had proved himself most unfitted for the position.” Later he reiterated “the late superintendent was the 'most impossible man he had ever met in his life for the job' (reference). Also at this AGM, Mr Kaeshagan offered to be a guarantor for the Mission and find ten others to do the same, remarking 'It was a funny old town if they cannot find ten guarantors.' to which Mr John Duce replied, “It is a funny old town” (reference).

Mr Stuart Murray, from Victoria, was appointed as the new superintendent in 1927 (reference).  He closed the Seamen’s Mission for renovations “to make the building as homely and attractive as possible” (reference) and at his welcome, he said he was  “brightening up the interior of the building and asked for gifts of pictures and ornaments” (reference).

Mr Murray was also interested in Toc H, an international Christian movement for ex-servicemen promoting community service, and started  a branch in Bunbury which met weekly in the Missions building (reference). Members of Toc H group helped out with the Seaman’s Mission from time to time and for one of the group’s projects (reference).  

The sailors themselves often donated to the Institute in various ways. Mr Murray wrote of one such gift in 1928: “Mr. Matthews, the carpenter of the S.S. Valacia, who was one of the communicants last Sunday week, saw our need for a prayer desk in the chapel. He came to me a day or so later, and offered to make one, and of course I gladly accepted. The timber was supplied from the ship, so it cost us nothing at all, and although Mr. Matthews was very busy on board, he gave up a considerable portion of his little spare time to making the above article of furniture, which was very well done, and now adores the chapel” (reference).

During the mid 1920s, the maritime industrial unrest brought about multinational strikes fuelled by an unsympathetic press (reference) caused widespread prejudice against sailors. According to Mr Murray, this was still ongoing in Bunbury several years later and local support for the Mission was low as a result. Mr Murray added: “It seems to me unjust to keep up these prejudices for so long, and certainly the later seamen's strikes have been connected with Australian, and the overseas men, with whom we chiefly deal, have had nothing to do with. them. I only hope that this prejudice will soon die a natural death, and the people of Bunbury and district generally, will take more interest in this Institution, which is right in their midst, and is for the use of, and to help the men of the Mercantile Marine, to whom, after all, we owe a deep debt of gratitude, especially in the years of the war” (reference).

In 1930, the Mission finally acquired a billiard table and it was noted that “in spite of the fact that it is only a half-size table, billiards have already proved an attraction, and considerable use has been made of it.” The committee also decided to put a waterproof coating on the outside walls “to prevent the damp entering during the coming winter.”(reference). As well, the Toc H members painted the roof (reference). Superintendent Stewart Murray resigned in 1930 (reference) and “headquarters seemed to think that the shipping did not warrant another superintendent and he supposed they would get £50 a year until another man was appointed. Mr. W. Dain would meanwhile act as caretaker” (reference). However, in 1931, Mr Brindley Williams, from the Brunswick District Mission, took over as superintendent (reference) and then in 1934, Mr Edward Pearce, a local retired underwater engineer (reference), was appointed (reference). 

The building was continually changing. In 1932, “a large verandah had been built on the East wall of the institute, part of which was enclosed, to form a useful and compact chapel, for special services for the sailors.” (reference) and in 1935, a games room was added (reference) and a new transportable altar was made for the reading room.

In 1943, the South Western Times gave a glowing description of the Mission provision for visiting sailors: “Designed for relaxation and honest recreation the visitor finds a surprising assortment of sports equipment. For the level eye is the well-lit. green of the billiard table and the cue for bobs. For the keen a full sized tennis table; for the exact is the challenge of the darts, quoits and carpet bowls. [...] Willing fingers swing the keys of the piano while dancing couple trace their stepped designs around the polished floor. Request numbers are easily supplied with records and electric amplification, while current magazines and a copious library is at the convenience of the book lover“ (reference).

In 1949, it was reported “the Mission building is beginning to show signs of old age .... there is mould upon the walls and flakes of peeling plaster and paint do not add to its beauty. Even so, it is a haven for visiting seamen who may make use of its rooms from nine a.m. until eleven p.m. The reading room is particularly popular. Here, they may settle in a cosy chair by the fire and read one of the extensive range of books that line the walls or listen to the wireless (a gift from the Norwegian ship "Anna Odland"), or write letters, or even revive memories gazing about the walls that are almost completely covered with ship's pennants, plaques and photos of ships. Other recreational facilities include a sports room, well equipped with billiard table, table tennis, darts and various other games. Then there is the large common room, where socials, dances and concerts are held, and also the canteen which enables the sailors to procure such luxuries as cigarettes, chocolates and biscuits. Probably the most important asset of the Mission is the small chapel where service is held each Sunday. It is open to all religious denominations and, when a ship is in port, is always well attended” (reference).

The Mission to the Seaman continued to use the building until 1966 when they moved to Victoria Street. The original building was then demolished (reference). 

Researched by Gaye Englund for the Museum of Perth