By PETER DOUGLAS
AMID much fanfare, the unveiling of the rejuvenated Emerald walkway took place last Thursday.
The walkway is now officially named in honour of historical figure and local blacksmith, Charlie Stapleton.
Subsequently, a naming plaque and street sign have been erected to commemorate the site’s history.
The Emerald Historical Society was the first to suggest the name of Mr Stapleton, who worked out of a shop at the location from 1908 to 1945.
Mr Stapleton was born at Riddles Creek in 1863 and died on October 1954 at age 91.
Over the past two years, the Kilvington Drive Steering Committee has been implementing a plan to upgrade and improve the shopping precinct.
Locals will have noticed the works to the buildings, car park and the installation of the covered walkway between Kilvington Drive and the IGA car park.
To mark the opening, granddaughter Nola Meredith attended the event, along with her sister and some of their own children.
Ms Meredith, whose own father was a blacksmith, spoke highly of her grandfather.
“I remember him as a fine old man,” she said.
“I recall we lived in Hawthorn and my father used to travel to help him each Saturday.
“We used to travel on Puffing Billy.”
Ms Meredith said it was both an honour for her family and the blacksmith profession.
“I’m pleased recognition has been given to a blacksmith, they were an integral part of the community,” she said.
“Particularly in the depression years, many humping a bluey would head to their shops just for the warmth.”
The Kilvington Drive Steering Committee, led by Gary Tippett, Peter Siegman and Grant Day, were keen to honour the history of Emerald.
They contacted the local historical society to discuss the history of the site to gain information to establish an appropriate name.
