Now and Then - Speakers' Corner: Ron reviews this South Australian icon

The old Speakers' Corner is in Botanic Park - just behind the Zoo. It's where people gathered for a bit of rhetorical cut and thrust - often jousting over issues of politics and religion.

It was soapbox oratory of the sort usually associated with London's Hyde Park. But at times things got rough like the day in 1915 at the commencement of World War One. A member of the Australian Peace Alliance told the audience, which included a group of uniformed soldiers, that if they went to war, guns would be turned on them on their return.

Some of the soldiers rushed the speaker and according to local news reports, "handled him roughly". He was rescued by mounted police and taken to the safety of the Police Barracks on North Terrace. His supporters had to endure a barrage of stones and other missiles before order was restored.

These days it's all quiet at Speakers' Corner - except during Womadelaide when Botanic Park is again packed with those who come to hear the international language of music. If you have any further questions please email info@postcards-sa.com.au

Published 6th August 2006