OBITUARY

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21763, 31 March 1934, Page 11

OBITUARY

SIR JOSIAH SYMON A FRAMER OF CONSTITUTION (Received Mnrch 30. 5.5 p.m.) ADELAIDE, March 30 The death has occurred of Sir Josiah Symon, one of the framers of the Federal constitution and a member of the first Commonwealth Senate, aged 87. The late Sir Josiah Symon. K.C., was born at Wick. Scotland. Early in life lie showed the promise that was to reach brilliant fulfilment. At 15 he was dux of his school; at 20 he arrived in South Australia, and soon after attracted the attention of the late Sir Samuel Way, afterward Chief Justice. He completed his articles with Sir Samuel, and was called to the South Australian Bar at the age of 25. Sir Josiah made political history by being selected for the office of State Attornev-General before he was elected to Parliament. That was in 1881. He was an outstanding figure in the convention which framed the constitution of the Commonwealth, and m the Federal Senate, where for 13 years bo endeavoured to co-ordinate State rights and the claims of federalism. Twice be topped the Senate poll. He wis Federal Attorney-Genera! from 1904 to 1005. Poetry and literature rrenerallv wore probably the chief interests of Sir Josiah. He was the senior K C M.G. in Australia, and was the recognised leader of the Bar till he retired in 1028. Among Sir Josinh's publications are "Shakespeare the Englishman " studies in poetry, and in speeches and lectures particularly oil federation. He possessed one of the'finest libraries in South Australia, and a notable art collection, including autographed portraits of eminent British statesmen with whom he conferred personally on federation in 1809. He established scholarshipsm Svdnev University for English I terature in the Scotch College, Adelaide, and Stirling Higb School. He an\e the Ladv Svmon Building, for the Women s Union, 'Adelaide University; benevolent funds for Wick and Stirling, Scotland; built the Northcote Rest Home for mothers and bnjnos and the Elizabeth Symon Nursing Home at mnaniinieka.