Showing 528 items
matching victorian views
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Bendigo Historical Society Inc.
Photograph - BENDIGO - LANDSCAPE VIEW
... . Nettletons - Victorian Views'... of Melbourne. C. Nettletons - Victorian Views' Photograph BENDIGO ...black and white photo ( copy ) showing view over Bendigo from Camp Hill school tower, Sandhurst Trustees building, City Family Hotel in mid distance at left, cottages in mid and far distance. Rosalind Park in foreground with fountain. In image ' Flour Mills' On back handwritten in ball point pen ' Bendigo Vic., Sandhurst, sW view. 100 miles north of Melbourne. C. Nettletons - Victorian Views'place, landscape view, bendigo -
Halls Gap & Grampians Historical Society
Photograph - B/W, C 1880
... State Library Victoria, Rose's Australasian Views Victorian... Library Victoria, Rose's Australasian Views Victorian Series ...1880-1902 Land owned by Robert and Sarah Graham who owned a large portion of land best described as Upper Fyans Valley. At some time after 1880, they sold a parcel of the land under Sundial Peak to David Austin who built a slab hut. C1896, The land was sold to James and Amy Balmain which they named 'Bellfield' Amy was a daughter of John D/Alton who built the Stawell Water Supply System. Balmain purchased the vacant school cottage at Burnt Bridge and moved it to 'Bellfield' Over the next six years the house was enlarged to accommodate their growing family but sold in 1902 following the death of Amy Balmain.House with addition People leaving house by horse and carriage, people standing in groundsState Library Victoria, Rose's Australasian Views Victorian Series photographed and published by George Rose 123 Chapel St., Windsor, Victoriabuildings, houses, bellfield -
Bendigo Historical Society Inc.
Photograph - LANDSCAPE VIEW OF BENDIGO
... , Victorian Views'... Melbourne. C. Nettleton, Victorian Views' Photograph LANDSCAPE VIEW ...Black and white photograph. In foreground, roof and chimneys. Row of 3 small weatherboard houses with verandah, picket fences. 1 small and 1 larger building behind. Lake or dam with small island centre, stone brick wall with lookout tower at corner ( Bendigo gaol ) at right centre distanc,e large building. Benevolent Asylum. Many other buildings in distance. James Lerk 11.2.2000 ' view from the Corporate High School, Benevolent Asylum in centre' Unknown BHS member 5.11.1999 ' lower dam ( site of present tennis courts, Park Road, pumped out C 1926' Written on back of photo 'Bendigo Victoria 1860's, Sandhurst North view 100 miles north from Melbourne. C. Nettleton, Victorian Views'C. Nettleton ?place, landscape view, bendigo -
Glen Eira Historical Society
Album - Album page, Glentana, Glen Huntly Road, 805, Circa 1972
... Victorian residence, focussing on views of its verandah.... storey Victorian residence, focussing on views of its verandah ...This photograph is part of the Caulfield Historical Album 1972. This album was created in approximately 1972 as part of a project by the Caulfield Historical Society to assist in identifying buildings worthy of preservation. The album is related to a Survey the Caulfield Historical Society developed in collaboration with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) and Caulfield City Council to identify historic buildings within the City of Caulfield that warranted the protection of a National Trust Classification. Principal photographer thought to be Trevor Hart, member of Caulfield Historical Society. Most photographs were taken between 1966-1972 with a small number of photographs being older and from unknown sources. All photographs are black and white except where stated, with 386 photographs over 198 pages. Melbourne Mansions database indicates that its architect may have been Charles Webb.Page 66 of Photograph Album with three exterior photographs (two portrait and one landscape) of Glentana, a single storey Victorian residence, focussing on views of its verandah.Hand written: "Glentana" 805 Glenhuntly Road [top right] / 66 [bottom right] trevor hart, brick, polychrome brickwork, cast iron frieze, decorative brackets, italianate, return verandah, glentana, glen huntly road, caulfield, cast iron work, verandahs, glenhuntly road, charles webb, glen tana, house names -
Bendigo Historical Society Inc.
Photograph - ENGLISH PHOTOGRAPHIC VIEWS
... 1. Drop- down photographic Victorian period views... HISTORY 1. Drop- down photographic Victorian period views ...1. Drop- down photographic Victorian period views of 'Southend-on-Sea' mounted within cardboard cover. Blue ornate cover with calligraphic printing, 'Dowsett's New Southend-on Sea 'containing 18 views, One Penny, established 1857. Unknown donor. 2. Brown cardboard separated cover with missing views. Gold leaf printing, 'Picturesque Views of Paignton & Neighbourhood' . Published by 'S,E,Peake'.history -
Parliament of Victoria
Victoria the Golden, Strutt, William 1825-1915, Victoria the golden : scenes, sketches, and jottings from nature, 1850-1862, 1850-1862, c.1895
... 1850 and 1862 as viewed by artist William Strutt. Momentous... 1850 and 1862 as viewed by artist William Strutt. Momentous ..."Victoria the Golden" documents life in Victoria between 1850 and 1862 as viewed by artist William Strutt. Momentous events in the Colony’s history such as Separation Day (1 July 1851), the sitting of the first Legislative Council (13 November 1851), the death of Burke (June 1861) and the Black Thursday bushfires (6 February 1851) are depicted. In 1907 the Premier of Victoria Thomas Bent purchased "Victoria the Golden" from Strutt for £120 and presented it to the Library. The album depicts events in chronological order with what Strutt considered “fidelity to nature and accuracy”, so that present day Victorians may view the sketches “as records of what we may now look upon as the dim past in the rapidly progressive history of Victoria”. Victoria the Golden is celebrated as one of the Parliament’s great treasures. It is a testament to William Strutt’s skill as a draughtsman and contains over 100 assorted images which were executed between the years of 1850-1862. Strutt’s particular talent was to be able to step back and record each event with particular care to detail. Many of the pieces contained within this album are littered with notes, such as the correct resting position of a corporal’s sword or details about the cloth and cut of a subject’s jacket. Strutt also notes in one of his many sketches of the new Legislative Council chamber at Spring Street that the President, Sir James Palmer, is seated ‘a little too high’ (page 30). Throughout the album, Strutt’s illustrations bring to life the diverse nature and peoples of the new colony. His range of subjects is comprehensive and includes parliamentarians, lawyers, wives and daughters, merchants, labourers, police and military officers, indigenous communities, farmers, miners, prisoners and explorers. The everyday and the extraordinary are depicted with each turn of the page. 44 leaves heavy card, approximately 1mm thick. Sketches, watercolours and prints of varying sizes and papers are glued onto the pages. Full leather binding in blue leather with title and decorative border in gold. There are four raised bands on the spine, with gold decoration on the bands and at the head and tail of the spine. Marbled end papers and flyleaves. Gold on the edges of the book block. Card pages have a sheet of mottled blue paper on recto. Album leaf connection is a guarded system with stiff stubs and cloth hinges. Each page has a sheet of glassine paper attached at the binding edge to protect the images. Many pages stamped with "Parliament of Victoria" verso. Printed in gold, recto: "VICTORIA THE GOLDEN/ SCENES,/ SKETCHES,/ AND JOTTINGS FROM NATURE./ BY/ Wm. STRUTT/ MELBOURNE, VICTORIA./ 1850-1862" First pages include handwritten 'introductory remarks' and index of plates.parliament of victoria, colony of victoria, separation day, victorian legislative council, burke and wills expedition, wills, william john, 1834-1861, burke, robert o'hara, 1821-1861, strutt, william, 1825-1915, bent, thomas sir, 1838-1909, native police corps, fawkner, john pascoe, 1792-1869, black thursday bushfires, gold rush, princes bridge, melbourne -
Melbourne Tram Museum
Book, Victorian Government Information Bureau?, "The Garden City of Australia / Twenty-four views of Melbourne", c1950
... Victorian Railways 21 Aerial view of St Kilda with Brighton... in the Botanical Gardens Victorian Railways 21 Aerial view of St Kilda ...Book, brown cover patterned (Deer skin?), titled "The Garden City of Australia / Twenty-four views of Melbourne" with 24 pages (smaller than cover) printed pages stapled inside. Inside front cover is a map of Melbourne, with specific buildings marked, inside rear cover - Where to go in Melbourne, General Information and Sight seeing tours. On rear cover is printer details. Page Photo details by 1 Skyline of the City of Melbourne from Yarra Bank Victorian Railways 2 Collins St from Spring St (with trams) ditto 3 Princes Bridge, River Yarra ditto 4 St Kilda Rd from Flinders St Station ditto 5 St Pauls Cathedral ditto 6 Bourke St Shopping Centre - with double deck buses no details of photographer 7 Elizabeth St - with trams and buses Victorian Railways 8 Swanston St with modern skyscrapers (Collins) ditto 9 Aerial view, city of Melbourne ditto 10 Parliament House ditto 11 Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery ditto 12 St Kilda Rd, Looking towards the City trams 772 and W2 ditto 13 Kings Domain - Pioneer Monument ditto 14 Royal Melbourne Hospital - with back view inset ditto 15 Alexandra Gardens and the Shrine of Remembrance ditto 16 Alexandra Gardens and Government House ditto 17 Captain Cook's House - Fitzroy Gardens ditto 18 Albert Park Lake no details of photographer 19 Melbourne Boys School, MacRobertson's Girls High School and Melbourne Uni - no details of photographer 20 Scene in the Botanical Gardens Victorian Railways 21 Aerial view of St Kilda with Brighton in background Victorian Railways 22 Melbourne Cricket ground, taken during the testimonial match to Sir Donald Bradman - no details 23 Queen Victoria Memorial Hospital and Exhibition Buildings and Aquarium - Victorian Railways 24 Dandenong - Showing Silvan Dam Victorian Railways The testimonial match took place in Melbourne during December 1948 (Reference Sir Donald Bradman Museum). Possibly arranged by the Victorian Government Information Bureau given the number of Victorian Railways photographs.trams, tramways, melbourne, st kilda rd, swanston st, bourke st, victorian railways, flinders st station, gardens -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph - Postcard, George Rose, c. 1910
Produced c. 1910 by The Rose Stereograph co. This colourised photographic postcard shows the exterior of the administrative buildings at Mayday Hills mental hospital with three young boys in the foreground. This postcard forms part of the extensive Rose Series. (P. 4689) of postcards being produced by the Rose Stereograph co. which depicted landmarks from across Australia. Despite the early date attributed to this image, according to Walsh dates from this series place the postcards being produced typically between 1920-54. Mayday Hills Hospital, then known as the Beechworth Lunatic Asylum was constructed between 1864-67 designed by The Public Works Department. The hospital is made up of a number of buildings, landscaping, ha-ha, workshops, laundry, administrative facilities and farmland, it was constructed in 'Italianate' style by a team of up to two hundred and fifty workers (Woods p. 122). The asylum was established in response to the need for the regional shire to locally care for those particularly affected by their time working the Ovens goldfield during the Indigo Shire gold rush era where poor living conditions and isolation were significantly affecting the welfare of a great many people through poverty and lack of resources. The gaol and orphan labour systems were not able to effectively support to give housing, rehabilitation and ongoing care for the mentally ill, and transporting to Melbourne by waggon was a time consuming and counter-productive solution when the metro facilities were already overcrowded. According to Woods (A Titan's Field p. 122), between 1901 and 1911 a large percentage (thirty five percent in 1901 and twenty four in 1911) of the Beechworth population were either patients or inmates of Beechworth institutions, Mayday Hills accounted for some six hundred and seventy four patients in 1901, Beechworth's Mayday Hills was chosen as the site of Victoria's newest asylum, at the time, due to the landscape and altitude. The hilltop atmosphere and the native fauna, it was argued, would assist in the cure of the patients kept at the hospital (Wood 1985, 122). The positioning of the hospital had a beneficial effect on the rural town and the large volume of people living at the hospital and contributing to this population growth is counted as reason for the survival of Beechworth as a regional township. Mayday Hills continued to function as a mental hospital up until 1995 when it was sold to LaTrobe university. The building and grounds are listed on the Victorian Heritage Register under criterion A, B, D, E and F. Through the colourisation of the photograph and through the unusual choice of the subject matter being used as a postcard, we can get a good indication of aesthetic interests of the time.Rectangular coloured photograph printed as postcardObverse: Beautiful / Beechworth / (Vic.) / 1800 ft. / above / Sea / Level / - / Asylum / for / insane / (Front / View) / Copyright. / F. / Foxcroft / Photo Reverse: 1997.2454 / Postcard / THIS / SPACE / MAY / BE / USED / FOR / CORRESPONDENCE: / THIS / SPACE / FOR / NAME / AND / ADDRESS / STAMPpostcard, rose series, mayday hills hospital, mayday hills, beechworth lunatic asylum, photographic postcard, george rose, the rose stereograph co., social welfare, welfare services, ovens goldfield, lunatic asylum, the public works department, australian landmark, regional shire, indigo shire council, gold rush, beechworth institution, victorian heritage register -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph, c. 1927 - 1930
Taken during the construction of the Bethanga Bridge (1927-1930), this sepia photograph shows a view of the incomplete bridge taken from inside the structure and looking down the span of the bridge from where the photographer stands. The photograph depicts an incomplete deck, with loose-looking wooden planks/panels lain along the centre in groups of three. Once complete, the original decking of the bridge was made of timber before being replaced by cement in 1961 (Victorian Heritage Database).Bethanga Bridge is of historical significance to the Indigo Shire for its associations with the construction of Hume Dam, its associations with the River Murray Waters Agreement and the River Murray Commission, and illustration of the needs and influence of the farming communities along the river in this area - particularly in relation to the building of the Weir. It also represents the collaboration between New South Wales and Victoria on a large infrastructure project, being the only built structure shared by both New South Wales and Victoria due to its location. also reflecting on the Shire's geographical closeness to this neighboring state. This photograph is part of a series that documents the construction of this well-known heritage site of significance to the Indigo Shire. It reflects upon a period of growth and change in the area.Sepia, rectangular photograph printed on matt photographic paper, unmountedReverse: 1997.3190 / Another snap of the bridge. taken on the bridge showing huge steel sides / 84-19-4 / V [in circle] 354 / KODAK PRINTbethanga bridge, hume dam, bridges album, construction, road construction, hume weir -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph, 1960
Taken in 1960, depicted is an aerial view of Lake Sambell and the surrounding township. Lake Sambell is a beautiful Victorian recreation lake and urban park with a unique history. It was created in the mid-1800s by the Rocky Mountain Mining company during the gold rush era and used as a mining site until the early 1900s, which brought Europeans into the area. It was turned into a reserve for residents in 1920 and is considered an icon of Beechworth as it represents the development of the community, human endeavour, and the spirit of the landscape.This photograph represents what Lake Sambell looked like in 1960.Black and white reproduced rectangular photograph print on paper.lake sambell, #beechworth, beechworth 1960s, lake, victoria, australian landscape, mining, rocky mountain mining company -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph, c1960
The photograph depicts a view across the water at Lake Sambell. The image dates from approximately 1960. The present day park and reserve occupies the site of the former Rocky Mountain Mining Company, an open-cut sluice mine that began operations in the mid-Nineteenth Century and operated until the early 1900s, through the peak of Victoria’s Gold Rush. It was converted into a park and leisure area in the 1920s. Lake Sambell was formally opened to the public on Friday 5th October 1928 and was opened by the Victorian Government’s Minister of Lands, Mr Bailey, as part of initiatives to boost the economies and development of country towns. The lake was named after Mr L.H. Sambell, a shire engineer and secretary of the Forward Beechworth Committee who was involved in promoting the transformation of the mining site and promoting plantation forestry and tourism as alternative industries. £300 to begin the process was provided by Mr J. McConvill, a former resident of Beechworth, who is remembered in a street name adjacent to the lake. Residents of Beechworth have worked to raise funds to improve the Lake Sambell reserve several times, such as efforts in the 1930s and 1940s to raise the banks several feet to deepen the water for swimming purposes. Fundraising campaigns include the ‘Ugly Man’ competition conducted on behalf of the Wallace Park-Lake Sambell Development Scheme. The latter competition was run by the Fire Brigade Bend’s team as part of a larger competition called the ‘Mile of Pennies’; it was won by Mr Len Knight of Beechworth’s Commercial Hotel. The ‘Mile of Pennies’ was conducted at a Carnival held on New Year’s Eve, 1947. It was proposed by the Beechworth and District Progress Association. As well as improving swimming facilities, funds were raised to install a caravan park facility near the lake. Funds were also donated by commercial entities, such as £250 received from Zwar Bros. Pty Ltd. The photograph is significant as it shows the level of development of Beechworth in the early to mid-Twentieth Century. Sepia rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paperObverse: nil. Reverse: 3470 / Velox (paper mark)beechworth, beechworth lake, lake sambell, lake, beechworth and district progress association, forward beechworth committee, ugly man, mile of pennies, wallace park lake sambell development scheme, wallace park-lake sambell development scheme, zwar bros, zwar, l.h. sambell, j. mcconvill, minister of lands, commercial hotel, len knight, rocky mountain mining company, rocky mountain mining co, gold rush, redevelopment, transformation, community fundraising -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph, Unknown
Aerial view of Lake Sambell, Beechworth with town views. Lake Sambell is a beautiful Victorian recreation lake and urban park with a unique history. It was created in the mid-1800s by the Rocky Mountain Mining company during the gold rush era and used as a mining site until the early 1900s, which brought Europeans into the area. It was turned into a reserve for residents in 1920 and is considered an icon of Beechworth as it represents the development of the community, human endeavour, and the spirit of the landscape.This photograph represents Lake Sambell with town views.Black and white reproduced rectangular photograph print on paper.Reverse: Stampbeechworth lake, lake sambell, aerial photo, construction, australian landscape, #beechworth, victoria -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph, c1960
The photographs in this set depict views across the water at Lake Sambell. The images date from approximately 1960. The present day park and reserve occupies the site of the former Rocky Mountain Mining Company, an open-cut sluice mine that began operations in the mid-19th Century and operated until the early 1900s, through the peak of Victoria’s Gold Rush. It was converted into a park and leisure area in the 1920s. Lake Sambell was formally opened to the public on Friday 5th October 1928 and was opened by the Victorian Government’s Minister of Lands, Mr Bailey, as part of initiatives to boost the economies and development of country towns. The lake was named after Mr L.H. Sambell, a shire engineer and secretary of the Forward Beechworth Committee who was involved in promoting the transformation of the mining site and promoting plantation forestry and tourism as alternative industries. £300 to begin the process was provided by Mr J. McConvill, a former resident of Beechworth, who is remembered in a street name adjacent to the lake. Residents of Beechworth have worked to raise funds to improve the Lake Sambell reserve several times, such as efforts in the 1930s and 1940s to raise the banks several feet to deepen the water for swimming purposes. Fundraising campaigns include the ‘Ugly Man’ competition conducted on behalf of the Wallace Park-Lake Sambell Development Scheme. The latter competition was run by the Fire Brigade Bend’s team as part of a larger competition called the ‘Mile of Pennies’; it was won by Mr Len Knight of Beechworth’s Commercial Hotel. The ‘Mile of Pennies’ was conducted at a Carnival held on New Year’s Eve, 1947. It was proposed by the Beechworth and District Progress Association. As well as improving swimming facilities, funds were raised to install a caravan park facility near the lake. Funds were also donated by commercial entities, such as £250 received from Zwar Bros. Pty Ltd.The photographs are significant as they show the level of development in Beechworth in the middle of the Twentieth Century. Four sepia and black and white rectangular photographs printed on matte photographic paper. 3469.1: Obverse: nil Reverse: 3469-1 3469.2: Obverse: nil Reverse: 3469-2 3469.3: Obverse: nil Reverse: 3469-3 3469.4: Obverse: nil Reverse: 3469-4beechworth, beechworth lake, lake sambell, lake, beechworth and district progress association, forward beechworth committee, ugly man, mile of pennies, wallace park lake sambell development scheme, wallace park-lake sambell development scheme, zwar bros, zwar, l.h. sambell, j. mcconvill, minister of lands, commercial hotel, len knight, rocky mountain mining company, rocky mountain mining co, gold rush, redevelopment, transformation, community fundraising -
Orbost & District Historical Society
post cards, ca. 1945
This is a souvenir of Orbost from 1945.A set of 13 black and white postcards in a fold-out format. Pictures are of : Nicholson Street, Snowy Rriver flats from Grand View, avenue leading to Obost. Snowy River bridge at Orbost, Snowy River at Orbost, Marlo from the sand dunes, Prince's Highway at Victorian-NSW. border, Genoa River and bridge at Genoa, Prince's Highway at Mt. Drummer, Cann River hotel, fern scene, Euchre Valley, ponsasinorum near Cann River. SOUVENIR Orbost to Vic Border 13 camera viewspostcard souvenir photographs orbost cann-river -
Orbost & District Historical Society
dish, 1950-1970
Small china pieces carrying scenic views of holiday destinations were a popular kind of souvenir during much of the 20th century. The pictures on the souvenirs ranged across natural beauty spots (beaches, waterfalls, rivers), civic buildings and monuments (town halls, war memorials), and indicators of local progress (commercial centres and occasionally even industrial sites). Ref: Powerhouse Museum Sydney.Small souvenir dish. White with gold edging and a picture of Orbost in bottom centre. Picture is a view from Grandview Heights. White, square, bone china dish with fluted rim trimmed with gold. In the centre of the dish there is a coloured transfer of a scene labelled as 'Sturt Street, Ballarat'. The scene shows grand Victorian buildings in the background, shops with verandahs and verandah posts lining one side of Sturt Street, trees on the other side of the street, and a tram in the foreground. A transfer on the underside gives manufacturer's information. Read more: http://www.powerhousemuseum.com/collection/database/?irn=12118#ixzz23rwkysrO Under Creative Commons License: Attribution Non-CommercialUnderneath- Royal Stafford -Bone China, Made in England, 3444 Top- Orbost From Grandview Heights, Vic.souvenir dish orbost grandview-heights crockery domestic stafford-royal -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Postcard, c1910
Mayday Hills Mental Hospital was originally constructed in 1864 under the name of the Beechworth Lunatic Asylum. It was built for locals in need of help who were kept in the local gaol. In its first decade, the residents of the hospital were used as menial labourers but over time, as mental healthcare progressed, were cared for in more nuanced ways. This site became a training hospital for nurses in the 1960's. Eventually, mental health patients were moved to other care facilities and Mayday Hills was operating as a geriatric care facility. It was closed in 1995, after which the buildings and their grounds were purchased to La Trobe University to be used as a campus. The university sold the site in 2011 to private ownership. This postcard depicts the Mayday Hills Mental Hospital (Titled as 'Asylum for insane') from a distance and includes the surrounding grounds and farmlands.Mayday Hills Mental Hospital is a historically significant site for many factors. It is representative of healthcare practice in nineteenth century Victoria. It contains rare examples of construction and architecture. It is also significant for aesthetic and technical reasons.Sepia tone postcard printed on matte cardObverse: Beautiful Beechworth (Vic.) 1880 ft. above Sea Level - General View of Asylum for Insane/ Copyright F. Foxcroft Reverse: 1997.2459/ Post Card/ THIS SPACE MAY BE USED FOR CORRESPONDENCE/ THIS SPACE FOR NAME AND ADDRESSmayday, mayday hills hospital, mayday hills, mayday hills mental asylum, mayday hills mental hospital, beechworth, beechworth asylum, beechworth hospital for the insane, beechworth lunatic asylum, beechworth mental hospital, healthcare, health, rural australia, farm, architecture, historic victorian architecture, classical architecture -
The Beechworth Burke Museum
Photograph, Mid 1900s
The photograph depicts a group of adults dressed in everyday clothing viewing a theatrical performance of 10 adult actors dressed in Victorian era costumes. The actors are performing on a make-shift stage that features upright logs as a background. Next to the stage is a group of workers laying bricks. The audience is seated on a grassy ground in front of the stage.Black and white rectangular reproduced photograph printed on matte photographic paper.Reverse: 5655 (in black pen)/ Beechworth (in blue pen)/entertainment album, beechworth, burke museum, performance, play, theatrical performance, performers -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Postcard - Coastal Scene, Joseph Jordan Photographic Studio, Breakwater, Warrnambool, circa 1907
The Port of Warrnambool - In the early years the Port of Warrnambool was a busy port. Steamships and sailing ships were frequent visitors to the port. Steam navigation companies were plentiful, carrying passengers and freighting cargo such as coal, timber, food, livestock, furniture, hardware and haberdashery between Melbourne and the ports along the southwest coast of Victoria, including Warrnambool. The carts would take their loads into the township for distribution. The Breakwater was built (using 32 ton blocks of concrete) between 1874 and 1890 to provide ships with greater protection from the Southern Ocean. The Lifeboat and Rocket House - The coastline of South West Victoria has had over 600 shipwrecks and many lost lives; even in Warrnambool’s Lady Bay there were around 16 known shipwrecks between 1850 and 1905, with eight lives lost. In 1859 the first Government-built lifeboat arrived at Warrnambool Harbour and a shed was soon built to house it, followed in 1864 by a rocket house to safely store the Rocket Rescue equipment. In 1878 the buildings were moved to the Breakwater area, and in 1910 the new Lifeboat Warrnambool arrived with its ‘self-righting’ design. For almost one hundred years the lifeboat and rocket crews, mostly local volunteers, trained regularly to maintain and improve their skills, summoned when needed by alarms, gunshots, ringing bells and foghorns. Some became local heroes but all served an important role. By the end of the 1950s the lifeboat and rescue equipment had become obsolete. Joseph Jordan - Joseph Jordan was born in 1841 in Leicester England. When he was 16 he joined the 7th Queen's Own Hussars and was sent to India at the outbreak of the mutiny. He took part in the relief of Lucknow and remained in India for eleven years. It was during this time, he became interested in photography. He was posted to New Zealand and later came to Victoria, becoming a sergeant major of the Mounted Rifles. In the mid 1880s he came to the Western district where he was responsible for establishing units of the Mounted Rifles in various country towns such as Dunkeld, Mortlake, Panmure, Bushfield, Koroit etc. He resigned from the army in 1889 and set up a professional photography studio in Liebig Street, Warrnambool. He became very well known in the Western District for family photographs, official photographs of local councillors and groups as well as views of local scenery. In 1891 he photographed the wrecked barque "Fiji" at "Wrecks Beach" near Princetown. His business was taken over by his son Arthur around 1917. Joseph was a keen rifle shot and in 1924 he donated the "Jordan Shield" as a prize to the Victorian Rifle Association. He was made a "Life Honorary Member" of the Warrnambool Returned Soldiers League and in 1933 he was recognised as being the oldest living soldier in Victoria. Joseph died in 1935 aged 95. Valentine Publishing Company Pty. Ltd. Valentine and Sons was a printing and photography business based in Dundee, Scotland and Canada. In the early 1900's, at the height of the postcard craze, they published large numbers of postcards in the U.K., Canada, U.S., Australia and South Africa. Valentine postcards have a 6 digit serial number on the view side with the initials "J. V." in a circle adjacent to the number. The 300,000's related to views of Australia. From around 1900 (or earlier) the firm bought many images for their postcards from local and national photographers who sold publishing rights to Valentines.This postcard is significant for its association with the Port of Warrnambool and the Warrnambool Breakwater as it shows a point in time when shipping activities were an important part of Warrnambool's commerce and social development. It is also a record of the Warrnambool Lifeboat and Rocket house which was important in aiding ordinary citizens, harbour employees and the volunteer boat and rescue crew in saving the lives of sailors and passengers due to the high number of shipwrecks that occurred along the coastline. Joseph Jordan is a significant figure in Warrnambool history as he helped to establish early units of the Mounted Rifles (G Company) in local towns during the late 1880's and later, photographed local scenes, groups and citizens of early Warrnambool. It is also a culturally significant example of the type of postcards that were very popular in the early part of the 20th century.Photograph of breakwater from beachFront of card - Breakwater, Warrnambool / 300,025 J.V [in a circle] Back of card - POSTCARD / VALENTINE'S SERIES / - This space may be used for communication / The address only to be written here - Miss Alice Griffen / Howard St / Warrnambool - How are you enjoying your holiday we are grand. / from / Dodo, Dodo, Dodo with love - Leura? / Marjory Craig? / BL006 / R99A / REG NO 2169flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, photograph, warrnambool breakwater, breakwater, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, warrnambool harbour, postcard, joseph jordan, valentine and sons, valentine publishing company, lady bay, life boat house, rocket house, steam ship, barque, jordan photography -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Vehicle - Vessel - Dinghy, Proudfoot's Boat, c. 1885
This boat or dinghy is one of a few remaining boats made for Proudfoot’s Boathouse, 2 Simpson Street Warrnambool, on the Hopkins River, in about 1885. It was one of many rowing, fishing, sailing and picnic boats that were available to hire. Proudfoot’s Boathouse, a beautiful Victorian Period building, was designed, built and established by Thomas Proudfoot. He applied to build a boat jetty in 1885. He died in 1900 and his wife Catherine took over, running it for many years. Later her son Bruce and after that her granddaughter Ena Hunt and her husband took over; it remained in the family until 1979. Proudfoot’s was a very popular tourist destination for visitors coming from Melbourne to fish and row and enjoy afternoon tea. The buildings, including the ‘U’ shaped jetty and tearooms, were restored and modified in the 1990s by the Warrnambool Sports Club, under the control of the Warrnambool City Council. The dinghy was brought to Flagstaff Hill in about 1992 and restored to its original condition and painted in traditional paint colours of orange with dark green gunnel and black and gold pinstripes. Since that time it has been painted by Flagstaff Hill's boatbuilder.This dinghy, Proudfoot’s Boat, is significant for its association with Proudfoot’s Boathouse, which is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, VHR H0620. “Proudfoot's Boathouse on the Hopkins River near Warrnambool is an outstanding example of a late-19th century boathouse complex with associated residences and jetties. Thomas Proudfoot first applied for a jetty licence in 1885 with a view to establishing a boating business on the Hopkins River. The early single-storey sections are thought to date from this period. The two storey second stage probably dates from 1893 when additions were constructed. The entire complex was designed and built by Proudfoot himself. The business remained in the Proudfoot family until 1979. The buildings were modified in the 1990s in the process of creating a sporting club on the site. Proudfoot's Boathouse is of architectural, historical and social significance to the State of Victoria. Proudfoot's Boathouse is of architectural significance as perhaps the finest example of a 19th-century boathouse in Victoria. Although recent modifications have reduced the intactness of the buildings, many original features remain. The beautifully ornamented buildings still provide an attractive instance of 19th-century leisure facility architecture. Proudfoot's Boathouse is of historical significance as an example of late-Victorian recreational and tourist facilities. Boathouses were popular 19th-century tourist and recreational attractions, providing refined and healthy activity. This boathouse shows the early realisation of the tourism and leisure potential of seaside towns such as Warrnambool, a potential that has become increasingly important as port uses have ceased and other industries have been subjected to financial pressure. Proudfoot's Boathouse is of social significance because it illustrates the continuity of the attraction of this kind of leisure facility. Although the glory days of the boathouse were in the 19th century, those that survive continue to be well patronised. Proudfoot's Boathouse has been an important recreational facility and attraction for tourists flocking to the Hopkins River, one of the State's most popular boating and fishing resorts, since 1885.” (Statement of Significance is from the Victorian Heritage Register)Wooden vessel or boat, called a dinghy, known as Proudfoot’s Boat. Paint work is orange with dark green gunnel and black stripe. The rowboat is propelled by oars and has two pair of thole set into the gunnel (gunwale) to hold the oars in place and to serve as a fulcrum when rowing. The boat is dated around 1885. flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, small marine vessel, dinghy, proudfoot's boat, proudfoot's boathouse, picnic boat, orange and black boat -
Bendigo Military Museum
Photograph - Retouching Reproduction Material at the Army Survey Regiment, Fortuna, Bendigo, c1975
This is a set of seven photographs of technicians retouching orthophoto reproduction material at the Army Survey Regiment, Bendigo, c1975. Retouching mainly entailed the application of liquid opaque (Plumtree), commonly known as “duff” to cover blemishes such as scratches and spots on film negatives before photographic exposure. Retouching technicians also used specialised techniques such as “needling” to repair faults on the emulsion of map reproduction material. The technicians in this set of photos were probably working on the retouching and registration of orthophotomap colour film separations in preparation for publication by Print Troop. Peter Dew featuring in photos .1P to .5P was a serving member of RA Svy, who died in a tragic accident at home. He was fondly remembered as one of Lithographic Squadron’s colourful personalities. The "Super Animal of the Year" Peter Dew Memorial Award was an award presented to a member of the squadron for a crude act. To view a photo of this award, refer to item 6230 of the Victorian Collections.This is a set of seven photographs of technicians retouching and assembling orthophoto reproduction material at the Army Survey Regiment, Fortuna, Bendigo. c1975. The photographs are on 35mm colour slides and were scanned at 96 dpi. They are part of the Army Survey Regiment’s Collection. .1) to .3) - Photo, colour, c1975. Retouching reproduction material. L to R: SPR Ralph Chant, PTE Laurie Tedford, SGT Peter Dew. .4) to .5) - Photo, colour, c1975. Retouching reproduction material. SGT Peter Dew. .6) - Photo, colour, c1975. Assembly of orthophoto colour film separations. .7) - Photo, colour, c1975. Assembly of orthophoto colour film separations, CPL Garran Hill..1P to .7P - There are no annotations stored with the 35mm slides.royal australian survey corps, rasvy, army survey regiment, army svy regt, fortuna, asr, litho -
Bendigo Military Museum
Accessory - DIARY, RSL VICTORIA 1969, Victorian RSL State Branch, C. late 1968
The pages of written text cover everything the RSL does from welfare, commemorative, legal aid, membership, women's auxiliary and housing to name a few. Bert Pollard was an active RSL Member involved in Committee and the District Board. He served in WW2.Diary black plastic covers with gold text on front cover, top has the RSL logo followed by "Serving Still - 1969 - Victorian Branch", inside first page are details re Anzac House Melbourne, there are 28 pages of written text, page for members personal details, 4 blank pages for notes, the Calendar itself folds out for viewing and to enter notes, last page has a 12 month calendar. "Bert Pollard, phone 5433741"brsl, smirsl, diary -
Bendigo Military Museum
Photograph - Military Funeral for SSGT Peter Dew, Army Survey Regiment, Fortuna, Bendigo, 1977
This is a set of five black & white photographs of troops from the Army Headquarters Survey Regiment undertaking ceremonial drill at the military funeral for SSGT Peter Dew in 1977. The location of the funeral service was at Fortuna, Bendigo. He was buried at Bendigo Cemetery in Quarry Hill. Peter Dew died in a tragic accident at home. He was fondly remembered as one of Lithographic Squadron’s colourful personalities. See item 6243.7P for photos of Peter Dew at work in Lithographic Squadron. The "Super Animal of the Year" Peter Dew Memorial Award was an award presented to a member of the squadron for a crude act. To view a photo of this award, refer to item 6230 of the Victorian Collections. This is a set of five black & white photographs of troops from the Army Headquarters Survey Regiment undertaking ceremonial drill at the military funeral for SSGT Peter Dew in 1977. The photographs were printed on photographic paper and are part of the Army Survey Regiment’s Collection. The photographs were scanned at 300 dpi. .1) - Photo, black & white, 1977. Unidentified soldiers and civilians. .2) - Photo, black & white, 1977. In front of the tennis court gates: John McCulloch. Remainder unidentified. .3) - Photo, black & white, 1977. Rifle party rear rank right marker: Russ Mollenhauer. Front rank rifle party commander next to right marker: Greg Kidman. Pall bearers in front of vehicle L to R: Dave Miles, Dick Barwald. Remainder unidentified. .4) - Photo, black & white, 1977. Rifle party commander: Greg Kidman. Right file front to back: Russ Mollenhauer, Peter Breukel, Bill Jones, John Anderson. Remainder unidentified. Left file front to back: unidentified (x2), Rhys De Laine, Frank Lenane, Josh Degroot, Gary Drummond. .5) - Photo, black & white, 1977. Left of minister: Alan Toogood. On right of tree L to R: Max Neil, Bob Hayden, Dave Malligan, Le-Anne (Smallshaw) Shirley, Stan Vote. Remainder unidentified.No personnel are identified.royal australian survey corps, rasvy, army survey regiment, army svy regt, fortuna, asr -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Book, Miniature dictionary, 1900
This is a miniature book and container which was known as ‘the Smallest English Dictionary in the World’. It is a copy of a Dr Johnson dictionary. It was intended to be worn as a locket and sold with an accompanying magnifying glass. It was an advertising feature for the Pears Soap company. This item has no local significance but it is a very interesting one, showing the type of novelty adornment popular in the late Victorian era. This is a miniature book with a red leather cover and 384 pages. The name of the book and the name ‘Pears’ are stamped in gilt on the covers. The book is enclosed in a silver-coloured metal container with a thickened glass window in front to view the title of the book. The glass acts as a magnifier. The container has a hinged closing device. It has a ring at the top to attach the item to a chain or belt. The container is much rusted.Front cover of book: ‘Bryce’s English Dictionary’ Back Cover: ‘Pears’ bryce’ english dictionary, warrnambool, dr johnson dictionary -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Postcard Circa 1950, Snow Plough, Bogong High Plain,5,500 Feet Kiewa Hydro-Electric Project, Circa 1950
This postcard was produced in the 1950's for the tourist trade in the Kiewa Valley and Alpine region. It encompasses the period when the State of Victoria was pressured by the ever increasing demand by industry and its population for electricity supplies. Hydro electricity was seen as an untapped natural resource to quench this demand. The Victorian Alps and the rivers flowing into its valleys was ideal for the construction of the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme. The late 1940's saw the development of this scheme and the changing of sections of alpine landscape is covered by this and other postcards/pictures (tourists, construction workers, and established rural populations). This period in time was before the established wildlife and forest/nature groups became political activist who changed legislative acts to protect the environment. This rural region (Kiewa Valley/alpine plains) was at most only significant to a smaller group of winter sports, summer hikers/horse riders and rural farmers/graziers. The numbers of tourists and the increase in the local resident population was boosted by the construction of the Hydro Electricity Scheme. This influx to the regional population resulted in a corresponding diversity in services and brought about an environment that responded to a growing level of tourists and thereby permitting this industry to grow more rapidly than it would have naturally. This postcard details an attraction to the "cleaner" method of providing electricity. This postcard was purchased in 1950 by a surveyor at Landford's Gap. This item is a black and white photograph(professional) of a panoramic view of a snow plough clearing the unsealed road in 1950.This postcard is on quality paper and the reproduction of the picture is of a high standard.For other "tourist" postcards see 0480 (A) -(F) for other photos of similar postcards. kiewa valley tourism, victorian alps, alternate energy supplies, alpine population growth, secv, snow plough -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Book, Whitcombe's New Austral Grammars - a Fourth Book of Grammar and Composition for Grades V11 & V111
Educational book for Grammar and Composition. Published for the Victorian Education Department.Historical: Comparative with other text books used in schools in different eras.A greeny/grey book with cardboard cover and with bluish picture of 3 children sitting on a fence looking at a view of the countryside. The countryside is in a solid circle of blue. Border is black with ladder-like line about 2 mm wide. Bottom right corner in circle coloured blue is (in black) 2/- Title: in black Whitcombe's / New austral Grammars / A Fourth Book of / Grammar and Composition / for / Grades VII & VIII. See physical description.education. school. victorian education department. english. grammar. composition. grades 7 and 8. -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Film Strips in Canisters
These films were used c1940s and 1950s to educate students in Bogong and Mt Beauty Primary Schools. The visual experience enabled all students to see the same picture as the teacher read out the caption. Bogong and Mt Beauty Primary Schools are in the Kiewa Valley established as a result of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria's Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. As the schools were remote from large towns and cities these films were useful to enhance the students' education using a different media to that of books.450 - 500 Metal canisters with fitted lid and base soldered on. Each lid is marked with a number and / or title / subject of film. Film is rolled up inside canister. It is plastic and is in negative form - black and white. The number of frames and length of film varies. The edges have rectangular holes for threading onto a viewing machine.Varies with each canister - subject / title. Some have a number and some have a number and title / subject. Some are inscribed on and some are on paper attached to lid. photographic equipment, films, film canisters, education, schools, bogong primary school, education department of victoria, photography, mt beauty primary school. -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Poster - Print and Lithograph of Western Victorian towns and businesses, McCarron Bird & Co, Birds Eye Views in Western Victoria, c. 1900
This poster has been produced as a saleable item by the firm of McCarron Bird & Co of Melbourne about 1900. This firm was founded in 1872 and is best known for its publication of the two-volume work, 'Victoria and its Metropolis' (1888). The poster was intended to be hung on a wall for decorative and advertising purposes. It contains four attractive lithographs of the towns, Warrnambool, Port Fairy, Portland and Hamilton and a great number of advertisements and illustrations, some from Melbourne and the rest from the Westen District towns mentioned above. One Warrnambool advertisement is for the general merchant business of William Caffin in Kepler Street and two others are advertisements for the coastal ships, Flinders, Dawn and Casino which came into the port of Warrnambool. This poster has local historical significance as it has a descriptive drawing of the town of Warrnambool about 1900 and shows the buildings that were existing at that time.This is a cream-coloured sheet of paper with a coloured centre piece showing the title of the poster, four coloured lithographs of Western Victorian towns and advertisements printed and illustrated in black and white. The edges of the poster are frayed and the paper is torn at the centre left edge.warrnambool 1900, western victorian towns 1900, william caffin general merchant warrnambool -
Port of Echuca
Postcard, Early 20th Century
The water tower on the corner of Pakenham St and High Street Echuca, was designed by Sir John Monash, who was an innovator in the use of reinforced concrete. The tower cost £2,973 and was completed in 1915. It is 108 feet high and holds 150,000 gallons. it was originally connected to the steam powered pumping plant at Echuca East. John Monash was a war hero at Gallipoli in 1915 and also went on to be the Manager of the Victorian State Electricity Commission. Monash University was named after him.The water tower was a revolutionary design in 1915. It also brought tapped water to people's homes. Sir John Monash made a huge contribution to engineering and social concepts, which was why he was knighted. As well as these contributions to social development, he was also a war hero.Black and white postcard featuring the water tower in Packenham Street. The photograph was taken from Alton Reserve. The background shows a conglomeration of buildings and the foreground shows shaped lawns and park benches. The postcard has a thick border in a cream colour all around it.On the reverse is printed ; POST CARD. Write here for Inland Postage only. Tha Address to be written here. In pen is hand written the words View of Water Tower Pakenham St. Taken from Alton Reserve?echuca east pumping station, echuca water tower, monash, sir john, alton reserve, engineering, reinforced concrete -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Photograph - Colour Print, Nathan Islip, Eltham Library under construction, c.1993
Photo taken by Nathan Islip who at the time was studying Architecture at the University of Melbourne. During his experience year he worked as a builder's labourer on the new Eltham Library construction project. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency cum haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111 construction, eltham library -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Photograph - Colour Print, Nathan Islip, Eltham Library under construction, c.1994
Photo taken by Nathan Islip who at the time was studying Architecture at the University of Melbourne. During his experience year he worked as a builder's labourer on the new Eltham Library construction project. Eltham Library Service 1930s - 1994 Originally collated by Harry Gilham, President, Eltham District Historical Society Inc (1993-2009) (edited 2022) In the Eltham township area, in the early 1930s, library books for adults were available from E J Andrew's newsagency in Main Road. In the newsagency cum haberdashery, some shelves were set aside for a lending library of adults' books. In 1935, Mr & Mrs JC Rains purchased the newsagency and continued the lending service until the late 1940s. At this time the business was extended from haberdashery to sell ladies' and men's clothing. The library section was discontinued. In the 1930s a mobile book library was also run by a Mr Foster of Bible Street, Eltham. In the 1950s adult books were available from racks in the foyer of the Eltham Shire Offices which was then located beside the Eltham Hall on the comer of Arthur Street and Main Road. In the early 1950s a referendum of ratepayers was called to seek public opinion on the issue of raising money for a public library for which the rates would have to be increased - the motion was defeated. On 11 November 1965 Eltham Shire Council, in conjunction with the City of Heidelberg and the Shire of Diamond Valley, met to form the Heidelberg Regional Library Service. Eltham was represented by Councillors Charis Pelling and John Lewis. The first library service for the Shire of Eltham from this group came in the shape of a bookmobile van which had, amongst others, a central stopover near the Shillinglaw trees outside the newly opened Shire offices at 895 Main Road, the original site of Shillinglaw Cottage and the former Shillinglaw farm. Present-day Wingrove Park was another stopover and the many recorded requests for this service can be read as denoting the areas of population or gathering points at that period throughout the Shire. 1968 saw the Shire convert the ‘Brinkkotter’ house in Dudley Street to house both adult and children's books. This library was originally staffed from the City of Heidelberg Library and records of committee meetings range from borrowing Heidelberg's old library shelving to trying to increase the Government's subsidy to a dollar for dollar basis. Book loans in the period 1966-67 totalled 30,400 and the following year ran to 52,113. With 2 books plus 1 paperback the limit per person, it was overcrowded and unable to house the range of other services which had become common library stock. Planning to extend the Shire Offices by the addition of the south wing was an opportunity to re-house the Shire's Library. The opening of the library in the extension was carried out on 17th August 1971 by the Hon R J Hamer ED, MP, Chief Secretary of Victoria. Cr Geoffrey Dreverman officiated as the Shire President. The Heidelberg Regional Library Service continued until September 1985 when it disbanded. On 21 November 1985 the Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service was established. At that time Eltham was represented by Councillors Mary Grant and Robert Manuell. By 1987, over-crowding of the Eltham Library and an inability to house the range of other services yet again rose to prominence. At a Council meeting held on 1 June 1987, the Councillors supported a resolution which threatened to close the library on 30 September 1987. Council's frustration arose from yet another re-run of the annual State Government versus Council Library funding and records show first arose in Eltham Council in 1967 with the Government of 1he day. After prolonged public anger and petitions the motion to close the library was rescinded in August 1987. Council, considering the community's concern, set up a ‘Library Review Working Party’ which a year later became the Library Occasional Committee with direct access to Council. This Committee investigated the workings of the 386 square metre library and found inadequate space for storage and display, lack of equipment, out-of-date furniture together with an increasing patronage which resulted in queues of borrowers becoming longer no matter when the library was open. Community consultation took the form of 1,000 questionnaires sent to users and non-users along with noticeboard reminders of what was planned. Council developed a strategy to set aside capital funds from 1988 on an annual basis so that preliminary planning and consultative expenses could be met, and construction could be completed early 1997. The Committee visited metropolitan libraries which were catering for a similar population as was projected for Eltham. Australia-wide Federal Government funding grants under the Local Capital Works Program became available from October 1992 for community projects endorsed by local Councils. The Eltham Council submitted a proposal, based on library findings and requirements accumulated by the Library Occasional Committee, to the Federal Grants Committee to build a new Eltham Library. The Federal Grants Committee supported the funding request allowing commencement of the library project three years earlier than planned. With finance finalised, the Council set up its Eltham Library Re-development Special Committee which was given the task of overseeing what could be the last major expansion of the Shire's Library Service as Eltham's population nears its projected maximum. The new library was designed by Gregory Burgess and Peter Ryan of Gregory Burgess Pty Ltd. Construction of the library commenced in 1993 and was officially opened May 22nd, 1994. The library building was designed to reflect its parkland setting. External features include: the roof which includes interesting aspects when viewed from Main Road; verandahs which provide ramp access and give a sheltered entrance to the building; walls which feature locally made mudbricks, conventional bricks and copper panels; and space for an outdoor courtyard/reading area which will be developed later. Internally there are several features. The building includes a foyer with a fireplace suitable for displays including artwork, a community multi-purpose room suitable for meetings or functions and an outdoor cafeteria. The ceilings are lined with Victorian Ash. The shapes for the ceiling give a free-flowing form to the building. Brush Box has been used for the circulation and information desks. The tree trunk columns are Grey lronbark from New South Wales. Arches and various-shaped windows add interest to the internal structure. The carpet design reflects the Eltham environment and compliments the natural colours and timbers used in the building. Tiles by artist Felix Bosari feature in the building and additional art by local artists added externally and internally to the building. Since 1994 the library has undergone a major extension to cater for children’s services and others. See also EDHS_02111 construction, eltham library