To mark the passing of American astronaut John Glenn – who famously labelled Perth as the City of Light – Council House will tonight display a tribute to his accomplishments.
Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi said John Glenn’s proclamation played a significant role in Perth’s history, promoting our Capital City on the world stage.
“In January 1962, NASA sent the first American astronaut to orbit the Earth and in true welcoming spirit, the people of Perth responded by switching all their lights on, creating a glow as the spacecraft soared overhead,” Ms Scaffidi said.
“Some residents even created backyard beacons using lanterns with sheets draped across clotheslines, and the City of Perth lit up street and park lighting to mark the auspicious occasion.
“From this pivotal moment in international scientific history, Perth became part of an exciting narrative and is now known around the world as the City of Light.”
In 2011, the City commemorated the social and cultural impacts of NASA’s flyover with an exhibition revisiting the remarkable events of 1962, which also included Perth’s hosting of the British Empire and Commonwealth Games.
“Perth is a vastly different City to what it was in 1962 and the nostalgia of the famous City of Light declaration reminds us of how Perth has emerged strongly through the decades,” the Lord Mayor said.
“Reflecting on landmark events in our history, we acknowledge and respect the admirable achievements of pioneers such as John Glenn, who has – in various ways – touched the lives of countless Perth residents since 1962.”
Tonight, a tribute to John Glenn will feature on Council House in the colours of the American flag.
Issued by: Caitlin Tiller, Media Advisor, 0437 814 514, Caitlin.Tiller@cityofperth.wa.gov.au
