It's just another date on the calendar these days but May 24 brought with it a special celebration many years ago.
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Empire Day was celebrated on this date throughout the Shoahaven district for many years, both in the schools and the small communities.
In 1905 several sub-committees were involved in making arrangements for the day, which included everyone from the mayor to the youngest school children.
The atmosphere was brought alive by flags flying in the central business district, from the Prince of Wales and Albion Hotels at the end of Junction Street, to the post office and West's Theatre at the other.
Shops were closed at noon in readiness to the activities to start at 1pm.
A procession started from the Commercial Bank at the Kinghorne Street corner, and was headed by the Nowra Town Band.
Participating were members of the Grand United Oder of Odd Fellows, the Hibernian Guild, Friendly Societies, Nowra Fire Brigade members in full uniform, and some 400 children from Nowra, Terara and the Convent schools.
The atmosphere was brought alive by flags flying in the central business district, from the Prince of Wales and Albion Hotels at the end of Junction Street, to the post office and West's Theatre at the other.
The march initially proceeded to the Recreation Ground where the Empire Day tree, a sturdy Norfolk Island pine, was planted.
This ceremony was carried out by the mayor, Ald. Thurstan Peak, with the assistance of Madge Berry from Nowra Public School and Mona Linkenbagh, Convent.
After a choir of students sang several "patriotic airs", the marchers proceeded to Nowra Showground where the crowd swelled to around 1000.
Entertainment was provided by Terara school's band, and a varied sporting program included adult races and bicycle events. A rugby match saw the Young Men's Institute beat the Warriors B team. The Warriors had more luck in tug-o-war, which they won against that same opponent, and also the firemen.
About Empire Day and cracker night
After Queen Victoria's death in 1901, Empire Day was established to honour her. It was celebrated throughout the British Empire on May 24 - her birthday.
To mark the occasion school children were given a half day holiday.
In 1958 the name was changed to Commonwealth Day. To celebrate families and communities gathered together at bonfires to let off crackers. Bonfires in backyards were built up for months in preparation. Once the bonfire was lit fire crackers exploded, including penny bungers, Tom Thumbs, skyrockets and sparklers.
Over the years the celebration went by the wayside and we now celebrate the Queen's birthday in June instead. All information provided by the Shoalhaven Historical Society.