Wagga Wagga History
The Salvos’ first meeting in Wagga Wagga was held in a large, empty store in 1886. Nearly 130 years later, the Army continues its thriving ministry in the southern NSW city.
What's in a name?
The Salvation Army in Australia has long been known as the “Salvos” – a term of endearment given to it by the public it serves. But in the early days it seems that each local expression of The Salvat...
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The early days
The Salvation Army began in Wagga on Saturday 6 March 1886, under founding officers Captain Bryant and Lieutenant Joseph Clarke, in a large empty store that was furnished with lighting and seating by a local Wagga reside...
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Early Opposition
The Salvos met with hard times back then, especially from what was known as “The Skeleton Army” – a group of local larrikins determined to disrupt this new “Army” that was suddenly marc...
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In times of need
It’s often said that The Salvation Army has a ministry of “presence” – of being there in times of need. The Murrumbidgee River has experienced several flooding incidents over the years and The...
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Guarding the young
For many years, Lifesaving Guards and Sunbeams were an important part of Salvation Army life and in the Australia Eastern Territory, Mabel Ward played a significant part.
A keen sunbeam
In October 1924, Mabelȁ...
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Always about people finding freedom
From its early days when The Salvation Army band used to march down Wagga’s main street, to today when Salvos can be found serving coffee or teaching budgeting skills; one thing has remained the same. The Salvatio...
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