This cigarette or pipe lighter was in use in the mid 1900's when the majority of users were men. Ladies did smoke but mainly not in "public" The activity was still regarded as a male activity. Middle to Upper "Class" of women nearly always had a gentleman "at hand" that would "light up" her cigarette. This was seen as a "social" activity only but later in the mid 1900's onward it was quite acceptable for both sexes to "smoke" at anytime.This type of lighter was male orientated due to the degree of lighting the flint with the horizontal movement required a strong thumb action across the lighting wheel. It is significant to rural areas such as the Kiewa Valley as the majority of men (especially during and after World War II) regarded smoking as a way to ease off the "tension" of hard work. The socio-economics of the Australian work place changed after the emancipation of women in the "workforce" after the World War II depleted the male workforce for the duration of the War and changed the Australian ethics of women in all aspects of both city and rural working "so called" male only occupations.This Polo Swift lift arm cigarette/pipe lighter has a chrome plated shell and is fueled by petrol. To operate this lighter you lift the "snuffer" arm exposing the wick, then scrape the flint wheel to create a spark from the adjacent flint(resting on the brass ignition wheel).At the bottom of the lift arm station "POLO". Each side of the lighter are "Art Deco line running from the top of the lighter to the bottom. Between these is a rectangular box with "diamond crossed lines"early hand lighters, smoking in the 1930's, cigarette lighter, tobacco, cigerettes, lighter

This cigarette or pipe lighter was in use in the mid 1900's when the majority of users were men. Ladies did smoke but mainly not in "public" The activity was still regarded as a male activity. Middle to Upper "Class" of women nearly always had a gentleman "at hand" that would "light up" her cigarette. This was seen as a "social" activity only but later in the mid 1900's onward it was quite acceptable for both sexes to "smoke" at anytime.This type of lighter was male orientated due to the degree of lighting the flint with the horizontal movement required a strong thumb action across the lighting wheel. It is significant to rural areas such as the Kiewa Valley as the majority of men (especially during and after World War II) regarded smoking as a way to ease off the "tension" of hard work. The socio-economics of the Australian work place changed after the emancipation of women in the "workforce" after the World War II depleted the male workforce for the duration of the War and changed the Australian ethics of women in all aspects of both city and rural working "so called" male only occupations.This Roller Beacon lift arm cigarette/pipe lighter has a chrome plated brass shell and is fueled by petrol. To operate this lighter you lift the "snuffer" arm(long roller lift arm) exposing the horizontal external flint tube, then scrape the flint wheel to create a spark (to light the wick) from the adjacent flint(resting on the brass ignition wheel).At the base to the left of the "filler" screw "PATENT No. 485037, 818155" underneath "REG. DES. N" on the filler screw "ROLLER REG" underneath "TRADE MARK". To the right of the "filler", "THE ROLLER BEACON MADE IN ENGLAND"early hand lighters, smoking in the 1930's, cigarette lighter, cigarette, tobacco

This item has historical value as it shows part of the importance of fashionable money containers specific to a more affluent rural family. The period when sheep properties producing high grade wool were providing Australia with the high yield capital return to sustain an ever growing population. This was an era where most of the manufactured goods were imported from England and the European continent.This has relevant significant value as it portrays the earlier reliance that the growing Australian population had from the rural sector. The wealth capital was from the rural sector and the elaborate fashion accessories, such as this money purse, shows how that wealth was utilised. The Kiewa Valley was part of the "rich" farm regions of Victoria and besides gold mines and tobacco plantations, dairy and cattle properties provided for not only the needs of the Victorian region but also the rest of Australia. This gold plated filigree money purse has a clasp on top for fastening purposes and has on either side inside a small extension frame which would have contained a felt/silk padding buffer. The buffer would have highlighted the intricate pattern of the filigree metalwork.hand purse, money purse, filigree women's accessories

This nut roll tin was used in a period before 1959(when plastic containers started being used). It was a period when "home" cooking(desert & cakes) was the only method of having cakes and other pastry dishes in rural areas. The utensils available for this home cooking had to be strong and reliable and low maintenance. This nut roll can is very significant(in rural Australia) because it highlights a period in time when the majority of cakes and other pastry dishes were cooked in the family kitchen and not purchased from a shop. This was a period of self sufficiency especially in semi remote rural areas such as the Kiewa Valley. This was a time when cooking utensils were either made in Australia or imported from England or Europe. After World War II imports from the USA increased significantly and then followed by cheaper products from Asia.This cylindrical nut loaf tin(mild steel) has a removable lid and base. There are three retaining hooks which stop the spring steel "main body" from being condensed beyond the circumference of both top and bottom "lids" The tin is pliable enough to "open" up and allow the baked nut loaf to be removed.On the outside edge of each lid "NUT LOAF" and the opposite side "TIN"baking tins, kitchen utensils, tins

The Trade Mark "Preservene" was registered on 23 June 1914 and traded in that name until 1930 when Cussons Australia Pty Ltd incorporated the name and its products including the Preservene Cloudy Ammonia. The Preservene Company produced a book (19 pages) "The Presevene Method Of Housework" in 1911. This publication was not only a self promotion but also a useful tool for the rural household and commercial enterprises.This bottle is very significant as it details the type of household cleaning methods and products used in the early 1900's up until the mid 1900's, when greater product diversities became available for rural areas. This product was a general cleaning agent that could be used for a variety of household items. It was the one product that "fits all cleaning". This attitude by the manufacturer fits into the mores held by the populous not only in cities but especially in the rural sector. This was an era where the success of a product was measured by the degree of versatility that came with it. The war years, the great depression had a lingering affect upon those who lived through them not to "waste" money on a multitude of products if one product had multiple uses. This was more so in rural areas where semi remote locations (as the case of the Kiewa Valley in the early 1900's) did not have the market place choices of city dwellers.This oblong shaped brown stained bottle has a red,green and faded white label covering 90% of the bottle. The bottle has a screw on lid. The bottle has embossed at the top back "POISON NOT TO BE TAKEN"on front label starting from top down "POISONOUS" IN SMALLER LETTERS "NOT TO BE TAKEN", below in an eclipse red backed sphere "PRESERVENE CLOUDY AMMONIA" below this in smaller print "CONTENTS 15 1/2 ozs", "For Household & Laundry use " below this "Removing stains and clearing Silverware Jewellery Etc". On a slant with green lettering on off white background, "IMPORTANT NOTICE (underlined) NO TOIL PRESERVENE ONLY BOIL(underlined) SOAP". Below within a red dotted boundary "PRODUCED BY Preservene Pty. Ltd. Melbourne Victoria". Below this and in smaller print "This preparation contains not more than 10 percent and not less than 7 percent free ammonia" Both sides of the label detail manufacturers instructions for different applications.laundry cleaners, stain removers, preservene label

This bowl was imported from "the mother" country (England) in the period when good table ware was either shipped from England or Europe. It was in the period before the American and Asian imports were sought (post World War II and the depression/recession years), when only the best quality kitchenware was preferred and the cheaper mass produced goods were not on the market. The maker's details on the bottom puts the manufacture time between 1955 to 1962.This item, used by one of the Kiewa Valley's oldest established families provides the historical provenance for the item and the period purchased within the time frame when change in the purchasing (in cities) practices from traditional sources, England and Europe was slowly evolving from these sources to cheaper USA and Asian producers. This change however was slower in rural sectors than the cities and larger rural towns. The "traditional" sources was ingrained into the mores of rural sections and changing economic ties with Asia and the USA connected to the greater influx of dinner wares and the cheaper produce. The "throw away" society mores , developed in the USA, after World War II, and transferred to Australia by new technology driven media outlets had a very effective outcome for the demise of quality products from the "mother" country.This buff coloured glazed ceramic bowl was manufactured by an official potter to Her Majesty Queen Victoria. It has a "patterned" top rim but no other details.On the outside bottom the makers seal "Est. 1792" and in a double lined scroll like frame "RIDGEWAY" underneath in smaller print "Made In England".ceramic bowls, kitchen crockery, domestic plates

This serving meat plate/platter dates to the 1914 to 1930's period in time. This was a period when fine bone china and crockery was imported from England or Europe (mainly Germany). It was highly regarded not only as good crockery but also a linkage to "mother" England and showed a that the family was "well to do". This plate has important relevance to the socio- economical "atmosphere" of rural life (Kiewa Valley) in the early 20th Century. The quality of good English merchandise and the "British best" attitude of the Australian psyche of this period, especially in rural regions, was strongly entrenched into the population. However after World War II this psyche changed drastically as European refugees from war torn Europe "invaded" the mainly "British" based cultural mores. This was the beginning of cultural diversity and rolled out onto multi-culturalism of the latter 20th Century. This large bone china oval shaped serving plate has a green floral pattern around the the base extending up the sides, similar to the "Brussels" pattern. The top edge is delineated with a swirling pattern emphasised with gold leaf. On the rim and detailing 15mm before the edge are oyster or scollop like bubbles in three rows.manufacturers stamp (dating manufacture 1914-1925) and numbered "36" domestic kitchen crockery, english crockery, serving plates and platters

This mid 1900's ice "bucket" was used during the first major "American" (fashion invasion) of merchandise for the "new " social set. This was a form of release, coming after the tight money restrictions during the "Great Depression" and from World War II.This item is an example of the change of direction in regards to household cutlery and crockery which the Australian rural environment slowly progressed through. This progression was due to a closer alliance with the USA after World War II and and increase push in marketing by USA manufacturers of their Australian partners and the closer alliance between the two nations. The American service men and women on recreational leave during the "South Pacific war" front brought both nations closer together and the requirement of American industries to find new markets resulted in "cheaper" mass produced silverware onto the Australian scene, which at that time were mainly sourced from the UK and Europe. This silver plated "ice bucket" with lid and handle has "pot belly" shape. A smaller circumference top, bulging center and smaller bottom. The lower inside shape of the "bucket" allows for a "grate" to be placed 40mm from the bottom (this grate would separate the "solid" ice cubes from the melted ice water). There is a "U" shaped "swiveled" handle with "art deco" type leaves(grape) reinforcing the cross section. There are two bands of "grape leaf" motifs, one smaller one at the top rim and a larger one on the bottom at the point of furthest bulge.At the outside base is the manufacturers logo "K" and encircled in small print are "KNICKERBOCKER MFG CO. QUADRUPLE PLATE"silver plated ice "bucket", bottle cooler

This brand of starch was first manufactured in 1914, during the First World War, and continued to cover the other wars and military conflicts that followed. It was a time when Australian made was important due to the limited supplies coming from England and Europe. This was a period when the demand for "home grown" produce was at its peak. This was in a time when by necessity not by the "Buy Australian" campaign (of later years) which was the major factor for the demand of goods. It was in a time when starch was used in formal clothing to put a "crisp" or fresh new appearance for clothes. The important social more of "clothes make the person" was in vogue.This box which once contained starch powder is very significant to a rural semi isolated region because it clearly demonstrates that the social mores of the city were also entrenched into the rural population. The fashion of the day, even in remote areas, especially rural, were still a requirement to be maintained on certain special occasions. Cleanliness and stiff "upper lip" persona were just as important in the rural sector as in city and Government circles. Institutions such as hospitals, Government Offices and the legal personnel were bound by the fashion of the starch appearance (no dirt sticks to a personage with the "starch" look). Appearances, especially the first ones, were the judgmental image that remained in the uppermost regions of the viewer. This box with white writing and a "formally clad" man on a navy blue background held Australian grown maize based starch powder(1 LB gross). The package is made from 200 gsm thick cardboard. As production was made during the two World Wars 1914 to 1945 the promotion was heavily focused on Australian made and Australian grown maize.The same cover both front and back, "DANDY" below this a figure outlined in white on a navy blue background "hat and tails" outfit. Next to the sketch in smaller lettering" STRONGER THAN OTHER STARCHES. LESS REQUIRED". Below the figure "GLOSS" and below this in larger print "STARCH". Below this and in smaller print "CONTENTS. NETT WEIGHT 14 1/2 ozs" Below this and in smaller print "MANUFACTURED BY MAIZE PRODUCTS PTY LTD FOOTSCRAY VICTORIA" On one side of the box and in large white print on royal blue background"PURITY, STRENGTH AND UNIFORMITY." On the other side are the manufacturers directions. On the left side "FOR RAW STARCH" Underneath and in smaller print,"Dissolve in warm water a quantity to give the required thickness. Add bluing if required Stir before each using. On the right side "FOR BOILING STARCH" underneath this in small print"Mix well in small quantity of cold water to creamy consistency. Add boiling water, and stir constantly while cooking. Allow to cool, and add blueing if required. Underneath these two sets of instructions is "Make your consistency thinner than if using another kind of Starch"household starch, household cleaning, domestic laundering.

This tea towel was manufactured in 1978 in Ireland and shipped to Australia. This was in a period when the C.W.A. was the major women's organisation which had the greatest influence amongst rural women (especially in isolated areas). This was a period when broad based communications were mainly by radio,women orientated magazines and the telephone. The relay of television to "remote" rural areas was not yet established. The CWA was therefore a very important organisation that catered exclusively to women's needs. The C.W.A. motto "Honour our God, Loyalty to the throne, Service to the country, Through country women, For country women, By country women." The atmosphere was one of "sisterhood" and covered nearly all the needs of rural based women. This one organisation incorporated knowledge and learning targeting women who physically may be isolated but not mentally. On the tea towel are portrayed all the activities that would be beneficial to rural women.This tea towel with its respective motifs is very significant to the Kiewa Valley as it related especially to women who felt the limitations of social interactions within a rural area. This tea towel represents a era where communications was relatively based on radio, magazines, books and limited telephone access. Within these restrictive interactive communication levels, the isolation of a "back o' Bourke" location applied tremendous mental fatigue on women more than on men.This CWA Victoria Golden Jubilee (1928-1978) tea towel is made from Irish flax at the Blackstaff Flax Spinning and Weaving factory. It is therefore of high quality and very durable. The major colours projecting from a light blue background are red, yellow, green, orange and black. The motives portrayed the activities of the CWA in 1978. These activities are embroidery, crocheting, dress making, knitting, cooking, art, macrame, drama, music, patchwork, toy making and community relief, pennies for friendship, emergency relief and welfare, residential club flats, the thanks giving and Papua New Guinea.The main or central theme of this tea towel is presented in the central area within three rings. "1928" on the left and "1978" on the right. On the top part "GOLDEN JUBILEE" and at the bottom "COUNTRY WOMEN'S ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA" There are various shapes representing the activities listed above.cwa promotional material, cwa golden jubilee, women only organisations, country women's association

This Timing Relay is quite a large (industrial type) apparatus. The Timer is started by having a voltage of 250 volts direct current (as supplied by batteries). A DC motor then rotates driving into a clockwork mechanism, the output of which is an arm rotating at the same speed as a minute hand on a clock. Attached to this arm is a mercury switch which tips and makes an electrical circuit operate in a sequence control system. The sequences that use these timers are when starting and stopping Hydro Generators. They check that the machine has connected to the power system grid before 20 minutes duration. Brakes must go on for a set time when shutting down a generator slowing at the right speed as measured by this apparatus. These generators are powered by the hydro force of "stored" water at a higher altitude. The establishment of both the NSW and Victorian Hydro schemes was achieved from the mid 1900's to the 1960's. At this point in time the need for additional power sources to quench both an industrial and domestic demand for electricity was purely an economic and not and environmental (carbon reduction) factor. This Timing Relay apparatus is very significant to the Kiewa Valley as its use was introduced during the Kiewa Hydro Scheme. Although only a relay apparatus, it was however part of the explosion of human resources into the valley. This influx of population transformed the region from that of a basically quiet rural region to one which evolved into both an industrial and a larger residential community. This evolution in the valley created a change, not only in the "physical" landscape but also the socio-economic expansion which permitted other "tourist" based industries into the valley. This Hydro Scheme was instigated by "the Government of the day" as a bold move and was the major force behind the acceptance of World War II refugee and "technical" workforce. Inclusion of skilled and unskilled migration into the Australian environment was of a higher priority than a selective quota system of later years.. Although this mass "invasion" of workers with families was thought of in some circles as intrusive, the expansion of population post war years and its integration into the Australian rural sector, produced the multi- lingual, multi-cultural diversity of later years.sec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, alpine population growth

This general purpose Multi-meter was manufactured after 1950 and used by the SEC Vic (Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme) from that date until late 1900's. It was used to measure very small voltages associated with the operation of the various Hydro Generators. The readings were able to be shown by the resistor in use in the current circuit. During this time period, high quality testing instruments were either sourced from Europe or England. This particular meter was manufactured in the Netherlands. This type of "old" analogue meter was replaced by digital meters whose electronic components are a fraction of the size of the older analogue ones.This analog General Purpose multi-meter is quite a large (for handheld mobile) apparatus which permits the easy monitoring of electrical variations within the large SEC Victoria Hydro Scheme's electrical generators. These generators are powered by the hydro force of "stored" water at a higher altitude. The establishment of both the NSW and Victorian Hydro schemes was achieved from the mid 1900's to the 1960's. At this point in time the need for additional power sources to quench both an industrial and domestic demand for electricity was purely an economic and not and environmental (carbon reduction) factor. This hydro scheme was instigated by "the Government of the day" as a bold move and was the major force of the World War II refugee and "technical" workforce inclusion of skilled and unskilled migration into the Australian environment. Although this mass "invasion" of workers with families was thought of in some circles as intrusive, the expansion of population post war years and its integration into the Australian rural sector, produced the multi- lingual multi-cultural diversity of later years.This General Purpose Multimeter is an analogue meter i.e. it has a needle arm that moves across a scale of divisions. This is a large(hand held) device due to the mechanical movement system within and the large size of its electronic components of its circuitry.There are two black bake-lite push buttons operating the wire inserts Positive/negative leads at the top. The meter (protected with a glass window) has clearly marked graduations (top - volts, bottom amperes). Below this are two bake-lite dials (left "potentiometer the right one measuring range selector). Below this is a "dial" switch to input the desired resistance measuring range "V" Front "H&B ELIMA" and to the right Elavi 15n. 0n the front side is a label "STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION OF VICTORIA TRANSMISSION DEPT E.C.No." On the bottom of the base is a stenciled layout of the battery "layout" including the fuse . The information notice is presented in five languages starting with German, English,French, Italian, Spanish and Dutchsec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, alpine population growth

This leather case holder for a general purpose Multi-meter( KVHS 0307 (A)) was manufactured after 1950 and used by the SEC Vic (Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme) from that date until late 1900's. It was used to measure very small voltages associated with the operation of the various Hydro Generators. The readings were able to be shown by the resistor in use in the current circuit. During this time period, high quality testing instruments were either sourced from Europe or England. This particular carry case was manufactured in the Netherlands. This carry case for an analog General Purpose multi-meter which is quite a large (for a handheld mobile) apparatus.The bag however permits the easy monitoring of electrical variations within the large SEC Victoria Hydro Scheme's electrical generators. These generators are powered by the hydro force of "stored" water at a higher altitude. The establishment of both the NSW and Victorian Hydro schemes was achieved from the mid 1900's to the 1960's. At this point in time the need for additional power sources to quench both an industrial and domestic demand for electricity was purely an economic and not and environmental (carbon reduction) factor. This hydro scheme was instigated by "the Government of the day" as a bold move and was the major force of the World War II refugee and "technical" workforce inclusion of skilled and unskilled migration into the Australian environment. Although this mass "invasion" of workers with families was thought of in some circles as intrusive, the expansion of population post war years and its integration into the Australian rural sector, produced the multi- lingual multi-cultural diversity of later years.This leather case is to provide protection for this mobile G.P. Multimeter, therefore it is made from thick leather. It has a carrying strap from a thick "D" chromed link. This link is fastened to the main cover by a looped leather strip with a black coloured rivet. All the fasteners are either chrome or black coloured rivets. The front, which when opened back exposes fully the inside of the case. It is clip fastened to the lower section of the front piece which also can be pushed back allowing the meter to be removed from the frontal position. There is a strip retaining strap slightly higher from the mid point. This is fasted by a black press stud. There are two "L" shaped tin protrusions allowing the meter to slide only down the case until it rests on these shelves. This provides for an empty space for minimal storage,.On the front bottom and below the clasp is a tag "STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION OF VICTORIA TRANSMISSION DEPT."sec vic kiewa hydro scheme, alternate energy supplies, alpine population growth

This book of planning and construction details covers the first detailed records the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme of 1919 (ORIGINAL), 1958 (2nd Modified Plan) to the last general plan of 1961. It is an excellent overview of one of Australia's greatest construction projects (along with the Snowy River Hydro Scheme). This book highlights in detail the planning, programming and construction phases throughout the life of the construction from 1919 onwards until the 1960's. There were a few copies made using carbon paper and a type writer on foolscap paper.This book with its Parts A to D, photographs and plans/tables is very significant to the Kiewa Valley region as it details "the bones" of one of Australia's greatest construction projects that was undertaken by Governments that had the foresight and the will to undertake such a costly and environmentally imposing project for the benefit of their states and their country. This project was at a time when financial and security pressures where at a high and fluctuating level. This project was the major contributor to the expansion and diversity of non rural activities within the region. It was directly and indirectly the cause of better transportation avenues, tourism and the lifting of the regions natural facilities to sustain an ever increasing long term and short term population.This large hard (thick cover) book has both front and back sides fastened to the spine by two brass screw on pins. The book title, author/compiler and the commissioning organisation (STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION OF VICTORIA) together with the SEC Vic emblem are all embossed in gold script.The spine is also embossed with the title. The book contains 396 pages consisting of the 390 pages which are the duplicate(carbon copy) of the original type written pages and 6 pages of site plans. Sprinkled throughout the book are 36 original photographs of various stages of construction. There are also 17 sketches/plans scattered throughout and 22 tables.Title "KIEWA HYDRO ELECTRICITY SCHEME TECHNICAL HISTORY" author and compiler "H.H.C.WILLIAMS" below this "STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION OF VICTORIA"kiewa hydro electricity scheme, victorian state electricity commission, history, proposals, kiewa scheme's plans, book, h.h.c. williams

This folder represents the true "Aussie" and the pride felt living in small rural communities. It was present in the period before the 1990's but fell so ever slightly away through the faster pace of the "modern" life evolution into a more "introspective" life style. The changes brought on by technology e.g. computers, mobile telephone "texting" and the internet has slowly impinged upon those community "get togethers" of the 1900's. Life in small rural towns and regions however have only slowly moved away from the community self worth attitudes which were so strong when life in rural areas was more insulated through physical and technologically isolation.This Tiny Towns Folder with its content is highly significant to the small town of Mount Beauty and the Kiewa Valley and its region because it represents the "true" value of rural life in the "modern" Australia. The "old" values of "mateship" and looking after the community is still very strong in the rural sector, as compared with living in the cities. The psychological and physical benefits of living in smaller rural centres is clearly demonstrated by the contents of this "Tidy Towns", keep Australia Beautiful, competition. The value of "the true blue, dinky die mateship" is still very much alive in country towns and rural environments. Although the physical isolation of yesteryear may not be so strong as the technology and population growths boost a greater interaction between city and rural folk, the ingrained attitude of comradeship still prevades. This large blue coloured lever arch folder (cloth with a red lined border) has 104 plastic pockets each with two sheets of documentation for the appraisal of the decision makers/judges of the "Keep Australia Beautiful Council (Vic), "Tidy Towns" competition.Adhesive stickers on front cover "Tidy Towns" "Keep Australia Beautiful" below this "Mount Beauty" community beautification programs, rural town pride, community pride, a town's self wrth

This electric kettle/Jug is shaped in the style of the Art Deco period 1930's to 1950's (in Australia). It was at the beginning of the wave of creative kitchen ware to stimulate and impress visitors and uplift what used to be a boring kitchen environment.This "art deco" electric kettle is very significant to the Kiewa Valley because it highlight that rural families and areas where in step (fashion wise) to their city "cousins". In the mid 1900's "the fashion" in Australia was (on the whole) always some years behind that of England and Europe. The years after World war II reduced the time lag between the "advanced fashion" of Europe and England and came in step with the emerging modern American fashion. American "film stars" started have their fashion projected onto the silver screens.This electric Fowler ware is a ceramic hot water jug. Its shape is in the "Art Deco" style of the early 1920's.On base "240V - 1650W" below this "AC ONLY" below this "MODEL No. EEJ" "APP. No. N550" below this "JUG BODY BY" under this and in script style "FOWLER WARE" below this "1583"kitchen appliances, tea/coffee preparation, light refreshments, hospitality offerings, art deco styles in appliances

This "art deco" style of containers were very popular by the "art and trendy" socialites, be they in the city or in rural towns and properties. This style was very popular in the 1940's to 1950's. The octagonal shape provided the stability of the decanter with its "expensive" contents. Because of its style it blended in well with any lavish meal and socio economic "upper" class environment. It was a part of social atmosphere of elegance and wealth be it in the city or on a rural property. This is very significant to the Kiewa Valley rural "society" environment. At the time of its use the wealth of Australia was "riding on the sheep's back", that is rural income(primary producers), on the whole, was well above that in the cities (industrial). It was in a period where large wealthy property owners could spend lavishly on trendy domestic items.This octagonal glass decanter with its egg shaped stopper is made in an "art deco" style and reflects the 1950's style of bold design. The decanter "stopper" has been cut in a "diamond" cut to reflect the sunlight as does a diamond ring. The stopper is tapered down to permit easy placement and removal. The Stability of the decanter is increased by the broad base and octagonal (8) sides tapering going up the sides.decanter, glass, art deco glass ware, spirits container

This pair of "adjustable" boots came from the 1950's era in which the majority of footwear was either locally manufactured or imported from England or Europe. Quality hard wearing leather was a rural necessity especially for the cattle mustering activity in the Kiewa Valley and the Bogong High Plains region. The late 1900's provided a cheaper made riding boot from Asia, however many rural based riders still prefer an Australian made boot. The better quality (stronger stitching) of Australian boots is the main considerations of "stock horse riders". In 1947 a scientific research project started to provide an impact analysis of any damage to alpine vegetation by cattle grazing in the Alpine regions incorporating the Bogong High Plains area. This monitoring is the longest running ecological study ever undertaken in Australia. From this study, compelling evidence was presented to the Victorian Government to cease cattle grazing in the Alpine regions including the Bogong High Plains. All grazing was banned by the Victorian Government in 2005. Recreational horse riding within the Bogong High Plains is still permitted.These pair of women's riding boots are very significant to the Kiewa Valley as the boots were worn by one of the descendants of a pioneer family living and operating a cattle station before the SEC Hydro Electricity Scheme opened up the semi remote rural location in the 1950's. These boots were worn during the annual six weeks (approx.) mustering of cattle in the Bogong High Plains location (Victorian Alps region). The owner of these boots was Clare Roper, part of the Roper Family who built a "lodging" hut on the "High Plains" for accommodating riders during the periods (up to six weeks) when controlling grazing cattle during the summer muster seasons. It was unusual for women in the early to mid 1900's to go up on the High Plains to join the muster, which Clare Roper often did. These boots have high historical significance and good interpretive capacity.These brown "knee high" lady riding boots, are fastened by long "boot" laces which go from the base of the "fastening" position to a boot height of 22 cm. At the top end of the boot is a leather flap which crosses the front section of the boot and is fastened to the outside leg region by two straps. These provide the wearer with an adjustable tie. The boot has a "tongue" of 22 mm long. The boot has six pairs of metal boot lace "hooks" and eight pairs of boot lace "eyelets".ladies riding boots. cattle mustering footwear. rural footwear. cattlemen. bogong high plains. roper family. horses.

This kiln glazed container for liquid's, was the type used in the 1700's to mid 1900's to contain fluids mainly for human consumption which needed to retain liquid that could be affected by sunlight and or required to be maintained at a cooler temperatures. Ginger beer and other "brews" for human consumption were the prime target. The ability to refill these vessels were of the utmost importance to the consumer. Over time these containers were reduced in size and produced for "special" liquids e.g. alcoholic Port. This Demi John stone ware was manufactured in Tamworth (England) and imported into Australia during a period when the majority of "quality" domestic items were sourced from "the Mother Country" and the ties between the still "colonial" outpost were very strong. This bondage remained longer in rural communities than in the cities. The "multi-culturalism of the post World War II era resulted in the lessening of the earlier ties. The growing of nationalism, the Aussie evolution, was brought about by the increased social and business/commercial interactions between Australia and the United States of America, post World War II.This container(jug) is very significant to the Kiewa Valley, a rural region that required these type of liquid storage vessels, especially in the late 1800's to the mid 1900's. These were times when household refrigeration, if available, would be from the "block ice" coolers or "cool" storage nooks and crannies within farmhouse locations.This large "stone ware" glazed Demi John, alias Carboy has a capacity of over 20 litres. It has a conical smooth lipped neck top with a wide, flat(three to four finger) carry and poring handle. The top third portion of the jug is caramel in colour and the bottom a darker cream. It has a manufacturer's seal stamped into the surface before glazing. This item would have been corked and then sealed (air tight) with wax.manufacturer's seal "GEORGE SKEY WILNECOTE TAMWORTH"household liquid jar container, 1800's food storage, kiln fired glazed pottery

This brand of starch was first manufactured before 1966 and covered the period when Australian made was the preferred clothing due to limited imports from England. This was a period when the demand for "home grown" produce was at its peak. This was in a time when by necessity and ease of supply and not by the "Buy Australian" campaign (of later years), was the major factor for the demand of these type of laundry goods. It was in a time when starch was used in formal clothing to put a "crisp" or fresh new appearance for clothes. This product was in the era and importantly the social more of "clothes make the person" in which starched shirts and dresses was the fashion vogue. Formality of dress was a strictly British "class" up-man-ship which from the 1950's onwards became less and less visible. The Australian "Ocker" or fair "dink'm" bloke became more entrenched after World War II. The national identity was slowly developing.This box of starch is very relevant to the Kiewa Valley because this box highlights the differences ,in this period, between city and rural social standards. Rural areas were deeply entrenched into colonial and the pioneer family structure viz- a-vie social and dress fashion standards. British values and norms lingered on well beyond the changes happening in city fashion. Tradition and English "ties" were the backbone of early colonies and it was only after World War II that these "ties" were becoming irrelevant. Early traditions lingered well past the independence sought by Federation, colony to statehood and trade with other nations eg. USA and Asia. The idea that a change in "status" would automatically change the social mores of Australians, especially in rural ares, was not fully grasped by the "law makers" and those wanting change.This box (capacity 12 ozs) has white(aged into cream) and blue printing and a "white star" on five sides, the sixth side has a laundry scene with two ladies, in early 1900's fashion. The package is made from 200 gsm thick cardboard. As manufacture was made before and during the two World Wars 1914 to 1945 the promotion was heavily focused on Australian made and Australian grown maize. One side of the box has instructions of use and all the other sides are promotional, detailing "the best in the world and won't stick to the iron""SILVER STAR", "THE BEST IN THE WORLD", "WON'T STICK TO THE IRON", "REQUIRES NO BOILING", INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE", "ROBERT HARPER AND COMPANY LIMITED", "INCORPORATED IN VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA", "NET WEIGHT 12 OUNCES", "LARGE BOX 12 OZS"domestic laundry essentials, cotton clothing preparations, household starch "crisp and neat appearances.

This box which once contained linen thread manufactured in Scotland and labelled "British" manufacture" was used for the repair/manufacture of clothing by professional seamstresses and those wives required to "do" repair stitching of family clothes. This box was manufactured in a period when the title "United Kingdom" was used (late 1700's early 1900's) to describe the union of Britain and Scotland. The label however can be misleading as the"British Manufacture" thread was manufactured in Scotland. The broad term "British Manufacture" was used for the benefit of those in the "colonies" of Australia and New Zealand, during a period when the "coined" phrase "best of British, or British best" was synonymous to "top quality". After World War II the need for "cheaper products" was more persuasive than the quality of the product. In rural areas this shift to cheaper "non British" goods was at a slower rate than in the cities. Goods such as clothing manufactured or altered by seamstresses were regarded as of a higher standard and therefor the use of linen thread from "Britain" was a sign of quality and reliability.This box which contained linen thread, "British" made, is very significant to the Kiewa Valley because it demonstrates the conditions under which households in the late 1800's and early 1900's evolved from a "domestic repair /replacement" of damaged clothing to a consumer of recycled and shop bought clothing and linen. The ability of semi isolated rural based families to purchase "off the rack" clothing was severely affected by weather, long distance over dirt roads(poorly serviced) to large towns(shops), horse/cart or slower driven cars. The purchasing of clothing was, on the whole, from trading house "mail order" consignment orders.This red paper covered box has a white covered lid (top) with black print detailing the manufacturer and contents. This box contained 150 yds of linen thread 2 cord. A small added note pasted on one side "USUAL TWIST (s)" describing the thread's appearance. Two semicircular "finger" holes on two sides of the lid permit easier removal of the lid from the base.On the top lid: "W.&J. KNOX'S" below this a crest with latin motive "MOVEO ET PROFICIOR" English translation "I proceed and am more prosperous" encircling an open winged falcon. below this "LINEN THREAD", "2 CORD." "WARRANTED" "150 Yds." Made from Flax." British Manufacture". On one side "DRABS SOFT FINISH" within a shield "KNOX'S TWO CORD 150 YARDS 30" next to this a trade mark "W & J KNOX below this "made in KILBIRNIE, SCOTLAND"thread, cord. flax, box container, linen thread, seamstress items, cardboard box

This book was used in the first school in Mt Beauty only started in 1948/1949 this would have been one of the first books used in the school. Also as a state school book it is also significant to the Victorian State school system. There could be a lot of these books in other towns in the state, therefore it may not be just found in Mt Beauty. This item is historically significance as it shows what sort of books were used for that period. It is socially significant as the Mt Beauty school was new in this period therefore shows what the students were using. This item was used in Mount Beauty Primary School as part of a teacher's curriculum. The fact that it was in a rural area, Kiewa Valley did present a slightly different learning atmosphere than in the larger towns and cities. The majority of parents within the Kiewa Valley, had slight reservations of the "high and mighty" attitude of some city dwellers and the effectiveness of city bred teachers was how to overcome these ingrained mores. The mentioning of European nations and lifestyles was to the pupils in the infant schools far more like "fairyland" than the realism that they experienced on the "land". However at this age level fantasy was more important than reality. Australian fantasy tales e.g. Blinky Bill (circa 1930s) introduced main characters that infants could identify, especially in rural schools.This item is a green coloured hard backed book containing 384 double sided pages. Nearly all pages have black writing and free hand sketches. There are some pages of duplicated sheet music.See KVHS 0045, KVHS 0046, KVHS 0048 for the other volumes held.On the spine is "MACMILLANS TEACHING IN PRACTICE" below this "PROJECTS and PICTURES" underneath "VOL 3". On title page "edited by E.J.S.Lay" underneath"VOLUME THREE". Below this there is printed a two branch wreath within these an "Olympic" type torch.book, school, teacher, children, infant, reference, educational

This iron chaff cutter was a vital piece of rural machinery especial for cattle in areas subjected to limited grass growing seasons. The Kiewa Valley and Alpine regions were up to the 21st century "snowed" in. The conditions requiring summer crops and fodder to be prolonged for the harsh winter climate are now becoming less and less and may confirm the precursor of "global warming". The Kiewa Valley is still a strong base for dairy cattle and other stock requiring all year access to hay/grass supplies. The use of, now defunct, Tobacco drying sheds for the storage of hay and other fodder is typical of the Australian farmer/grazier's adaptability to utilise anything available. To think outside the square.Black Iron Chaff Cutter. The wheel has a single piece inside with 4 curved spokes with adjustable blades attached by 4 screws & 3 rivets. The wheel has a wooden handle. Operated by cogs. HOCKING GREASE BALLARAT COGS FREELYagriculture, farm machinery, stock feeding, grazier, farm animals

This "homemade rake" is constructed from a branch of a tea tree. This item demonstrates that in the mid to late 1800's the isolation of the Kiewa Valley was more pronounced than during the early 1900's. The availability of gardening implements to the residences within the Kiewa Valley was scarce to non existence. with the upgrading of roads into the valley and the boost to the Valley's population (S.E.C. Kiewa Valley Hydro Electricity Scheme) transport into the valley, firstly via commercial Hawkers in their mobile caravans and later by commercial trucks. This "home made" rake is very significant because it highlights the ingenuity of local farmers and graziers in overcoming the semi isolation of the Kiewa Valley and its regions from the commercial availability of gardening implements enjoyed by gardeners in the towns and cities of the 1800's and the early 1900's. This "home made" garden rake highlights the ingenuity of the "Australian" character per se. A slice of this ingenuity can be seen by the amount of inventions, per capita, produced within Australia throughout its history.Handle is a long, stripped branch of tea tree. The head of the rake is a 2.3 cm. wide piece of wood, compressed between two 0.5 cm. pieces of metal joined with bolts, nuts and rivets. The holes drilled into the wood hold metal tines 10.5 cms. high. There should be 16 tines but 4 are missing. This type of rake is/ was used in dairiestimber, dairy, farm, rural, implement

This "home made" squeegee was manufactured in the mid to late 1900's by an ingenuous dairyman as a solution to the removal of cow "pats" from the concrete floors of his "milking" sheds. The tea tree made squeegee (being made from nature's anti bacterial material) was an excellent hygienic implement to use. This "home made" wooden squeegee is very significant to the Kiewa Valley and its surrounding regions because it highlights the natural ingenuity found in the pioneer farmer, grazier and other rural folk. It demonstrates the "mother of invention and adaptation" is very strong in rural areas where "off the shelf" products were a rare quantity. Part of the natural psyche of the rural Australian inhabitants is the ability to produce inventions that overcome physical restrictive conditions, "the man/woman of all trades" is an apt description of the pioneers of yesteryear and of those to come.The squeegee handle is a long branch made from a tea tree, inserted into the upper flat side of a slab of tea tree wood which is flat on one side and curved on the other, the natural curve of the tree trunk. This squeegee was used on dairies for removing cow manure.timber, dairy, farm, rural, implement

These seal skin straps and webbing were introduced into the Victorian Alps by European engineers, conducting survey work for the SEC Hydro scheme in the late 1930s. This period in time produced many immigrants from a war torn Europe with highly developed technical skills. Many of these immigrants provided articles that were well suited to the alpine regions of Australia, ones they used in their homelands. These were times when the home grown cultures of the Anglo Saxon heritage of the earlier settlers within the Kiewa Valley became interwoven with the various European cultures and this formed, what in later years became the beginning of the Australian multi-cultural society. The Kiewa Valley and its surrounding regions where the major rural areas which did not progress in a so typical Aussie "dinky-di", "she'll be right" fashion. The European influence was however not too strong, so as to obliterate the flavour of the home grown rural society.The major populated sections of the upper Kiewa Valley and the Alpine regions were accelerated by the SEC Hydro Development which brought into the slow growing rural regions a quasi multi ethnic society, however this was only noticeable up to the time when the final Power Station was commissioned in the 1960s. The slight variations to the typical Australian rural settlements of the time were in some food preparations, winter apparel such as these seal skin straps and soles and "langlauf" (cross-country skis). The sealskins were sewn so that their grain ran from front to back thereby allowing the skins to grip going up hill and glide going downhill.The gardens and varieties of flowering shrubs and trees where also more in line with traditional European "outdoor" settings. Seal skin sewn onto one side of a strap of webbing. There is a webbing loop on the front that slips over a small point at the front of the ski. There is a webbing strap attached to the back of the seal skin sole coming over the back of ski that clips metal fasteners onto a loop of webbing behind the ski boot. alpine sports, snow skis, winter clothing, mount bogong recreational activities, snow sports

This petticoat is demonstrative of home made infant undergarment clothing in the early 1900. Distance to and from commercial haberdashery store was too far to fit out young girls especially if the are undergarments. Mothers and other family members had the seamstress talent to make clothes that are not in full view of anyoneHistorically these undergarments have no fashion relevance for the younger fashion scene and this garment is an example of the self sufficient supply of home made articles. This was especially so within the Kiewa Valley and surrounds. Fashion in Australia and more so in areas with little or no access to overseas or city merchandise lacked "modern fashionable" clothes e.g. the latest from England and Paris. This region was and still is a rural backdrop of clothes that fit into the type of life and work of the society it holds.Cotton petticoat, white, three buttons on top back, 8mm wide straps of cotton tape. Gathered skirt with triple row of Rick Rack on the bottom edge and three pintucks, 17mm wide, on the lower edge of skirt. Garment is completely hand stitchedchildren's underwear, female underwear, dressmaking, handcraft, costume, clothing

Indoor children's toy. Historically these gained greater popularity when professional ten pin bowling had its major impact in Australian sport and recreation. This item was gifted by one who had played skittles as a child with her brother on carpeted passage in her home. Skittles was an indoor game.This item clearly represent a period in rural Australian development when entertainment and sporting facilities were broadcast but local access to professional facilities not readily availableThis is an incomplete set of toy wooden skittles. There are three green, two yellow, one red and one brown pin. The bottom and top have manufacturing markings from a wood turning machine. Full set is nine pinschildren, wooden, toy, skittles

Historically this item is from the early to late 1890's. This Item documents the day to day commerce and financial transactions of a business in a regional centre of a rural district. It illustrates the greater degree of personal contact between bank staff and client, outside electronic money transfers and A.T.Ms. The personal activities especially in small towns between bank and customers made for a clearer and friendlier transaction interchange possibleThis item clearly details pre Federation banking and the important link with English law and commerce. Regional banking was very strong and the rural sectors provided the "wealth of the nation". This confidence was backed by the assurances of the Royal Charter and the financial strength of the British Homeland. The strong Pound Sterling was the currency of the "Empire"Discoloured white, hard cardboard book with brass clasp/clip early Pass book containing 45 pages. The page thickness is close to thin cardboard.No outside markings. Inside cover printed "The Bank Of Australia (Incorporated by Royal Charter, 1835)". Also Listed, the paid up capital, the reserve fund and regulatory information. The second page details the list of offices in Australia and the London office. Following pages credit debit information of typical bank Pass Book of "John Woodside No.2 A/Ccommerce, banking beechworth early accounting pre federation

Historically this item would have been used by gold miners, rabbit shooters, mobile "Rag and Bone" traders and other mobile(in caravans and/or horse drawn cart) traders of various small goods and haberdashery. Although marked as not to be used as trade, the isolation and sometimes difficult terrain rules out using larger and more delicate scales. In the early 1900s rough roads and severe weather conditions forced traders to be more flexible in trading with weights and measures. The "close enough is good enough" doctrine was the Australian outback rule of thumb. The significance of this item in the Kiewa Valley during this period demonstrates the slower acceptance of accurate trading measure using the country side principle "my hand shake is my bond". In the Kiewa Valley small quantity commercial undertakings e.g. gold mining, fur pelts and rabbit meat trade did not require bulk weight type scales. Commerce in rural production e.g. fruit and vegetables involved more farmers and their staff in a barter and/or "in kind" payments. This was more so in the depression years 1929 to late 1930s. Self sufficiency was to a large extent more attainable in this region than in the city/ large country town environment. The Australian "fair go" ethical approach to life and commerce was very much ingrained in those living in country regions, like Kiewa Valley as is demonstrated by the not so accurate hand balance, spring loaded scales. Portable Pocket Balance with front plate made from brass. Spring mechanism enclosed by black painted medium gauge steel cover( three quarters cylindrical). Front scale face and rear spring casing fastened by three rivets. Spring loaded marker blade is located in the centre of the front plate. See item KVHS 0224 for a similar scales.Front plate marked: at top "Not legal for use in trade", below this in larger print "Pocket Balance", under and to the right in smaller print "lbs" under this graded marks, first marked with a Zero, then every second mark in ascending order up to 25. At the bottom of the front plate is marked "Made in Germany"antique pocket balance, scales, mobile weights, vintage appliances