Curio

State Library of New South Wales
Order of the Knight Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George awarded to Sir Henry Parkes

Order of the Knight Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George awarded to Sir Henry Parkes

R & S Garrard & Co. Goldsmiths & Jewellers To The Crown, London

SAFE / DR 150

SAFE / DR 151

Sir William Dixson bequest, 1952


For a man born into poverty and with little formal education, Henry Parkes (1815–1896) achieved great things in his life as evidenced by this regalia. Founded in 1818, the British Monarchy awards this Order to men and women of high office, or who render extraordinary or important non-military service in a foreign country.

Parkes arrived in Sydney in 1839 as a poor 24-year-old migrant from England with his young wife and newborn child and continued to fight poverty and ill health for the rest of his life. He also managed to become the largest figure of nineteenth century Australian politics, being one of the most influential advocates for the federation of the Australian colonies. 


Parkes was appointed K.C.M.G. in 1877 and G.C.M.G. in 1888.


Parkes was the father of 17 children to three wives.


Sir Henry Parkes’ occupations:

Anti-transportationist

Federationist

Free trade politician

Journalist

Member of Lower House

Member of Upper House

Newspaper editor

Newspaper owner

Opposition leader

Poet

Political activist

Premier


Queen Elizabeth presented actress Angelina Jolie with the insignia of an Honorary Dame Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of St Michael and St George in 2014. 


The Order's motto is Auspicium melioris aevi ('Token of a better age') 


Bearded after 1861, he was always physically impressive, though imposing rather than handsome

AW Martin, Australian Dictionary of Biography


Parkes is remembered as the ‘Father of Federation’


Parkes became Premier of the colony of New South Wales five times.


Parkes introduced the public education system in NSW.