Cooper played a significant role in having Bankstown proclaimed a Municipal District in 1895 after organising the petition that prevented Bankstown being absorbed by Enfield or Auburn municipalities.
Cooper was elected Mayor on November 2, 1895 but less than a year later on June 13, 1896, resigned due to financial hardship caused by the depression.
He died aged 85 on September 22, 1918, and was buried in an unmarked grave.
However on March 14, 2001, the council erected a special headstone at Cooper’s grave to recognise his contribution to the formation of Bankstown.
On the last Friday of the month, with the last this year on December 30 and open for booking, Rookwood history tour visitors journey back in time through 150 years.
Tour guide Mark Bundy says he’s often asked who’s the most important person buried at Rookwood Cemetery?
“That’s always an easy question to answer because there are over one million important people buried here, all with their stories to tell,” he said.
Tours start with videos on Rookwood’s early beginnings, the railway which used to run through Rookwood from Mortuary Station and the hundreds of pauper graves of WWI soldiers.
Visitors will also see The Circle of Love, a beautiful area that honours children in the 19th century; Martyrs Memorial, a moving tribute to those who lost their lives in Holocaust; Saint Athanasios Greek Church, Australia’s only Greek Church in a cemetery; Chapel and Mausoleum of Eternal Rest; and The Cottage which is the original office of the former Independent Trust.
“Walking tours are available on request but you’ll see more when you bring your own vehicle,” Mark said.
On offer for three hours and starting at 9am, tours can be booked by calling 8575 8100 or tours@rookwoodcemetery.com.au.
