Fragments of Time: The Lives and Works of the Willunga Slate Carvers
The Willunga Branch of the National Trust of South Australia is delighted to announce their newest publication Fragments of Time: The Lives and Works of the Willunga Slate Carvers will be launched by Mayor Erin Thompson of the City of Onkaparinga,
Date: Sunday December 8
Time: 4 pm
Place: Willunga Courthouse Reserve (in front of Courthouse Museum)
Described by Brian McMillan, Chair of the Willunga Branch, as “a tour de force”, Fragments of Time is the result of four years of research and travel to find out more about this aspect of the Willunga District’s heritage. Author, Paddy O’Toole, has created a book that shows aspects of life in the Province of South Australia through the lens of the slate carvers in the Willunga District as they carved the legacy that exists today. Among these carvers is Abel William Parker, an early Postmaster of Aldinga.
Willunga is well-known for its slate industry in the 19th century. What is little known is an aspect of that industry created by a group of part-time artisans – slate carvings. The Willunga slate carvings comprise gravestones, mantelpieces and decorative works, often with beautiful and compelling designs. Author, Paddy O’Toole, has created a book that shows aspects of life in the Province of South Australia through the lens of the Willunga slate carvers as their lives intersected with tumultuous events even as they carved the legacy that exists today.
Refreshments will be served. Signed copies of the book will be available for the special price of $25.
If you wish to participate, please email willungaslatecarvers@gmail.com or telephone Paddy O’Toole on 0412347280 for catering purposes.
