Showing 80 items
matching british literature
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Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Letter (re Len Groat)
This object relates to John Leonard GROAT. He was born on 1/02/1897 in Ballarat, VIC. John Leonard served in the AIF (12458) enlisting on, 21/10/1915 in Ballarat, VIC before being killed in action on duties with the 10th FLD AMBUL as a Army Non-Commissioned Lance Corporal / Lance Bombardier (LCPL/LBDR) on 16/10/1917. John Leonard GROAT was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Frederick Thomas GROAT (Father). John Groat was awarded the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV.To "Mr Walter Wm Beard . . . Gloucester Shire, England" From "Charlie"first world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Poem - "An Echo from the Front to a Mother"
This object relates to John Leonard GROAT. He was born on 1/02/1897 in Ballarat, VIC. John Leonard served in the AIF (12458) enlisting on, 21/10/1915 in Ballarat, VIC before being killed in action on duties with the 10th FLD AMBUL as a Army Non-Commissioned Lance Corporal / Lance Bombardier (LCPL/LBDR) on 16/10/1917. John Leonard GROAT was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Frederick Thomas GROAT (Father). John Groat was awarded the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV.first world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Letter - Re Victory Medal
This object relates to John Leonard GROAT. He was born on 1/02/1897 in Ballarat, VIC. John Leonard served in the AIF (12458) enlisting on, 21/10/1915 in Ballarat, VIC before being killed in action on duties with the 10th FLD AMBUL as a Army Non-Commissioned Lance Corporal / Lance Bombardier (LCPL/LBDR) on 16/10/1917. John Leonard GROAT was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Frederick Thomas GROAT (Father). John Groat was awarded the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV.first world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
In Memoriam
... , British Military Medal GV. Literature Ballarat RSL Ballarat ...This object relates to John Leonard GROAT. He was born on 1/02/1897 in Ballarat, VIC. John Leonard served in the AIF (12458) enlisting on, 21/10/1915 in Ballarat, VIC before being killed in action on duties with the 10th FLD AMBUL as a Army Non-Commissioned Lance Corporal / Lance Bombardier (LCPL/LBDR) on 16/10/1917. John Leonard GROAT was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Frederick Thomas GROAT (Father). John Groat was awarded the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV."Dear Len" 20.11.17literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Ticket - The Methodist Church of Australasia
This object relates to John Leonard GROAT. He was born on 1/02/1897 in Ballarat, VIC. John Leonard served in the AIF (12458) enlisting on, 21/10/1915 in Ballarat, VIC before being killed in action on duties with the 10th FLD AMBUL as a Army Non-Commissioned Lance Corporal / Lance Bombardier (LCPL/LBDR) on 16/10/1917. John Leonard GROAT was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Frederick Thomas GROAT (Father). John Groat was awarded the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV."Quarterly ticket for June, 1917" issued to Len Groatfirst world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Letterhead - YMCA (logo only)
This object relates to John Leonard GROAT. He was born on 1/02/1897 in Ballarat, VIC. John Leonard served in the AIF (12458) enlisting on, 21/10/1915 in Ballarat, VIC before being killed in action on duties with the 10th FLD AMBUL as a Army Non-Commissioned Lance Corporal / Lance Bombardier (LCPL/LBDR) on 16/10/1917. John Leonard GROAT was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Frederick Thomas GROAT (Father). John Groat was awarded the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV.first world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Newspaper Cutting
... Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV. Literature ...This object relates to John Leonard GROAT. He was born on 1/02/1897 in Ballarat, VIC. John Leonard served in the AIF (12458) enlisting on, 21/10/1915 in Ballarat, VIC before being killed in action on duties with the 10th FLD AMBUL as a Army Non-Commissioned Lance Corporal / Lance Bombardier (LCPL/LBDR) on 16/10/1917. John Leonard GROAT was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Frederick Thomas GROAT (Father). John Groat was awarded the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV."Dominion Troops Say Farewell"literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Booklet - "USA"
... Groat was awarded the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British ...This object relates to John Leonard GROAT. He was born on 1/02/1897 in Ballarat, VIC. John Leonard served in the AIF (12458) enlisting on, 21/10/1915 in Ballarat, VIC before being killed in action on duties with the 10th FLD AMBUL as a Army Non-Commissioned Lance Corporal / Lance Bombardier (LCPL/LBDR) on 16/10/1917. John Leonard GROAT was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Frederick Thomas GROAT (Father). John Groat was awarded the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV."A Portrait in Miniature of America and Americans in Wartime"literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Publication - "An Appreciation. Arch of Victory & Avenue of Honour Ballarat"
... the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV ...This object relates to John Leonard GROAT. He was born on 1/02/1897 in Ballarat, VIC. John Leonard served in the AIF (12458) enlisting on, 21/10/1915 in Ballarat, VIC before being killed in action on duties with the 10th FLD AMBUL as a Army Non-Commissioned Lance Corporal / Lance Bombardier (LCPL/LBDR) on 16/10/1917. John Leonard GROAT was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Frederick Thomas GROAT (Father). John Groat was awarded the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV."Second Edition. Proceeds for Avenue of Honour Fund"literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Leaflet - "Manifesto to Australian Soldiers"
... the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV ...This object relates to John Leonard GROAT. He was born on 1/02/1897 in Ballarat, VIC. John Leonard served in the AIF (12458) enlisting on, 21/10/1915 in Ballarat, VIC before being killed in action on duties with the 10th FLD AMBUL as a Army Non-Commissioned Lance Corporal / Lance Bombardier (LCPL/LBDR) on 16/10/1917. John Leonard GROAT was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Frederick Thomas GROAT (Father). John Groat was awarded the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV.A declaration of policiesliterature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Newspaper cuttings x 5
... the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV ...This object relates to John Leonard GROAT. He was born on 1/02/1897 in Ballarat, VIC. John Leonard served in the AIF (12458) enlisting on, 21/10/1915 in Ballarat, VIC before being killed in action on duties with the 10th FLD AMBUL as a Army Non-Commissioned Lance Corporal / Lance Bombardier (LCPL/LBDR) on 16/10/1917. John Leonard GROAT was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Frederick Thomas GROAT (Father). John Groat was awarded the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV."Salutes from the Wounded"; "A Soldier's Reflections"; "The King's Message"; "The Oversight"; "Helersy"literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Bereavement Card
This object relates to Wallace Clement TAYLOR. He was born on 1/01/1897 in Ballarat, VIC. Wallace Clement served in the AIF (8220) enlisting on, 08/04/1915 in Ballarat, VIC before being discharged from duties with the 4 FIELD AMBULANCE as a Army Non-Commissioned Private (PTE) on 02/08/1919. Wallace Clement TAYLOR was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Clara TAYLOR (Mother). Wallace Taylor was awarded the Victory Medal, British War Medal, 1914 Star."In Loving Memory of A T Batten"first world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Letter
This object relates to John Leonard GROAT. He was born on 1/02/1897 in Ballarat, VIC. John Leonard served in the AIF (12458) enlisting on, 21/10/1915 in Ballarat, VIC before being killed in action on duties with the 10th FLD AMBUL as a Army Non-Commissioned Lance Corporal / Lance Bombardier (LCPL/LBDR) on 16/10/1917. John Leonard GROAT was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Frederick Thomas GROAT (Father). John Groat was awarded the British War Medal, Victory Medal, British Military Medal GV.From War Office to Pte J L GROAT re photograph of the grave of Pte A T Battenfirst world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Letters - Various
This object relates to Jack WILLIAMS. He was born on 1/01/1893 in Ballarat, VIC. Jack served in the Army (92) enlisting on, 24/08/1914 in Ballarat, VIC before being discharged from duties with the 8 Battalion as a Army Non-Commissioned Private (PTE) on 20/11/1918. Jack WILLIAMS was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Mr & Mrs Williams, 907 Urquhart St. Jack Williams was awarded the 1914-1915 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal.literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Service Records
This object relates to John William WOOD. He was born on 23/11/1892 in Ararat, VIC. John William served in the AIF (2177) enlisting on, 15/05/1916 in Ballarat, VIC before being discharged from duties with the 39th BATTN as a Army Non-Commissioned Private (PTE) on 24/12/1917. John William WOOD was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is William Bloomfield WOOD (Father). John Wood was awarded the British War Medaland the, Victory Medal.second world war (ww2), 1939 - 1945, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Post Cards (4) Emroidered
This object relates to William Henry FERGEUS. He was born on 1/01/1888 in Maryborough, VIC. William Henry served in the AIF (4185) enlisting on, 12/07/1915 in Maryborough, VIC before being discharged from duties with the 14th BATTALION as a Army Non-Commissioned Sergeant (SGT) on 15/08/1919. William Henry FERGEUS was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Mrs M FERGEUS (Mother). William Fergeus was awarded the British Military Medal GV.first world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Book - "The Battle of Britain August-October 1940
This object relates to Jeffrey Victor DALE. He was born on 12/11/1918 in Melbourne, VIC. Jeffrey Victor served in the RAAF (252753 / 213390) enlisting on, 13/02/1939 in Canterbury, VIC before being discharged from duties with the I PERSONNEL DEPOT STAFF as a RAAF Commissioned Flight Lieutenant (FLTLT) on 26/11/1945. Jeffrey Victor DALE was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Valerie DALE.second world war (ww2), 1939 - 1945, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Army Driving Licence - AMF
This object relates to Henry Walter MOORE. He was born on 1/02/1890 in Coburg, VIC. Henry Walter served in the AIF (24) enlisting on, 19/08/1914 in Coburg, VIC before being discharged from duties with the 1ST SQD AFC as a AIF - AFC Non-Commissioned Air Mechanic - 2nd class (2/AM) on 04/05/1919. Henry Walter MOORE was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Miss W MOORE. Henry Moore was awarded the British War Medal.second world war (ww2), 1939 - 1945, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Soldier's Pay Book
This object relates to Herbert Swain GREENING. He was born on 1/01/1891 in Ballarat, VIC. Herbert Swain served in the AIF (3292) enlisting on, 13/07/1915 in Ballarat, VIC before being discharged from duties with the 5 BATTALION as a Army Non-Commissioned Private (PTE) on 15/02/1918. Herbert Swain GREENING was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Mrs. M. Greening - Mother. Herbert Greening was awarded the 1914-1915 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal.Pay book in coverPay Book Front - Handwritten "Pte H S Greening" and "3292" Cover - Handwritten "3292" "Pte H S Gree (illegible)" "5th Batt" "A I F"first world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Certificate of Discharge
This object relates to Herbert Swain GREENING. He was born on 1/01/1891 in Ballarat, VIC. Herbert Swain served in the AIF (3292) enlisting on, 13/07/1915 in Ballarat, VIC before being discharged from duties with the 5 BATTALION as a Army Non-Commissioned Private (PTE) on 15/02/1918. Herbert Swain GREENING was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is Mrs. M. Greening - Mother. Herbert Greening was awarded the 1914-1915 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal.first world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
New Testament (in pouch)
This object relates to Herbert Swain Greening. He was born on 1/01/1891 in Ballarat, Victoria. Herbert Swain served in the AIF (3292) enlisting on 13/07/1915 in Ballarat, Victoria before being discharged from duties with the 5 Battalion as a Army Non-Commissioned Private on 15/02/1918, being determined medically unfit for service. Herbert Swain sustained a gunshot wound to his wrist during service. Herbert Swain Greening's next of kin is Mrs. M. Greening - Mother. Herbert Greening was awarded the 1914-1915 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal.Pocket New Testament with navy ribbon bookmark attached to top of spine, pages edged in gold, in canvas pouch with metal press stud. Interior inscriptions include lists of places where Private Greening traveled on service as well as a personal message. Pouch - "3292 Pte H S Greening. B Coy 5th Battn" Testament - Front & back - List of towns/cities & dates; Names, service numbers & addresses Inscription - "To my dearest brother Charlie, as a loving keepsake from Nellie. Knowing that whenever you look at it you will think of those who love you and who will always be thinking of you. God grant you good health and a safe return. Your loving sister, Nellie"first world war, world war one, the great war, 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Certificate of Discharge
This object relates to Herman Claude BENHAM. He was born on 1/07/1895 in Geelong, VIC. Herman Claude served in the AIF (3690) enlisting on, 13/08/1915 in Drysdale, VIC before being discharged from duties with the 7TH BATTALION as a Army Non-Commissioned Private (PTE) on 25/03/1919. Herman Claude BENHAM was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is James BENHAM (Father). Herman Benham was awarded the British War Medal and the 1914-1915 Star.first world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Soldier's Pay Book - on Active Service
This object relates to Herman Claude BENHAM. He was born on 1/07/1895 in Geelong, VIC. Herman Claude served in the AIF (3690) enlisting on, 13/08/1915 in Drysdale, VIC before being discharged from duties with the 7TH BATTALION as a Army Non-Commissioned Private (PTE) on 25/03/1919. Herman Claude BENHAM was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is James BENHAM (Father). Herman Benham was awarded the British War Medal and the 1914-1915 Star.first world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Post Card - Field Service
This object relates to Herman Claude BENHAM. He was born on 1/07/1895 in Geelong, VIC. Herman Claude served in the AIF (3690) enlisting on, 13/08/1915 in Drysdale, VIC before being discharged from duties with the 7TH BATTALION as a Army Non-Commissioned Private (PTE) on 25/03/1919. Herman Claude BENHAM was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is James BENHAM (Father). Herman Benham was awarded the British War Medal and the 1914-1915 Star.To "Miss Myrtle Kent, Portarlington, Victoria, Australia", From "H C Benham, 18 February 1917"first world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Post Card Book - Egypt
This object relates to Herman Claude BENHAM. He was born on 1/07/1895 in Geelong, VIC. Herman Claude served in the AIF (3690) enlisting on, 13/08/1915 in Drysdale, VIC before being discharged from duties with the 7TH BATTALION as a Army Non-Commissioned Private (PTE) on 25/03/1919. Herman Claude BENHAM was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is James BENHAM (Father). Herman Benham was awarded the British War Medal and the 1914-1915 Star.first world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Card - "Lastest WAR Bit"
This object relates to Herman Claude BENHAM. He was born on 1/07/1895 in Geelong, VIC. Herman Claude served in the AIF (3690) enlisting on, 13/08/1915 in Drysdale, VIC before being discharged from duties with the 7TH BATTALION as a Army Non-Commissioned Private (PTE) on 25/03/1919. Herman Claude BENHAM was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is James BENHAM (Father). Herman Benham was awarded the British War Medal and the 1914-1915 Star."With love from Winnie J"first world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Ballarat RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Rationing Order
This object relates to Herman Claude BENHAM. He was born on 1/07/1895 in Geelong, VIC. Herman Claude served in the AIF (3690) enlisting on, 13/08/1915 in Drysdale, VIC before being discharged from duties with the 7TH BATTALION as a Army Non-Commissioned Private (PTE) on 25/03/1919. Herman Claude BENHAM was not a prisoner of war. His next of kin is James BENHAM (Father). Herman Benham was awarded the British War Medal and the 1914-1915 Star.first world war (ww1), 1914 - 1918, literature, ballarat rsl, ballarat -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book, Cyclopædia of English Literature Vol 1
This book was part of a large group of books referred to as the Pattison Collection, which belonged to the Warrnambool Public Library, part of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute. About RALPH ERIC PATTISON and the ‘PATTISON COLLECTION’ The ‘Pattison Collection’ is a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities, are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the WMI was led to ask the City Council to take it over in 1911 due to a lack of financial support. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Public Library as it was then called. Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up a home in Warrnambool. In 1935 when Pattison accepted the position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council his huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower areas of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave from 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However, he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. THE NEW WARRNAMBOOL LIBRARY When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Pattison. Eventually, the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. Cyclopædia of English Literature Vol 1 Edited by R Chambers Publisher: William and Robert Chambers A history, critical and biographical, of British authors from the earliest to the present times The label on the spine cover with typed text H 820 CHA Front loose end paper has a sticker from Corangamite Regional Library Service. flagstaff hil, warrnambool, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, cyclopædia of english literature vol 1, r chambers -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book, Cyclopædia of English Literature Vol 2
This book was part of a large group of books referred to as the Pattison Collection, which belonged to the Warrnambool Public Library, part of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute. About RALPH ERIC PATTISON and the ‘PATTISON COLLECTION’ The ‘Pattison Collection’ is a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities, are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the WMI was led to ask the City Council to take it over in 1911 due to a lack of financial support. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Public Library as it was then called. Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up a home in Warrnambool. In 1935 when Pattison accepted the position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council his huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower areas of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave from 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However, he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. THE NEW WARRNAMBOOL LIBRARY When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Pattison. Eventually, the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. Cyclopædia of English Literature Vol 2 Edited by R Chambers Publisher: William and Robert Chambers Further Information: A history, critical and biographical, of British authors from the earliest to the present timesThe label on the spine cover with typed text H 820 CHA Front loose end paper has a sticker from Corangamite Regional Library Service. flagstaff hil, warrnambool, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, cyclopædia of english literature vol 2 -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book, Jonathan Cape, Martin Arrowsmith, 1930
This book “Martin Arrowsmith” is a novel written by Sinclair Lewis. It was first published in 1925. Lewis won the 1926 Pulitzer Prize for this book but he declined the Prize. He had been helped in the writing of it by science writer Paul de Kruif, who received 25% of royalties on the sales. However, Lewis is listed as the sole author. About SINCLAIR LEWIS (1885-1951) The author was born as Harry Sinclair Lewis in 1885 in Sauk Centre, Minnesota. He was renowned as an American novelist, playwright and short story writer. His first writings were romantic poems and short stories. Six of his novels were published by the time Lewis was 36. Lewis received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1930 for his “vigorous and graphic art of description and his ability to create, with wit and humour, new types of characters." He was the first author from the United States to receive this award. Lewis graduated from university in 1907. He worked as a reporter and editor for several publications. He was a prolific writer, publishing dozens of works and numerous articles, and became popular for his satire. Lewis married and divorced twice and died alone from a heart attack due to advanced alcoholism) near Rome on 10th January 1951, aged 66. This book was part of a large group of books referred to as the Pattison Collection, which belonged to the Warrnambool Public Library, part of the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute. About RALPH ERIC PATTISON and the ‘PATTISON COLLECTION’ The ‘Pattison Collection’ is a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the WMI was led to ask the City Council to take it over in 1911 due to lack of financial support. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Public Library as it was then called. Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 when Pattison accepted the position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council his huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower areas of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave from 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However, he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. THE NEW WARRNAMBOOL LIBRARY When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Pattison. Eventually, the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. About BUTLER & TANNER LTD, Printers The company Butler & Tanner Ltd, of Great Britain, was established in France in 1845 as W.T. Butler, and in 1857 ran a steam printing works. The company was also known as B&T, and Butler, Tanner and Dennis. They continued in business for almost 170 years, sadly going into liquidation in 2014. The company was Britains ‘oldest and foremost colour printer’. Lewis’s book is significant for its association with the writer, who was the first American to be awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature (1930). This book is significant for its connection with the Pattison Collection which, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. Title: Martin Arrowsmith Author: Sinclair Lewis Publisher: Jonathan Cape, London Date: 1930 Edition: Hardback board book covered with red linen. Linen on the spine has faded to orange-brown. On the spine is a hand printed title and author, and a white adhesive label with a typed library call number. Inside the front cover is a printed label. On the book’s fly page is an oval stamp impression in purple ink, and handwritten pencilled numbers and letters. The book, a novel, is one of a Collected Edition published in 1929. It also belongs to the Pattison Collection originally belonging to the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, and the Warrnambool Public Library.Adhesive label on the spine - “PAT / FIC / LEW” Hand printed on the spine in black “MARTIN / ARROW - / SMITH” and “LEWIS” Purple stamp on fly page “WARRNAMBOOL / MECHANICS’ / INSTITUTE” Pencil text on fly page “PL (underlined) / W / 14217A” Printed label inside front cover from the Warrnambool Public Libraryflagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, book, pattison collection, warrnambool library, warrnambool public library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, ralph eric pattison, warrnambool books and records, corangamite regional library service, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool children’s library, american novel, jonathan cape, sinclair lewis, harry sinclair lewis, 1930 nobel prize for literature, pulitzer prize, bitler & tanner ltd, b & t