A Tragic Connection: The Ly-ee-Moon Disaster
In 1886, Mary MacKillop’s mother, Flora, tragically lost her life when the Ly-ee-Moon ship struck rocks off Green Cape, south of Eden. Of the 86 passengers aboard, only 15 survived. Flora had been travelling to Sydney to support a fundraising bazaar for the Sisters of St Joseph when the disaster occurred.
After several agonising days, Flora’s body was recovered by Nurse Emily Strangewidge and Constable Davis. Her remains were brought to Eden Wharf, where James and Anne Power, owners of the Pier Hotel, provided a room for her. The Eden community came together to pray and honour Flora until her cousin John MacKillop could escort her body to Sydney for burial.
Mary's Gratitude to Eden
Deeply moved by the kindness shown by the people of Eden, Mary MacKillop sent three Sisters of St Joseph to the town in 1891. Their mission was to establish St Joseph's School, which they set up in the church that now houses the Mary MacKillop Museum. Mary herself visited the school in 1899 and again in 1901, spending time with the children and supporting the Sisters in their work.
The Mary MacKillop Museum Today
Situated in a beautifully restored 1860s church, the Mary MacKillop Museum offers an inspiring insight into Mary’s life and her profound connection to Eden. Visitors can explore historical memorabilia and pictorial displays that celebrate her story of faith, resilience, and service.
The museum was lovingly restored by volunteers and reopened in 2004. Perched on a hill with commanding views of Twofold Bay, the museum’s location adds to its spiritual significance, providing a peaceful and reflective space to honour Mary’s legacy.