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matching history of gold in victoria
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Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Book, Warrandyte Historical Society, Wonderful Warrandyte - A Portrait by Valerie Polley, 2014
... in Victoria's gold mining, art and settlement history. warrandyte ...The Warrandyte Historical Society aims to collect, preserve and present the town's history. This books draws on the archival and memorabilia resources of the Society and other sources to paint a portrait of the township, its landscape, buildings, organisations and community.Warrandyte holds a significant place in Victoria's gold mining, art and settlement history.ISBN 9780992429102warrandyte, anderson's creek -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Folder, Mr Grimshaw, Miner, Kinglake and Caledonian Diggings
We have three folders catalogued for the Grimshaw name and these will in due course be consolidated/corrected: 1. EDHS_01361 – A.H. Grimshaw of Research, Vic., 1927 2. EDHS_01362 – John Grimshaw of Greensborough, 1862 (Correct name is Josiah Grimshaw) 3. EDHS_01375 – Mr Grimshaw, miner of Kinglake and Caledonian Diggings. (This is believed to be Mr J.L. (Jack) Grimshaw who reportedly discovered the first gold in Kinglake. These folders are made up of copies of pages of research undertaken by Mr Keith Chappel in the 1970s, which is now catalogued as a separate item. EDHS_04448 - Eltham District History, Eltham Road Board, 1856-1871; Research by Keith Chappel https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/5e4a290521ea671e9ccf9661 There is further information from this research concerning a William Grimshaw. Also included as part of EDHS_01375 is a photocopy of page44 from the book "Caledonia Diggings (St Andrews)", Gold Discovery in Victoria, James Flett, 1970, which references No. 2 Creek at the Caledonian Diggings as also been known as Grimshaws. We have a photo of J.L.(Jack) Grimshaw who discovered gold at Kinglake, which is part of the Shire of Eltham Pioneers Photograph Collection (SEPP) SEPP_0056 - Mr. J.L. Grimshaw; the man who found the first gold at Kinglake https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/5a6c158721ea6906ac29bd3c We also have another record of interest involving Aaron Grimshaw, Farmer of Greensborough who was an indentured Trustee of the Wesleyan Chapel in Little Eltham in 1856: EDHS_04610-3-1 - Document, Conveyance of Lot 20 Henry Street, Little Eltham North to Trustees of Wesleyan Chapel, 1856 https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/60f6d644ac5d4de270b83615 The record of Joshia Grimshaw of Greensborough is grim. He was arrested and charged with the murder of John Mitchell at Greensborough, September 24, 1962. Grimshaw was ultimately convicted of manslaughter and sentenced for three years in prison. Newspaper reports of the day show his name as Josiah. Whether he was also known as John is not clear, and whether he is the same as J.L. (Jack) Grimshaw who discovered gold at Kinglake, again is unclear without undertaking further research into the matter. This murder trial was extensively reported in the newspapers and you can find those reports on the National Library of Australia’s Trove https://trove.nla.gov.au/ Some of the reports of interest: TRIAL OF GRIMSHAW FOR MURDER (1862, October 23). The Kyneton Observer (Vic. : 1856 - 1900), p. 3. Retrieved April 21, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article240899299 THE GREENSBOROUGH MURDER. (1862, September 30). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 6. Retrieved April 21, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article5722929 MELBOURNE CRIMINAL SESSIONS. (1862, October 18). The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved April 21, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article154967162 CRIMINAL SESSIONS. I (1862, October 18). The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), p. 6. Retrieved April 21, 2023, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article6480408 Folder of information on Mr Grimshaw, Miner, Kinglake and Caledonian Diggingsgrimshaw -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Book, Western Horizon, C 1960
This book presents a pictorial history of the western District of Victoria. It explores various aspects of the Western District such as water supply,architecture,ports,produce,and agriculture. It also presents the various scenic spots around the district. The publishers of this book , the Australian publicity Council is dedicated to publicising the state of Victoria and its natural resources in an effort to attract overseas investment and industry.This book provides a snapshot of the Western District in the 1960 's both with the information and the photographs contained within, including some which were taken by Ralph Illidge who was one on Warrnambool's best known photographers. Coloured hard board cover with country scene with road with two vehicles on a road which continues to the back cover.. A large gum tree sits beside the road. The title is gold on a navy blue banner. Thereis a small blurb on the back cover. 112 pages.Australian Publicity Council. Henry Bolte Premier of Victoria.history of warrnambool, western horizon, western victoria, ralph illidge, warrnambool 1960's -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Book, War Memorials of Victoria, 1994
This book gives information on 1,100 War Memorials in Victoria. It was compiled by Bradley, Christey et al and produced for the Returned and Services League of Victoria. War Memorials were established in most settlements in Australia after World War One and added to after World War Two and succeeding conflicts. The number of War Memorials reflect the historical importance of Australia’s involvement in world wars and because of our distance from the battlefields they have become sacred places in Australia – de facto war cemeteries. The book includes information on the Warrnambool War Memorial and those in our area. This book is of interest as it gives details on War Memorials and includes all those in the Western District of Victoria. It will be useful to researchers of social and military history. This is a hard cover book with a blue cover and gold printing on the spine. The dust cover is dark blue with a colour sketch of the Portland War Memorial and white printing on the front cover and an outline of the map of Australia on the back cover. The book has 240 pages, black and white and colour illustrations, a Foreword, Dedication, Acknowledgements, Introduction, Contents, Bibliography and Index and information in alphabetical order of the War Memorials in Victoria. It also has reproductions of 20 oil paintings of Victorian War Memorials by Dacre Smyth.Spine: ‘War Memorials of Victoria’ R.S.L. Victorian Branch’ Front Cover: ‘War Memorials of Victoria, a Pictorial Record’ war memorials in victoria, warrnambool war memorial, history of warrnambool -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Book, The Practical Measurer, 1863
This book, ‘The Practical Measurer’, by Alexander Peddie, is subtitled ‘Tradesman and Wood Merchant’s Assistant’. It is a tradesman’s guide to measuring and contains many tables of measurement. The inscription in the front of the book shows that it belonged to Thomas Osborne and that he obtained it from D. McColl who is identified in the inscription as the Chief Engineer of the steam ship, ‘Julia Percy’. There is a record of a Donald McColl owning the vessel ‘Mimmie Dyke’ and sailing it to Mauritius in 1856 and there is also a record of the death of a Donald McColl in 1880 so these two facts may refer to the D.McColl mentioned by Thomas Osborne (especially as he refers to him as ‘poor old Mr D. McColl’). Thomas Hamilton Osborne was born in Port Fairy in 1851. He had a lifelong interest in ships and in Warrnambool was the Secretary and then Manager of the Western Steam Navigation Company for 16 years. Osborne wrote many articles with nautical themes using the nom-de-plume of ‘Sliding Gunter’ and had a great love of, and interest in, the ship, ‘Julia Percy’ and when he died in 1902 his body was put on board the ‘Julia Percy’ and he was buried at sea. The ‘Julia Percy’ (built 1876) was a well-known steamship on the western Victorian coast for many years. Later it plied the Queensland coast, saw service in West Australian waters, was renamed the ‘Leeuin’ and was used as a coal hulk until it was scuttled in 1935. The signature in the book of T. Hyland may indicate that he donated the book to the Warrnambool and District Historical Society. This book is of prime importance because:- 1. As a book printed in 1863 it is of antiquarian interest. 2. The connection with Thomas Osborne is of key interest as he was a notable figure in Warrnambool’s 19th century history, especially in maritime circles. 3. The connection with the ship, ‘Julia Percy’, is of particular interest as it was a prominent ship in Warrnambool’s maritime history. This is a hard cover book of 448 pages with brown and gold leather binding on the spine and cover edges and a brown and tan mottled pattern cover. The book has a Preface, a Contents page, information on how to measure all types of solid figures and how to measure work involved in the various trades – masons, carpenters, painters, glaziers, plumbers etc. It also has two Appendices with information on the measurement of sawn timber. The text has many tables and diagrams. The first page has a handwritten inscription in black ink and the back pages have some mathematical calculations written in pencil and a mathematical problem with its solution written in ink. Handwritten: ‘T. P. Hyland’ Stamped: ‘T.H.Osborne’ Typed label: ‘Mr T. H. Osborne, Warrnambool’ Handwritten: ‘T.H. Osborne, Warrnamool, Australia, given to me by poor old Mr D. McColl, Chf. Engineer, Julia Percy S.S., 1888’ thomas osborne, history of warrnambool, maritime history of victoria, ‘julia percy’ steamship -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Album, Alexandrie
These post cards of Alexandria, Egypt have been sent by an Australia soldier on active service, probably in Egypt, during World War One. The cards have been sent to Miss May Harvey of Naringal. No information has been found on either the sender of the post cards or the recipient. This album is of considerable interest as it is a local souvenir of World War One, a set of post cards sent to Miss May Harvey who lived in Naringal at the time (about 1916). This is a packet of 24 detachable post cards –black and white photographs of Alexandria, Egypt, produced during World War One. The post cards are intact and have tissue paper protecting each card. The cover is red with gold and black lettering and a black and gold stamped ornamental badge with a circle containing the initials, ‘L. C.’ The post cards have been stapled into the packet. Each post card is labelled in French, as is the title on the front.Front Cover: ‘E. Reed (or Reid)’ ‘Alexandrie, 24 Detachable Phototype Post Cards, Series, N.6’ Back Cover: ‘On Active Service’ ‘Miss May Harvey Naringal P.O. Via Allansford Victoria Australia’ world war one, history of naringal, miss may harvey, warrnambool history -
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.
Certificate - Certificate, 1897, Warrnambool Industrial & Art Exhibition Order of Merit, pre December 1896
The following is an extract from Warrnambool and District Historical Society Website which explains briefly the Great Exhibition of 1896-97 The Great Industrial and Art Exhibition in Warrnambool in 1896-97 was an exciting affair for the town and the surrounding area. People came from far and wide to be enlightened, educated and entertained, with 70,000 visitors passing through the doors during the three months of the exhibition. Not bad for a town with a population of only 6,500 and a further 9,200 living in the surrounding shire! Planning began at a public meeting attended by 60 people in May 1896 and the exhibition opened in December the same year on the site of the current Light House Theatre. The architects submitted plans for four annexes, complete with turrets, a fernery and a giant flagpole. The site covered 1 acre and included a Marine court, industrial exhibits, an education court, defense and agriculture court, stalls, coach builders, dairy show, an art court and provision for a smorgasbord of various entertainment. (The Story of the Warrnambool Industrial & Art Exhibition 1896-97- E O’Callaghan) This certificate was one of many awards for competency and /or excellence in a wide range of activities and skills. Warrnambool Industrial & Art Exhibition 1896-1897 Competitions-Piano forte solo Gertrude Lewin- prizewinner W J Hickford- Mayor E Lyle Rossiter As a link to one of the biggest events ever held in Warrnambool this item has significant value to the history of Warrnambool. It has social significance also linking a number of names related to the event. Rectangular cardboard. pale cream and aqua background, multi linear gold and deeper aqua border with rounded and right angled corners. An interior border has a swag, linear vertical ribbons with four emblems related to science, labour, arts and industry. Four local black and white photographs, the town council crest and town officials, patron and councillors. An inscription of the prizewinner, event and signatures is written in a cream square in the middle of the certificate.Warrnambool/Industrial & Art Exhibition Opened Dec 21st 1896/ By the Chief Justice of Victoria/ Sir John Madden, K.C.M.G. upper L corner. Closed March 19th 1897/ By the Mayoress of Warrnambool/ Mrs WJ Hickford 'First Order of Merit/ Awarded to Gertrude Lewin/ of Parkville/ for Piano forte Solo (under 15) Signatures of WJ Hickford, President and E Lyle Rossiter, Secretary gertrude lewin, wj hickford, e lyle rossiter, the great warrnambool exhibitiion, warrnambool, pianoforte -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Book, BPA Print group Pty Ltd, 11 Evans St Burwood, Vic 3125, 50 Years and More A History of Surf Life Saving Victoria, First published 2002
History of Life Saving Victoria for over 50 yearsBlue and gold hard cover with stylized figure of life saver on front cover with multi coloured blue cover on back with small boxed copy of front cover figure. Taken from painting Beltman and Co by Brian St Alban Smith 1958. 548 pages followed by lists of award winners both individuals and clubs. Title and authors in dark blue text.History of Life Saving Victoria for over 50 yearswarrnambool, surf life saving victoria, surf championships, shark attacks, surf boats -
Eltham District Historical Society Inc
Negative - Photograph, Opening of St. Andrews Battery, Queenstown, 29 Aug. 1919
Reproduced on p31 of 'Pioneers & Painters' Was destroyed in 1962 bushfire. Now Peter Franks Reserve, St Andrews On Friday 29th (August 1919) …, the Hon. S. Barnes, M. L. A., Minister of Mines, accompanied by Mr W. Everard, M.L.A., Mr. V. Dickson, secretary for Mines, and Mr. Merrin, Chief Mining Inspector, visited Smith's Gully for the purpose of opening, the new Government battery which has recently been erected. The party arrived punctually at 12.30, and was received by an assemblage of about 200 residents, including, those representing local prospecting and mining interests. At the mill house the Minister wished prosperity to mining on the old Queenstown field, and, in a few appropriate remarks, gave the battery the name of St. Andrew's. Then, as the stamps began to fall, three hearty cheers were given by the gathering. ….. The Queenstown field, dating back to the early sixties, might be regarded as a link that took them back to the Augustine age of gold mining in Victoria…From 1868 to 1918 the total yield of gold from the field was 274,606 fine oz. It might be that here, as elsewhere, deeper prospecting would give new life to the Queenstown goldfield. The miners of Queenstown, who through long year's had never lost faith in the possibilities of the field, felt that the purpose for which they were that day marked the beginning of a new era in the history of local reefing. …. The new mill is situated on the bank of the creek opposite the Queenstown Cemetery, and consists of a five head battery (Berdan pan) and 12 h.p. portable steam engine housed in a spacious structure of wood and iron. A concrete weir across the creek provides a good water supply, and all the necessary pumps, settling dams, etc., have been installed. Later on, should circumstances warrant it, it is pro-posed to erect Wilfley tables for concentrates. Eltham and Whittlesea Shires Advertiser and Diamond Creek Valley Advocate, Friday 5 September 1919, page 3This photo forms part of a collection of photographs gathered by the Shire of Eltham for their centenary project book,"Pioneers and Painters: 100 years of the Shire of Eltham" by Alan Marshall (1971). The collection of over 500 images is held in partnership between Eltham District Historical Society and Yarra Plenty Regional Library (Eltham Library) and is now formally known as the 'The Shire of Eltham Pioneers Photograph Collection.' It is significant in being the first community sourced collection representing the places and people of the Shire's first one hundred years.Digital image 4 x 5 inch B&W Neg Print 20 x 25 (2)shire of eltham pioneers photograph collection, queenstown, st andrews, st. andrews battery, gold mining, s. barnes, merrin, st andrews battery, v. dickson, william h. everard, peter franks reserve -
Orbost & District Historical Society
book, McCarron, Bird & Co, Addresses to H.R.H Duke of Cornwall and York, 1901
This book was published by the Municipal Association of Victoria to commemorate the inauguration of the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901. The addresses were made on the occasion of the Duke & Duchess of Cornwall & York's visit to Melbourne in May 1901. They were in the city for the opening of Federal Parliament which took place at the Exhibition Building in Carlton Gardens on 9 May 1901. .This item is associated with the history of the Federation of Australia and is a useful research tool.Hard-covered book, red cloth, with gold impressed lettering, containing 118 pages of illustrated copies of addresses to HRH Duke of Cornwall & York and His Excellency, Earl Hopetoun, the Governor General from the Shires of Victoria (includes Orbost). The addresses are surrounded by elaborate borders containing native flowers, particularly wattle. There are alsos cenes of rural Victoria. Incised on front cover - Addresses to H.R.H. Duke of Cornwall & York and his Excellency the Gov. General, the Earl of Hopetoun from the Municipalities of Victoria.federation duke-of-cornwall speeches-addresses -
Orbost & District Historical Society
book, Victoria And Its Metropolis, Past And Present, 1888?
This book was written by Alexander Sutherland from the discovery of Australia, through to the exploration of Victoria and the first settlers to the pioneers. It then continues on to discuss immigration, the era of gold, the development of government, agriculture, music and art, literature and the metropolis of Melbourne. There were two volumes. It was published to co-incide with the centenary of Australia's first settlement.This book is a history of Victoria and Melbourne to 1888 and is useful resource for all local and social historians of Victoria and the metropolis of Melbourne.A very large book. It has no cover. Pages are gold edged and there is string in the binding.history-victoria sutherland-alexander melbourne-history -
Orbost & District Historical Society
year book, Year Book of Agriculture 1905, 1905
Comprises extracts from the monthly journals covering rural changes in Victoria, improvements in agriculture and horticulture, Royal Shows and farming history.This item is a useful reference tool.A 448 pp book with a dark blue fabric cover with gold print.agriculture-history-victoria -
Orbost & District Historical Society
Victorian Railways pencil, Victorian Railways, c. 1960s-1980s
Used by Victorian Railways at stations on the Orbost-Bairnsdale line. The Bairnsdale-Orbost railway was opened in 1916 to serve the agricultural and timber industry. Because of the decline in traffic and heavy operating costs, the line was finally closed in August, 1987. Orbost Railway Station was opened on Monday 10 April 1916 as the terminus of the Orbost railway line, and closed in 1987. The station was located on the west side of the Snowy River despite the town of Orbost being on the east side of the river, in order to save on the costs of a bridge over the river, which at the time had highly variable levels. This item is associated with the history of the Orbost-Bairnsdale railway line and therefore reflects the role that the rail line played in the social and economic history of Orbost.A thick, hexagonal shaped pencil made of wood, painted dark blue, containing blue graphite marker.VICTORIA RAILWAYS written in gold lettering Emperor, Made in Australia railway-history victorian-railways orbost-bairnsdale-railway -
Orbost & District Historical Society
belt, mid 20th century
This belt with badges was owned and worn by Nancye Wallace (nee Warren) as a Girl Guide leader in Orbost. The badges indicate that she took part residential camps as part of her membership. she continued in the Guiding movement as an adult leader.Established in 1910, Girl Guiding is now one of the largest all female organisations in the world. It is designed for girls, young and not-so-young women to join and enjoy a program of informal learning, opportunities, fun, personal development and friendship. (ref. Girl Guides Victoria). This whistle used by an Orbost local reflects the history of that organisation in Orbost.A brown leather belt with two badges attached. it has a silver metal buckle engraved with "Girl Guides association Be Prepared" and their emblem. One badge is a black and yellow Camp Kindaminda badge and the other a rectangular blue, green and gold Victoria Camp badge.Inside belt in black - N WALLACE ORBOSTbadges girl-guide-belt -
Orbost & District Historical Society
badges, 1950's -1960's
These badges are unused and were possibly available for those guides who took part in the various camps or became new members. they were designed to sew on to the guide uniforms or blankets. Nancye Wallace (nee Warren) was a Guide leader.Established in 1910, Girl Guiding is now one of the largest all female organisations in the world. It is designed for girls, young and not-so-young women to join and enjoy a program of informal learning, opportunities, fun, personal development and friendship. (ref. Girl Guides Victoria). These badges used by an Orbost local reflects the history of that organisation in Orbost.Twelve cloth badges. They are unused Girl Guide badges. two are round with a black background and inside a red circle is a wattle tree. One is round with a variegated fairy wren inside a red circle. One is rectangular with an eastern rosella inside a red circle. There are four smaller square shaped badges (cut from a strip) with gold, and red print on a blue background - " 1910 Girl Guides Jubilee 1960". One is a rectangular Camp Kindamindi badge and there are three rectangular strips, white with blue print "1st Orbost".badges-cloth girl-guides -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Instrument - Barometer, 1867
Langlands Company History: Langlands foundry was Melbourne's first foundry and iron shipbuilder established in 1842, only 8 years after the founding of the Victorian colony by two Scottish immigrants, Robert Langlands and Thomas Fulton, who had formed a partnership before emigrating (1813–1859). The business was known as the 'Langlands Foundry Co'. Henry Langlands (1794-1863), left Scotland in 1846 with his wife Christian, née Thoms, and five surviving children to join his brother Robert. By the time he arrived in early January of 1847 the partnership of Robert Langlands and Fulton had dissolved as Fulton had gone off to establish his own works. It was at this time that the two brothers took over ownership of Langlands foundry. Several years later Robert retired and Henry became sole the proprietor. The foundry was originally located on Flinders Lane between King and Spencer streets. Their sole machine tool, when they commenced as a business, was a small slide rest lathe turned by foot. In about 1865 they moved to the south side of the Yarra River, to the Yarra bank near the Spencer Street Bridge and then in about 1886 they moved to Grant Street, South Melbourne. The works employed as many as 350 workers manufacturing a wide range of marine, mining, civil engineering, railway and general manufacturing components including engines and boilers. The foundry prospered despite high wages and the lack of raw materials. It became known for high-quality products that competed successfully with any imported articles. By the time Henry retired, the foundry was one of the largest employers in Victoria and was responsible for casting the first bell and lamp-posts in the colony. The business was carried on by his sons after Henry's death. The company was responsible for fabricating the boiler for the first railway locomotive to operate in Australia, built-in 1854 by Robertson, Martin & Smith for the Melbourne and Hobson's Bay Railway Company. Also in the 1860s, they commenced manufacture of cast iron pipes for the Board of Works, which was then laying the first reticulated water supply system in Melbourne. Langlands was well known for its gold mining equipment, being the first company in Victoria to take up the manufacture of mining machinery, and it played an important role in equipping Victoria's and Australia's first mineral boom in the 1850s and 1860s. Langlands Foundry was an incubator for several engineers including Herbert Austin (1866–1941) who worked as a fitter at Langlands and went on to work on the Wolesely Shearing machine. He also founded the Austin Motor Company in 1905. Around the 1890s Langlands Foundry Co. declined and was bought up by the Austral Otis Co. in about 1893. History for Grimoldi: John Baptist Grimoldi was born in London UK. His Father was Domeneck Grimoldi, who was born in Amsterdam with an Italian Father and Dutch mother. Domeneck was also a scientific instrument maker. John B Grimoldi had served his apprenticeship to his older brother Henry Grimoldi in Brooke Street, Holburn, London and had emigrated from England to Australia to start his own meteorological and scientific instrument makers business at 81 Queens St Melbourne. He operated his business in 1862 until 1883 when it was brought by William Samuel and Charles Frederick, also well known scientific instrument makers who had emigrated to Melbourne in 1875. John Grimoldi became successful and made a number of high quality measuring instruments for the Meteorological Observatory in Melbourne. The barometer was installed at Warrnambool's old jetty and then the Breakwater as part of the Victorian Government's insistence that barometers be placed at all major Victorian ports. This coastal barometer is representative of barometers that were installed through this government scheme that began in 1866. The collecting of meteorological data was an important aspect of the Melbourne Observatory's work from its inception. Just as astronomy had an important practical role to play in navigation, timekeeping and surveying, so the meteorological service provided up to date weather information and forecasts that were essential for shipping and agriculture. As a result, instruments made by the early instrument makers of Australia was of significant importance to the development and safe trading of companies operating during the Victorian colonies early days. The provenance of this artefact is well documented and demonstrates, in particular, the importance of the barometer to the local fishermen and mariners of Warrnambool. This barometer is historically significant for its association with Langlands’ Foundry which pioneered technology in the developing colony by establishing the first ironworks in Melbourne founded in 1842. Also, it is significant for its connection to John B Grimoldi who made the barometer and thermometer housed in the cast iron case. Grimoldi, a successful meteorological and scientific instrument maker, arrived in the colony from England and established his business in 1862 becoming an instrument maker to the Melbourne Observatory. Additional significance is its completeness and for its rarity, as it is believed to be one of only two extant barometers of this type and in 1986 it was moved to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village as part of its museum collection. Coast Barometer No. 8 is a tall, red painted cast iron pillar containing a vertical combined barometer and thermometer. Half way down in the cast iron framed glass door is a keyhole. Inside is a wooden case containing a mercury barometer at the top with a thermometer attached underneath, each with a separate glass window and a silver coloured metal backing plate. Just below the barometer, on the right-hand side, is a brass disc with a hole for a gauge key in the centre. The barometer has a silvered tin backing plate with a scale, in inches, of "27 to 31" on the right side and includes a Vernier with finer markings, which is set by turning the gauge key. The thermometer has a silvered tin backing plate with a scale on the left side of "30 to 140". Each of the scales has markings showing the units between the numbers.Inscription at the top front of the pillar reads "COAST BAROMETER" Inscribed on the bottom of the pillar is "No 8". and "LANGLANDS BROS & CO ENGINEERS MELBOURNE " The barometer backing plate is inscribed "COAST BAROMETER NO. 8, VICTORIA" and printed on the left of the scale, has "J GRIMOLDI" on the top and left of the scale, inscribed "Maker, MELBOURNE". There is an inscription on the bottom right-hand side of the thermometer scale, just above the 30 mark "FREEZING" Etched into the timber inside the case are the Roman numerals "VIII" (the number 8)flagstaff hill, warrnambool, maritime village, maritime museum, flagstaff hill maritime museum & village, shipwreck coast, great ocean road, warrnambool breakwater, coast barometer, coastal barometer, barometer, weather warning, ports and harbours, fishery barometer, sea coast barometer, austral otis co, coast barometer no. 8, henry grimoldi, henry langlands, john baptist grimoldi, langlands foundry co, meteorological instrument maker, robert langlands, scientific instrument maker, thermometer, thomas fulton -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Decorative object - Buggy Fitting, Circa 1855
This ornate fitting for a horse-drawn vehicle was amongst the items recovered from the Schomberg over one hundred years after it was wrecked. ABOUT THE SCHOMBERG (October 6 to December 27, 1855)- When the ship Schomberg was launched in 1855, she was considered the most perfect clipper ship ever to be built. James Baine’s Black Ball Line had commissioned her for their fleet of passenger liners. The Aberdeen builders designed her to sail faster than the clippers designed the three-masted wooden clipper ship to be fast. The timber used for the diagonal planking was British oak with layers of Scottish larch. This luxury emigrant vessel was designed for superior comfort. She had ventilation ducts to provide air to the lower decks and a dining saloon, smoking room, library and bathrooms for the first-class passengers. The master for Schomberg’s maiden voyage was Captain ‘Bully’ Forbes. He drunkenly predicted at her launch that he would make the journey between Liverpool and Melbourne in 60 days. Schomberg departed Liverpool on 6 October 1855 with 430 passengers and 3000 tons of cargo including iron rails and equipment intended the build the Geelong Railway and a bridge over the Yarra from Melbourne to Hawthorn. The poor winds slowed Schomberg’s sail across the equator. She was 78 days out of Liverpool when she ran aground on a sand spit near Peterborough, Victoria, on 27 December; the sand spit and currents were not marked on Forbes’s map. The ship’s Chief Officer spotted the coastal steamer SS Queen at dawn and sent a signal. The master of the SS Queen approached the stranded vessel and all of Schomberg’s passengers safely disembarked. In 1975, 120 years after the Schomberg was wrecked, divers from Flagstaff Hill found an ornate communion set at the wreck site along with many other artefacts. In 1978 a diamond ring was discovered under the concretion in the lid of the communion set, which is currently on display. Former Director of Flagstaff Hill, Peter Ronald, had salvaged most of the artefacts from the wreck. The Schomberg has historical significance as one of the first luxurious ships built to bring emigrants to Australia to cash in on the gold rush era. And is included on the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR S612). The collection of Schomberg artefacts held at Flagstaff Hill Museum is primarily significant because of the relationship between these recovered items having a high potential to interpret the story of the Schomberg and its foundering during a storm. The shipwreck is of additional historically significance for representing aspects of Victoria’s shipping history and for its association with the first passenger ship, which was designed not only to be the fastest and most luxurious of its day but foundered on its maiden voyage to Australia.Ornate buggy or coach fitting with feather plumes on top, and a screw thread on the bottom. Silver plated,.warrnambool, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, schomberg, shipwrecked-artefact, clipper ship, black ball line, 1855 shipwreck, aberdeen clipper ship, captain forbes, peterborough shipwreck, ss queen, artifact, ornate fitting, buggy fitting -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Functional object - Service Bell, 1855
This service bell was recovered from the wreck of the ship Schomberg. The Schomberg was a large three-masted full-ship rigged wooden ship built in 1855 by Alexander Hall and Co in Aberdeen, Scotland for James Baines' famous Black Ball Line at £43,103. The vessel was 288 feet (88 meters) in length, with a beam of 45 feet (14 meters), a depth of 29.5 feet (8.99 meters) of 2,284 tons. The mainmast was 210 feet (64 meters) high and she carried 3.3 acres of sail. The vessel was constructed with three skins. One planked fore and aft, and two diagonally planked, fastened together with screw-threaded trunnels (wooden rails). The Schomberg is one of only three clipper wrecks in Victorian waters that operated the England to Australia run. While the other two, Empress of the Sea and Lightning, were built by the famous American shipbuilder, Donald Mac Kay. Schomberg was an attempt to build a faster ship than Mac Kay and a vessel fast enough to break the sailing record to Australia. The Schomberg sailed on her maiden voyage from Liverpool on 6 October 1855, under the command of Captain James Forbes, on its maiden voyage to Australia with a general cargo, jewellery, spirits, machinery, and 2,000 tons of iron rails and equipment intended to build the Melbourne to Geelong Railway and a bridge over the Yarra from Melbourne to Hawthorn. She also carried a cow for fresh milk, pens for fowls and pigs, plus 90,000 gallons of water for washing and drinking. She also carried 17,000 letters and 31,800 newspapers. There were approximately 473 passengers and a crew of 105. It was hoped that Schomberg would make Melbourne in sixty days, setting a record for the voyage, but light winds at the equator dashed those expectations. The ship sighted Moonlight Head in south west Victoria on Christmas Day but through a deadly combination of wind, currents and unmarked sand spits, the vessel gently ran aground on 26 December 1855 on a spit that juts into Newfield Bay, just east of Curdies Inlet, and the present town of Peterborough. Fortunately, the SS Queen was nearby and managed to save all passengers and crew. The steamers Keera and Maitland were dispatched to salvage the passenger's baggage and the more valuable cargo. Other salvage attempts were made, but deteriorating weather made the work impossible, and within two weeks the Schomberg's hull was broken up and the vessel abandoned. The wrecking of the Schomberg caused quite the public stir particularly in light of the fact the vessel was supposed to be, the most perfect clipper ship ever built. Captain Forbes was charged in the Supreme Court under suspicion that he was playing cards with two female passengers below decks when his ship ran aground. Despite a protest meeting, two inquiries and the court proceedings, he was found not guilty and cleared of all charges. In 1975, divers from Flagstaff Hill, including Peter Ronald, found an ornate communion set at the wreck. The set comprised a jug, two chalices, a plate and a lid. The lid did not fit any of the other objects and in 1978 a piece of the lid broke off, revealing a glint of gold. As museum staff carefully examined the lid and removed marine growth, they found a diamond ring, which is currently on display in the Great Circle Gallery at the Flagstaff Hill Maritime museum that also displays ship fittings and equipment, personal effects. Most of the artefacts were salvaged from the wreck by Peter Ronald, former director of Flagstaff Hill.The Schomberg has historical significance as one of the first luxurious ships built to bring emigrants to Australia to cash in on the gold rush era. And is included on the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR S612). The collection of Schomberg artefacts held at Flagstaff Hill Museum is primarily significant because of the relationship between these recovered items having a high potential to interpret the story of the Schomberg and its foundering during a storm. The shipwreck is of additional historically significance for representing aspects of Victoria’s shipping history and for its association with the first passenger ship, which was designed not only to be the fastest and most luxurious of its day but foundered on its maiden voyage to Australia.Bell; small service bell, brass, with heavy encrustation. Bell has a square loop at the top. The bell was recovered from the wreck of the Schomberg.Nonewarrnambool, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, schomberg, shipwrecked-artefact, clipper ship, black ball line, 1855 shipwreck, aberdeen clipper ship, captain forbes, peterborough shipwreck, ss queen, bell, service bell -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Card Holder, c. 1854 - 1957
This wooden cardholder has been made from the wood of the screw steamer S.S. Edina, most probably after she was broken up in 1957, but could have been made after one of several renovations during her lifetime. The slotted design of the cardholder allows a card to stand vertically and the base is made wider to stableise the holder. It could be used for holding items such as place cards, menus, table numbers. ABOUT THE S S EDINA The three masted iron screw steamer SS Edina was built in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1854 by Barclay and Curle. She was adorned with the figurehead of ‘fair maid of Judea’. The many years of service made SS Edina famous worldwide as the longest serving screw steamer. (The term screw steamer comes from being driven by a single propeller, sometimes called a screw, driven by a steam engine.) SS Edina’s interesting history includes English Chanel runs, serving in the Crimean Ware carrying ammunition, horses and stores to the Black Sea, and further service in the American Civil War and later, serving in the western district of Victoria as well as in Queensland and carried gold, currency and gold prospectors Australia to New Zealand. SS Edina had the privilege of being an escort vessel to H.R.H. the Duke of Edinburgh during his visit to Australia in 1867. In March 1863 SS Edina arrived in Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne, and was bought by Stephen Henty, of Portland fame, to work the cargo and passenger run from Melbourne – Warrnambool – Port Fairy - Portland. After a short time of working the run from Australia to New Zealand, with passengers and cargo that included gold and currency, she returned to her Melbourne - Warrnambool – Port Fairy run, with cargo including bales of wool produced in the western district of Victoria. The Warrnambool Steam Packet Company purchased SS Edina in 1867; she was now commanded by Captain John Thompson and Chief Engineer John Davies. She survived several mishaps at sea, had a complete service and overhaul, and several changes of commanders. In 1870 SS Edina was in Lady Bay, Warrnambool, when a gale sprung up and caused a collision with the iron screw steamer SS Dandenong. SS Edina’s figurehead was broken into pieces and it was not ever replaced. SS Edina was re-fitted in 1870 than was used as a coastal trader in Queensland for a period. She was then brought to Melbourne to carry cargo and passengers between Melbourne and Geelong and performed this service 1880-1938. During this time (1917) she was again refitted with a new mast, funnel, bridge and promenade deck, altering her appearance. In 1938, after more collisions, SS Edina was taken out of service. However she was later renamed Dinah and used as a ‘lighter’ (a vessel without engine or superstructure) to be towed and carry wool and general cargo between Melbourne and Geelong. In 1957, after 104 years, the SS Edina was broken up at Footscray, Melbourne. Remains of SS Edina’s hull can be found in the Maribyrnong River, Port Phillip Bay. [Reference: A Brief Review of Steam Navigation in Victoria; C Dickson Gregory; Centenary Maritime Exhibition catalogue, 1934; published by Shiplovers' Society of Victoria Dandenong, Passengers in History, http://passengersinhistory.sa.gov.au/node/924034 Edina, Victorian Heritage Database VHR S199 http://vhd.heritage.vic.gov.au/shipwrecks/heritage/199 SS Edina, Coastal Trader and Passenger Ship 1853-1938, Museum Victoria Collections, https://collections.museumvictoria.com.au/articles/6227 SS ‘Edina’ – the Longest Serving Screw Steamer in the World, POI Australia, https://poi-australia.com.au/ss-edina-the-longest-serving-steamer-in-the-world/ ]This card holder is made from wood from the SS Edina and is significant for its association with that vessel. The SS Edina is heritage listed on the Victorian Heritage Database VHR S199. She had endeared herself to the people of Port Phillip Bay as a passenger ferry, part of their history and culture. She played a significant role in the Crimean War, the American Civil War and the gold rush in New Zealand. She also served western Victoria for many years in her cargo and passenger runs. The SS Edina is famous for being the longest serving screw steamer in the world. After spending her first nine years overseas she arrived in Melbourne and her work included running the essential service of transporting cargo and passengers between Melbourne and the western Victoria ports of Warrnambool, Port Fairy and Portland. The SS Edina was purchased in the late 1860’s by local Warrnambool business, the Warrnambool Steam Packet Co. and continued trading from there as part of the local business community. The SS Edina’s original ‘fair maid of Judea’ figurehead was broken to pieces in a collision with another vessel (the SS Dandenong) in a gale off Warrnambool, Victoria, in 1870. Card holder, made from the wood from the SS Edina (screw steamer ship). Holder is cylindrical shape, wider turned wood base. Top is divided with a space in the centre tor inserting a card. Rectangular metal plaque, gold coloured, has a printed inscription within black border. Made c. 1854 - 1957.Printed in black lettering on gold coloured plaque "MADE FROM / THE WOOD OF / S.S. EDINA"warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill, flagstaff hill maritime museum, maritime museum, shipwreck coast, flagstaff hill maritime village, shipwrecked artefact, barclay & curle, figurehead 'fair maid of judea', centenary maritime exhibition 1934, a brief review of steam navigation in victoria, pleasure steamer edina, trade and travel late 19th and early 20th century, trade melbourne to geelong, screw steamer edina, coastal trader edina, lighter dinah, cargo carrying for cremean war, cargo carrying for american civil war, passenger and trade in western district of victoria, export gold and currency and gold diggers to new zealand, export vessel to h r h the duke of edinburgh, melbourne - warrnambool - port fairy - portland cargo run, warrnambool steam packet company, stephen henty, captain john thompson, chief engineer john davies, lady bay warrnambool, lighter edina, shipping victoria, port phillip bay steamers, steamship great britain, edina, vhr s199 victorian heritage database, card holder, menu holder, table number holder, souvenir of the ss edina -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Functional object - Watch Chains, ca 1855
The concretion of silver watch chains was recovered from the wreck of the Schomberg over one hundred years later. Schomberg was a large three-masted full-ship rigged wooden ship built in 1855 by Alexander Hall and Co in Aberdeen, Scotland for James Baines' famous Black Ball Line at £43,103. The vessel was 288 feet (88 meters) in length, with a beam of 45 feet (14 meters), a depth of 29.5 feet (8.99 meters) of 2,284 tons. The mainmast was 210 feet (64 meters) high and she carried 3.3 acres of sail. The vessel was constructed with three skins. One planked fore and aft, and two diagonally planked, fastened together with screw-threaded trunnels (wooden rails). The Schomberg is one of only three clipper wrecks in Victorian waters that operated the England -to- Australia run. While the other two, Empress of the Sea and Lightning, were built by the famous American shipbuilder, Donald Mac Kay. Schomberg was an attempt to build a faster ship than Mac Kay and a vessel fast enough to break the sailing record to Australia. The Schomberg sailed on her maiden voyage from Liverpool on 6 October 1855, under the command of Captain James Forbes, on its maiden voyage to Australia with general cargo, jewellery, spirits, machinery, and 2,000 tons of iron rails and equipment intended to build the Melbourne to Geelong Railway and a bridge over the Yarra from Melbourne to Hawthorn. She also carried a cow for fresh milk, pens for fowls and pigs, plus 90,000 gallons of water for washing and drinking. She also carried 17,000 letters and 31,800 newspapers. There were approximately 473 passengers and a crew of 105. It was hoped that Schomberg would make Melbourne in sixty days, setting a record for the voyage, but light winds at the equator dashed those expectations. The ship sighted Moonlight Head in southwest Victoria on Christmas Day but through a deadly combination of wind, currents and unmarked sand spits, the vessel gently ran aground on 26 December 1855 on a spit that juts into Newfield Bay, just east of Curdies Inlet, and the present town of Peterborough. Fortunately, the SS Queen was nearby and managed to save all passengers and crew. The steamers Keera and Maitland were dispatched to salvage the passenger's baggage and the more valuable cargo. Other salvage attempts were made, but deteriorating weather made the work impossible, and within two weeks the Schomberg's hull was broken up and the vessel abandoned. The wrecking of the Schomberg caused quite a public stir, particularly in light of the fact the vessel was supposed to be, the most perfect clipper ship ever built. Captain Forbes was charged in the Supreme Court under suspicion that he was playing cards with two female passengers below decks when his ship ran aground. Despite a protest meeting, two inquiries and the court proceedings, he was found not guilty and cleared of all charges. In 1975, divers from Flagstaff Hill, including Peter Ronald, found an ornate communion set at the wreck. The set comprised a jug, two chalices, a plate and a lid. The lid did not fit any of the other objects and in 1978 a piece of the lid broke off, revealing a glint of gold. As museum staff carefully examined the lid and removed marine growth, they found a diamond ring, which is currently on display in the Great Circle Gallery at the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum that also displays ship fittings and equipment, and personal effects. Most of the artefacts were salvaged from the wreck by Peter Ronald, former director of Flagstaff Hill.The Schomberg has historical significance as one of the first luxurious ships built to bring emigrants to Australia to cash in on the gold rush era. And is included on the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR S612). The collection of Schomberg artefacts held at Flagstaff Hill Museum is primarily significant because of the relationship between these recovered items having a high potential to interpret the story of the Schomberg and its foundering during a storm. The shipwreck is of additional historically significance for representing aspects of Victoria’s shipping history and for its association with the first passenger ship, which was designed not only to be the fastest and most luxurious of its day but foundered on its maiden voyage to Australia.Conglomerated cluster of silver watch chains, encased in concretion at both ends (1 chain is separated). They were recovered from the wreck of the Schomberg.warrnambool, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, schomberg, shipwrecked-artefact, clipper ship, black ball line, 1855 shipwreck, aberdeen clipper ship, captain forbes, peterborough shipwreck, ss queen, watch chain -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Accessory - Badge, Before 1855
The badge recovered from the Schomberg wreck is believed to depict one of the first steam engines. The engine's design by Charles Tayleur & Co. was to be produced for the Great Western Railway in England. The first nineteen of these locomotives were ordered by Isambard Kingdom Brunel for the Great Western Railway including six 2-2-2 Charles Tayleur locomotives. They were built by Charles Tayleur and Company, which later the Vulcan Foundry. The locomotives were unsuccessful and were rapidly supplemented by the Star Class locomotives ordered by Daniel Gooch once he had been appointed as the Locomotive Engineer. As built, they comprised two groups of three, the first group, was delivered in 1837. This locomotive was the first to run on the Great Western Railway when it was tested on 28 December 1837 from its shed at West Drayton. It was withdrawn in 1843 but was rebuilt as a 2-2-2T tank locomotive and returned to service in 1846, running in this form until 1868. It survived for two more years at Reading as a stationary boiler. It is named after the workshops where it was built, which themselves were named after the Roman god of fire. (Although a supposition, it is possible that the owner was a passenger on the ill-fated Schomberg and that they worked either for the Great Western Railway or the Vulcan Foundry that made the engine in the 1830s.) Wreck of the Schomberg: Schomberg was a large three-masted full-ship rigged wooden ship built in 1855 by Alexander Hall and Co in Aberdeen, Scotland for James Baines' famous Black Ball Line at £43,103. The vessel was 288 feet (88 meters) in length, with a beam of 45 feet (14 meters), a depth of 29.5 feet (8.99 meters) of 2,284 tons. The mainmast was 210 feet (64 meters) high and she carried 3.3 acres of sail. The vessel was constructed with three skins. One planked fore and aft, and two diagonally planked, fastened together with screw-threaded trunnels (wooden rails). The Schomberg is one of only three clipper wrecks in Victorian waters that operated the England to Australia run. While the other two, Empress of the Sea and Lightning, were built by the famous American shipbuilder, Donald Mac Kay. Schomberg was an attempt to build a faster ship than Mac Kay and a vessel fast enough to break the sailing record to Australia. The Schomberg sailed on her maiden voyage from Liverpool on 6 October 1855, under the command of Captain James Forbes, on its maiden voyage to Australia with a general cargo, jewellery, spirits, machinery, and 2,000 tons of iron rails and equipment intended to build the Melbourne to Geelong Railway and a bridge over the Yarra from Melbourne to Hawthorn. She also carried a cow for fresh milk, pens for fowls and pigs, plus 90,000 gallons of water for washing and drinking. She also carried 17,000 letters and 31,800 newspapers. There were approximately 473 passengers and a crew of 105. It was hoped that Schomberg would make Melbourne in sixty days, setting a record for the voyage, but light winds at the equator dashed those expectations. The ship sighted Moonlight Head in southwest Victoria on Christmas Day but through a deadly combination of wind, currents, and unmarked sand spits, the vessel gently ran aground on 26 December 1855 on a spit that juts into Newfield Bay, just east of Curdies Inlet, and the present town of Peterborough. Fortunately, the SS Queen was nearby and managed to save all passengers and crew. The steamers Keera and Maitland were dispatched to salvage the passenger's baggage and the more valuable cargo. Other salvage attempts were made, but deteriorating weather made the work impossible, and within two weeks the Schomberg's hull was broken up and the vessel abandoned. The wrecking of the Schomberg caused quite a public stir, particularly in light of the fact the vessel was supposed to be, the most perfect clipper ship ever built. Captain Forbes was charged in the Supreme Court under suspicion that he was playing cards with two female passengers below decks when his ship ran aground. Despite a protest meeting, two inquiries, and the court proceedings, he was found not guilty and cleared of all charges. In 1975, divers from Flagstaff Hill, including Peter Ronald, found an ornate communion set at the wreck. The set comprised a jug, two chalices, a plate, and a lid. The lid did not fit any of the other objects and in 1978 a piece of the lid broke off, revealing a glint of gold. As museum staff carefully examined the lid and removed marine growth, they found a diamond ring, which is currently on display in the Great Circle Gallery at the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum that also displays ship fittings and equipment, and personal effects. Most of the artefacts were salvaged from the wreck by Peter Ronald, former director of Flagstaff Hill.The Schomberg has historical significance as one of the first luxurious ships built to bring emigrants to Australia to cash in on the gold rush era. And is included on the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR S612). The collection of Schomberg artefacts held at Flagstaff Hill Museum is primarily significant because of the relationship between these recovered items having a high potential to interpret the story of the Schomberg and its foundering during a storm. The shipwreck is of additional historical significance for representing aspects of Victoria’s shipping history and for its association with the first passenger ship, which was designed not only to be the fastest and most luxurious of its day but foundered on its maiden voyage to Australia.Gold coloured brass badge depicting an 1840's steam engine or locomotive with the figure of a fireman standing on the back. Smoke is coming from the smokestack. The reverse has three holes, possible where a mounting pin or fastener was attached. The badge was recovered from the wreck of the Schomberg.warrnambool, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, schomberg, shipwrecked-artefact, clipper ship, black ball line, 1855 shipwreck, captain forbes, ss queen, badge, charles tayleur, great western railway, vulcan foundry, isambard kingdom brunel, locomoive, brooch -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Domestic object - Thimble, Circa 1855
The thimble was recovered from the wreck of the vessel, Schomberg. The Schomberg was a large three-masted full-ship rigged wooden ship built in 1855 by Alexander Hall and Co in Aberdeen, Scotland for James Baines' famous Black Ball Line at £43,103. The vessel was 288 feet (88 meters) in length, with a beam of 45 feet (14 meters), a depth of 29.5 feet (8.99 meters) of 2,284 tons. The mainmast was 210 feet (64 meters) high and she carried 3.3 acres of sail. The vessel was constructed with three skins. One planked fore and aft, and two diagonally planked, fastened together with screw-threaded trunnels (wooden rails). The Schomberg is one of only three clipper wrecks in Victorian waters that operated the England to Australia run. While the other two, Empress of the Sea and Lightning, were built by the famous American shipbuilder, Donald Mac Kay. Schomberg was an attempt to build a faster ship than Mac Kay and a vessel fast enough to break the sailing record to Australia. The Schomberg sailed on her maiden voyage from Liverpool on 6 October 1855, under the command of Captain James Forbes, on its maiden voyage to Australia with general cargo, jewellery, spirits, machinery, and 2,000 tons of iron rails and equipment intended to build the Melbourne to Geelong Railway and a bridge over the Yarra from Melbourne to Hawthorn. She also carried a cow for fresh milk, pens for fowls and pigs, plus 90,000 gallons of water for washing and drinking. She also carried 17,000 letters and 31,800 newspapers. There were approximately 473 passengers and a crew of 105. It was hoped that Schomberg would make Melbourne in sixty days, setting a record for the voyage, but light winds at the equator dashed those expectations. The ship sighted Moonlight Head in southwest Victoria on Christmas Day but through a deadly combination of wind, currents and unmarked sand spits, the vessel gently ran aground on 26 December 1855 on a spit that juts into Newfield Bay, just east of Curdies Inlet, and the present town of Peterborough. Fortunately, the SS Queen was nearby and managed to save all passengers and crew. The steamers Keera and Maitland were dispatched to salvage the passenger's baggage and the more valuable cargo. Other salvage attempts were made, but deteriorating weather made the work impossible, and within two weeks the Schomberg's hull was broken up and the vessel abandoned. The wrecking of the Schomberg caused quite the public stir particularly in light of the fact the vessel was supposed to be, the most perfect clipper ship ever built. Captain Forbes was charged in the Supreme Court under suspicion that he was playing cards with two female passengers below decks when his ship ran aground. Despite a protest meeting, two inquiries and the court proceedings, he was found not guilty and cleared of all charges. In 1975, divers from Flagstaff Hill, including Peter Ronald, found an ornate communion set at the wreck. The set comprised a jug, two chalices, a plate and a lid. The lid did not fit any of the other objects and in 1978 a piece of the lid broke off, revealing a glint of gold. As museum staff carefully examined the lid and removed marine growth, they found a diamond ring, which is currently on display in the Great Circle Gallery at the Flagstaff Hill Maritime museum that also displays ship fittings and equipment, personal effects. Most of the artefacts were salvaged from the wreck by Peter Ronald, former director of Flagstaff Hill.The Schomberg has historical significance as one of the first luxurious ships built to bring emigrants to Australia to cash in on the gold rush era. And is included on the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR S612). The collection of Schomberg artefacts held at Flagstaff Hill Museum is primarily significant because of the relationship between these recovered items having a high potential to interpret the story of the Schomberg and its foundering during a storm. The shipwreck is of additional historically significance for representing aspects of Victoria’s shipping history and for its association with the first passenger ship, which was designed not only to be the fastest and most luxurious of its day but foundered on its maiden voyage to Australia. Thimble, metal, some of the dimples are corroded through. flagstaff hill, flagstaff hill maritime museum and village, warrnambool, maritime museum, maritime village, great ocean road, shipwreck coast, schomberg, shipwreck coast. schomberg, 1855, peterborough shipwreck, artefact, thimble, sewing accesdory, sewing equipment, haberdashery, finger protection -
Marysville & District Historical Society
Book - Paperback book, Alma Mitchell, Fernshaw the Forgotten Village, 2001
The story of the village of Fernshaw between the dates of 1864 and 1890.Paperback. Front cover has the title and author's name. Also, a black and white photograph taken by John W. Lindt entitled 'First Glimpse of Fernshaw'.non-fictionThe story of the village of Fernshaw between the dates of 1864 and 1890.fernshaw, victoria, history, watts river, yarra track -
Marysville & District Historical Society
Book - Hardcover book, Alexander Sutherland, M.A, Victoria and its Metropolis-Past and Present-Volume 1, 1888
A history of Victoria from the time of the discovery of Australia through until 1888.Hardback. Dark brown cover with the title in gold lettering. There is also a border in gold decorating the outer edge of the front cover. The spine is also decorated in gold along with the title and the volume number.non-fictionA history of Victoria from the time of the discovery of Australia through until 1888.melbourne, victoria, exploration, settlement, john batman, john pascoe fawkner, pioneers, colonisation, immegration, aboriginals, discovery of gold, democracy, burke and wills, agriculture, manufacturing, literature, art, music, drama, education, science, churches, history -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Document - Location Chart, The Mahogany Ship, 2007
This chart shows a possible site for the fabled wreck called the 'Mahogany Ship'. Flagstaff Hill’s collection includes other objects that some say could be relics from this Ancient Wreck, (also called the Gold Ship, or the Ancient Vessel). The chart shows the coordinates for the Summits of Griffith Island and of Middle Island. It also has the depths of the sea at various intervals and shows the shore and sand dunes, lighthouses and other reference points. The mystery of the Mahogany Ship began in 1836 when two shipwrecked sealers discovered the remains of an “ancient vessel” in the sand dunes about four miles west of Warrnambool. Since the last recorded sightings in the 1880’s the true origin of the Mahogany Ship has remained one of Australia’s most famous historical mysteries or fables. One of the more recent theories is that the vessel was one of the Portuguese ships exploring the Australian coast in 1522. For over one hundred years searchers have attempted to locate and identify the wreck. The search continues for the tangible evidence which will once and for all establish the Mahogany Ship’s place in Australia’s History.The chart represents the worldwide interest in locating the wreck of the Mahogany Ship. Locating the actual wreck or proving the existence of a Portuguese ship's wreck could change the history of the discovery of Australia. A Mahogany Ship committee was formed to gather and research information about the discovery of the wrecked ship. A large amount of money was offered as a prize for finding the wreck or parts of it. People have written books, painted images, made videos and told tales of the ship but it continues to remain a mystery or even a fable. The chart is significant for its possible link to one of Victoria’s and Australia’s maritime mysteries, the Mahogany Ship (also known as the Ancient Wreck). It is one of very few known relics that could give evidence of the existence and history of the vessel. It is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register S438 as it is one of Victoria’s oldest recorded shipwrecks. The identity of the vessel has the potential to change Australia’s history.A chart in a wooden frame, behind glass. The chart shows the approximate position of the mystery Ancient Wreck, later called the "Mahogany Ship". The chart is a copy and is based on the Admiralty Chart by Lieut. Stanley, dated 1872. Lower left: "THE MAHOGANY SHIP" "LOCALITY PLAN, ENLARGED FROM LIEUT. STANLEY'S ADMIRALTY CHART 1872" "APPROXIMATE POSITION OF WRECK MARKED [symbol of a Portuguese cross]" Other labels on chart: "BELFAST" "PORT FIARY" "GRIFFITHS I" "RIVER MOYNE" "RIVER MERRI" "ARMSTRONG BAY" " GORMANS LANE" "TOWER HILL" "KOROIT" "HELEN ROCK" "WARRNAMBOOL" "LADY BAY" "MIDDLE I" "LIGHT HO." Lower right: "G 410 B" Label on the back; "This chart presented to the Mahogany Ship Committee and Flagstaff Hill by Avis Quarrell, April 2007"warrnambool, shipwrecked coast, flagstaff hill maritime museum, shipwreck coast, mahogany ship, ancient vessel, ancient wreck, portuguese ship, coastal reserve, fabled wreck, gold ship, griffiths island, belfast (now port fairy), koroit, location plan, leuit. stanley, admiralty chart 1872, tower hill, merri river, moyne river, middle island, helen rock, armstrong bay, griffiths land -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Tool - Pocket Knife, ca 1855
This pocket knife was one of many pocket knives recovered from the Schomberg over one hundred years after it was wrecked. When the ship Schomberg was launched in 1855, she was considered the most perfect clipper ship ever to be built. James Blaine’s Black Ball Line had commissioned her to be built for their fleet of passenger liners. At a cost of £43,103, the Aberdeen builders designed her to sail faster than the quick clippers designed by North American Donald McKay. She was a three-masted wooden clipper ship, built with diagonal planking of British oat with layers of Scottish larch. This luxury vessel was designed to transport emigrants to Melbourne in superior comfort. She had ventilation ducts to provide air to the lower decks and a dining saloon, smoking room, library and bathrooms for the first-class passengers. At the launch of Schomberg’s maiden voyage, her master Captain ‘Bully’ Forbes, drunkenly predicted that he would make the journey between Liverpool and Melbourne in 60 days. Schomberg departed Liverpool on 6 October 1855 with 430 passengers and 3000 tons of cargo including iron rails and equipment intended the build the Geelong Railway and a bridge over the Yarra from Melbourne to Hawthorn. The winds were poor as Schomberg sailed across the equator, slowing her journey considerably. She was 78 days out of Liverpool when she ran aground on a sand spit near Peterborough, Victoria, on 27 December; the sand spit and the currents were not marked on Forbes’s map. Overnight, the crew launched a lifeboat to find a safe place to land the ship’s passengers. The scouting party returned to Schomberg and advised Forbes that it was best to wait until morning because the rough seas could easily overturn the small lifeboats. The ship’s Chief Officer spotted SS Queen at dawn and signalled the steamer. The master of the SS Queen approached the stranded vessel and all of Schomberg’s passengers were able to disembark safely. The Black Ball Line’s Melbourne agent sent a steamer to retrieve the passengers’ baggage from the Schomberg. Other steamers helped unload her cargo until the weather changed and prevented the salvage teams from accessing the ship. Local merchants Manifold & Bostock bought the wreck and cargo but did not attempt to salvage the cargo still on board the ship. They eventually sold it on to a Melbourne businessman and two seafarers. After two of the men drowned when they tried to reach Schomberg, salvage efforts were abandoned.32 In 1975, divers from Flagstaff Hill, including Peter Ronald, found an ornate communion set at the wreck. The set comprised a jug, two chalices, a plate and a lid. The lid did not fit any of the other objects and in 1978 a piece of the lid broke off, revealing a glint of gold. As museum staff carefully examined the lid and removed marine growth, they found a diamond ring, which is currently on display in the Great Circle Gallery.33 Flagstaff Hill also holds ship fittings and equipment, personal effects, a lithograph, tickets and photographs from the Schomberg. Most of the artefacts were salvaged from the wreck by Peter Ronald, former director of Flagstaff Hill.The Schomberg, which is on the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR S612), has great historical significance as a rare example of a large, fast clipper ship on the England to Australia run, carrying emigrants at the time of the Victorian gold rush. She represents the technical advances made to break sailing records between Europe and Australia. Flagstaff Hill’s collection of artefacts from the Schomberg is significant for its association with the shipwreck. The collection is primarily significant because of the relationship between the objects, as together they have a high potential to interpret the story of the Schomberg. It is archaeologically significant as the remains of an international passenger Ship. It is historically significant for representing aspects of Victoria’s shipping history and for its association with the shipwreck and the ship, which was designed to be fastest and most luxurious of its day Pocket knife, incomplete. Surface has encrustations. Layers of the parts of the knife are visitle.. It was recovered from the wreck of the Schomberg. warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, schomberg, shipwrecked-artefact, clipper ship, black ball line, 1855 shipwreck, aberdeen clipper ship, captain forbes, peterborough shipwreck, ss queen, pocket knife, knife -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Tool - Pocket Knife, ca 1855
This pocket knife was one of many pocket knives recovered from the Schomberg over one hundred years after it was wrecked. When the ship Schomberg was launched in 1855, she was considered the most perfect clipper ship ever to be built. James Blaine’s Black Ball Line had commissioned her to be built for their fleet of passenger liners. At a cost of £43,103, the Aberdeen builders designed her to sail faster than the quick clippers designed by North American Donald McKay. She was a three-masted wooden clipper ship, built with diagonal planking of British oat with layers of Scottish larch. This luxury vessel was designed to transport emigrants to Melbourne in superior comfort. She had ventilation ducts to provide air to the lower decks and a dining saloon, smoking room, library and bathrooms for the first-class passengers. At the launch of Schomberg’s maiden voyage, her master Captain ‘Bully’ Forbes, drunkenly predicted that he would make the journey between Liverpool and Melbourne in 60 days. Schomberg departed Liverpool on 6 October 1855 with 430 passengers and 3000 tons of cargo including iron rails and equipment intended the build the Geelong Railway and a bridge over the Yarra from Melbourne to Hawthorn. The winds were poor as Schomberg sailed across the equator, slowing her journey considerably. She was 78 days out of Liverpool when she ran aground on a sand spit near Peterborough, Victoria, on 27 December; the sand spit and the currents were not marked on Forbes’s map. Overnight, the crew launched a lifeboat to find a safe place to land the ship’s passengers. The scouting party returned to Schomberg and advised Forbes that it was best to wait until morning because the rough seas could easily overturn the small lifeboats. The ship’s Chief Officer spotted SS Queen at dawn and signalled the steamer. The master of the SS Queen approached the stranded vessel and all of Schomberg’s passengers were able to disembark safely. The Black Ball Line’s Melbourne agent sent a steamer to retrieve the passengers’ baggage from the Schomberg. Other steamers helped unload her cargo until the weather changed and prevented the salvage teams from accessing the ship. Local merchants Manifold & Bostock bought the wreck and cargo but did not attempt to salvage the cargo still on board the ship. They eventually sold it on to a Melbourne businessman and two seafarers. After two of the men drowned when they tried to reach Schomberg, salvage efforts were abandoned.32 In 1975, divers from Flagstaff Hill, including Peter Ronald, found an ornate communion set at the wreck. The set comprised a jug, two chalices, a plate and a lid. The lid did not fit any of the other objects and in 1978 a piece of the lid broke off, revealing a glint of gold. As museum staff carefully examined the lid and removed marine growth, they found a diamond ring, which is currently on display in the Great Circle Gallery.33 Flagstaff Hill also holds ship fittings and equipment, personal effects, a lithograph, tickets and photographs from the Schomberg. Most of the artefacts were salvaged from the wreck by Peter Ronald, former director of Flagstaff Hill.The Schomberg, which is on the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR S612), has great historical significance as a rare example of a large, fast clipper ship on the England to Australia run, carrying emigrants at the time of the Victorian gold rush. She represents the technical advances made to break sailing records between Europe and Australia. Flagstaff Hill’s collection of artefacts from the Schomberg is significant for its association with the shipwreck. The collection is primarily significant because of the relationship between the objects, as together they have a high potential to interpret the story of the Schomberg. It is archaeologically significant as the remains of an international passenger Ship. It is historically significant for representing aspects of Victoria’s shipping history and for its association with the shipwreck and the ship, which was designed to be fastest and most luxurious of its day Pocket knife, incomplete. Knife has broken into three its sections, with fancy impressed decoration on top and bottom layer. The top layer has been restored. . It was recovered from the wreck of the Schomberg. warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, schomberg, shipwrecked-artefact, clipper ship, black ball line, 1855 shipwreck, aberdeen clipper ship, captain forbes, peterborough shipwreck, ss queen, pocket knife, knife -
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village
Tool - Pocket Knife, ca 1855
This pocket knife was one of many pocket knives recovered from the Schomberg over one hundred years after it was wrecked. When the ship Schomberg was launched in 1855, she was considered the most perfect clipper ship ever to be built. James Blaine’s Black Ball Line had commissioned her to be built for their fleet of passenger liners. At a cost of £43,103, the Aberdeen builders designed her to sail faster than the quick clippers designed by North American Donald McKay. She was a three-masted wooden clipper ship, built with diagonal planking of British oat with layers of Scottish larch. This luxury vessel was designed to transport emigrants to Melbourne in superior comfort. She had ventilation ducts to provide air to the lower decks and a dining saloon, smoking room, library and bathrooms for the first-class passengers. At the launch of Schomberg’s maiden voyage, her master Captain ‘Bully’ Forbes, drunkenly predicted that he would make the journey between Liverpool and Melbourne in 60 days. Schomberg departed Liverpool on 6 October 1855 with 430 passengers and 3000 tons of cargo including iron rails and equipment intended the build the Geelong Railway and a bridge over the Yarra from Melbourne to Hawthorn. The winds were poor as Schomberg sailed across the equator, slowing her journey considerably. She was 78 days out of Liverpool when she ran aground on a sand spit near Peterborough, Victoria, on 27 December; the sand spit and the currents were not marked on Forbes’s map. Overnight, the crew launched a lifeboat to find a safe place to land the ship’s passengers. The scouting party returned to Schomberg and advised Forbes that it was best to wait until morning because the rough seas could easily overturn the small lifeboats. The ship’s Chief Officer spotted SS Queen at dawn and signalled the steamer. The master of the SS Queen approached the stranded vessel and all of Schomberg’s passengers were able to disembark safely. The Black Ball Line’s Melbourne agent sent a steamer to retrieve the passengers’ baggage from the Schomberg. Other steamers helped unload her cargo until the weather changed and prevented the salvage teams from accessing the ship. Local merchants Manifold & Bostock bought the wreck and cargo but did not attempt to salvage the cargo still on board the ship. They eventually sold it on to a Melbourne businessman and two seafarers. After two of the men drowned when they tried to reach Schomberg, salvage efforts were abandoned.32 In 1975, divers from Flagstaff Hill, including Peter Ronald, found an ornate communion set at the wreck. The set comprised a jug, two chalices, a plate and a lid. The lid did not fit any of the other objects and in 1978 a piece of the lid broke off, revealing a glint of gold. As museum staff carefully examined the lid and removed marine growth, they found a diamond ring, which is currently on display in the Great Circle Gallery.33 Flagstaff Hill also holds ship fittings and equipment, personal effects, a lithograph, tickets and photographs from the Schomberg. Most of the artefacts were salvaged from the wreck by Peter Ronald, former director of Flagstaff Hill.The Schomberg, which is on the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR S612), has great historical significance as a rare example of a large, fast clipper ship on the England to Australia run, carrying emigrants at the time of the Victorian gold rush. She represents the technical advances made to break sailing records between Europe and Australia. Flagstaff Hill’s collection of artefacts from the Schomberg is significant for its association with the shipwreck. The collection is primarily significant because of the relationship between the objects, as together they have a high potential to interpret the story of the Schomberg. It is archaeologically significant as the remains of an international passenger Ship. It is historically significant for representing aspects of Victoria’s shipping history and for its association with the shipwreck and the ship, which was designed to be fastest and most luxurious of its day Pocket knife section, incomplete, parts have broken away. Metal decoration is on the ends and in the centre of the knife. It was recovered from the wreck of the Schomberg. warrnambool, shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, schomberg, shipwrecked-artefact, clipper ship, black ball line, 1855 shipwreck, aberdeen clipper ship, captain forbes, peterborough shipwreck, ss queen, pocket knife, knife