Emma Pritchard

Clarence River Historical Society (CRHS) volunteers were thrilled to welcome the 2023 Jacaranda Royal Party to Schaeffer House Museum on November 3, and escorted them on a guided tour through the heritage listed property which houses a spectacular collection of local history and precious community keepsakes.

As the first gentleman to be crowned during the Grafton Jacaranda Festival in over 80 years, 2023 Jacaranda King Toby Power was honoured by CRHS volunteers who dressed one of their mannequins to replicate him as they paid homage to his commencing reign.

CRHS President Steve Tranter also presented Mr Power with a second crown during his visit, and said it was always wonderful to welcome special guests to Schaeffer House Museum during the Grafton Jacaranda Festival.

As he admired the variety of artefacts on display, Mr Power said it was the first time he had stepped into the museum for several years, adding his previous visit had been during a school excursion.

2023 Jacaranda Princess and self-described “history buff” Talissa (Tilly) Sparrow was enthralled by her first visit to Schaeffer House Museum last week and said she would definitely return “as soon as possible.”

Like Mr Power, 2023 Matron of Honour Renee Hankinson told the Clarence Valley Independent she had last visited the museum during a school excursion, while 2023 Jacaranda candidate Sarah Langford said she enjoyed visiting the property for the first time.