Last Tuesday, Year 2D experienced a remarkable and moving occasion during Book Week thanks to one of our class members, Harvey.
Three generations from the Shelton family, that is Harvey, his mother Flip and grandfather from Avenel joined us in our 2D classroom for the visit of Perth author, Mark Greenwood. Mark wrote a historical picture book called Ned Kelly and the Green Sash, which details how as a young boy Ned Kelly risked his own life to rescue another boy from a swift flowing creek. That lucky boy, saved by Ned Kelly, was the great, great grandfather of Harvey in 2D. Harvey’s ancestors gave a green sash to Ned Kelly in recognition of his brave and humane act in saving their son. Ned Kelly was wearing that same green sash, now a museum piece, during his last stand.
Mark was a phenomenal storyteller, with his original photos he captivated his audience with the Ned Kelly story. Although Mark had had contact with the Shelton family while researching his book, he had not personally met them. Flip generously contacted him on behalf of the class and he graciously attended our class for free, meeting three generations of Sheltons.
Harvey was presented with a signed copy of another Mark Greenwood book, Lassiter’s Gold, and an original printer’s illustration from the book Ned Kelly and The Green Sash, depicting Harvey’s relatives long ago at their home presenting Ned Kelly with the green sash.
We were privileged to be part of such a special get together and to be so inspired by an author who made history come alive. A big thanks to Flip, Harvey’s mother, for arranging this touching event.