Marble Bar Old Cemetery

Statement of Significance

The old Marble Bar Cemetery has historical significance as many of Marble Bar's pioneers lie buried there.
Also historically significant are the causes of deaths listed (fever, typhoid, heat, thirst, accident and self inflicted) as well as the significant numbers of babies who died of heat exhaustion. It is a tribute to the courageous young men who died tragically far from home and loved ones during the gold rush days. Among those buried there were the first doctor, the first European lady, the finder of tin in the Pilbara, early teamsters, prospectors, adventurers and heroes. John Slattery, a pioneer prospector of the Kimberley, was buried here in July 1895.

Physical Description

Early maps show this area as Reserve 4783 with an area of 10 acres. It is approximately 2 kms west of Marble Bar, just off the Goodabinya Reserve access road. It is a fenced area of low hilled spinifex with a creek coursing through the centre. The cemetery is in parts overgrown, though some grave sites are well defined with tombstones and fences. For the most part the graves are unmarked and unnumbered, dating back to 1892. Records were never maintained and sites are difficult to identify. It is estimated that several hundred unmarked graves are housed in this cemetery which is now closed to further burials.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.