Old Images of Rylstone District

This site was established by Wal Pilz (1927-2016) to share historical information depicted in photos and images of old scenes of the Rylstone District. Wal's belief was that sharing history was the best way to create a living history for Rylstone and the surrounding district. In Wal's memory, the site will continue to operate as an online database and you are invited to contribute images and information. Please comment or email Dan Hatton at oldimagesrylstonedistrict@gmail.com.

St Jude's Church, Capertee

Saint Jude's church in Capertee

Dating from the 1930s Saint Jude's church in Capertee is located at the northern end of the village on the Mudgee Road (Castlereagh Highway).

The exterior is constructed of painted corrugated iron while the interior consists of a nave and porch. Light comes from coloured glass, Gothic style, windows. Despite its architectural simplicity this church appeals to many, especially Christians who like an unpretentious location for prayer and contemplation.

This church is named in honour of the Apostle Saint Jude Thaddeus, the Catholic saint of lost causes. Hopefully the long term survival of this building is not a lost cause.

Ref: Capertee Heritage

Rebecca Webdy (née Slapp) (1854-1935)

At St James' Rylstone, on 4 June 1873, she married Charles Thomas MASON (1859-1879)
Charles and Rebecca made their home at Ti Tree Flat. Sadly, Charles died on 24 July 1879, one month before he turned 28, leaving his wife Rebecca and their two young daughters.
Two years later, on 1 March 1881, the widowed Rebecca married her cousin George WEBDY (1858-1929)

Ref: Adel Firth-Mason

Ann Mason (née White)

George Mason and his wife Ann sailed for Australia on the “Stebonhearth” in 1858 accompanied by their children - Maria aged 10, Charles aged 7, William aged 5 and Frederick aged 2.
After they arrived in Australia 6 more children were born - Sarah 1859, Susan 1860, George 1866, Emma 1869, Elizabeth (Liz) 1871 and Francis (Frank) 1873.