Page 514 - Week 02 - Wednesday, 19 February 2020
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Mrs Griffin collaborated with her husband on a number of the other projects I have mentioned. They worked as equals, which was highly unusual for the time. It is incredibly important that we acknowledge Marion Mahony Griffin and her wonderful contribution, as we know that historically women or partners who worked with men were, sadly, written out of history. I want to make sure that when we engage in this dialogue, we acknowledge the significant work of Marion Mahony Griffin.
In the latter part of their lives, the Griffins moved to the city of Lucknow in India. Here they both engaged in various building designs, including a memorial to King George V, a bank, municipal offices, the University of Lucknow student union building, a museum and many other private buildings. Mr Griffin died in India in 1937 and was buried in Nishatganj Cemetery in Lucknow.
Last month, I visited Lucknow to attend the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association of India regional conference there. While visiting, I made it my mission to track down Mr Griffin’s grave. After an hour of searching, I came across his grave. It was largely forgotten and unkempt, with weeds engulfing the headstone. I must say that, despite clearly never meeting Mr Griffin, it was a moving experience to stand by his grave. It was stirring to reflect on the impact that he had had on the city I love so much. Following this encounter, I arranged to have the gravesite cleaned up, with the weeds cleared and the small fence that surrounds the headstone repainted.
I have since written an article for CityNews detailing my expedition, and the response has been amazing. As well as starting some wonderful conversations about the legacy of the Griffins, I have heard from a gentleman from the UK who is currently planning a trip to India. His grandfather is buried in the same cemetery as Walter Burley Griffin, and I have been able to help him find his grandfather’s grave, which he will be visiting with his family while on his trip.
I have also been in contact with Stephanie Norris, whose father, Graeme Westlake, first discovered Walter Burley Griffin’s unmarked grave in a cemetery in Lucknow in 1987. I am pleased to see the family of Mr Westlake—Ms Norris and her mother and sisters—present in the gallery. Thank you so much for coming. I was told that Mr Westlake has written a book on his experience in Lucknow. Mr Westlake shared my belief that Walter Burley Griffin deserved a better resting place, and made a considerable effort to improve the gravesite and ensure that it was properly marked. I am glad that I was able to continue Mr Westlake’s efforts, and now I hope to ensure that they are maintained going forward.
The Honourable Denzil Godin, a member of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, assisted me in organising a memorial service at the gravesite, which took place last week, on 11 February, the 83rd anniversary of Walter Burley Griffin’s death. Several representatives from various community organisations in the area attended, as well as students from Lucknow Christian College, which Walter Burley Griffin helped design. I have seen photos from the memorial service, and it was touching to see so many people paying their respects to Walter Burley Griffin and acknowledging his contribution to the city of Lucknow.
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