Person:Charles Brentwood (1)

Obituary for Charles Brentwood:

By the death, on June 10, of Mr Charles Thomas Langston Brentwood, highly-respected father of Harry Brentwood, Caulfield City Curator, a link with the early day of Caulfield was broken, for the deceased gentleman, who was aged 92 years, arrived in Caulfield 65 years ago and in the intervening half century, was identified with numerous public bodies and movements and catered specially for the enlightenment and entertainment of Caulfield youth.

The deceased gentleman was born in England and after serving for six years in the British Navy, arrived in Melbourne in the sailing ship Won-Poo' 73 years ago. After a brief term at Sandridge (now Port Melbourne) he went to reside in Glenrowan and while there had a thrilling encounter with the Kelly gang then at the height of their depredations.

It was in 1882 that he came to reside in Caulfield. He built his home at 90 Allison Road, married, and raised a family of one daughter and seven sons.

He had a rare love for youth and was ever devising means for them to employ their spare hours for entertainment or cultural purposes. His home was the scene of enjoyable youthful dancing parties every Saturday night, and Mr. Brentwood and his good lady proved delightful hosts.

In 1908 he founded the first boys gymnastic club in Caulfield, using the old horse tram-shed in Foster Street, Elsternwick, for that purpose. His club built up a membership over 200 and a great institution for the youth of the city and Mr. Brentwood became a figure of note for his continued to function for over 10 years. That was philanthropic interest in the youth of the day.

Mr. Brentwood was altogether a most estimable citizen. He took a lively interest in municipal elections until his retirement.

He was also a prominent member of St. Mary's Church of England congregation for over 60 years.