Kathleen Geerin (left) was born in Dunedin in 1879, the daughter of an Irish police sergeant. A gifted singer and musician, she made a living as a music teacher. Kathleen threw herself into patriotic activity during the First World War, helping to organise fundraisers and canvass Dunedin locals in support of Belgium. She was particularly active in the Mornington area where, alongside Katherine Rattray, she was one of the leaders of the Mornington Women’s Patriotic Association. Kathleen and Katherine were among the association’s most dedicated workers. In recognition of her support of Belgium during the war, Kathleen was awarded the Médaille de la Reine Elisabeth (Queen Elisabeth Medal). She continued her voluntary work in the post war years, serving as secretary of the Overseas League for 10 years, eventually stepping down in 1941.
Family information
Parents: Michael James Geerin and Kate Geerin (née Kane)
Born: 1879
Died: 9 January 1967, aged 88
Buried: Southern Cemetery, Dunedin, Block 61R, Plot 2
Active in: Dunedin
Obituary/death notice:
Geerin, Kathleen – On January 9, 1967, at Dunedin, loved daughter of the late Michael James and Kate Geerin. R.I.P. – Requiem Mass at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Tomorrow (Thursday), January 12, at 9 a.m., the Funeral leaving after the Mass for the Andersons Bay cemetery. Rosary this evening (Wednesday), January 11, at 7.15 – Hugh Gourley, Ltd. Funeral directors.
Otago Daily Times, 11 January 1967, p. 3
Selected sources
'The Cry of the Belgians', Otago Daily Times, 8 July 1916, p. 3
'Salvation Army War Work Appeal', Otago Daily Times, 7 February 1918, p. 4
'Otago's Tribute to France', Otago Daily Times, 20 July 1918, p. 7
'Belgian Awards for Dunedin Women', Otago Daily Times, 5 January 1920, p. 6
'Personal', Auckland Star, 8 January 1920, p. 4
'Personal and Social', Otago Daily Times, 27 December 1941, p. 5
Otago Daily Times, 11 January 1967, p. 3
Community contributions