ANZAC Display to Honour Local Heroes

Hosted by MCHL and created by former teacher and school parent Tracey Bewick Morritt, the display shares the personal stories of former pupils and staff who served and died in World War I and World War II. Through photographs, letters, service records, and family memories, the exhibition brings to life the names on the school’s memorials young men from Feilding who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Tracey was initially intrigued by the wooden name plaques honouring WWII heroes that still adorn the walls of Manchester Street School Hall, along with the intricately carved WWI lectern. Her curiosity about who these men were soon turned into a passionate project. Motivated to create a meaningful presentation for the school’s 150th celebration in November 2024, she spent three months immersed in research. The process involved many hours of work, which she found to be not only fascinating and compelling, but ultimately deeply rewarding.

“I feel incredibly honoured to have my research on display,” says Tracey. “It’s wonderful that the wider community will have the opportunity to learn about these local men, their families, and the legacies they left behind.”

The display also pays tribute to those who survived, and explores the school’s tradition of remembrance, including its WWII memorial art gallery and the stories behind Manchester Street School’s Memorial Hall.

This moving and beautifully curated presentation is open to the public and offers a meaningful way to reflect and remember during ANZAC Week.

All are welcome to visit the display at Te Āhuru Mōwai from April 21 to 28. Tracey used Feilding & District Heritage for her research. If you would like to do your own research

Heritage | Manawatū Community Hub Libraries is a great resource.

A complete listing of the Anzac commemorations around the district:

ANZAC DAY | Manawatū District Council