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Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Booklet - Poetry Booklet, Thoughts by Our Loving Father, 1930s
collection of verseThis is a booklet of 28 pages. It has a brown cover with the pages tied together with brown plaited thread. The pages contain printed material.non-fictioncollection of versejohn adams wangoom -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book - Biography, Sydney Smith, Rev, The Works of The Rev Sydney Smith, 1869
Sydney Smith (1771-1845) was an English writer and a Reverend of the Anglican Church. He founded the Edinburgh Review, an intellectual and cultural magazine. The Reverend Sydney Smith wrote this book about his works. The book is part of Flagstaff Hill's Pattison Collection, a large group of books and records, some of which are rare and valuable. The collection was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute, which was founded in 1853 and is named after Warrnambool's Public Librarian, Ralph Pattison. The book is of interest as it has the conditions of borrowing a book from the Mechanic's Institute pasted onto the front cover, including the cost of a Quarterly Subscription, written by Secretary Geo. D. Alston. Thomas Longman founded his publishing firm in 1724 in London by the name Longman. In August of that year, he bought the two shops and goods of William Taylor and set up his publishing house there at 39 Paternoster Row. The shops were called Black Swan and Ship, and it is said that the 'ship' sign was the inspiration for Longman's Logo. After many changes of name and management, including Longman, Green, Reader and Dyer (1865-1880), the firm was incorporated in 1926 as Longmans, Green & Co. Pty Ltd. The firm was acquired by Pearson in 1968 and was known as Pearson Longman or Pearson PLC. The book is of special interest as it has the conditions and cost of borrowing from the Mechanics' Institute pasted onto the front cover, which gives insight into the importance placed on being able to borrow a book from the library. The book is important for its connection with the London publisher Longmans, Green & Co. The firm has been established for over two centuries and is renowned for publishing encyclopedias, dictionaries, books on English grammar, textbooks, poetry, reference books, novels, magazines and more. The book has additional importance for its connection to the Pattison Collection, which, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institutes’ Collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and its important role in people's intellectual, cultural and social development throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance.The Works of The Rev Sydney Smith Author: The Rev Sydney Smith Publisher: Longmans, Green, Reader, & Dyer, London Date: 1869 Edition: A new edition Crimson hardcover book with a green sticker attached to the cover and all covered in clear plastic. The green sticker gives details and the cost of a subscription to the library and borrowers' rules. Inscriptions are on the spine in embossed gold, and on the fly are a stamp and several handwritten characters. The book is part of the Pattison Collection.Label on spine: "PAT 824 SMI" Label/sticker on front cover includes the print: "Mechanics' Institute" "Subscription 2s. 6d. per Quarter payable in advance" "Geo. D Alston" "Secretary" Sticker; a green sticker pasted to the front cover "Warrnambool Mechanics Institute and Free Library" Stamp on Fly "Warrnambool Mechanics Institute" Sticker on front endpaper "Warrnambool Mechanics Institute and Free Library" covered by a sticker "Corangamite Regional Library Service" Handwritten on fly: "M" "102" "G 29 (crossed out" "1179" "3" flagstaff hill, flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, warrnambool, maritime museum, maritime village, great ocean road, shipwreck coast, pattison collection, ralph eric pattison, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, mechanics’ institute library, warrnambool library, free library, corangamite regional library service, longman green reader dyer, sydney smith, rev. sydney smith, sydney smith biography, works of the rev. sydney smith, 1869, edinburgh times, secretary geo. d. alston., mechanics' institute subscription, geo. d. alston -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Flag - The Mission to Seafarers, circa 2000
The flag represents The Mission to Seafarers worldwide organisation. From about the year 2000 particular flag was once flown from Flagstaff Hill's masthead on top of the turret on the St Nicholas Seamen's Church but this practice ceased around 2010 for safety reasons. The Australian beginnings were in 1856 when the Church of England (Anglican Church) established the ‘Society for Promoting Missions to Seamen Afloat, at Home and Abroad. Lord Shaftesbury was the first President and Mr William Kingston was the first Secretary. Its Constitution declared: (1)) the Object is the spiritual welfare of the seafaring classes at home and abroad. (2) In pursuance of this Object, Society will use every means consistent with the principles and received practice of the Church of England. Mr Kingston’s wife and sister designed a flag to clearly depict the Society’s Objects. It depicted the first of the three angels in Revelation 14, who possessed ‘an eternal gospel to proclaim to those who dwell on the earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people. The ‘Flying Angel’ (the angel of Revelation) became the official logo of the Society and gained great popularity. In July 2000 the Missions to Seamen changed its name to the Mission to Seafarers to better reflect the group's function, an unbiased society that cares for all who earn their living at sea. The Logo was modernised and simplified, the word changed to 'seafarer' to be gender-neutral. The angel logo no longer holds a book (Bible). The organisation states: “The Mission to Seafarers is an Anglican organisation ... The Mission offers fellowship and a warm welcome in centres where seafarers can relax away from their ships, meet local people and contact their homes, from ports around the world. The Mission provides and promotes” … “The Mission to Seafarers now has a presence in 200 ports in 50 countries worldwide. This makes us the largest sea-port-based welfare organisation in the world. We provide support to seafarers 365 days per year, regardless of their rank, nationality, gender or religion” This flag was a gift from the Mission to Seafarers Victoria at the time of the organisation's change of name from the Missions to Seamen. It was flown from the Masthead on top of the turret on the St Nicholas Seamen's Church at Flagstaff Hill from the years 2000 to around 2010. The donation of this flag signifies the ongoing association between the historical organisation and St Nicholas Seamen's Church building at Flagstaff Hill', which displays an extensive collection of furniture and furnishings from that organisation's Williamstown branch. The design on the flag is an example of several updates of the flag over the organisation's lifetime.Flag, fine linen, The Mission to Seafarers. Rectangle of blue fabric with white text around white flying angel logo. Flag has a plastic hook on top of the halyard.Printed "THE MISSION TO SEAFARERS" and logo of FLYING ANGEL symbolflagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, flying angel’s club, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, mission to seafarers flag, flag, missions to seamen, turret -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book, Witnesses for Christ Vol 1
This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1942 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. Witnesses for Christ Vol 1 and Memorials of Church Life from the Fourth to the Thirteenth Century Authors: Edward Backhouse & Charles Tylor Publisher: Hamilton Adams and Co Date: 1887 Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 270 BAC Pastedown front endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Mechanics Institute and Free Library covered by a sticker from Corangamite Regional Library Service warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, pattison collection, warrnambool library, ralph eric pattison, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, witnesses for christ vol 1, edward backhouse & charles tylor, edward backhouse, charles tylor -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book, Witnesses for Christ Vol 2
This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1942 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. Witnesses for Christ Vol 2 and Memorials of Church Life from the Fourth to the thirteenth century. A Sequel to "Early Church History" Authors: Edward Backhouse & Charles Tylor Publisher: Hamilton Adams and Co Date: 1887 Label on spine cover with typed text PAT 270 BAC Pastedown front endpaper has sticker from Warrnambool Mechanics Institute and Free Library covered by a sticker from Corangamite Regional Library Servicewarrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, pattison collection, warrnambool library, ralph eric pattison, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, witnesses for christ vol 2, edward backhouse & charles tylor, edward backhouse, charles tylor -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Furniture - Set of Pews, c.1944
This set of seventeen church pews was originally used in St. Nicholas Seamen’s Church, 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria, during religious services there. The Church was operated by the Mission to Seamen organisation. The pews were donated to the St Nicholas Seamen’s Church by the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, founded by Ethel Margaret Musther, M.B.E.. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. The set of pews is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The set of pews id historically significant for their connection to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, an organisation of women, formed to support seafarers. The connection of these pews to the Mission to Seamen and to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. Set of seventeen varnished oak wood church high back pews. The pews have a shelf fitted behind the backrest. This is a set of original items in our ‘St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection’.flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, religion, religious service, lightkeepers’ auxiliary, mrs musther, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, flying angel’s club, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, church furniture, church seats, church pew, religious furniture, religious worship, anglican church -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book - Religious Books, Oxford University Press, The Book of Common Prayer, early 20th century
This set of prayer boos was part of the original furnishings of the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This set of books, each titled The Book of Common Prayers, is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The set of books is historically significant for its connection to the Ladies Lightkeepers Auxiliary, an organisation of women, formed to support seafarers. The connection of this set of books to the Mission to Seamen and to the Ladies Lightkeepers Auxiliary highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. Set of 10 books. Title: The Book of Common Prayer with the Additions and Deviations proposed in 1928 Publisher: Humphrey Milford, Oxford University Press, London Some books have blue cloth covers, some have red cloth covers. Spines have gold inlay print. 244 numbered pages. Some books are inscribed on the inside cover. This is one of a set of original items in our ‘St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection’.Inscription in some books "FROM THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN MELBOURNE"flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, preyer books, book of common prayer, anglican church prayer book, religion, religious service, sailors rest, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, ladies harbour light guild, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, flying angels club, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, anglican church, religious book -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Furniture - Set of Chairs, 1880s
This set of four dining chairs was part of the original furnishings of the St Nicholas' Mission to Seamen's Church at 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria. The Australian colonial wooden chairs date to the late 1880s and are most like to have been purchased for use in the Sailors’ Rest when it moved into Ann Street, Williamstown, around the 1880s. THE MISSIONS TO SEAMEN (Brief History: for more, see our Reg. No. 611, Set of Pews) The Missions to Seamen, an Anglican charity, has served seafarers of the world since 1856 in Great Britain. It symbol is a Flying Angel, inspired by a Bible verse. Today there are centr4es in over 200 ports world-wide where seamen of all backgrounds are offered a warm welcome and provided with a wide range of facilities. In Victoria the orgainsation began in Williamstown in 1857. It was as a Sailors’ Church, also known as ‘Bethel’ or the ‘Floating Church’. Its location was an old hulk floating in Hobson’s Bay, Port of Melbourne. It soon became part of the Missions to Seamen, Victoria. In the year 2000 the organisation, now named Mission to Seafarers, still operated locally in Melbourne, Portland, Geelong and Hastings. The Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild was formed in 1906 to support the Missions to Seamen in Melbourne and other centres such as Williamstown. Two of the most significant ladies of the Guild were founder Ethel Augusta Godfrey and foundation member Alice Sibthorpe Tracy (who established a branch of the Guild in Warrnambool in 1920). The Guild continued its work until the 1960s. In 1943 a former Williamstown bank was purchased for the Missions to Seaman Club. The chapel was named St Nicholas’ Seamen’s Church and was supported by the Ladies’ Harbour Lights Guild, the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary and the League of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Friends. It ceased operation in 1966. A Missions to Seamen Chapel and Recreation Room was a significant feature of ports during the late 1800s and into the 1900s. It seemed appropriate for Flagstaff Hill to include such a representation within the new Maritime Village, so the Melbourne Board of Management of Missions to Seamen Victoria gave its permission on 21st May 1979 for the entire furnishings of the Williamstown chapel to be transferred to Flagstaff Hill. The St Nicholas Seamen’s Church was officially opened on October 11, 1981 and closely resembles the Williamstown chapel. This set of chairs is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The set of chairs is historically significant for its connection to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, an organisation of women, formed to support seafarers. The connection of this set of chairs to the Mission to Seamen and to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. Chairs: set of four (4) cedar wood dining chairs. Each chair has a rounded rail back, flat cross rail, flat wooden seat, curved back legs and colonial turned front legs. Mid-brown colour, veneered finish. The set of chairs is part of the St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection. flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, religion, religious service, sailors rest, bethel sailors’ church, bethel floating church, ladies harbour light guild, lightkeepers’ auxiliary, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, flying angel’s club, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, church furniture, religious furniture, religious worship, anglican church, chair, dining chair, kitchen chair, domestic furniture, colonial chair, australian colonial period, set of chairs, squab chairs, sailors' church, ann street williamstown -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Furniture - Pew, Circa 1944
This pew is one of a set of seventeen church pews originally used in St. Nicholas Seamen’s Church, 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria, during religious services there. The Church was operated by the Mission to Seamen organisation. The pews were donated to the St Nicholas Seamen’s Church by the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, founded by Ethel Margaret Musther, M.B.E. * for more detailed history please see our Registration Number 611, Set of Pews The set of pews is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The set of pews id historically significant for their connection to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, an organisation of women, formed to support seafarers. The connection of these pews to the Mission to Seamen and to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. Church pew, one of a set of seventeen varnished wooden church pews. The pews have a shelf fitted behind the backrest. This is one of a set of original items in our ‘St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection’. flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, religion, religious service, lightkeepers’ auxiliary, mrs musther, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, flying angel’s club, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, church furniture, church seats, church pew, religious furniture, religious worship, anglican church, set of pews -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Furniture - Pew, Circa 1944
This pew is one of a set of seventeen church pews originally used in St. Nicholas Seamen’s Church, 139 Nelson Place, Williamstown, Victoria, during religious services there. The Church was operated by the Mission to Seamen organisation. The pews were donated to the St Nicholas Seamen’s Church by the Williamstown Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, founded by Ethel Margaret Musther, M.B.E. * for more detailed history please see our Registration Number 611, Set of Pews The set of pews is significant historically for its origin in the St Nicholas Mission to Seamen's Church in Williamstown, established in 1857 to cater for the physical, social, and spiritual needs of seafarers. It originated in Bristol, England when a Seamen's Mission was formed in 1837. The set of pews id historically significant for their connection to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary, an organisation of women, formed to support seafarers. The connection of these pews to the Mission to Seamen and to the Ladies Lightkeepers’ Auxiliary highlights the strong community awareness of the life of people at sea, their dangers and hardships, and their need for physical, financial, spiritual and moral support. Church pew, one of a set of seventeen varnished wooden church pews. The pews have a shelf fitted behind the backrest. This is one of a set of original items in our ‘St Nicholas Seamen's Church Williamstown Collection’. flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, religion, religious service, lightkeepers’ auxiliary, mrs musther, missions to seamen victoria, mission to seafarers, flying angel’s club, st nicholas seaman’s church williamstown, st nicholas mission to seamen church williamstown, mission to seamen williamstown, st nicholas seamen’s church flagstaff hill, 139 nelson place williamstown, church furniture, church seats, church pew, religious furniture, religious worship, anglican church, set of pews -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Functional object - Compass, mid-19th Century
Captain Robilliard: James Arthur Robilliard was a sea captain and tentmaker, born on the 19th April 1843 at Saint Helier, Jersey. He trained there in his father's sail loft as a sailmaker. His first job as a sailor was in Liverpool, England and 1875 James Robilliard migrated to Australia as mate on the "E.M. Young". James Robilliard and his family were amongst the early settlers that arrived along the Curdies River in the Heytesbury district of Western Victoria. In 1877 he became a Captain and would have used his compass from ship to ship. On 28th May 1877 in that same district a small 3-masted, schooner the "Young Australian" was wrecked. This schooner had been built 1864 at Jervis Bay, NSW. She had been on her way from Maryborough Queensland to Adelaide, under the command of Captain Whitfield, when she lost her mainmast in a heavy gale. She was beached at Curdies Inlet in Peterborough, Victoria, Captain Robilliard was placed in charge of the salvaging operation and recovered a good portion of the cargo. Not long after this incident a Warrnambool shop owner David Evans found employment for James Robilliard with Evan Evans, who produced tents, sails, tarpaulins and similar goods; James already had the necessary skills for this work. Evan Evans was the same sailor rescued from the “Young Australian” soon after his rescue Evan recalled he had a relative in Australia in a town called Warrnambool and while walking in Timor Street, Warrnambool, he saw a sign over a shop that said “David Evans” and once the two men met, Evan was warmly welcomed. David then helped his relative to establish a tent and tarpaulin-making business there. Evan later transferred his successful business to a shop in Elizabeth St, Melbourne, under the name Evan Evans Pty. Ltd.) James Robilliard, a committed Christian, and accredited Lay Preacher with the Methodist Church. He travelled around the local district leading the settlers in worship. On 14th November 1879, Captain Robilliard married Helen Beckett. Alfred and Selina Beckett and their family all attended the church at Brucknell where Captain Robilliard preached. He was said to have been taken by their young daughter Helen. James and Helen had ten children; James Arthur (Jnr), Henry William, Nellie Jessie, Alfred Albert, Rubena Nellie, De Jersy Norman, Clifford Beckett, Olive Ida, Frances Ridley Havergal and Nellie Elvie, all born in Victoria. In the 1880s James Robilliard captained the cutter "Hannah Thompson" into Port Campbell, Victoria. This vessel was the first coastal trader to operate between Melbourne and Port Campbell. At one time Captain Robilliard had to beach the "Hannah Thompson" for repairs. In 1923 she was blown ashore in a gale and wrecked at Oberon Bay, at Wilson's Promontory. In 1889 the compass was saved by Captain James Arthur Robilliard from his sinking brigantine "Mary Campbell" in 1889. This vessel was used to carry equipment for the Sydney Sugar Refinery's Mill in Southgate, NSW. The ship had been built in 1869 and traded for the next 20 years between Australian ports and rivers along the east coast as well as regular ports in New Zealand. She was recognised by the Sydney Morning Herald as one of the best "carrying vessel in the timber trade". She had several owners over this time, the last one being Captain James A. Robilliard. On 29th April 1889 the "Mary Campbell", with Captain James A Robilliard as captain and owner, was on her way from Clarence River, NSW to Melbourne, Victoria with a cargo of railway girders for the Melbourne Harbour Trust. Captain Robilliard encountered a storm off Port Macquarie. He sailed the vessel south to about 40km east of Cape Hawke, near Tuncurry. At around 7 pm, he discovered that the cargo had shifted during the storm and the heavy girders had damaged the hull, causing a leak. The pumps were inadequate to stem the fast-flowing leak water soon filled the hull during the next two hours. Some of the crew began throwing the cargo overboard to lighten the vessel, hoping to keep it afloat until daylight. When the water reached over 2 meters in the hull they realised their efforts were in vain. On the 30th April 1889, the crew left the vessel the ship was sinking fast, so they made for the shore. While still miles off Cape Hawke all seven crew members, including the Captain, were rescued by the Government Tug "Rhea" and taken to Port Macquarie Hospital and later returned to Sydney in the vessel "Wellington". No cargo had been saved and the consignment had been under-insured, only covered for half its value. The name of the last ship Captain Robilliard sailed is currently unknown, however, he sailed that ship from the port of Marlborough, Queensland, carting steel railway girders for the Geelong-to-Camperdown railway line. On this trip the ship hit a storm, the cargo shifted and the ship was wrecked along the NSW coast. After this, Captain Robilliard retired from the sea and began farming in Peterborough. In about 1897, verging on retirement, Capt. Robilliard superintended the Melbourne Sailors’ Home in Spencer Street, Melbourne, before being asked to leave this position in 1902 for trying to shut down a local hotel. On 6th May 1917 Captain James Arthur Robilliard J.P. died at Blackwood Park, in the Cobden district of Brucknell, the first Robilliard family homestead in Australia. He was buried in the Melbourne General Cemetery, Victoria. His wife Helen passed away in 1947. This compass, once belonging to Captain James Arthur Robilliard, is of local and state historical significance for its use by the Captain with his vessel the "Mary Campbell", a trading vessel that was bringing railway girders to the Melbourne Harbour Trust. He also used this compass on the "Hannah Thompson", listed on the Victorian Heritage Register and known as being the first coastal trader to operate between Melbourne and Port Campbell. The compass is also a very fine example of maritime navigational instruments manufactured and used in the mid-19th century. Marine compass, brass, in wooden box with separate, fitted lid. The compass card has sixteen points. The four principal points are marked; North with a star shaped, South with an “S”, East with and “E” and West with an “O” (French word OUEST). Each quadrant of the circle is numbered from 0 – 90 degrees. The card is floating in a liquid. The compass gimbal is attached to the sides of the box and to the front and back of the compass’ cylindrical brass frame. The mahogany coloured timber storage box is joined with brass nails. The centre of the lid has a folding decorative brass handle. The lid fits over base and closes with a brass screw and hook on both front and back. Maker; Dubas Watchmaker Optician, Nantes, France, c 1860-1870. Compass came from the ship “Mary Campbell”, which sank off the NSW coast in 1889, near Forster. The compass, as well as the ship, belonged to Captain James Arthur Robilliard and was donated by his family. “DUBAS MANTES” stamped into side of gimbal. “DUBAS HORLOGER OPTICIEN. NANTES.” printed around centre of card. flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, marine compass, navigation instrument 19th century, marine instruments, dubas mantes, captain james arthur robilliard, j.a. robilliard, helen beckett, ship young australian, ship young australia(n), ship hannah thompson, ship mary campbell, melbourne sailors home, david evans, evan evans, curdies inlet, brucknell church, curdies railway, great lakes museum -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Craft - Ship Model, Portuguese Carvel, 1999
The Mahogany Ship is today regarded as a legend and refers to an ancient wreck that is purported to lie beneath the sand beside Armstrong Bay, several kilometres west of Warrnambool, Its location is currently unknown. For well over a century the mystery of this ship has fascinated Australians because the existence of such a vessel could throw a different light on the earliest phases of exploration of eastern Australia by Europeans. The story is that in January 1836 a party of whalers from Port Fairy travelled to the mouth of the Hopkins River in search of seals. Their boat overturned and one man was drowned. The three survivors were walking the 30 kilometres back to Port Fairy along the coast when, about halfway along, they discovered the wrecked ship in the dunes. It is said that Captain John Mills, who was in charge of the whaling station at Port Fairy promptly visited the wreck with several of his men, including Hugh Donnelly. Donnelly who was the originator of that version of events is now regarded as unreliable. Local history researcher Joan Fawcett believes Donnelly could not have visited the wreck in 1836 because he did not arrive in Victoria until 1841. The "mahogany" description can be traced to a letter from Port Fairy builder, architect and surveyor John Mason and published in the Melbourne Argus in 1876. He said he had seen the hull in 1846 and it "had the appearance of either cedar or mahogany." In 1884 Argus journalist `The Vagabond' wrote that the hull was built of "Spanish mahogany" and six years later Mason wrote another letter saying it might not have been mahogany but red gum or ironbark from New South Wales. He was too late with this new description as the wrecks mahogany tag was here to stay all through the hull was not visible as it had disappeared beneath the shifting sands by 1880. A more reliable account was later presented by the former editor of the Warrnambool Examiner, historian Richard Osburne, who wrote about the wreck in his book History of Warrnambool (published 1887). In it the author remembers to have noticed a wreck in the hummocks between Belfast and Warrnambool, in 1847 or 1848; he stated it was much nearer Warrnambool than Belfast, now known as Port Fairy, going on to state “in fact, it was only two or three miles from the former place, to the west of the big hummock which was supposed to fill Warrnambool Bay with drift sand washed by the Merri River before the cutting was made.” Osburne followed up with a letter to the Port Fairy Gazette on June 25, 1876, during a period of heightened interest in the wreck, although he was unsure of the provenance of the ship he went on to state in his letter. “The old wreck was, in fact, miles away from the Port Fairy beach, and only about four miles from Warrnambool. In the years 1847 and 1848. I have often seen the wreck and I regret to say I do not believe she was a foreign ship at all.”The ship model is significant for its association with the Warrnambool story of what is now referred to as the Mahogany Ship, an ancient shipwreck. The model is significant as it is an interpretation of a Portuguese caravel and possibly associated with the early history and exploration of Southern Australia. The model is a fine example of a hand crafted ship made from plans, not from a kit. Some of the materials used for the model are significant to the Gembrook community in that the timber used is a portion from a 30-meter pine tree that fell onto and destroyed the 120-year-old Gembrook church building. The model is also a dedication to Edward Kermond, who grew up in Warrnambool and claimed to have seen the shipwreck in the dunes when he was a lad in the late 19th century. (See note section of this document for further information on the creator and donation of the subject item).Ship model, an interpretation of a mahogany Portuguese carvel vessel in a glass display case with wood frame and a description plaque. Model is made from dark stained wood. The three masted vessel is fully rigged, with a Portuguese-like flag on mast. Plaque is rectangular, free standing on a pedestal. The model was handmade by Joe Hilder (Senior) in 1999 from flooring obtained from the Gembrook Uniting Church in Victoria. Inscriptions, hand written, under base of case and on plaque.Under base, black felt tip pen “Ship & Case made From / Flooring from Gembrook uniting Church, Flattened in 1999 / By Large Pine Tree.” On plaque, white paint "This interpretation of the Fabled Mahogany Ship was made by Joe Hilder, Gembrook Vic. is displayed in the memory of the late Edward Kermond (Ted) 1887-1973, a Warrnambool son who claimed to have seen the original ship as a child." flagstaff hill, warrnambool, flagstaff hill maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, great ocean road, ship model, mahogany ship, mahogany ship story, portuguese caravel, joe hilder, edward kermond, ted kermond, gembrook uniting church, gembrook storm 1999, port fairy whalers, belfast whalers -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Book, The Book of Common Prayer
The Book of Common Prayer and Adminiftration of the Sacraments and other Rites and Ceremonies of the Church, According to the Use of The Church of England Publisher: Cambridge University Press Date: 1788The has gold embossing around the edge with the name C Bromfield 1790 in the centre warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, great ocean road, book, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, warrnambool public library, the book of common prayer -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Instrument - Organ and stool, 1897-1901
... church the great warrnambool exhibition 1896-1897 Words on front ...This chapel organ, or pump organ, was made by the Packard Company of Fort Wayne, USA. It was purchased locally from John Broadwood Shepherd & Son of Liebig St, Warrnambool. The donor advised that it was played for many years in the Winslow Presbyterian Church, southwestern Victoria (on Caramut Road, now a private residence). The serial number of the organ dates to be no older than 1887 and no younger than 1901, according to The Pump Organ Society. The goals of The Packard Company, as quoted from the Fort Wayne Gazette, 6th August 1873 are summarised as such; “In the first place, it was determined to make an organ which should be excelled by none. …. It is interesting to the uninitiated to watch the different processes which literally convert the trees of the forest into the marvellous instruments which sound the praises of God in thousands of churches and Sabbath Schools, or make sweet music in multitudes of homes.” The music store of John Broadwood Shepherd and Son had an “impressive” stand at The Great Warrnambool Exhibition of 1896 – 1897 and received a medal for its exhibit. It was also involved in the community, sponsoring prizes for the Musical and Recital Competition, which was part of the entertainment for the Exhibition. The “Warrnambool Standard” newspaper has reference to John Broadwood Shepherd and Son in a newspaper of 1887 and another dated April 13, 1901. A brief history of the Packard Company: 1850, Isaac T. Packard joined with Nelson J. Foss and Calvin Hatch to form Packard, Foss, & Co., manufacturing reed organs, seraphines, and melodeons 1871 the Fort Wayne Organ Company was formed, and Isaac Packard has 40 shares. 1872 the first organ was completed 5th Sept 1899, “Fort Wayne Organ Company” was officially changed to “The Packard Company” 1908 – 1914 (different dates given) the Packard Company ceased producing organs and specialised in pianos. 1930 company went into receivership 1935 the city of Fort Wayne acquired the former Packard Company property, tore the buildings down and turned it into a park, now known as Packard Park. The organ is significant to local history for being sold by a Warrnambool business and played at a local chape or church. It represents community and religious life in late Victorian times.Chapel organ or pump organ (with stool), dated not before 1897 and not after 1901. Medium brown timber with fretwork and turned spindles, Manufactured by Packard, Fort Wayne U.S.A. Organ was purchased from John Broadwood Shepherd & Son, Liebig St, Warrnambool. Serial number is stamped into the wood, rear of organ. lower right panel. Pedals are covered in carpet and each has the maker's name on the lower part of the pedal frame. The keyboard has five octaves and twelve stoppers.Words on front panel “Packard Organ / Fort Wayne Ind. U.S.A. / JOHN BORADWOOD SHEPHERD & SON, / LIEBIG STREET, WARRNAMBOOL.” Serial Number "48870"flagstaff hill, warrnambool, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, great ocean road, pump organ, packard organ, fort wayne usa, john broadwood shepherd & son, john broadwood, winslow victoria, church music, musical instrument, john broadwood shepherd and son, presbyterian church, winslow presbyterian church, the great warrnambool exhibition 1896-1897 -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Photograph - Photograph, copy, The Age, St Nicholas' Mariners' Church, at Williamstown Mission to Seamen, with the lay reader in charge (Mr Stewart Murray) conducting a service, 14 June 1958
The photograph wa published in the Age, 14th of June 1958. The picture shows the round stained glass dedicated on Sunday 14 December 1947 and the reredos with hangings donated by Maud Breaks in memory of her sister Louise Breaks and dedicated on 26 August 1954 by the Bishop of Geelong.This is a rare picture of the interior of the St Nicholas chapel which was erected behind the former E, S & A Bank building used by the Williamstown Seamen's Mission branch from 1944. Article in the Age reading: "Seamen's Window Dedicated - A window in St. Nicholas' Mariners' Church, at Williamstown, in memory of the merchant seamen who were killed on active service In the last war, was unveiled and dedicated yesterday.The ceremony was performed by the Bishop of Geelong (Rt. Rev. J. D. McKie). The window, erected by the Williamstown Lightkeepers' Auxiliary of the Victoria Missions to Seamen is placed behind the altar. It shows a quartermaster, with his hand on the wheel, and the figure of Christ pointing ahead. Bishop McKie paid a tribute to the spirit of the men who gave their lives at sea in the service of their country. He said the work of the auxiliary would still be of great value, although the war was over." The decision of the window was published in August 1947, Mrs Musther -who created the Lightkeepers' Auxiliary branch in Williamstown - ordered it from Brooks, Robinson & Co. (job books 1923-1966). The furniture and window were donated in 1979 to the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village in Warrnanbool, and located in the chapel.Black and White Gloss print photograph - Image features a minister delivering a chapel serviceHand written in black texta; ... Mission to Seamen, Williamstown Chapel service... Circa 1957randall stewart murray, st nicholas the mariner chapel, chapel, lay reader, williamstown, victorian-seamens-mission, 139 nelson place, e,s and a bank, english, scottish and australian bank, stained-glass window, pews, lightkeepers' auxiliary, warrnambool, mrs musther, brooks, robinson & co, hymn board, david conolly -
Mission to Seafarers Victoria
Flyer - List, Gifts, St Nicholas Seamen's Church , List of Gifts, 1946
St Nicholas Seamen's Church was furnished thanks to donations of supporters of the Mission.The document lists all the gifts donated by generous supporters of the Mission in 1946. The chapel was built during World War 2 as memorial to the merchant seamen lost during the war. These items were donated to the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum in 1979 to furnish the chapel.A4 document on cream colour paper, wording in black ink with flying angel flag on topdate written in ink: May 24th 1946 / signature from Frank L. Olivergifts, mission to seafarers, mission to seamen, padre frank leslie oliver, williamstown, nelson place, st nicholas seamen's church, 1946, flagstaff hill maritime museum, warrnambool -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Tools, Spoke Shavers x 2, Late 19th century/early 20th century
Spoke shaves were used by woodmakers to shape curved surfaces (originally wheel spokes). These two spoke shaves belonged to Ernest Phillips of Warrnambool who would have used them to shape the surfaces of chair and table legs etc. Ernest Brighton Phillips (1875-1924) was the son of Henry Phillips (a hay and corn dealer in Warrnambool) and his wife, Emma. He learned cabinet making at the Box Works in Warrnambool and in the late 19th century established a furniture-making and selling business at the corner of Liebig and Koroit Streets. By the early 20th century he had the largest furniture warehouse and factory in Victoria outside Melbourne and sold his products all over Australia. He and his family lived at ‘Heatherlie’ in Koroit Street and after his death this Phillips house was acquired by the Methodist Church and the Heatherlie Homes for retired people were built on this site.These tools are of considerable significance as they were used by Ernest Phillips, a prominent businessman in Warrnambool during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These are two spoke shaves - small planes, slightly curved, with wooden handles and a metal blade in the middle. The blade is attached to the handles via metal ends which go through holes in the wood. The blade area is strengthened with metal plates attached by metal screws. The metal parts are well-rusted and the handles are somewhat worn. ‘E. Phillips’ etched into wood on each spoke shave.ernest phillips, history of warrnambool -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Program, Home & Family Week 1953, 1953
As the photograph on the front page of this pamphlet suggests, the ‘Home & Family Week’ activities may have been inspired by the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth in England. The program for the week included exhibitions, speakers, musical entertainments, a church service, children’s films, public meetings, discussion groups and a youth tea. A committee was formed in Warrnambool to organize the week’s events and the Chairman was Mr Lindsay Anderson.This program is of interest because it gives us details of an event that was staged in Warrnambool in 1953 – Home & Family Week. Many of the speakers and chairpersons for the activities of Home & Family Week were well-known people in the Warrnambool community at the time – Dr H. Holmes, Edith Jacobs, Rupert Philpott, Mrs J.O. Tait, Dr Brauer, Mr E. Willison, Arnold Westgarth etc. This is a pamphlet - one sheet folded in two to make six pages. It has the program for Home & Family Week held in Warrnambool in 1953. The program has blue printing on a beige background. The front page has a photograph in blue and white tonings of Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip and their two children. As well as the program details the pamphlet contains profiles on some of the speakers and chairpersons and a page promoting the ideas behind the presentation of the week’s sessions.home & family week,, warrnambool, history of warrnambool -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Book, Lutheran Publishing House, Under the Southern Cross, 1985
This book relates the history of the Lutheran church of Australia. It many of the early immigrants who came and settled in various parts of Australia in particular South Australia. Apart from Melbourne , the two Victorian areas mentioned are Grovedale near Geelong and Tarrington, near Hamilton in Western Victoria. It covers the period 1847-1947.As a history of the Lutheran Church in Australia, it contains much information which would be of interest to the Lutheran congregation of the district.White soft cover with blue banner on front and back, in which is the title and authors name.456 pages with index.Author , A Brauer. Small card pasted inside front cover " M J Both Allansford."warrnambool, lutheran, under the southern cross, a brauer, -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Document, News Sheet Almanac for 1870, 1870
This Almanac records the many various organisations, such as churches schools councils and law related information.It lists public holidays, members of Parliament as well as births and deaths natural events such as rainfall, sunrise/sunsets and moon charts. it records mail charges and coach timetables.A middle section presents a calendar for 1870 with a record of events which were deemed important since the time of settlement It lists such things as the first telegram from Melbourne to Sydney1858, Governor Bligh deposed 1808, Burke and Wills funeral 1863. At the bottom of the page is a Warrnambool Business Directory which includes J S Rowley Corio brewery, Royal Hotel , J H Rule Painter, plumber and glazier, J Brady , tinsmith and A Lanagan , Golden Boot The Warrnambool Examiner was founded by John Wilkinson and Richard Osburne in 1851. After a gap of a couple of years Richard Osburne resumed publication in October 1853 and continued until 1867. William Fairfax and Henry Laurie then leased the paper (1867 to 1872) before Richard Osburne again became the proprietor from October 1872 to April 1878 and from December 1879 to December 1880 when publication ceased. Fairfax and Laurie were the proprietors of the paper when this Almanac was published. William Fairfax was a member of the Fairfax family which was, and still is, associated with the publication of many Australian newspapers. Henry Laurie later became well-known as a Melbourne University Philosophy Professor.This single sheet of newspaper is an interesting and valuable record of Warrnambool and its people in 1870. There are names of many local people recorded and it also gives an insight into the variety of businesses and orhganisations which were established by 1870. It is also interesting to note that there are at least ten different styles of print on the page.Large single broadsheet of newspaper with large black heading and eight columns of print. The back of the page is blank.Fairfax and Laurie's Almanac for 1870 presented with the Warrnambool Examiner. Published as a supplement to the Warrnambool Examiner of 7th January 1870 Vol.XX No 1597.warrnambool, warrnambool almanac 1870,, examiner almanac warrnambool, fairfax and laurie, examiner warrnambool -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Book, Speaking Personally - W Murdoch, 1887/1888
These two important books are part of a series produced in the 1880s but they have widely-different content. One describes the natural history of the Parish of Selborne in the County of Hampshire in England. It was written by the British naturalist and ornithologist, Gilbert White and first published in 1789. Since that time it has been republished over 300 times right up to the present day. It is notable for its charm and simplicity and for its description of a pre-industrial England. The other is by the American author, Walt Whitman, first published in 1871. It is a major work of comparative politics and expounds on the influence of the Louisiana Purchase and the expansion of the American spirit and character. It also denounces the post-Civil War materialism that had spread at that time in America. These books are of interest because of their antiquarian nature but they are mostly of local Warrnambool interest because of their inscriptions. The books belonged to William Hugh McMahon (1862-1936). William McMahon commenced a legal practice in Warrnambool in 1894, firstly in Liebig Street and later in Kepler Street. He was a prominent lawyer in Warrnambool for 30 years and a staunch adherent of the Presbyterian Church. He and his family lived at ‘Glenrye’ at the corner of Ardlie Street and Botanic Road, a site where the St. John of God Hospital was later established. These two accompanying volumes are in the Camelot Series (1887 and 1888). They are hard cover books with red covers and two ornamental patterns on the front cover (stylized urn and fan shapes). The urn pattern is repeated on the spines. ‘The Natural History of Selborne’ has 366 pages (a Preface and Chapters on the Natural History of Selborne, a Naturalist’s Calendar and Observations on Various Branches of Natural History) and ‘Democratic Vistas’ has 175 pages (a Preface and 12 Chapters). The latter has the remains of a label stuck to the front cover. The handwriting on the inside first pages are in black ink.Book One: ‘W.H.McMahon, June 24th 1889, Warrnambool’ Book Two: ‘W.H.McMahon, Sept. 4th 1891, Warrnambool’ gilbert white, english natural history, walt whitman, american politics, william mcmahon, solicitor, warrnambool., warrnambool history -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Document, Illuminated Address H. H. Smith esq
This illuminated address was given to H.H.Smith, the Warrnambool Mayor, for his work with soldiers returning to Warrnambool and district during and after World War One. On the same occasion Smith was also given an armchair by the mothers, sisters and wives of Warrnambool returning soldiers. Henry Huntingdon Smith (1857-1941) started his own bakery business in 1885, firstly near the corner of Fairy and Koroit Streets and later building his own shop at the corner of Lava and Fairy Streets (Monaghans Pharmacy today). Smith was one of the most admired men in Warrnambool in the first half of the 20th century. He was a Warrnambool Councillor from 1918 to 1937 (Mayor for two terms) and served continuously on the Warrnambool Hospital Committee for 39 years. He visited patients at the Hospital twice a week. He took a particular interest in the welfare of returning soldiers and it was said that there was not a returned man or woman whom Smith did not greet on his return to the district. Smith also was a tireless worker for the Methodist Church as an office bearer and a Sunday School teacher. Smith was also Vice President in 1937 of the first Warrnambool & District Historical Society. This document is of particular interest as it is a good example of the type of illuminated address produced during the early years of the 20th century. It also shows clearly the respect and love that Warrnambool people had for Henry Smith, a great volunteer worker in the community. This is a piece of cream-coloured parchment paper with a margin ruled in black ink and handwriting in blue and black ink surrounded by red ornamental scrolls and flourishes. The paper has an address to H.H.Smith and is followed by 74 names and the date (1920). The paper is inserted into a piece of red leather cloth. This has folded edges and an ornamental gold pattern around the front edges and a gold border around the back edges. There are two holes at the top of the folder and these have metal surrounds. The backing folder is rounded at the top edges. ‘Warrnambool, 6th December 1919. To H.H. Smith Esq., Mayor of Warrnambool – We, the Mothers, Wives and Sisters of the Returned Soldiers of this City and District wish to express to you our deepest gratitude for your unswerving devotion to Our Boys interests during your long term as Secretary of the Welcome Home Committee’ (etc etc)henry huntingdon smith, world war one, history of warrnambool -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Book, Good Words, 1880s
This book, published in England, has been awarded as a school prize in 1887. Woodford School, No. 648, was an early National School which commenced in a house in 1854. In 1872 a sandstone building was erected. The school still operates. James Craig was the Head Master of Woodford School from 1884 to 1889. His wife was the Work Mistress of the school and both were involved in community affairs, particularly in regard to the Presbyterian Church and the local Mechanics’ Institute. Annis Morgan was born at Woodford to Jenkin and Mary Morgan in 1874. She would have been about 13 at the time she received the prize book. Annis (Ann) married Alan Patterson in 1897. This book is of considerable significance as it is connected with the history of Woodford, the Woodford school, the teacher, James Craig, the pupil, Annis Morgan and her family. This is a hard cover book of 812 pages The cover is black with an engraved ornamental pattern and edging and gold printing in the title on the cover and the spine. There is gilt edging on the pages. There is a bookplate on the inside front cover and one or two pages at the beginning are missing. The book contains many black and white illustrations with the first one covered by a piece of tissue (now blotched). The book contains poetry, short stories (some serialized) and some factual writing suitable for older children and adults. The cover is stained and somewhat faded and is ragged at the edges.Bookplate: ‘State School No. 648 Woodford, Fifth Class, presented to Annis Morgan, Christmas 1887, Jas. Craig, Head Teacher’. Stamp inside first page: ‘Warrnambool & District Historical Society WB 196’ history of woodford, woodford state school, annis morgan -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Book, Drawing of Genius, c.1870
‘Dawnings of Genius’ by the Rev. Theodore Alois Buckley contains chapters on the lives the many distinguished men in history. Our copy of this work was given to Jane McMeekin as a prize at the Koroit Street School some time in the 1870s. The Koroit Street School was a Denominational Board School opened by the Wesleyan Church in 1859 with William Nettleton as the Head Teacher. It was later known as Common School No. 673 and closed in 1876 when the Warrnambool State School in Jamieson Street was opened. There is no date to tell us when Jane McMeekin received this book but we know that Caleb Collyer, who married Ann Brown in 1869, was Head Teacher of Warrnambool Common School No. 673 in 1875. Jane Taggart McMeekin was born in Mepunga in 1864 to John and Isabella McMeekin. She may have been about ten or eleven when she received this prize. This book is of considerable interest as it was a school prize in the 1870s and concerns Jane McMeekin, Caleb Collyer and Common School No. 673 – all of relevance and importance in the history of education in Warrnambool.This is a hard cover book of 408 pages. It has a dark red leather cover with gold and black ornamentation and red lettering on a gold background. It has an introduction and thirty chapters on the lives of eminent men. It has many black and white illustrations. The cover is torn in places and somewhat stained and ragged around the edges. On the first page it has an inscription and a stamp of the Warrnambool & District Historical Society. ‘Second Prize, Fifth Class Girls, Awarded to Jane McMeekin, Koroit Street School, No. 673, Warrnambool, C. Collyer, H. Teacher.’ warrnambool common school 673, caleb collyer, jane mcmeekin, history of warrnambool, schools in warrnambool -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Document, A Service of Intercession, 1915
... Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc. 2 Gilles ...This is a programme for a Service of Intercession in Relation to the War. It was held by the Methodist Church (Victoria and Tasmania Conference) in October 1915. The Wesleyan Methodist Conference at Birmingham, England requested that Sunday October 31st 1915 be set aside as a Day of Thanksgiving and Intercession throughout Britain and all other countries in the British Empire. The service was held to seek Divine intercession and aid for those on active military service in World War One and for the families of these men and women. This programme is of interest as the 1915 service would have been held in Methodist Churches throughout Victoria and Tasmania and this would have included the Warrnambool Methodist Church. World War One was a highly significant event in the history of Australia and Warrnambool, along with all other places in Australia, was affected deeply by the war with many young local people enlisting and many dying on active service.These are two sheets of paper folded in two to make eight pages. The pages contain a programme for the Methodist Church service in October 1915. The printing is in blue on a whitish/bluish background. The front cover is edged with blue lines. There is a blue stamp of the Warrnambool & District Historical Society on the front cover. The programme has been stapled but the staples have been removed. methodist church, world war one -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Brass Plate, Dr H I Holmes, Circa 1905
... Church in Spence St Warrnambool. He later moved to a new home... Street (south of Merri St) Warrnambool great-ocean-road Doctor ...Doctor Horace Iles Holmes was born at Launceston Tasmania 09/08/1877. He was educated at Launceston High School and Tasmanian University and later at Melbourne University. After graduation he came to Warrnambool in 1905 and worked in the practice of Dr T F Fleetwood and took over the practice shortly afterwards along with the position of Honorary medical officer at Warrnambool Hospital and also health officer until 1944 and as an Honorary consulting medical officer from then until 1958. His practice which was located at " Ierne" opposite the Presbyterian Church in Spence St Warrnambool. He later moved to a new home and surgery at the corner of Spence Liebig st and Raglan parade which was later sold to Dr C B Berryman. A large medical clinic still operates from this site. Dr Holmes was a keen fisherman and a member of Rotary serving as district governor.This plate is a connection to a long standing doctor in the Warrnambool district. In his practice he would have treated many district people and as such this item has strong social and historical connections to the district. Rectangular brass plate engraved with name which has been coloured in black. There are six screw holes around the outer edge of the plaque. The back is plain .H.I. Holmes M.D. Surgeon & Physician. A stamped name at middle bottom edge is unreadablewarrnambool, warrnambool doctors, dr h i holmes, warrnambool history -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Booklet, Almanac - Advertiser 1873, 1872
This Almanac was published by the Warrnambool Advertiser in 1873. The Warrnambool Advertiser was first published in 1868 by the Warrnambool Newspaper Company with James Hider as chairman. The first editor and publisher was Frank Davis who was succeeded in these positions in January 1870 by Daniel Harrison and Daniel George. The plant and goodwill was sold in May1874 to Fairfax and Laurie, the proprietors of the Warrnambool Standard. The owner of this booklet was Christopher Beattie who came to Warrnambool in 1853 and founded, with Henry Phillips, the undertaking firm of Beattie & Phillips in 1865. Beattie was heavily involved in community affairs in Warrnambool - the Fire Brigade, the Building Society, the Mechanics' Institute, the Manchester Unity Lodge and the Wesleyan Church. Several pages of the booklet have personal notes written by Beattie. The booklet remained in the possession of J J Leahy, the successor to Beattie & Phillips in the Fairy Street undertaking business.This booklet is of major importance as it is an original Warrnambool Advertiser Almanac of 1873. This Almanac was published two years before the Warrnambool Standard Almanacs were issued (1875-1930) and thus it contains information not available elsewhere. The association with Christopher Beattie of the firm Beattie & Phillips and the Beattie handwritten material are also of major interest to local historians.This is a booklet of 47 pages, the Warrnambool Advertiser Almanac of 1873. Some of the first and end pages are missing and some of the inside pages are torn or partly missing. Some of the end pages are loose. The booklet contains a monthly calendar with historical dates from Australia and overseas, Town and District Directories of people living in the Warrnambool area, general information on organisations and businesses in Warrnambool and the surrounding district and postal information. It also has many local Warrnambool and district advertisements, some with black and white sketches. There are also several pages with comments handwritten by Christopher Beattie. The pages have been tied together with string.Christopher Beattie Born on the/ 7th of January 1839 at Westlinton/ (near Carlisle), Cumberland, England 1872 [written in different hand at top of page]beattie & phillips, christopher beattie, warrnambool advertiser, history of warrnambool, james hider, frank davis, daniel harrison, daniel george, fairfax & laurie, henry phillips, j j leahy, undertakers -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Book, New Testament, Late 19th century
This is a New Testament in Chinese given to Thomas Wong Cheong on the occasion of his baptism in August 1886. Thomas Wong Cheong (also written Thomas Wong Tong) was a Christian Catechist appointed by the Foreign Missions Committee of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Victoria. He worked in Warrnambool, ministering to the local Chinese Christian community for 31 years. He died in 1923. A Chinese Church, under the auspices of the Presbyterian Church, was erected in Ryot Street, Warrnambool in 1892. By the 1930s the Chinese community in the Warrnambool area had dwindled to a very few in number and the Ryot Street building was demolished in 1979. This is a significant book because of its association with the Chinese community in Warrnambool and the catechist Thomas Wong Cheong. The Chinese Church and the work of Thomas Wong Cheong are of importance in Warrnambool’s history from the end of the 19th century to the early years of the 20th century and this book would have been well-used during this time. This is a hard cover book with a black cover and the words, ‘New Testament’ printed in gold lettering on the back page (probably the front page when being read in Chinese). The text is entirely in the Chinese language with the Chinese characters in columns ruled longways. The signature of Thomas Wong Cheong (Tong) is written four times in blue and red ink. There is an inscription on the back page (front of book) and a page with a yellow background and black printing. Some of the pages have been torn (silverfish damage) and the edges of some pages have been stained. Most of the pages have four or five holes on the inside edges, suggesting that the book has been re-bound from a previous binding. There is a pink sticker of the Castlemaine bookbinder on the inside front cover.‘Presented to Thomas Wong Tong on the occasion of his Baptism, Creswick, Victoria, August 1st 1886, T. Angwin, Wesleyan Minister.’ chinese in warrnambool, warrnambool, history of warrnambool -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Book, The book of common prayer
Unfortunately we do not know who donated this book to the Warrnambool & District Historical Society and so we do not know the identity of C.M.B or S.A.B. S.A. Burtt is listed as a Timor Street grocer in 1856 and as a Director of the Western District Fishing Company (1858-9). Was he the S.A.B. who gave the book to his sister in 1854? The fact that we have the book indicates that perhaps C.M.B. also came to settle in Victoria at a later date.This is a very attractive little prayer book and remains for us a fascinating relic of 19th century migration to Victoria. It will be even more valuable if we ever discover the identity of the giver and receiver of the book.This is a hard cover leather- bound book. The book contains a Contents page, a Preface and the Common Prayers of the Church of England together with the Psalms of David. The spine has gold lettering and the cover is edged and reinforced with gold-coloured metal and there is a gold ornamental metal clasp which is affixed with small nails to the front and back covers and which closes over the pages. The pages are gilt-edged. The inscription on the first page is handwritten in blue ink and there is a loose sheet which is a printed prayer for the Governor and the Council and another loose piece of blue ribbon used as a marker. The spine of the book is slightly rubbed. There are some indecipherable pencil markings on the back page. ‘To C. M. B. A farewell gift from a brother to his sister on his sailing for Victoria From S.A.B.1854’ 19th century migration to victoria history of warrnambool -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Book, Romance of Real Life, 1920s
... Dennington Presbyterian Church History of Warrnambool ‘Dennington ...This is a book given to Clive Cust in 1926 as a prize from the Dennington Presbyterian Sabbath School. The Dennington Presbyterian Church opened in Drummond Street in 1914, moved to Lindsay Street in 1951 and closed in 1968. A Sunday School at this church would have been operating during this time. The Cust families were pioneer settlers in the Warrnambool district. A Clive Cyril Cust was born to Alex and Annie Cust in 1914 in Warrnambool and it is presumed that he was the owner of this book. This is an interesting book as it is one of the few items we have connected to the Dennington Presbyterian Church. It is also of interest as a good example of the type of reading material favoured by young boys in the 1920s.This is a hard cover book of 196 pages. The cover is dark green with gold lettering on the front cover and on the spine and a colour sketch of a hunter and a lion on the front cover and a colour sketch of a fireman on the spine. There are several colour and black and white plates throughout the book. There are several pages at the back of the book of lists of books available from the Religious Tract Society, London. The inscription on the first page is handwritten in black ink. The cover is slightly marked and faded.‘Dennington, Presbyterian Sabbath School, Prize awarded to Clive Cust, Jan. 1926’ clive cust, dennington presbyterian church, history of warrnambool