SES Open Day...Page 4 Hearse turns 100

celebrating 100 years

Volunteers and townspeople gathered at the Mount Morgan Historical Museum on Saturday, 12 June to celebrate the 100th birthday of the 1921 Buick Hearse. Donated by the Tucker family (of Tucker and Nankevill Funeral Directors connections) in the 1960’s, when the museum was located in East Street. The Buick was the first motorised hearse in Mount Morgan and was last used in 1961 for the funeral of Gwen Scott’s (treasurer at the museum) grandmother. Paul Tucker, the grandson of the hearse’s owner was on hand to cut the cake which was made and decorated by Gwen Scott. The cake boasted a picture of the hearse. The hearse still works (although it is in need of a few minor repairs), but at 100 years, it could be forgiven for needing a part or two. Local Funeral director Brian Glover, drove the hearse in the Golden Mount Festival about three years ago. Getting in and out of the driver’s seat is also a feat in itself as Dianne and Robyn (pictured above) found out. Even Paul Tucker tried the driver’s seat for size. Rockhampton Regional Councillor Ellen Smith was also in attendance. Cr Smith marvelled at the etched glass on the hearse. The Mount Morgan Historical Museum is open seven days a week from 10 am to 4 pm and houses the many treasures of Mount Morgan’s wonderful past. From time to time, items such as the hearse, a special bicycle and a 1942 International Fire Engine are taken out for special occasions.