ANZAC Day 2020 – A Very Different Commemoration

ANZAC Cove

ANZAC Day 2020 presents itself as a very different day of commemoration to what we are used to and expect. COVID-19 has seen to that! However, this is not the first time ANZAC Day has been impacted by a pandemic. In 1919, ANZAC Day commemorations were also severely curtailed as a result of the Spanish Flu pandemic – marches, parades and ceremonies were cancelled much like this year’s ANZAC Day.

Lord Kitchner's bugler in 1915, Pvt Frank Inman of Australian Imperial Forces. Mr. Inman trumpeting at Anzac Day services on 25 April 1940. From the Matson Collection.
Lord Kitchner’s bugler in 1915, Pte Frank Inman of Australian Imperial Forces.  Pte Inman bugling at Anzac Day services on 25 April 1940. From the Matson Collection.

Modern technology has, however, changed the way ANZAC Day was commemorated in 2020. A hidden treasure trove of photos of the ANZACs has been rediscovered in the digital archives of the US Library of Congress. Many of the photos are available to the public on the Library’s website. Why not read the full ABC story and spend a bit of time on ANZAC Day enjoying these wonderful photos.

We also have a number of stories in our HAFS Journals that members can access online (see Related Posts, below). These stories were written by members about their own experiences or about their ancestors.

The National Film and Sound Archive of Australia also has a selection of film clips commemorating the ANZACs and ANZAC Days of the past which make for some intersting viewing. You can also search “ANZAC” on this site for further ANZAC materials.

Do you have a box of photos hidden in your attic? Do you know the stories of your parents and grandparents? You might feel too busy to write a story, but it’s an interesting and enjoyable activity to ask your elders about the past. Turn on the video or voice recorder on your phone and start asking questions. We can help you archive and share memories through our website or journal.

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