Around 80 people gathered at the old cemetery on the corner of Guyton St and Heads Rd yesterday to remember one of Whanganui's most significant citizens.
November 20 was the birth date of Henry Sarjeant and his recently restored grave was re-dedicated with a karakia delivered by kaumatua John Maihi, followed by a blessing from Archdeacon Stuart Goodin.
Henry Sarjeant, who was a patron of the arts in Whanganui, died in 1912, leaving a bequest of £30,000 for the establishment of an art gallery.
The gallery was named after him, and was opened in September 1919.
Mayor Hamish McDouall, Councillor Josh Chandulal-Mackay and Whanganui MP Chester Borrows attended the ceremony and placed flowers at the graveside.