At the base of this marble cross on James Donnithorne's grave are the words, "and also Eliza Emily", a person about whom little is known, yet who is one of the most famous of the cemetery's residents.

Eliza Donnithorne lived in Camperdown Lodge, an imposing residence on King Street, Newtown. On her wedding day, when the table was laid and the guests were all met, she waited and waited, but the bridegroom did not arrive. Eventually the guests went home. The wedding breakfast remained on the table until the day she died (in 1886).

Does this tale sound familiar? It is speculated that Charles Dickens, through his friendship with Caroline Chisholm, a neighbour of the Donnithornes, may have used this sad story as the inspiration for Miss Havisham in Great Expectations.

More information about Eliza, the Bridal Banquet and Miss Havisham of Great Expectations