The Late Gilbert J. Smith

The late Gilbert J. Smith, whose death

at Nyngan the previous day was briefly

mentioned in the last issue of the "Sunday

Times," was a well-known figure in the

Australian theatrical world. In 1883 he

started in Brisbane as a theatrical wig-

maker, and soon after he became lessee of

the local Gaiety Theatre, which he success-

fully conducted for some time. Later on

he established a theatrical costume business

known as "Noah's Ark" in the same city.

In 1891 he opened in Sydney, and remained

here up till the time of his death, with the

exception of occasional tours which he took

with different companies. While lessee of

the Gaiety Theatre in Castlereagh-street,

Mrs. Keightley appeared under his manage-

ment in "Bailed Up," a piece which had

been specially written for her. The de-

ceased made his will a couple of hours be-

fore his death, leaving his business to Miss

Lily Smith and Miss Harrie Courtney, his

manager (Lieut. Stephen J. Byrne) and Mr.

R. F. Brentnall being appointed the trustees.

The remains were interred at Nyngan with

Masonic honors, the local band and that of

Eroni Brothers' circus heading the funeral

procession. A monument will be placed

over the grave by the local Masons. For-

tunately the deceased left ample provision

for his mother, wife, and family.