The bond between brothers is marked by strength and unconditional love. In the heart of Suva, within the serene Thurston Gardens, two monuments serve as a poignant reminder of this brotherly affection.
This week, The Sunday Times team highlighted the clock tower and water fountain that were established by Sir Henry Marks in memory of his late brother, Gabriel J Marks, who was the first Lord Mayor of Suva. These structures are located just a short distance from the main entrance of the gardens.
Thurston Gardens, a well-loved oasis for those seeking relaxation, has its roots in history dating back to 1881 when it was initially known as Suva Botanical Gardens. In 1976, it was renamed to honor Sir John Bates Thurston, who served as Colonial Fiji’s fifth Governor from 1888 to 1897. The Suva City Council notes that Governor Thurston was a passionate amateur botanist with a deep affection for flora.
The gardens feature a variety of ornamental and timber trees, orchids, ferns, and numerous flowers and shrubs, many of which are endemic to Fiji. Apenisa, a groundskeeper at the gardens, enjoys the tranquility of his work environment. “It’s peaceful here; while working, I listen to the birds, smell the flowers, and feel the sun. It’s a unique work experience,” he shared.
The clock tower and the bandstand are located next to the Fiji Museum at one end of the gardens. A plaque above the entrance to the octagonal bandstand honors Gabriel J Marks, who was greatly cherished by the community. Tragically, on May 23, 1940, Marks and his wife Marion lost their lives when the RMS Empress of Ireland sank in Canada. The event shocked the citizens of Suva, prompting flags to be flown at half-mast as a sign of respect for the prominent couple.
According to records, Gabriel and Sir Henry were influential figures in Suva’s business landscape. Following Gabriel’s death, Sir Henry expanded the family business into what became known as Henry Marks and Company Ltd., one of Suva’s wealthiest enterprises during colonial times. Marks Street in Suva’s Central Business District and Marks Park are named in their honor.
After his brother’s passing, Sir Henry became a member of the Legislative Council in 1914 and continued to support the family business and community philanthropy. The clock tower and bandstand were built in 1918 by Henry Marks & Company Ltd.
Australian tourists Christiana and David, visiting aboard the Queen Elizabeth cruise ship, were moved by the story behind the clock tower. “The architectural beauty of the tower reflects the love Sir Henry had for his brother,” Christiana remarked. Meanwhile, tourist Ed Davey from England noted the historical significance of the now non-functional drinking fountain, which reads, “Presented by Henry Marks for the use of the public visiting these gardens. January 1914.”
The larger fountain and pool, adorned with a dolphin sculpture, are also dry today. Despite this, Thurston Gardens remain a significant part of Suva and Fiji’s heritage, with the clock tower and bandstand classified as Grade A heritage buildings of national importance since 1991.
Resident Maciu Salato hopes for funding to restore the gardens and its amenities, expressing, “I hope our Suva City Council and the government will allocate money for renovation work on the clock tower, bandstand, and dried fountains.”
A century later, the clock tower stands as a lasting symbol of brotherhood for Suva and its residents. Visitors to Thurston Gardens are encouraged to appreciate the structure and its commemorative plaque, which embodies a legacy of love and remembrance.