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Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Badge, MN, circa 1940
Badge officially issued, from January 1940, to all Merchant Navy Officers and Men as a form of identity and to fulfil the role of a National Service Badge. This badge has been designated as a scarce example (AMSA) of a WW2 Merchant Navy Official issue MN War Service silver badge The term Merchant Navy was coined by King George V in 1919, as recognition of the sacrifice made by merchant seafarers during the First World War. Before the term "mercantile navy" was used.WW2 Merchant Navy official issue war service 'silver' badge. Initial ‘MN’ enclosed by oval rope motif with crown above. Retains original buttonhole fitting. badge, ww2, merchant navy, official issue war service, australia, mn -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Badge, Wallace Bishop, MN Australia, circa 1940
WW2 Merchant Navy Australia, issued by the Commonwealth Government 1940 MN War Service officially-numbered silver lapel badge. A company called Bishop also manufactured badges in Melbourne .Intended as a form of service badge for Australian Merchant Seafarers especially those perhaps serving on the newly armed civilian craft. The term Merchant Navy was coined by King George V in 1919, as recognition of the sacrifice made by merchant seafarers during the First World War.WW2 Merchant Navy war service solid (silver) badge. Initials ‘MN’ enclosed by oval rope motif with crown above. The word ‘Australia’ (UC) displayed beneath. Retains original two-loop lapel fixtures. Officially-numbered 10910 on the back. Inscribed "issued by the Commonwealth Government 1940". "Wallace-Bishop Brisbane".ww2, merchant navy, commonwealth government 1940, badge, war service, australia, mn -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Photograph - Photograph, Black and white, S.S. Diomed, unknown
The S.S.'Diomed' was the last of the Blue Funnel Line's coal-burning cargo ships. Launched in 1922 she made her last voyage from Australia to England in 1952 where she was broken up. The ship had been in service in Australia for thirty years, and as a parting gesture the ship's bell was presented to the Mission to Seafarers, Victoria by Alfred Holt & Co, the ship's owner in 1953 (see MTSV 0084 for the catalogue record of the ship's bell).Lay reader, Randall Stewart Murray, was a regular visitor to the s.s. Diomed over a number of years and accepted the offer of the ships brass bell when the ship was being broken up in 1953. This bell was on display in the Port Melbourne Mission and is now on the stage in the Flinders Street Mission.A black and white photograph of a ship at sea, the s.s. "Diomed", in a glazed, thin, black, wooden frame: verso detailed labels and information on torn brown-paper backing. String hanging system.Three labels. Label 1, Blue funnel line description of four ships. Label 2, "deans" framer's label with hand-written numbers: D13290 and 239/021. Label 3, Seabridge Australia Pty Ltd with donor details.s.s. diomed, blue funnel line shipping, seabridge australia pty ltd, deans melbourne, steamship, cargo ship, port melbourne, r. stewart murray, randall stewart murray, 1953, seabridge australia -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Card - Memorial card, In Loving Memory of Thomas Arnold Ogley 4th October 1931 - 19th May 2016. Seafarers Mission Chapel, May 2016
Tom worked as a volunteer at the Mission for three years as a Gardener, Mission Bus Driver. Produced for the funeral service held at the Mission 2016.The funeral service was held at the Mission ChapelFull colour print bifold card. Front cover features Tom in the Norla Dome, Mission to Seafarers. Memorial verse on page 3.thomas arnold ogley, mission volunteer, norla dome, services, chaplaincy, st peter chapel -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Photograph - Photograph, Black and white, Argus newspaper, At service in St Peter's Mariner Church, 1952
Sailors who were welcomed to the Mission for entertainment on Sundays were invited to share a brief evening service along with members of the Ladies Harbour Light Guild hostesses, held in the St Peter's Mariner chapel.This photograph was published in the Argus. The MTSV holds 3 of the 4 photographs published in this article.Black and white gloss photographic print with image of people at worship singingIndigo blue ink stamp : COPYRIGHT PHOTOGRAPH /.../ "The Argus" MELBOURNE AUSTRLIA / NEGATIVE [in pencil] AG990(A)chapel, ladies' harbour lights guild, worship, st peter chapel, pews -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Card - Invitation card, Opening Ceremonies 6th September, 1917, 1917
... Mission to Seafarers Victoria 717 Flinders Street Docklands ...This card is an invitation to attend the opening ceremonies with the dedication of memorial chapel on the 6th of September 1917 by the Archbishop, and the official opening of the Flinders Street Mission on the 11th of September 1917 by the Governor, Sir, Arthur Lyulph Stanley.This 1917 invitation marks the commencement of official ceremonies to dedicate both the new Mission Building and Chapel and associated services and celebratory concert. This building which has housed the multitude of continual services to Seafarers will attain the Centenary year in 2017.Commercially printed invitation on heavy card printed with blue ink ; features a Flying Angel flag of the Mission to Seamen in top left crnrprinted in copperplate script:"The Committee and Chaplains of / the Victoria Missions to Seamen / request the pleasure of your and your friends' company at / The Opening Ceremonies of the New Institute in Flinders Street extension. / On Thursday, 6th September, 1917 /...The Official Opening / will be performed by His Excellency the Governor / THE HONOURABLE SIR ARTHUR STANLEY, K.C.M.G/..."invitation, 1917, opening ceremony, flinders street, walter richmond butler, seamen missions, mission to seafarers, lord mayor of melbourne, dedication, sir arthur lyulph stanley (1875-1931), archdeacon hayman -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Photograph - Photograph, Black and white, early 20th Century
Headstone inscription: "In Affectionate Remembrance / EBENEZER JAMES / late Chaplain to the Naval Forces of Victoria / and / The Victorian Seamen's Mission/ This stone is erected / by Friends of all nationalities and creeds as a mark of esteem for his unselfish and consistent Christian efforts for the social and moral advancement of our sailors/ and / in recognition of.... his indefatigable and praiseworthy exertions the stamping out in Victoria of the cruel degrading maritime curse of crimping was mainly due. / Born 11th of March 1841 Died 14th of July 1901/ "A good deed is never lost. He who sows / courtesy reaps friendship and he who plants kindness gathers love." Basil. The Headstone was found at the Melbourne Cemetery, Carlton in 2016. Rev James worked at Port Melbourne and Williamstown Missions but was also a regular visit to Geelong and other coastal ports and beside encouraging fortnightly entertainments and Chapel services, actively shipvisiting to meet with Seamen.This image documents in full the inscription on this commissioned marble headstone marking the grave of a significant figure, the second Chaplain at Port Melbourne, and an important figure in the development and story of not only the Mission to Seafarers in Victoria but also in the life of the Naval Force of Victoria prior to Federation. Rev James was not only an influential figure in the stamping out of crimping, the exploitation of seamen, but also actively worked with government and community to improve the quality of life by active lobbying for the controlled licensing of hotels and liquor sources to limit the incidence of drunkeness rife in the Ports and Wharves of Victoria in the late 19th Century. See also MTSV 0030Large Sepia photograph on paper mount features an Inscribed marble Headstone and grave with a stone facing and surround supporting low decorative cast iron railing. There are flowers and ferns on the grave.Across edge of grave in White upper case: J ROBINSON CARLTON appears to be over printed, the Sepia image may be a copy of an original photograph. Inscription on the headstone can be read, see full wording below in History field. on the paper mount below lwr edge of Photograph: "T. TENNENT 'PHOTO-GOLD TS' COLLINGWOOD"ebenezer james, chaplains, seamen exploitation of, naval force, victoria, melbourne cemetery, carlton, maritime crimping, ebenezer james (1841 - 1901), carlton, mission to seamen, seamen's mission, mission to seafarers -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Print - Religious Print, T. Noyes Lewis, The Cross of Glory, Mid to late 19th century for the print, the reframing appears to date from the 1960's
The picture was framed by business, Leighton House, paint and art merchants at 346 Little Collins Street, Melbourne. It was made to order, number 6777. The business was also called The Leighton Gallery of Art and was owned by W & G Dean Pty Ltd. The phone number on the label "MU 8291" indicates that the picture was framed circa the 1960s or earlier, during the time that Melbourne was using 6-0digit alpha-numeric numbers. Below the picture is an excerpt of a hymn "The Head that Once was Crowned with Thorns" by Thomas Kelly: The head that once was crowned with thorns Is crowned with glory now; A royal diadem adorns The mighty Victor's brow. The Cross He bore is life and heath, Though shame and death to Him; His people's hope, his people's wealth, Their everlasting theme. This picture was part of the original furnishings of the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This picture is significant through its association with the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen Church in Williamstown, Melbourne, established in 1857. The items in our collection from the Missions to Seamen in Williamstown, Victoria, have historical and social significance. They show that people of the 1800s and 1900s cared about the seafarers’ religious, moral, and social welfare, no matter what the religion, social status or nationality. It had its origins in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The first Australian branch was started in 1856 by the Rev. Kerr Johnston, a Church of England clergyman, and operated from a hulk moored in Hobson’s Bay; later the Mission occupied buildings in Williamstown and Port Melbourne. Picture, print of "The Cross of Glory", rectangular, framed print on matt. It depicts Jesus Christ on a cross with an angel on each side, at his feet. He is wearing priestly robes and a gold crown on top of thorns on his head. In the background there is a rainbow and clouds. The text below the picture includes "From the picture by T. Noyes Lewis". Lines from a hymn are also printed below the picture. The back of the picture has pencilled numbers in three places plus a printed label with the framer's details. "From the picture by T. Noyes Lewis". Backing paper has pencil "6777" in two places. Label has bencil "677-" flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, the cross of glory, print, t. noyes lewis, leighton house, home decoration, religioius picture, church furnishing, w & g dean pty ltd, leighton gallery of art, religion, religious service, sailors rest, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, ladies harbour light guild, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, flying angles club, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book - Maritime Novel, Joseph Conway, The Arrow Of Gold, 1919
This book was written by the renowned maritime author Joseph Conrad. Joseph Conrad, author, (1857-1927): - Joseph Conrad was Polish-born and became a British subject in 1886. He was a renowned marine fiction writer and also, for a short time, a mariner and Captain. As a boy of 13 years old, Joseph Conrad’s desire was to be a sailor. At 19, he joined the British merchant marine, working in several roles. He eventually qualified as a captain but only served in this role once, from 1888-89, when he commanded the barque Otago sailing from Sydney to Mauritius. In 1889 he also began writing his first novel, Almayer’s Folly. He retired from life as a mariner in 1894, aged 36. Conrad’s visits to Australia from 1878 to 1982, and his affection for Australia, were later commemorated by a plaque in Circular Quay, Sydney. Conrad continued as an author. It is said that many of the characters in his books were inspired by his maritime experiences and the people he had met. By the end of his life, he had completed many stories and essays, and 19 novels, plus one incomplete novel titled ‘Suspense’ that was finished and published posthumously. Shortly before he passed away, in 1924, Conrad was offered a Knighthood by Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald for his work but declined. About the Pattison Collection: - The Pattison Collection is a group of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, (WMI) which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. 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 Ralph 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 book is significant for its connection with the renowned maritime author Joseph Conrad. It is also important for being part of the historic group of books called the Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, which 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 in 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.The Arrow Of Gold: A Story Between Two Notes Author: Joseph Conrad Publisher: T Fisher Unwin Date: 1919 Blue hardcover book with title and call numbers on spine, and handwritten pencil inscription on ply page. Also stockers on the front endpaper have inscriptions and a stamp. The book is part of the Pattison Collection. Spine label, typed text: "PAT 823.9 CON" Sticker on Pastedown front endpaper; "Warrnambool Public Library" covered by a sticker; "Corangamite Regional Library Service" Front loose endpaper is stamped; "Corangamite Regional Library Service"flagstaff hill, flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, warrnambool, maritime museum, maritime village, great ocean road, shipwreck coast, joseph conrad, captain joseph conrad, maritime author, marine author, nautical author, sailor, seafarer, georg stage, 1882 ship, danish ship, training ship, boys killed, alan villiers, ship joseph conrad, mystic seaport, museum ship, warrnambool mechanics institute, pattison collection, warrnambool library, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, the arrow of gold -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Furniture - Set of Pews, c.1944
This set of seventeen church pews was originally used in St. Nicholas Seamen’s Church, 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria, during religious services there. The Church was operated by the Mission to Seamen organisation. The pews were donated to the St Nicholas Seamen’s Church by the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, founded by Ethel Margaret Musther, M.B.E.. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. The set of pews is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The set of pews id historically significant for their connection to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, an organisation of women, formed to support seafarers. The connection of these pews to the Mission to Seamen and to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. Set of seventeen varnished oak wood church high back pews. The pews have a shelf fitted behind the backrest. This is a set of original items in our ‘St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection’.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, religion, religious service, lightkeepers’ auxiliary, mrs musther, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, flying angel’s club, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, church furniture, church seats, church pew, religious furniture, religious worship, anglican church -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book - Religious Books, Oxford University Press, The Book of Common Prayer, early 20th century
This set of prayer boos was part of the original furnishings of the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This set of books, each titled The Book of Common Prayers, is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The set of books is historically significant for its connection to the Ladies Lightkeepers Auxiliary, an organisation of women, formed to support seafarers. The connection of this set of books to the Mission to Seamen and to the Ladies Lightkeepers Auxiliary highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. Set of 10 books. Title: The Book of Common Prayer with the Additions and Deviations proposed in 1928 Publisher: Humphrey Milford, Oxford University Press, London Some books have blue cloth covers, some have red cloth covers. Spines have gold inlay print. 244 numbered pages. Some books are inscribed on the inside cover. This is one of a set of original items in our ‘St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection’.Inscription in some books "FROM THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN MELBOURNE"flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, preyer books, book of common prayer, anglican church prayer book, religion, religious service, sailors rest, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, ladies harbour light guild, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, flying angels club, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, anglican church, religious book -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Furniture - Set of Chairs, 1880s
This set of four dining chairs was part of the original furnishings of the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria. The Australian colonial wooden chairs date to the late 1880s and are most like to have been purchased for use in the Sailors’ Rest when it moved into Ann Street, Williamstown, around the 1880s. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This set of chairs is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The set of chairs is historically significant for its connection to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, an organisation of women, formed to support seafarers. The connection of this set of chairs to the Mission to Seamen and to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. Chairs: set of four (4) cedar wood dining chairs. Each chair has a rounded rail back, flat cross rail, flat wooden seat, curved back legs and colonial turned front legs. Mid-brown colour, veneered finish. The set of chairs is part of the St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection. flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, religion, religious service, sailors rest, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, ladies harbour light guild, lightkeepers’ auxiliary, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, flying angel’s club, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, church furniture, religious furniture, religious worship, anglican church, chair, dining chair, kitchen chair, domestic furniture, colonial chair, australian colonial period, set of chairs, squab chairs, sailors' church, ann street williamstown -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Furniture - Pew, Circa 1944
This pew is one of a set of seventeen church pews originally used in St. Nicholas Seamen’s Church, 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria, during religious services there. The Church was operated by the Mission to Seamen organisation. The pews were donated to the St Nicholas Seamen’s Church by the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, founded by Ethel Margaret Musther, M.B.E. * for more detailed history please see our Registration Number 611, Set of Pews The set of pews is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The set of pews id historically significant for their connection to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, an organisation of women, formed to support seafarers. The connection of these pews to the Mission to Seamen and to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. Church pew, one of a set of seventeen varnished wooden church pews. The pews have a shelf fitted behind the backrest. This is one of a set of original items in our ‘St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection’. flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, religion, religious service, lightkeepers’ auxiliary, mrs musther, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, flying angel’s club, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, church furniture, church seats, church pew, religious furniture, religious worship, anglican church, set of pews -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Furniture - Pew, Circa 1944
This pew is one of a set of seventeen church pews originally used in St. Nicholas Seamen’s Church, 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria, during religious services there. The Church was operated by the Mission to Seamen organisation. The pews were donated to the St Nicholas Seamen’s Church by the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, founded by Ethel Margaret Musther, M.B.E. * for more detailed history please see our Registration Number 611, Set of Pews The set of pews is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The set of pews id historically significant for their connection to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, an organisation of women, formed to support seafarers. The connection of these pews to the Mission to Seamen and to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. Church pew, one of a set of seventeen varnished wooden church pews. The pews have a shelf fitted behind the backrest. This is one of a set of original items in our ‘St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection’. flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, religion, religious service, lightkeepers’ auxiliary, mrs musther, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, flying angel’s club, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, church furniture, church seats, church pew, religious furniture, religious worship, anglican church, set of pews -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book - Maritime Novel, Joseph Conway, Suspense, 1925
This book was written by the renowned maritime author Joseph Conrad. Joseph Conrad was Polish-born and became a British subject in 1886. He was a renowned marine fiction writer and also, for a short time, a mariner and Captain. As a boy of 13 years old, Joseph Conrad’s desire was to be a sailor. At 19, he joined the British merchant marine, working in several roles. He eventually qualified as a captain but only served in this role once, from 1888-89, when he commanded the barque Otago sailing from Sydney to Mauritius. In 1889 he also began writing his first novel, Almayer’s Folly. He retired from life as a mariner in 1894, aged 36. Conrad’s visits to Australia from 1878 to 1982, and his affection for Australia, were later commemorated by a plaque in Circular Quay, Sydney. Conrad continued as an author. It is said that many of the characters in his books were inspired by his maritime experiences and the people he had met. By the end of his life, he had completed many stories and essays, and 19 novels, plus one incomplete novel titled ‘Suspense’ that was finished and published posthumously. Shortly before he passed away, in 1924, Conrad was offered a Knighthood by Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald for his work but declined. An 1882 sailing ship, Georg Stage, was a Danish training ship, in which after a tragic accident 22 boys lost their lives. It was later renamed the Joseph Conrad by Alan Villiers in honour of the author. It continued as a training ship with various organisations until 1947 when it ship was transferred to the Mystic Seaport for use as an exhibit in the maritime museum. About the Pattison Collection: - The Pattison Collection is a group of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, (WMI) which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. 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 Ralph 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. Suspense Author: Joseph Conrad Publisher: J M Dent & Co Date: 1925 Introduction by Richard Curle Blue hardcover with inscription on sticker on spine and a purple stamp on the fly pageLabel on spine, typed text "PAT 823.9 CON" Pastedown front endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Public Library covered by a sticker from Corangamite Regional Library Service Front loose endpaper has a stamp from Corangamite Regional Library Serviceflagstaff hill, flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, warrnambool, maritime museum, maritime village, great ocean road, shipwreck coast, joseph conrad, captain joseph conrad, maritime author, marine author, nautical author, sailor, seafarer, georg stage, 1882 ship, danish ship, training ship, boys killed, alan villiers, ship joseph conrad, mystic seaport, museum ship, warrnambool mechanics institute, pattison collection, warrnambool library, ralph eric pattison, corangamite regional library service, suspense, unfinished book -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Photograph - Black and white photograph, framed, MV Kooringa, unknown
The first regular container services internationally were introduced in Australia in early 1969 with the arrival of the “Encounter Bay” in March 1969 The “Kooringa” was the first purpose-built fully cellular containership in the world built in Australia for the Australian domestic trade routes.The MV Kooringa is the first purpose-built fully cellular containership in the world and was built in Australia.Black and white aerial photograph of a ship at sea, mounted and framed in a wooden frame.MV Kanimblacontainers, australia, container ships, mv kooringa, mcilwraith and mcewan, fremantle, melbourne -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Sign - Signage
3 rectangular yellow acrylic signage with black engraving signage in Mandarin and English about social events at the Mission indicative time.socials, dances, movies, films, entertainments, church service -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Archive (Collection) - Correspondence, Barbara Quinn, Allan Charles Quinn, 2011
Allan Charles Quinn and his motherAllan Charles Quinn letters and photographs to his mother during his seafaring life.ChronologicalLetters, enveloppes and photographsallan charles quinn (1928-1990), barbara quinn, asbetos, seaman, photographer, gary wright, asbestos, seafaring, travelsallan charles quinn (1928-1990), barbara quinn, asbetos, seaman, photographer, gary wright, asbestos, seafaring, travels -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Article - Paper, Great Circle Journal, The Melbourne Sailors’ Home 1865 - 1963, 2020
Article by Mark Howard published in the Great Circle Journal, Volume 42, No1, in 2020. After the closure of the Home in 1963: "For instance, in 1985 the Minister of Community Services was authorised to make grants to organizations promoting the welfare of mariners as first priority, but with discretion to make grants for other social welfare purposes.98 Organizations that received funds include, Mission to Seamen ($45,000)"Links between the Mission and the Sailors Home existed throughout decades.great circle, mark howard, sailors' home -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Book, Janet Billett, The Yachties - Australian Volunteers in the Royal Navy 1940-45, 2023
201 pages with black and white illustrations; notes, bibliography, index.non-fictionyachties, dominion yachtsmen scheme, royal navy, ww2 -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Article - Newspaper clipping, Argus newspaper, Seamen's floating church in Hobson's Bay, 2 July 1857
After an attempt of building a Seamen's Hospital in Williamstown, the ship Emily was transformed in a floating chapel to welcome seamen for service. Captain Charles Ferguson (1813-1868) was one of the members of the committee who founded the floating church. The ship Emily may have been a convict ship sailing from England to the Van Diemen's land in 1842 and 1844. Before 1856, it was used as a "water police hulk" then transformed in an accommodation for Reverend Kerr Johnson and his large family and fitted to receive 200 attendees in the chapel.The article is significant as it describes the ship and its location: "The hulk is moored midway between Sandridge and Williamstown, and is distinguished by a blue flag flying at the mainmast with "Bethel" inscribed on it; and in one corner of the flag is the star of Bethlehem, in another a dove with an olive branch."1 column article in the Argusship emily, floating church, reverend kerr johnston, 1812-1887, hobson's bay, sandridge, captain ferguson, captain charles ferguson (1813-1868), convict ships -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Painting, C V Wright, RMS Queen Mary, 1971
RMS Queen Mary a retired ocean liner by 1971 that sailed primarily on the North Atlantic Ocean from 1936 to 1967 for the Cunard Line (known as Cunard-White Star Line when the vessel entered service ( Wikipedia) Maritime ArtLong framed unglazed landscape format painting predominantly depicting in foreground an ocean liner painted black hull and white superstructure with three funnel stacks painted red with black trim, under full sail against a blue sky. The back of the painting is covered with brown paper in places damaged. Hangs on a cotton cord threaded between two screw in eyelet hooks. Brown paper backingat lower right corner single uc word in white paint : "CV WRIGHT (artist symbol of crossed anchors) / 3 ? '71"marine painting, ocean liners, rms queen mary, royal mail ships, p & o steamships, ww2, artwork-paintings, hobbies, bosun, c.v. wright -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Postcard - Postcard, Colour, Mission to Seafarers Victoria, The Mission To Seafarers Melbourne 717 Flinders St: Caring for Seafarers in Victorian Ports since 1857, 2011
... . Also documents the continuity of services offered to Seafarers ...During the Open House Melbourne 2011 artist nicknamed "586" participated in one of the Norla Dome Project Space events sponsored by Bendigo Wealth. The original large print was on display and smaller prints were also sold to raised funds for the Mission. The postcard was printed as a marketing to raise awareness of the work of the Mission.The postcard llustrates the typical early 21st services such as money exchange, modems, sim cards et al and facilities such as a free bus service and collection available through the Mission. Also documents the continuity of services offered to Seafarers over 100 years in the current building at 717 Flinders St (1917-2017).Full colour promotional and information postcard featuring artwork collage print ( MTSV 0650) on one side and black on white information about the Flying Angel Club on the reverse.flying angel club, flinders street, mission to seafarers, seamen's mission, artist 586, open house, fundraising, marketing -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Photograph - Photograph, Black and White, circa 1944
The Mission to seamen provided special services and support for cadets and officers of the merchant fleets. Officers had access to accommodation at the Mission and were encouraged as senior crew to improve pastoral and counselling skills that may benefit crews at sea. Padre Oliver is in his office, holding the book: Clanbrae: A Golfing Idyll by Pentland PeileThis image depicts Chaplain Oliver and three young seafarers possibly all officers / cadets (one is wearing a Merchant Navy badge) at the Mission circa 1944. Unclear if any of these men were related to Frank Ware.Black and white photograph depicting Padre Oliver, holding an open book and three seamen, one in naval uniform standing and two other men seated next to the Padre. A Mission to Seafarers Flag is in the background. mission to seafarers, frank ware, frank oliver, padre oliver, merchant navy, mn, clanbrae a holding idyll, josephine atkinson -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Photograph - Photograph, Black and white, Herald Sun, 18 May 1937
On 18 May 1937, Lord Huntingfield, Governor of Victoria (14 May 1934 – 4 April 1939) layed the foundation stone of the last of the missions built in Melbourne. The Mission to Seamen, Port Melbourne opened in December 1937, superceded the original 19th C building and service point in Port.Demolished in the late 20th C by developers the building was of architectural significance and funded originally by Alfred Nicholas who gifted 18,000 pounds. An indicator of the importance of shipping and seafarer welfare as regarded by Industry and business during the interwar years of the 1930s. This photograph is a record of the founding of the building. The stone is now part of the bluestone wall on Beach Road, Port Melbourne. The Mission was given the name: George V Memorial Institute, and the concert hall was given the name Huntingfield Hall.A black and white photograph depicting the laying of a foundation stone. Photograph of two clergymen standing to one side of the Governor of Victoria (1934-1939), Lord Huntingfield, who is holding a trowel in his left hand. A foundation stone, resting on a low brick wall is thought to be the granite foundation stone of the Port Melbourne Mission. A small crowd of approximately 21 people are gathered behind the wall. Back of photograph stamped, "Herald Feature Service Melbourne".port melbourne, beach road, lord huntingfield, art deco, alfred nicholas, foundation stone, trowel, harry a. norris, george v memorial institute, port melbourne mission, 1937 -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Photograph - Photograph, Sepia, Dora Walker bride to be and Father , 1928, 14 February 1928
This photograph shows one of the many weddings held at the Mission to Seafarers over the years and provides an overview of wedding fashion of the late 1920s. The bridesmaids were Ella Kendall and Molly Walker. In this image a horse and cart can be seen in the background on Flinders St and a Telegraph pole. Dora would continue association with the Mission and as president of the Flying angels in the 1960s-70s she would be awarded the MBE for services to Community presented by the State Governor of Victoria. This photograph shows one of the many weddings performed at the Mission to Seafarers over the years. Cross referencing with the marriage registers, also held in the collection, reveals that this photograph is Amy Dora Walker (known as Dora) of East Malvern marrying Harold Priestley Simpson of Surrey Hills / Mornington on 14 February 1928. Dora's son David Simpson, a former architect still volunteers for the Mission in 2018. Dora is listed on the Women of achievement listing.Sepia toned photograph of bride and attendants in the courtyard of the Mission to Seafarers. The bride's dress is calf length and she has just stepped out of a large car assisted by her Father Mr Walker. The Bride is holding a large bouquet. There are two attendants or Bridesmaids to the right of the photograph, wearing layered calf length dresses, cloche hats and holding a small bouquet. Both are standing outside the Mission to Seamen on Flinders St waiting to assist the bride. small circular Blue ink stamp on rear of photograph: PRINTED BY HARRINGTONS. numerals stamped on the back 3 and 8 hat, flowers, veil, wedding, dress, shoes, motorcar, bridesmaids, dora walker, dora simpson, harry simpson, flinders street, 1928, david simpson, fan album, john reginald weller (1880-1969), arthur walker, molly walker, ella kendall -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Flyer, Sea Sunday July 09 2017, 2017
In 2017 the church service for Sea Sunday was celebrated at St Paul's Cathedral, MelbourneDifferent locales used to celebrate Sea Sunday each year and used to be a key source of support as an appeal day. The brochure is representative with both text and image to reflect the current Mission services for, and summarises the issues impacting seafarers in the early 20th C.Commercially printed bi-fold full colour brochure marking international day of prayer for seafarers 2017. The flyer is also an appeal document for donations with information and background on the experience of seafarers and provides background on the role of the Mission to Seafarers Victoria.sea sunday, seafarers, mtsv, fundraising, 2017 -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Postcard - Postcard, Black and white, Valentine & Sons Publishing Co. Ltd, Baptistry in the Chapel, Missions to Seamen, Melbourne, Vic, c. 1920
Possibly produced as one of a series of photographic post cards of various areas of the Mission especially of the Chapel in the pre-war WW2 period of the 20th century. There are several such cards in the MTSV Collection. The Chapel, opened in 1917, was a special fundraising project of the Ladies Harbour Light Guild and was originally dedicated as a Memorial Chapel in remembrance of those who served in the Merchant Navy of WWI. The Chapel is still used for marriages, baptisms,funerals and memorial services, and is often referred to as St Peter's, the Mariners' Chapel. Photographic postcards were produced soon after the new 1917 Mission to Seamen building was first opened. Available to supporters and visiting seafarers alike, effectively promoting the Mission and the role it played in ensuring both spiritual and pastoral care available to seamen and shipping to and from Australia. Black and white gloss print postcard featuring an interior view of St Peter's Chapel at the MTSV 717 Flinders St showing the baptismal font and front door.Pencil inscription " Ret to B. Kent" (see also gift comments below) ; Printed : "POST CARD / A Real Photograph Produced in Australia"mtsv, missions to seamen institute, baptism, merchant navy, st peter chapel, mission to seafarers, baptistry, baptismal font, seamen's mission, flinders street -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Photograph - Photograph, Black and white, 1950-1960
Subjects had a long standing connection with the Mission Visual Record of Mission staff. The Oliver family played a significant and long term role as a family in the leadership, maintenance and publicising the services and role of the Mission from 1930-1960. Articles, a film and regular lectures and canvassing were used to generate funding and awareness of the importance and significance of the Mission to Shipping services for Australia. The Oliver's son Rodney also served on the board in later years and daughter Barb Kent also provided support for many years.Black and white gloss print photograph depicting Padre Frank Oliver with his wife Moira in the courtyard garden of the MTSV circa late 1950s.Hand written in black texta; Frank Oliver and Mrs Oliver in the garden at the Missionfrank oliver, moira oliver, chaplain, mission to seafarers victoria, moira bird, garden, flinders street -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Decorative object - Vase, mid 20th Century
The caravel type ship with the cross represents the Santa Maria of Christopher Columbus. It is one of the symbols of the great sea explorers. A similar vase on sale on Ebay (April 2023) suggesting it was mass produced.One of the many decorative furnishings which date from the intense service periods of the Mission from the 1930s through to the 1960s. White painted ceramic vase on shallow circular foot with relief design of a stylised sailing ship (caravel) on one side. Original colour appears to have been green.The foremost sail of the ship bears a cross; small chip on rim.vase, ship, caravel, santa maria, sea exploration, great navigators