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Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Seal Skins Ski Straps / Soles, mid 1900's
... variations to the typical Australian rural settlements of the time ...These seal skin straps and webbing were introduced into the Victorian Alps by European engineers, conducting survey work for the SEC Hydro scheme in the late 1930s. This period in time produced many immigrants from a war torn Europe with highly developed technical skills. Many of these immigrants provided articles that were well suited to the alpine regions of Australia, ones they used in their homelands. These were times when the home grown cultures of the Anglo Saxon heritage of the earlier settlers within the Kiewa Valley became interwoven with the various European cultures and this formed, what in later years became the beginning of the Australian multi-cultural society. The Kiewa Valley and its surrounding regions where the major rural areas which did not progress in a so typical Aussie "dinky-di", "she'll be right" fashion. The European influence was however not too strong, so as to obliterate the flavour of the home grown rural society.The major populated sections of the upper Kiewa Valley and the Alpine regions were accelerated by the SEC Hydro Development which brought into the slow growing rural regions a quasi multi ethnic society, however this was only noticeable up to the time when the final Power Station was commissioned in the 1960s. The slight variations to the typical Australian rural settlements of the time were in some food preparations, winter apparel such as these seal skin straps and soles and "langlauf" (cross-country skis). The sealskins were sewn so that their grain ran from front to back thereby allowing the skins to grip going up hill and glide going downhill.The gardens and varieties of flowering shrubs and trees where also more in line with traditional European "outdoor" settings. Seal skin sewn onto one side of a strap of webbing. There is a webbing loop on the front that slips over a small point at the front of the ski. There is a webbing strap attached to the back of the seal skin sole coming over the back of ski that clips metal fasteners onto a loop of webbing behind the ski boot. alpine sports, snow skis, winter clothing, mount bogong recreational activities, snow sports -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Petticoat Child
This petticoat is demonstrative of home made infant undergarment clothing in the early 1900. Distance to and from commercial haberdashery store was too far to fit out young girls especially if the are undergarments. Mothers and other family members had the seamstress talent to make clothes that are not in full view of anyoneHistorically these undergarments have no fashion relevance for the younger fashion scene and this garment is an example of the self sufficient supply of home made articles. This was especially so within the Kiewa Valley and surrounds. Fashion in Australia and more so in areas with little or no access to overseas or city merchandise lacked "modern fashionable" clothes e.g. the latest from England and Paris. This region was and still is a rural backdrop of clothes that fit into the type of life and work of the society it holds.Cotton petticoat, white, three buttons on top back, 8mm wide straps of cotton tape. Gathered skirt with triple row of Rick Rack on the bottom edge and three pintucks, 17mm wide, on the lower edge of skirt. Garment is completely hand stitchedchildren's underwear, female underwear, dressmaking, handcraft, costume, clothing -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Skittles wooden, Circa 1980
... . This item clearly represent a period in rural Australian development ...Indoor children's toy. Historically these gained greater popularity when professional ten pin bowling had its major impact in Australian sport and recreation. This item was gifted by one who had played skittles as a child with her brother on carpeted passage in her home. Skittles was an indoor game.This item clearly represent a period in rural Australian development when entertainment and sporting facilities were broadcast but local access to professional facilities not readily availableThis is an incomplete set of toy wooden skittles. There are three green, two yellow, one red and one brown pin. The bottom and top have manufacturing markings from a wood turning machine. Full set is nine pinschildren, wooden, toy, skittles -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Book - Commerce Savings, Bank of Australasia Beechworth Branch 1892 - 1895, circa 1890's
Historically this item is from the early to late 1890's. This Item documents the day to day commerce and financial transactions of a business in a regional centre of a rural district. It illustrates the greater degree of personal contact between bank staff and client, outside electronic money transfers and A.T.Ms. The personal activities especially in small towns between bank and customers made for a clearer and friendlier transaction interchange possibleThis item clearly details pre Federation banking and the important link with English law and commerce. Regional banking was very strong and the rural sectors provided the "wealth of the nation". This confidence was backed by the assurances of the Royal Charter and the financial strength of the British Homeland. The strong Pound Sterling was the currency of the "Empire"Discoloured white, hard cardboard book with brass clasp/clip early Pass book containing 45 pages. The page thickness is close to thin cardboard.No outside markings. Inside cover printed "The Bank Of Australia (Incorporated by Royal Charter, 1835)". Also Listed, the paid up capital, the reserve fund and regulatory information. The second page details the list of offices in Australia and the London office. Following pages credit debit information of typical bank Pass Book of "John Woodside No.2 A/Ccommerce, banking beechworth early accounting pre federation -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Scales Balance Pocket, Circa 1900
Historically this item would have been used by gold miners, rabbit shooters, mobile "Rag and Bone" traders and other mobile(in caravans and/or horse drawn cart) traders of various small goods and haberdashery. Although marked as not to be used as trade, the isolation and sometimes difficult terrain rules out using larger and more delicate scales. In the early 1900s rough roads and severe weather conditions forced traders to be more flexible in trading with weights and measures. The "close enough is good enough" doctrine was the Australian outback rule of thumb. The significance of this item in the Kiewa Valley during this period demonstrates the slower acceptance of accurate trading measure using the country side principle "my hand shake is my bond". In the Kiewa Valley small quantity commercial undertakings e.g. gold mining, fur pelts and rabbit meat trade did not require bulk weight type scales. Commerce in rural production e.g. fruit and vegetables involved more farmers and their staff in a barter and/or "in kind" payments. This was more so in the depression years 1929 to late 1930s. Self sufficiency was to a large extent more attainable in this region than in the city/ large country town environment. The Australian "fair go" ethical approach to life and commerce was very much ingrained in those living in country regions, like Kiewa Valley as is demonstrated by the not so accurate hand balance, spring loaded scales. Portable Pocket Balance with front plate made from brass. Spring mechanism enclosed by black painted medium gauge steel cover( three quarters cylindrical). Front scale face and rear spring casing fastened by three rivets. Spring loaded marker blade is located in the centre of the front plate. See item KVHS 0224 for a similar scales.Front plate marked: at top "Not legal for use in trade", below this in larger print "Pocket Balance", under and to the right in smaller print "lbs" under this graded marks, first marked with a Zero, then every second mark in ascending order up to 25. At the bottom of the front plate is marked "Made in Germany"antique pocket balance, scales, mobile weights, vintage appliances -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Church Collection Receptacles, circa1900s
This church collection bag is quite unique in that it has three grip handles, not the usual two. Why three. It may represent the holy trinity of, the father,the son and the holy spirit. Historically this might be used to reinforce the holy trinity belief which at the time of this item's construction was under threat. The threat came from splinter Christian sects such as the Church Of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints which have a Godhead of a council of three deities and there are other christian religions of only one deity covering the father,the son and the holy spirit.This collection bag for offerings, was the main method available towards the upkeep of the church and its parish during this era. Broadcasting of religious services was not as prolific as in the late 1900s and into the 2000s. It was a time when visualisation of the support of religion(especially in rural ares) was an important social factor. The God "fearing" beliefs within society of this period, provided the strong moral fabric which permitted settlements that did not have a strong law enforcement section to prosper and develop without fear or "favour". The collection bag was, and is still, a physical endorsement of support towards the church and what it stands for. This was a time when it was a social requirement to be seen in the church building and supporting fellow parishioners. The ingrained Australian psyche of supporting anyone that needed help, was a result of this period.Church collection/donation bag. Simple construction of two round frames with three opposing handles nailed together to hold firm a small dark blue cloth pocket/bag. All fastened by nails to the handle/frame and the large pocket allows for a reasonable amount of coin or notes to be offered.religion, collection receptacles, christian offerings, church protocols -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Tape Measure, mid 1900s
This item predates the change of Imperial measure (England -1824) to decimal measure (Europe) in Australia (1970 to 1988). This item was manufactured in England as, was the majority of measuring tool and equipment. It was not until the late 1950s that other countries e.g. United States and Europe provided the same type of manufactured tools for the Australian market. World War II, when Australia had to defend its own boarders that the political push for self sufficiency of manufactured goods started local production. Workers in the Kiewa Valley had always relied on the high quality of tools and manufactured goods coming from England. From the middle to late 1950s migration by skilled workers from a war torn Europe provided the source of manpower for the expansion of the manufacturing industries in Australia.The requirement of an accurate measuring tool has always been critical. This item was used at the time when Australia was using the British Imperial measurements. Accurate measurements by carpenters and other trades people for both town and rural needs was just as critical as for the larger cities. The transition period from Imperial to metric was a period of over four years but it still presented those who had used the Imperial measurements for a longer period in their trades with a dual system of measurement for a longer time(usually up to their retirement) Other nations still using Imperial measurements kept the transition from Imperial to metric alive (the UK and USA still uses Imperial measurements in 2012)Retractable metallic wired tape measure within a leather casing. Length of tape is 66 feet. Brass fittings on casing(winder and back plate)Tape on one side marked in inches and feet and on the other in links. Winder lever marked "66ft No 401" on front and arrow with"wind this way". Leather cover marked "John R A Bone & Sons Birmingham England" on reverse side "Metallic wired tape R A Bone & Sons"wired tape measure, tool, mobile tool, construction tool -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Photograph Tawonga Hotel, Tawonga Hotel Circa 1940s - 1950s, circa 1940s to 1950s
... Australia. "outback" hotels pubs rural short stay accommodation ...This photograph shows the "lay back" atmosphere enjoyed in a small country town in the 1940s to the 1950s. Two women and a young boy basking in the warmth of the sun. The unsealed drive way and cars parked close to the entrance was typical of small towns during this period. Open doors and shady trees provided sufficient cooling for most sunny days. The wooden barrel next to the outside wall shows that storage space within the hotel was limited and that metal aluminium barrels had not been in existence. This photograph was taken at a time when children and women had limited access to the major drinking and entertainment facilities within a hotel(pub). Legal drinking age was for patrons 21 years and older and no strict dress codes where applied. The hotel bar was not open on Sundays (God fearing) and opening time restrictions were in place. "In transit" clients were given some leniency when staying in small country hotels as strict liquor laws This photograph presents a window to a life in the 1940s to 1950s, of a small town in the Kiewa Valley. It covers a period when the local hotel or "pub" was the meeting point for local men and women to talk about local events and life in general. It was also a point where "locals' had the first opportunity to meet new arrivals and converse with tourists and "through traffic". The importance of "face to face" verbal communication was a critical part of community life and interaction. The hotel(pub) was in this period the hub of small communities, and together with local churches provided the essential structure for a balanced existence in rural Australia.Black and white photo of Tawonga Hotel. This photo is in itself a photo of a photo and as such lacks fine detail. This reproduction is on "Kodak XtraLife II paper ""outback" hotels, pubs, rural short stay accommodation, tawonga hotel -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Letter Commerce, Confirmation of Payment, 02/12/1911
... of the period (up to the late 1900's) of the rural Australian ...This document (dated 1911), is a receipt covering the compensation for the three acres of land required to establish the Tawonga School from its original site (since 1880) to a more central site (since 1911), within the township. This receipt clearly shows the era in which the community involvement and social commitment of landholders was at a higher level, in the early 20th century, than at the latter part. Matters involving community welfare in relatively isolated rural regions was of high priority to every person whether town folk or grazier/farmer or miner. The letter of acceptance of the amount of twenty one pounds for three acres was signed by John Cooper on behalf of Ada Ryder (parent at the school), did not require State Government Compulsory Acquisition process (as it may have, had it been in the latter part of the century and if it were in a city or large town. This social benevolency was part of the period (up to the late 1900's) of the rural Australian environment. This was well before international land investments changed the picture of the socio-economics of country towns.A4 letter of confirmation of payment on pre-lined paper and with a margin. Both margin and lines are coloured in light grey. The page has been folded four times and shows faintly, horizontal lines, of manufacture. The letter is framed with a glass front.This receipt for the compensation of money is hand written in ink and reads: "Tawonga Dec 2 1911, I have this Day Received from the Residents and other People interested in the new State School the Sum of (Pounds sign) 21-0-0 twentyone Pounds being value of compensation for three Acres of land on which is erected the new State School No.2282 Paid by Cash & Cheques with thanks 2/12/11 (Signed) John Cooper" Below this is affixed a Victoria 1 pence stamp duty stamp, on which is written(freehand) Paid 2/12/11 Initialed J Cfinancial letters, receipts, school acquisitons, stamp duty -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Bag Camera, circa 1920s
This item was manufactured in a period where the cheapest containers for portable equipment was canvas. The market place for cheap cameras was still restricted to European, England and its colonies. It was well before the post World War II explosion of the Asian manufacturing juggernaut.This item shows one of the most popular avenues of not only bringing new "modern" age equipment into the Kiewa Valley but also providing the local market with actual overseas inexpensive merchandise. It was a time when the new European fashion and "new age" equipment took years to permeate into regional Australia. The world, through Australia eyes, was still a very large planet and supply of "modern" lifestyle equipment emphasised the geographic isolation of Australia. Post World War II emigrants and an increasing flow of tourists to Australia provided the contact needed by rural settlements to open up not only their social contacts but lifestyle activities.Canvas, yellow, cream in color and with a weave pattern on the external side. It has stitched brown laminated fabric boarders containing all ends and corners. A flap opening top fastened on one side by a large press stud (15mm). A brown coloured leather carry strap (adjustable and 10mm wide) fasted at either of the longitudinal ends of the bag.camera, case photography, hobby, personal equipment -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Whistle Penny, circa 1950s
... patterns of rural Australians(the more traditional consumer ...This item is a cheap Penny Whistle made in Thailand Circa 1955. The item was one of the first wave of imports from the growing Asian steel producers. This was an era where cheaper Asia based steel companies did not compete against the stronger, and well established Australian ones. This Penny Whistle was "roughly" made and possibly purchased by the Victorian Education Department for use in school bands and music classes. Schools within the Kiewa Valley would have used them to integrate students the fundamentals of reading music and playing basic musical scores. Later conversion from steel to plastics would have been more conducive to multiple users in a classroom environment (more hygienic and rust proof.This item shows how the "cheaper" invasion of all types of manufactured goods from the Asian regions have altered the purchasing patterns of rural Australians(the more traditional consumer). The cost imbalance of purchasing from "The Mother Country (England)" or European supply versus the Asian manufacturers was due to not only the financial pressures post World War II but also in the elimination of Tariff restrictions placed on non favoured suppliers.This tin Penny Whistle is made from rolled tin(steel), cylindrical in shape, with a wooden Fipple plug at the mouth end and six note holes starting half way down the front side evenly spaced and ending 35mm from the bottom. This whistle is in the key of D"G steel & Co. D"music, wind instruments, whistle, celtic music -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Camera Box Brownie Folding, Six 20 Folding Brownie KodetteII, Circa 1948 to late 1970s
This camera was made for the mobile photographer and the camera manufacturer Kodak was at the peak of production. Mr. George Eastman, the company's founder, who invented roll film, which could withstand the outdoor activities and therefor replaced photographic plates. In 1900, the Box Brownie camera was first released Kodak's motto was' "You push the button, we do the rest," The film used in this camera was Kodak Verichrome 620 introduced in 1936 and only went out of production 2009. This camera was a vintage 1970s one. Between 1963 and 1970 the company sold 50 million of this type of camera. The production of smaller and more user friendly digital cameras, mainly from Japan finally nailed the coffin lid on the Kodak Company. Ironically, one of Kodak's engineers called Steve Sasson, devised a camera that could save images using electronic circuits. The images were transferred onto a tape cassette and were viewable by attaching the camera to a TV screen, however Kodak tried to maintain its photographic film products beyond its "use by date". In1975 Kodak becomes the first company to make a digital camera, however the Japanese manufacturers could make smaller and more compact cameras ending Kodak's monopoly and eventual demise.This particular "box brownie" was used by Margaret Shefford, nee Turner, who with her husband retired, in the 1980s, to Mount Beauty. The camera was purchased in the 197's and used on their cruise to England. The significance of this item is that at the time of its introduction to Mount Beauty the camera was a "state of the art", for general public, camera introduced by an ever increasing influx of retirees. This identifies the Kiewa Valley not only as an attraction for sightseers and overseas tourists but also retirees. The social implications of this trend will continue to provide a broader requirement for medical and other facilities geared up to the requirements of an aging population. As a lot of cities in Australia have increasing levels of violence (mainly drug related) rural "retreats" are becoming more sought after by sections of "the gentle populous"This is a black metal rectangular camera, rounded on the ends and has silver colored fittings(stainless steel) and a small leather handle on hinges the left side (facing the lens). The folding lens and shutter component fold out from the main compartment. Two metal arms swing out and hold the lens and collapsible lens body to the required length. When not in use this collapsible (folding) lens extension is fastened to the main body structure providing security and preventing damage to the folding material. The camera has a collapsible eye piece or view finder at the top end. The right hand bottom end has a cylindrical film wider (polished steel). Inside there are two cylindrical cavities, one holding the roll of unexposed film and the other (winder) end a cylinder onto which the unexposed film is wound through for each picture frame. There is a locking mechanism to hold the folding lens structure to the main box structure. See KVHS 0419B for its carrying caseNo external makings but when the lens is folded out it exposes manufacturing information on metal base around the lens " Kodette II B I shutter"(B= Bulb and I= Instant), underneath this, in larger print, is "'FOLDING 'BROWNIE' SIX - 20" below the lens and in smaller print, "made in Great Britain" and underneath this "by KODAK ltd"kodak kodette ii, folding brownie camera, photography, hobby personal item, tourist gadgets. -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Book - Reference Countryside, The Australian Countryside in Pictures, circa 1950s
... of post World War II rural Australia. The strong heritage link ...This book is a "snapshot" in time (1950s) detailing life in Australia covering a time when a "man's word and handshake" were his moral and quasi legal bond, and the now relative defunct saying "smoko" (having a "time out" from work for a cigarette and tea or coffee). The book spans an era where the male was still the "head" of the family even though for a majority of families the women took on the many "male only" roles during the World War II period. This shift in the leadership of the family hierarchy is mentioned, so ever slightly, (not to offend the still predominant macho male image) in both rural and city environments. The effects of the war, and later the push for women's emancipation and equality in both family, social, workplace and political areas of life, since this book was published, is now finally resolved. However there are still some sections of the recent migrate population where this male dominance is causing a few problems.The significance of this book is not only because it was donated by Mrs C. Roper ( from the Roper Family, a pioneer Kiewa Valley and surrounding Region family - originally beef cattle graziers) but also a Kiewa Valley resident and family, experiencing the shift in the social and economical life of post World War II rural Australia. The strong heritage link to this region of many families still residing within its boundaries, is a clear affirmation of the bond that the Kiewa Valley and its Regions have upon family unity. This unity within the rural environment is something that is attracting more and more families from sometimes alienating city life.This printed coloured sketched, or painted paper sleeve of the book is freely wrapped over a dark red hard cover. Into the front of the cover is pressed a standing pose of a farmer with long sleeves rolled up over his elbows. Behind him and to the right are what appears to be three sacks of wheat and next to him is a merino sheep. To the left and down are two dogs one with a fox in its jaws. The book contains 240 pages, 300 illustrations in gravure and 25 pictures in full colour. The inside fly leaf is a colour photograph of a rural scene with dirt road running in the centre and to the left a farm house and a five bay open storage barnOn the tittle page is a signature "C Roper"country life, australian "outback", rural industries, life on the land, swag-man of the bush -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Journal - Reference, Mountain Work and Walks 1945-48,The Joy of Being Alive, circa 1950s
This journal detailing the author and friends walks and observations together with black and white photographs of the Kiewa Valley and the Bogong high plains regions during various "walks during the years 1945 to 1948. These walks were undertaken during the various Hydro - electricity generating plants and infra structures were being installed. It relays how the walker and adventurer enjoyed the pristine Alpine regions of Victoria. The wilderness and higher sense of adventure encountered by the author and his "walking party" is now no longer that intense. The isolation of the region was, at that time, still a barrier for the casual adventurer and required a dedication of the "pioneer" mountain walker.The significance of this journal is that both the photographs and accounts of those intrepid adventurers walking throughout the Victorian Alps and the Bogong High Plains details the countryside in one of the remaining years of relative pristine and minimal "tourist" developed regions of rural Victorian. The necessity of greater electrical power supply to the rapidly growing demand from cities and larger towns, post World War II immigration, had resulted in drastic changes to the infrastructure of the Victorian Alpine regions and particularly the Kiewa Valley. The photographs and the written accounts of the "adventurers" in this journal presents the last phases of the " Australian rough outback environment" and also the typical "bush wise" city/town dweller that although lived in towns and cities still had the adventurers heart of their fore fathers.This item has been photocopied by the author of his journal, consisting 27 pages of A4 size paper. A covering letter by the author is at the front of this loose leafed journal. The journal is bound in a yellow plastic cover with spirals. At the back is a 2 page biography of Myrtle Emily (Grigg) Deamer 1922-2006, then a photo of Meg with baby Bryn and son Tony followed by a letter from David BottomleyThe author's correspondence and covering letter has his signature "D Bottomley"alpine country, bush walking, bogong mountain, alpine adventures -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Book - Reference Teaching Infants, MacMillan's Teaching in Practice for Infant Schools Projects and Pictures Vol. 1, 1949
This item was reprinted in 1949 (first edition in 1934) in Great Britain and used in Victorian Infant school classes.This was in the era where "mother England" was still the favourite source of educational text books for Australian primary schools. "Australianism" was frowned upon by educational institutions as being not proper English. This belief lingered on for a longer period in private schools, where "ockerism" was a dirty word. It was not until the mid 1950s that the Australian dialect and social mores were accepted as suitable for educational activities.This item was used in Mount Beauty Primary School as part of a teacher's curriculum. The fact that it was in a rural area, Kiewa Valley did present a slightly different learning atmosphere than in the larger towns and cities. The majority of parents within the Kiewa Valley, had a slight resentment of the "high and mighty" attitude of city dwellers with a "plum in their mouths" and the effectiveness of city bred teachers was how to overcome these ingrained mores. The mentioning of European nations and lifestyles was to the pupils in the infant schools far more like "fairyland" than the realism that they experienced on the "land". However at this age level fantasy was more important than reality. Australian fantasy tales e.g. Blinky Bill (circa 1930s) introduced main characters that infants could identify, especially in rural schools.This item is a green coloured hard backed book containing 384 double sided pages. Nearly all pages have black writing and free hand sketches. There are some pages of duplicated sheet music.See KVHS 0046, KVHS 0047, KVHS 0048 for the other volumes held.On the spine is "MACMILLANS TEACHING IN PRACTICE" below this "PROJECTS and PICTURES" underneath "VOL 1". On title page "edited by E.J.S.Lay" underneath VOLUME ONE. Below this there is printed a two branch wreath within these an "Olympic" type torch.infant school curriculum, teacher's aid reference, instruction book -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Book - Reference Teaching Infants, MacMillan's Teaching in Practice for Infant Schools Projects and Pictures Vol. 2, 1949
This item was reprinted in 1949 (first edition in 1934) in Great Britain and used in Victorian Infant school classes.This was in the era where "mother England" was still the favourite source of educational text books for Australian primary schools. "Australianism" was frowned upon by educational institutions as being not proper English. This belief lingered on for a longer period in private schools, where "ockerism" was a dirty word. It was not until the mid 1950s that the Australian dialect and social mores were accepted as suitable for educational activities.This item was used in Mount Beauty Primary School as part of a teacher's curriculum. The fact that it was in a rural area, Kiewa Valley did present a slightly different learning atmosphere than in the larger towns and cities. The majority of parents within the Kiewa Valley, had a slight resentment of the "high and mighty" attitude of city dwellers with a "plum in their mouths" and the effectiveness of city bred teachers was to overcome these ingrained mores. The mentioning of European nations and lifestyles was to the pupils in the infant schools far more like "fairyland" than the realism that they experienced on the "land". However at this age level fantasy was more important than reality. Australian fantasy tales e.g. Blinky Bill (circa 1930s) introduced main characters that infants could identify, especially in rural schools.This item is a green coloured hard backed book containing 768 double sided pages. Nearly all pages have black writing and free hand sketches. There are some pages of duplicated sheet music. See KVHS 0045, KVHS 0047, KVHS 0048 for the other volumes held.On the spine is "MACMILLANS TEACHING IN PRACTICE" below this "PROJECTS and PICTURES" underneath "VOL 2". On title page "edited by E.J.S.Lay" underneath VOLUME TWO. Below this there is printed a two branch wreath within these an "Olympic" type torch.infant school curriculum, teacher's aid reference, instruction book -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Book - Reference Teaching Infants, MacMillan's Teaching in Practice for Infant Schools Projects and Pictures Vol. 5, 1949
This item was reprinted in 1949 (first edition in 1934) in Great Britain and used in Victorian Infant school classes.This was in the era where "mother England" was still the favourite source of educational text books for Australian primary schools. "Australianism" was frowned upon by educational institutions as being not proper English. This belief lingered on for a longer period in private schools, where "ockerism" was a dirty word. It was not until the mid 1950s that the Australian dialect and social mores were accepted as suitable for educational activities.This item was used in Mount Beauty Primary School as part of a teacher's curriculum. The fact that it is in a rural area, Kiewa Valley did present a slightly different learning atmosphere than in the larger towns and cities. The majority of parents within the Kiewa Valley, had a slight resentment of the "high and mighty" attitude of city dwellers with a "plum in their mouths" and the effectiveness of city bred teachers was to overcome these ingrained mores. The mentioning of European nations and lifestyles was to the pupils in the infant schools far more like "fairyland" than the realism that they experienced on the "land". However at this age level fantasy was more important than reality. Australian fantasy tales e.g. Blinky Bill (circa 1930s) introduced main characters that infants could identify, especially in rural schools.This item is a green coloured hard backed book containing 2067 double sided pages. Nearly all pages have black writing and free hand sketches. There are some pages of duplicated sheet music.The last 13 pages contain the index of the total 5 volumes of the set. See KVHS 0045, KVHS 0046, KVHS 0047 for the the volumes held.On the spine is "MACMILLANS TEACHING IN PRACTICE" below this "PROJECTS and PICTURES" underneath "VOL 5". On title page "edited by E.J.S.Lay" underneath"VOLUME FIVE". Below this there is printed a two branch wreath within these an "Olympic" type torch.teacher's aid reference, instruction book, infant school curriculum -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Book - Reference Botany, Botany - A Junior Book For Schools, 1927
This book was a highly regarded reference book for students in primary and lower secondary schools within Victoria from the late 1800s to the mid 1900s. The book provided students with the fundamental knowledge of botany for the era in which it was produced. As this book was targeting a junior schooling level (basic), it could cover a greater and extended reader population. Teaching institutions could, because of its straight forward, basic written information, retain this book's circulation for a greater length of time, thereby optimising the return against the greater initial costs of importing it from England.This book was produced in a time where learning was at a relatively slower pace (due to a smaller source and supply of material). The availability of a large range of cheap reference books such as that offered from 1971 on wards via the internet "Project Guttenberg" in the form of electronic books, has dramatically provided a larger source of reference material. The significance of this book on botany, is that it was highly effective for the era in which it was produced and in particular the students at a rural based school. Being in a rural area students were able to identify local vegetation to the various life cycles of plants presented in this mainly United Kingdom/European referenced book. The students in the Kiewa Valley and attending a rural school, where in a position to study all the fundamental teaching that this book encompassed. This in one way provided students in the valley a slightly better appreciation between book and real life (on the land, in the field and by the river). Later publications of this book had additional Australian references in them.This hard covered book(cloth strengthened) is faded(aged) beige in colour and consists of 204 pages. It is printed in English (black print) on both sides and contains illustrations of both free hand sketches and photographs of plants, both foliage and roots systems. The book is arranged in three sections: three pages of preface, two of contents (28 chapters). The last four pages contain the appendix and index.On spine "BOTANY" underneath "R.H. YAPP" and at bottom the Cambridge coat of Arms and below this "CAMBRIDGE" The front cover "BOTANY" underneath this "A JUNIOR BOOK FOR SCHOOLS" and below this a an illustration of a four leaf petal(flower of Germander Speedwell) the same as appears on the cover of edition 2, however this book is edition 3. At the bottom is "R.H. YAPPschool, botany, text books, science experiments, nature -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Typewriter Mechanical Portable, 1950s
The Olivetti company was founded in Italy in 1908.This particular typewriter is a Olivetti Lettera 22, oblique front stroke and portable manufactured after 1950. The 1950s and 1960s was a time when British manufactured goods were still purchased by many Australian consumers. The later 1960s onwards, there was a shift, mainly in the cities, to European made goods. The invasion of Japanese manufactured goods was relatively slower, especially in rural areas. The demand for long lasted and dependable merchandise was in the rural area still the most important criteria. The ease of setting up this typewriter and its compact mobility was its major benefit to trades people and travelling professionals, e.g. rural doctors, other medical professionals, accountants, lawyers and educators. This item facilitated the growing numbers of professional nomads requiring a relatively light office stationery package e.g. travelling novelist, writer, businessman and academics. This typewriter needed no electrical or battery power to operate it. Outback Australia, where at this point in time, was still relatively isolated from a good available electrical power reticulation and battery power, and therefore could not be totally measured as a highly efficient office environment.Although this typewriter was purchased from a business in Penrith, Sydney, N.S.W., it is significant that it travelled easily to the Kiewa Valley, demonstrating the mobility of certain sections of the community. This typewriter was designed by an Italian industrial designer, Marcello Nizzoli, in line with the art deco style of the 1930s and the colour and flexibility of the vibrant 1950s. The underlying theme of manufacturing in the 1950s was to produce equipment that was more efficient than what was inherited from the earlier period of 20th century. Improvements were made to this Olivetti typewriter by Giuseppe Beccio by reducing the number of parts made from 3,000 to 2,000. This reduction of parts and therefore cost of production was the major principle of the Japanese manufacturing juggernauts of the post World War II era. Efficiency and low costs material was becoming prime factors in the success of rural industries from the 1960s. Competition from overseas producers was starting to affect rural industries and the removal of the large range of tariff protection, especially rural products, required not only a shift of farm management but a more efficient cost savings modus operandi. This Olivetti Lettera 22, oblique front stroke portable (weighs 4kg) mechanical typewriter has a coral coloured plastic casing. The keys are made of black hardened plastic with white lettering, numbers and symbols (imperial fractions, and pound). It has a QWERTY keyboard as opposed to the Italian QZERTY. It has a lever to move the ribbon between black, neutral (for mimeograph stencils)and red colours (a red key is provided for highlighting specific words,letters or symbols) . This machine is fitted with only a black ribbon. It has a black rubber paper rollers and chromed metal parts on the carriage way. It has four rubber feet underneath the main body. On the left side of the roller there is a lever to adjust the roller from fixed (when mobile) through 1,2 and 3 line space gradients. This model has a key for zero but not one for the number one (uppercase letter l is used) see KVHS 0459 for the carrying bag.On the cover over the ribbon wheels letter strikers has a plate marked "Lettera 22" and the back plate behind the paper roller and in front of the paper supports has a silver metal label marked "olivetti made in great britain".commercial, mobile office equipment, mechanical typewriter -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Book - Reference Teaching, Intermediate English J. Aughterson, Circa 1957
This particular edition was published in a period (1950s), when textbooks for primary and secondary schools were published by London based publishing houses such as LONGMAN. This particular publishing house brand is now only used by the Longman Schools in China. This reference book was one of the basic reading material for students learning the "English" language opposed to the "Americanised English". The two versions of English now in use are mainly influenced by the greater influx of American based media and the internet. At the time of this publication however print media was at its peak and the English used was from the United Kingdom. Although the written language is in English, the majority subject matter is of Australian origin. This text book is very significant in demonstrating the type of English taught in rural schools during the period and before the internet and the American based spell check programs now in use. The subtle changes in both the spoken and written English, due to the modern internet facilities, can be seen by the "texting" language of school aged students, post "world wide web" and mobile telephones. This English text book is a moment in time, when the isolation of rural communities had greater affect upon the standard of both the written and spoken language. It was a time when Britain was still thought of as "the mother land" and the English used was that brought to Australian by the original settlers and over time developed an "Australian flavour".Plastic covered soft green colored cardboard cover in black print. Pages (150) are printed in black ink on both sides and in different fonts.Front cover "INTERMEDIATE ENGLISH" underneath "J. Aughterson" underneath a squiggle of three half circles. underneath "LONGMANS". Spine: "AUGHTERSON INTERMEDIATE ENGLISH LONGMANS"school curriculum, secondary education, rural schools -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Atlas Australian Commonwealth, Philips' Australian Commonwealth Atlas, 1944
... by Australian soldiers. The great political and territorial changes made ...This atlas, printed in 1944, details not only the geographic and political boundaries of the world as it was at that time but also the snap shot of life of the time. This snap shot in time covers the major Australian cities, the major farming, grazing, industrial and sporting/recreational activities. Also there are snap shots of similar activities from other global areas. The period also covered World War II, detailed by a photo of "shell making", munitions, required by Australian soldiers. The great political and territorial changes made as a result of World War II can be clearly identified for example , Israel (the Jewish homeland). The various prewar colonies of major European nations.This atlas was used by children of a Kiewa Valley family and shows the value and the general educational exposure that these children had at this time. The rural setting and within the backdrop of a world war did not severely alter the life style of children in this region. The "news reels" shown in cinemas of cities and larger towns were the only visual realisations of major events of global significance available to these children. The information provided by this atlas allowed students to glimpse at what the "outside world" was. The majority of these students would possibly never see these regions for themselves. The great communication facilities of the late 1900s and beyond, was still only science fiction.This atlas has a thick (350 g/m) red cardboard cover with bold black lettering and shading. The cover is set out within a shield like frame. The shield is held up by two square markings, each with a four part circular pattern and a cord entwining two pendulum structures ending with a bowl figure at the bottom. There is a semi circular form enclosing a printed book contents list. The inside cover has the atlas title and contents and the publisher details. The atlas contain 56 pages of world and Australian maps, vegetation and rainfall maps. Within this atlas there are 27 double sided pages of black and white photographs depicting life styles, buildings, landscapes and prominent and significant to Australia males from 1652 to 1944. The pages are of approximately 200 g/m and have the yellow aged appearance.On front cover "Philips' Australian COMMONWEALTH ATLAS" and underneath "Containing" underneath "60 PHYSICAL, POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC MAPS". Publisher George Philip & Son, Limited 32 Fleet Street, London E.C. 4. Inside cover are: written, in freehand and in ink the following names and dates; "J.Muller Form V 1945", "L L Muller Form IV 1946", "N.J. Muller Form I + II + III 1948 +49 + 50" and "D Muller Form I 1949". also handwritten and in pencil is "Peter Leslie". On the last page is a small freehand sketch of Australia in biro.1940s school curriculum, rural education, 1940s atlas, australian atlas -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Box First Aid, Snake and Spider Outfit, Circa 1940's
At the time of manufacture, circa 1940's, the first aid treatment for snake bites, was to lance(cut) open the bite, wash it out and apply a ligature or tourniquet between the bite and the heart. This method was abandoned later after scientific evidence suggested that it was better to stop the blood system from carrying the poison to the heart (pressure immobilization). Australian snakes do not have long fangs therefore deep incisions into main arteries is rare. This research took many years to develop therefore the information supplied with the "Sanax" kits of this era is well outdated. Rural areas were more attuned to the possibilities of snake activity on farms, in sheds and in out houses and farm homesteads. This was not the case for mainly city and large townships environments. The mice plagues in wheat areas during the warmer month s has always been a high risk time for encountering snakesThese snake bite kits were issued to workers on the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme. Some of these snake bite kits were kept at doctor's surgeries e.g. Bogong Village, House 13. The kit was carried by bushwalkers, scouts, farmers and high plains cattlemen. This item is of significance because it demonstrates the main dangers faced by all rural industries and towns, especially remote areas, and the portable remedies that where required as a necessity of the Australian bush environment. This item was in use at a time when the air ambulance and rescue facilities were not in existence and remote locations were more isolated and the availability of anti venom was hard to obtain locally.This item is a red coloured cardboard box(250 - 300 g/m) with white writing and containing the following 12 items. 7 clear red coloured capsules, 2 opaque red plastic capsules, 2 wooden capsules and 1 brass screw on capsule. The capsules are divided into two sections (compartments) horizontally. Each compartment has a screw lid. One compartment contains a lancet (for piercing the snake bite) and the other compartment contains the "Condy's" crystals compete with tightly rolled instructions.On top of the pull up lid, and flanked by two coiled snakes (at the strike position) is printed: "Trade Sanax Mark" below this " SNAKE and SPIDER BITE OUTFIT" and below this with instructions for use". Front side: "Sanax snake and spider bite outfit" underneath "Nepean Highway Morabbin" The later printing has been severely scratched but decipherable. The back side of the box has "Note to the retailer" and due to wear no more of the writing can be read. Each side of the box is printed "SANAX" snake, spider, first aid, kiewa hydro scheme, portable medical supplies -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Functional object - Pocket First Aid, Circa mid 1900s
... and climbing the Victorian alps than the average Australian rural ...This pocket First Aid kit is small and compact which became available to those venturing out in the outback and required an easily managed first aid kit. It was manufactured in the mid 1900s well before vinyl and or plastic pouches or bags where used. It was in an era where valuable items were stored in durable containers due to the harsh and rugged conditions of the Australian bush. Cheaper and less durable containers from Asian manufacturers had been kept out by the heavy Tariff imposed on their goods. This changed in the 1980's when the Tariff Board was dismantled by a then Labour Government. The Australian manufacturing industry was severely reduced by the Influx of cheaper goods. This item was made by an Australian company when the motto "true blue" was the catch cry for quality Australian made goods. This was in the period where the isolation of many rural communities required the basic first aid kits to be of a tougher quality than those offered in large cities and towns.This pocket first aid kit was very compact and would have been easy to carry without taking up too much space for bush walkers, camping scouts, drovers and independent miners and cattlemen. The Kiewa Valley and surrounding rural settlements did not have the medical backup that the larger cities and towns had up until the mid 1900s when the Hydro Electricity Schemes were built and the additional influx of workers made it feasible to have a hospital and better local health facilities. This influx of the construction workers associated with the Hydro Scheme. also brought European workers who where more inclined to go bush walking and climbing the Victorian alps than the average Australian rural worker. This item is a Sanax pocket first aid round tin, gold in colour with red and white print. It's contents are: one small tube of Sanax antiseptic cream, one small one inch x six yards of gauze bandages, rubber band type ligatures with a cast iron tightener., one small tweezers three safety pins, and one lancet.On the lid there are: are outlined white cross on a blue circular background. underneath is a whiite circle encased with a red line with the following printed "Sanax pocket first aid case" (in red print underneath this is a small curved blue background and in black print "No. 26"medicine, first aid tin, camping medical supplies, personal first aid, sanax -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Ash Tray Pocket, Circa mid to late 1900s
This flip top pocket steel ash tray was at the beginning of the social "cleaning up" of cigarette ash and related products. This cigarette waste container was for those occasions when it was polite not to throw the cigarette ash and used up cigarettes "buts" on the ground, or if working in any rural area during a dry fire prone season, when discarding burning cigarette waste could set up a severe "bush" fire. It was also at the beginning of an intensive look at the affects of smoking upon the health of users. Later in the 1900s was a time when medical evidence supported a ground swell of the anti smoking movement which resulted in further restrictions of the use cigarette smoking in public places. Before the anti cigarette smoking revolution, it was both fashionable and manly to either roll your own cigarette or open up a packet of "tailor made's". In the rural and man's man environment the roll your own provided a visual acknowledgement that the user was "true blue" Aussie male and not a city boy. The cycle of use of cigarettes has drastically changed from when this item was first used. Today's society (post 2000) has produced a ground swell of government and non government organisations whose aim is provide a cigarette "ash" free environment and society. This is highlighted in the beginning of the 2000 millennium by a cigarette "Free" Australia campaign, and the pocket flip top personal ash tray as a practical solution for butt litter disposal.This pocket ash tray not only was used when social graces required it to, but also provided a container for any unfinished cigarettes or stogies (cheap half used cigars). In rural areas (open fresh air countryside), where time was always made available for the "smoko" (Australian rest period), at any time, especially after some hard physical work, the ability to have a self contained ashing apparatus, not to offend the gentler folk, was a pre-requisite . The rural environment, in the days of these cigarette ash containers,was one which could range from harsh and unforgiving to mild and relaxing. Smoking could be enjoyed anywhere and at any time without too much "fussing" around. This ash tray was mobile, convenient, unobtrusive and regarded by the user as being considerate to those around. It also eliminated the tell tale evidence that the "no smoking" signs had been ignored. The Kiewa Valley was like many rural ares that found it hard for smokers to come to grips with a governmental "non smoking policy" to indoor recreational and other "confined space" environments. Tin plated mild steel round container with a lid. The opening lid is spring loaded, hinged top, circular and fixed by a clasp, pop- riveted (4) onto the main housing. Opposite the hinge the lid is held closed by a small metal ball fitting tightly to the top wall of the container. The lid is opened by the use of a fingernail positioned at junction of lid to body. This edge is bevelled to allow access. personal effects, tobacco waste products, smoking accessories -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Boots Riding Women's, Circa 1950's
This pair of "adjustable" boots came from the 1950's era in which the majority of footwear was either locally manufactured or imported from England or Europe. Quality hard wearing leather was a rural necessity especially for the cattle mustering activity in the Kiewa Valley and the Bogong High Plains region. The late 1900's provided a cheaper made riding boot from Asia, however many rural based riders still prefer an Australian made boot. The better quality (stronger stitching) of Australian boots is the main considerations of "stock horse riders". In 1947 a scientific research project started to provide an impact analysis of any damage to alpine vegetation by cattle grazing in the Alpine regions incorporating the Bogong High Plains area. This monitoring is the longest running ecological study ever undertaken in Australia. From this study, compelling evidence was presented to the Victorian Government to cease cattle grazing in the Alpine regions including the Bogong High Plains. All grazing was banned by the Victorian Government in 2005. Recreational horse riding within the Bogong High Plains is still permitted.These pair of women's riding boots are very significant to the Kiewa Valley as the boots were worn by one of the descendants of a pioneer family living and operating a cattle station before the SEC Hydro Electricity Scheme opened up the semi remote rural location in the 1950's. These boots were worn during the annual six weeks (approx.) mustering of cattle in the Bogong High Plains location (Victorian Alps region). The owner of these boots was Clare Roper, part of the Roper Family who built a "lodging" hut on the "High Plains" for accommodating riders during the periods (up to six weeks) when controlling grazing cattle during the summer muster seasons. It was unusual for women in the early to mid 1900's to go up on the High Plains to join the muster, which Clare Roper often did. These boots have high historical significance and good interpretive capacity.These brown "knee high" lady riding boots, are fastened by long "boot" laces which go from the base of the "fastening" position to a boot height of 22 cm. At the top end of the boot is a leather flap which crosses the front section of the boot and is fastened to the outside leg region by two straps. These provide the wearer with an adjustable tie. The boot has a "tongue" of 22 mm long. The boot has six pairs of metal boot lace "hooks" and eight pairs of boot lace "eyelets".ladies riding boots. cattle mustering footwear. rural footwear. cattlemen. bogong high plains. roper family. horses. -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Jar/ Demi John Stone Ware, Circa 1860
This kiln glazed container for liquid's, was the type used in the 1700's to mid 1900's to contain fluids mainly for human consumption which needed to retain liquid that could be affected by sunlight and or required to be maintained at a cooler temperatures. Ginger beer and other "brews" for human consumption were the prime target. The ability to refill these vessels were of the utmost importance to the consumer. Over time these containers were reduced in size and produced for "special" liquids e.g. alcoholic Port. This Demi John stone ware was manufactured in Tamworth (England) and imported into Australia during a period when the majority of "quality" domestic items were sourced from "the Mother Country" and the ties between the still "colonial" outpost were very strong. This bondage remained longer in rural communities than in the cities. The "multi-culturalism of the post World War II era resulted in the lessening of the earlier ties. The growing of nationalism, the Aussie evolution, was brought about by the increased social and business/commercial interactions between Australia and the United States of America, post World War II.This container(jug) is very significant to the Kiewa Valley, a rural region that required these type of liquid storage vessels, especially in the late 1800's to the mid 1900's. These were times when household refrigeration, if available, would be from the "block ice" coolers or "cool" storage nooks and crannies within farmhouse locations.This large "stone ware" glazed Demi John, alias Carboy has a capacity of over 20 litres. It has a conical smooth lipped neck top with a wide, flat(three to four finger) carry and poring handle. The top third portion of the jug is caramel in colour and the bottom a darker cream. It has a manufacturer's seal stamped into the surface before glazing. This item would have been corked and then sealed (air tight) with wax.manufacturer's seal "GEORGE SKEY WILNECOTE TAMWORTH"household liquid jar container, 1800's food storage, kiln fired glazed pottery -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Box Starch, Pre decimal currency date(14th February 1966)
... of Australians, especially in rural ares, was not fully grasped ...This brand of starch was first manufactured before 1966 and covered the period when Australian made was the preferred clothing due to limited imports from England. This was a period when the demand for "home grown" produce was at its peak. This was in a time when by necessity and ease of supply and not by the "Buy Australian" campaign (of later years), was the major factor for the demand of these type of laundry goods. It was in a time when starch was used in formal clothing to put a "crisp" or fresh new appearance for clothes. This product was in the era and importantly the social more of "clothes make the person" in which starched shirts and dresses was the fashion vogue. Formality of dress was a strictly British "class" up-man-ship which from the 1950's onwards became less and less visible. The Australian "Ocker" or fair "dink'm" bloke became more entrenched after World War II. The national identity was slowly developing.This box of starch is very relevant to the Kiewa Valley because this box highlights the differences ,in this period, between city and rural social standards. Rural areas were deeply entrenched into colonial and the pioneer family structure viz- a-vie social and dress fashion standards. British values and norms lingered on well beyond the changes happening in city fashion. Tradition and English "ties" were the backbone of early colonies and it was only after World War II that these "ties" were becoming irrelevant. Early traditions lingered well past the independence sought by Federation, colony to statehood and trade with other nations eg. USA and Asia. The idea that a change in "status" would automatically change the social mores of Australians, especially in rural ares, was not fully grasped by the "law makers" and those wanting change.This box (capacity 12 ozs) has white(aged into cream) and blue printing and a "white star" on five sides, the sixth side has a laundry scene with two ladies, in early 1900's fashion. The package is made from 200 gsm thick cardboard. As manufacture was made before and during the two World Wars 1914 to 1945 the promotion was heavily focused on Australian made and Australian grown maize. One side of the box has instructions of use and all the other sides are promotional, detailing "the best in the world and won't stick to the iron""SILVER STAR", "THE BEST IN THE WORLD", "WON'T STICK TO THE IRON", "REQUIRES NO BOILING", INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE", "ROBERT HARPER AND COMPANY LIMITED", "INCORPORATED IN VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA", "NET WEIGHT 12 OUNCES", "LARGE BOX 12 OZS"domestic laundry essentials, cotton clothing preparations, household starch "crisp and neat appearances. -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Box Linen Thread, early to mid 1900's
This box which once contained linen thread manufactured in Scotland and labelled "British" manufacture" was used for the repair/manufacture of clothing by professional seamstresses and those wives required to "do" repair stitching of family clothes. This box was manufactured in a period when the title "United Kingdom" was used (late 1700's early 1900's) to describe the union of Britain and Scotland. The label however can be misleading as the"British Manufacture" thread was manufactured in Scotland. The broad term "British Manufacture" was used for the benefit of those in the "colonies" of Australia and New Zealand, during a period when the "coined" phrase "best of British, or British best" was synonymous to "top quality". After World War II the need for "cheaper products" was more persuasive than the quality of the product. In rural areas this shift to cheaper "non British" goods was at a slower rate than in the cities. Goods such as clothing manufactured or altered by seamstresses were regarded as of a higher standard and therefor the use of linen thread from "Britain" was a sign of quality and reliability.This box which contained linen thread, "British" made, is very significant to the Kiewa Valley because it demonstrates the conditions under which households in the late 1800's and early 1900's evolved from a "domestic repair /replacement" of damaged clothing to a consumer of recycled and shop bought clothing and linen. The ability of semi isolated rural based families to purchase "off the rack" clothing was severely affected by weather, long distance over dirt roads(poorly serviced) to large towns(shops), horse/cart or slower driven cars. The purchasing of clothing was, on the whole, from trading house "mail order" consignment orders.This red paper covered box has a white covered lid (top) with black print detailing the manufacturer and contents. This box contained 150 yds of linen thread 2 cord. A small added note pasted on one side "USUAL TWIST (s)" describing the thread's appearance. Two semicircular "finger" holes on two sides of the lid permit easier removal of the lid from the base.On the top lid: "W.&J. KNOX'S" below this a crest with latin motive "MOVEO ET PROFICIOR" English translation "I proceed and am more prosperous" encircling an open winged falcon. below this "LINEN THREAD", "2 CORD." "WARRANTED" "150 Yds." Made from Flax." British Manufacture". On one side "DRABS SOFT FINISH" within a shield "KNOX'S TWO CORD 150 YARDS 30" next to this a trade mark "W & J KNOX below this "made in KILBIRNIE, SCOTLAND"thread, cord. flax, box container, linen thread, seamstress items, cardboard box -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Scales Weighing Pocket, circa early 1900s
Historically this item would have been used by gold miners, rabbit shooters, mobile "Rag and Bone" traders and other mobile(in caravans and/or horse drawn cart) traders of various small goods and haberdashery. Although marked as not to be used as trade, the isolation and sometimes difficult terrain rules out using larger and more delicate scales. In the early 1900s rough roads and severe weather conditions forced traders to be more flexible in trading with weights and measures. The "close enough is good enough" doctrine was the Australian outback rule of thumb.The significance of this item in the Kiewa Valley during this period demonstrates the slower acceptance of accurate trading measure using the country side principle "my hand shake is my bond". In the Kiewa Valley small quantity commercial undertakings e.g. gold mining, fur pelts and rabbit meat trade did not require bulk weight type scales. Commerce in rural production e.g. fruit and vegetables involved more farmers and their staff in a barter and/or "in kind" payments. This was more so in the depression years 1929 to late 1930s. Self sufficiency was to a large extent more attainable in this region than in the city/ large country town environment. The Australian "fair go" ethical approach to life and commerce was very much ingrained in those living in country regions, like Kiewa Valley as is demonstrated by the not so accurate hand balance, spring loaded scales.This brass "faced" portable Pocket Balance ( Fish Scales) has front plate made from thin pressed brass. The mild steel spring mechanism enclosed by black painted medium gauge steel cover( three quarters cylindrical). Front scale face and rear spring casing fastened by three rivets. Spring loaded marker blade is located in the centre of the front plate. A steel " finger holder" ring is attached at the top of the scale unit from one of two pre drilled holes. The top is for holding the scale upright and the bottom for a hook to dangle the item to be weighed from the bottom. See item KVHS 0223 for similar scales"THE BILLY BALANCE" and at the bottom "MADE IN GERMANY"antique pocket balance, scales, mobile weights, vintage appliances -
Kiewa Valley Historical Society
Tin Coffee and Chicory, circa mid to late 1900's
... that even in rural regions of Australia tastes and drinking ...Chicory was mixed with coffee to reduce the amount of coffee bean required to be used. This coffee "substitute" was due to the repeated fluctuations in availability of coffee beans (and price fluctuations) in the USA in the late 1800s and early 1900s resulting in the search for substitutes and additives to bulk out the available supplies. This was especially so during times of the major World Wars. Chicory was an excellent choice of fillers as it did not greatly influence the strong coffee bean taste. The first choice in USA households was coffee not tea and the influence of the American servicemen's thirst for coffee was a major thrust into the Australian "colonial" preference for a "cuppa" tea. Rural areas took longer to acquire a coffee "break" but with more and more subliminal advertising through "American" films the rural regions developed a growing preference for coffee, however the tea break alias "smoko" has lingered on.This coffee and chicory blend tin container is very significant to the Kiewa Valley in that it demonstrates that even in rural regions of Australia tastes and drinking preferences have changed by subliminal advertising as time goes by. The American "influence" whether by the "invasion" of friendly troops during the major wars or the avalanche of "American films" has altered some of the "dinky-di" Australian "true blue" tastes and mores. The availability of "straight " coffee supplies to rural areas was also in proportion to the level of all weather transport routes. In the late 1800's and early 1900's road freight had to contend with dirt roads, flooded roads, bush fires and grazing cattle/sheep in rural areas. The easier access that city households had with regard to replenishment of food and drink products, up until the mid 1900's, was severely retarded in rural areas. This extensively rusted tin of "Bushells Blue Label" Coffee and Chicory has an octagonal shaped body with a "push/pull" lid(tin).Three sides has reproduced painted ladies in "Roman dress" ladies picking the coffee beans. There is no reproduction of any chicory roots. There are two "Indian dressed" field workers(pickers) with turban head dress. On one side of the tin is "directions of use, net weight and manufacturer details."Bushells Coffee & Chicory", "NET 1-Ib. weight", " No. 144" "Under the Pure Food Act N.S.W. 1938" "by Bushells Ltd. No 144"chicory / coffee drinks, tin hydrated drink, rural food and drink consumption patterns, tinned food and drink