Centenary of Hume's Departure

The Advertiser, Adelaide

7 October 1924

Across Australia. Centenary of Hume's Departure. Sydney, October 6.

There was a unique gathering at Appin on Saturday at the ruins of the home of Hamilton Hume, the explorer, who, a hundred years previously, set out with Hovell, on his memorable expedition to Port Phillip.

The remnants of the Hume home consisted of stones overran with, blackberries and Creepers. The hearth and chimney were intact.

Mr. Ley (Minister of Justice) unveiled a tablet on the site, which recorded that the home had been the starting point of the expedition of Hume and Hovell to Port Phillip on October 2, 1824.

Different towns along the route will celebrate the centenary of the arrival of the explorers at those places.

Mr. Aubrey Halloran (President of the Royal Australian Historical Society) said it was well to remember the gallant explorers who laid the tracks across the continent.

They were numbered with Australia's greatest heroes. The nation was built upon the foundation laid by those men.

The British Empire was primarily won by such gallant men, who ventured across the seas in mere cockleshell vessel. Australian towns and cities were the great memorials erected to their explorers, and everyone should honor them.

Among those present was Mr. Blocking (94), of Cambelltown who knew Hume, and also some descendants* of the explorer.

*Hamilton Hume has no descendents. Ed.