Mounted Constable Harry Pearce memorial to be unveiled in Kingston SE

Mounted Constable Pearce, 24, was fatally wounded near Kingston in May 1881 while escorting a prisoner.

He was the second South Australian police officer murdered on duty and is among 62 officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice since SAPOL’s formation in 1838.

The memorial is a life‑size silhouette and accompanying plaque that has been delivered through a partnership between South Australia Police, the South Australian Police Historical Society and the Kingston District Council.

Commissioner of Police Grant Stevens will attend the ceremony alongside SAPOL members from the Limestone Coast, representatives from the Police Historical Society, Kingston District Council staff and elected members, and members of the local community. Descendants from the broader Pearce family are also expected to attend.

“Mounted Constable Pearce’s story remains an important part of our policing history,” Commissioner Stevens said.

“This memorial ensures his courage and service continue to be remembered by the community he served.”

The ceremony will include addresses from Commissioner Stevens, Kingston District Council Mayor Jeff Pope and Police Historical Society representative John White, with performances by the Band of the South Australia Police and the Kingston Combined Choir.

The public is invited to attend the unveiling at Lions Park, Marine Parade, Kingston SE.

Guests are asked to arrive from 10.30am for an 11am start. A community sausage sizzle hosted by the Lions Club of Kingston SE will follow the ceremony, with all proceeds going to local community projects.

Photos to come.