Welcome to the website of the Ryde District Historical Society Inc.

Our Latest Publications

Field of Mars Cemetery, Ryde. Signs of Remembrance: How to ‘read’ the Field of Mars Cemetery
By Christine Sanderson with Kim Phillips

The Field of Mars cemetery emerged during the great Victorian age of cemeteries when people believed they should be within beautiful landscapes where families could walk, remember and reflect. Trees, winding roads and impressive monumental architecture were deliberately used to create places of contemplation and quiet reflection. While the 20th century became a time of increasing simplicity in memorialisation, there remained the desire to preserve the identity and memory of the deceased.

$20 + $5 postage – see book order form for details

From Linseed to Landscape The Legacy of Harold Meggitt at Gladesville

By Helen Patterson

This publication explores the industrial legacy of Harold Meggitt’s pioneer linseed oil mill in Gladesville, detailing its 1923 origins, innovative manufacturing, and 1970s transformation into public parkland. The publication also includes the story of saving Rockend Cottage (the former home of Banjo Paterson) from demolition.

$20 + $5 postage – see book order form for details

Our mission is to collect, research and promote our historical heritage, and encourage and assist research into family history.