HerStory
Mary Jane Catherine/Kathleen KUHN
Also known as: née Ross, Cookie, Kitty, Ma, Sandhill Gertie
Born: 20 June 1896
Died: 23/06/1966
Resources
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Image - Mary Jane Kathleen Kuhn
Photo provided by, and used with permission of, her daughter Anne Marlene née Kuhn. From NPWHF Mary Jane Kathleen KUHN file.
Copyright unknown
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References
Cockrill, Pauline. (1999). Healing the Heart: 60 Years of Alice Springs Hospital 1939-1999. Alice Springs, NT: Alice Springs Hospital’s 60th anniversary reunion organizing committee. p. 46.
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References
Petrick, Jose. (2010, November). The History of Alice Springs through Landmarks & Street Names. St Marys, South Australia: Openbook Howden Design and Print. p. 106.
KUHN COURT
Christopher William Kuhn - Commonwealth Railway employee.
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Chris and his wife Mary (nee Ross) lived for some time at Irripitana Siding, 24 km south of William Creek, SA, and followed the line as it progressed north.
They brought up 12 children during their isolated, harsh and nomadic life on the railway outposts. Their hospitality was well-known and they befriended many travellers.
In addition, Mary wrote letters to columnists Madame Wu and Elizabeth George in the Adelaide Chronicle, using the pen name ‘Sand hill Gertie’.
The family moved to Alice Springs after the tragic death of their daughter Denine, due to harsh conditions.
Mary became cook at the old Alice Springs Hospital where she worked for many years and helped care for the sick Aboriginal children.
…Mary died in 1966.
They were survived by their children …
