Carving of a small female head made by a patient of Mayday Hills Asylum. A grid has been drawn across the top with Romanian letters written within the cells.Mayday Hills Asylum was one of the three largest psychiatric hospitals in Victoria, and played an important role in the treatment of mental health illnesses from its establishment in 1867 to its closure in 1995. As part of prescribed treatment, many patients participated in craft activities were they were able to create an array of objects. A limb of a tree roughly carved into the shape of a woman's face, featuring a thick hair style, slanted eyes, delicate mouth, and long neck. Pen notations on top of sculpture.beechworth, burke museum, mayday hills asylum, sculpture, wood carving

Centenary issue of the Open Door Magazine that was produced by both staff and patients. The title reflects Mayday Hills "open door" approach to patient care.Mayday Hills Asylum was one of the three largest psychiatric hospitals in Victoria, and played an important role in the treatment of mental health illnesses from its establishment in 1867 to its closure in 1995. As part of prescribed treatment, many patients participated in craft activities were they were able to create an array of objects. 13-page A4 paper magazine with 4 copper staples.CENTENARY ISSUE / 1867 / The New Open Door / 1967 [The Australian National Coat of Arms]beechworth, burke museum, mayday hills, magazine, centenary

Child-size rocking horse made and sold by a patient of Mayday Hills Asylum. Purchased in 1978 and used by a family for generations.Mayday Hills Asylum was one of the three largest psychiatric hospitals in Victoria, and played an important role in the treatment of mental health illnesses from its establishment in 1867 to its closure in 1995. As part of prescribed treatment, many patients participated in craft activities were they were able to create an array of objects. A small wooden rocking horse painted in green, white and brown, with carpet lining on seat.beechworth, burke museum, mayday hills asylum, rocking horse, children's toys

A knitted handbag made by patients of Mayday Hills Asylum.Mayday Hills Asylum was one of the three largest psychiatric hospitals in Victoria, and played an important role in the treatment of mental health illnesses from its establishment in 1867 to its closure in 1995. As part of prescribed treatment, many patients participated in craft activities were they were able to create an array of objects. A blue and white knitted handbag with cane handles, made by a patient of Mayday Hills.beechworth, burke museum, mayday hills asylum, knitting, handbag, bag, craft, fibre art

Knitted handbag made by patient of Mayday Hills Asylum.Mayday Hills Asylum was one of the three largest psychiatric hospitals in Victoria, and played an important role in the treatment of mental health illnesses from its establishment in 1867 to its closure in 1995. As part of prescribed treatment, many patients participated in craft activities were they were able to create an array of objects. A pink knitted fabric handbag in moss stitch with plastic handles.beechworth, burke museum, mayday hills asylum, knitting, handbag, bag, fibre art, craft

Vesta cases, also known as match safes, are small boxes that are used to carry matches and keep them safe from the elements. In the early 1800's, it was common to carry matches, since some type of portable fire was needed to light lanterns and stoves. The matches of that day were crude compared to today's standards, and were known to light when making contact with each other, and sometimes even spontaneously. In order to alleviate this potentially hazardous situation, it made good sense to utilize a Vesta case or match safe. One of the more interesting features of the vesta case or match safes is that they almost always include some type of rough or ribbed surface, usually on the bottom of the case that is used for striking the matches. This vesta case is a portable pocket vesta. These cases take their name from the virgin Roman goddess of fire, home, hearth and family. Usually Vesta was depicted as the fire in her temple. Only Vestals (her priestesses) were allowed into her temple. Her association with fire made her name the natural choice for British companies that manufactured matches. The hallmarking of sterling silver is based on a combination of marks that makes possible the identification of origin and age. The town mark identifies the Assay Office where the item was verified. The town mark on this piece is an anchor, so it is from Birmingham, England. The lion passant certifies the silver quality, as at least 925. The maker's mark, identifying the silversmith presenting the piece to the assay office is D&LS for David and Lionel Spiers. The date letter identifies the year the piece was verified, this item was verified in 1885. Lionel Spiers was a significant figure in the Jewellery Quarter and in 1906 was chairman of the Jewellers and Silversmiths Association. The item also has NHILL 1928 engraved on the front, this is likely a recent addition to the piece. Nhill is a town in Victoria so it could be that the previous owner lived here or it was gifted in commemoration. The social history objects held in the Burke Museum's collection help to tell the stories of Beechworth's past by showing the social, cultural, and economic aspects of the town's history.Silver vesta case with ribbed strike plate at the end and an etched design. D&LS/ lion symbol/ anchor symbol/ l/ Sovereign head/ [hallmarks] CHH/ NHILL 1928/ [obverse inscription] A01198/burke museum, silver, vesta, fire, silversmiths

Taken in the 1950s, this picture is of two veterans of the First World War, Colonel Sir William Leggatt and Brigadier Sir Lionel Harris who fought together in France over 30 years prior. The two men were invested by the Queen at Buckingham palace as Knights, a prestigious honour for Australian soldiers, who for another 20 years would have no official recognition by the Australian government through the 'Order of Australia.' This image showcases the role of Australian service members who fought during the first world war being honoured by the British Government, personally meeting the Queen. Black and white photograph accompanied by text below taken from a NewspaperObverse: VICTORIA'S Agent-General, Colonel Sir William Leggatt (right) and his old / cobber's Brigadier Sir Lionel Harris, outside Buckingham Palace yesterday after hav- / ing received the accolade form the Queen. Thirty-two years ago as sergeant and private / they shared a trench in France. Yesterday as they waited to be knighted by the / Queen, Sir William said, "if anyone had told us then that we were ever going to / meet like this, we would have thought he was off his block. - Today's radiophoto / Reverse: 6539 (in pencil) / burke museum, beechworth, beechworth museum, world war one, military album, trenches, nighted, queen, buckingham palace, wwi, sir william leggatt, sir lionel harris

The A1 Gold Mine is located north of Woods Point, near Jamieson, in the Upper Goulburn region of Victoria. Gold was discovered at the A1 site in 1861 and mining operations began in 1864. The A1 Mine Settlement refers to a small township known variously as Castle Reef, Castle Point, and Raspberry Creek, which developed in the 1860s around mining industry centred on a crushing machine that worked the three gold reefs in the area. Historically, the name "A1"referred to the high quality of gold found in the quartz reefs at depths of at least two thousand feet. Along with the Morning Star mine at Woods Point, the A1 gold mine produced almost sixty percent of Victoria's gold output in the 1950s to 1970s and continued operating until 1992 when it went into administration. Operations at the site were revived in 2016 and the A1 Mine is now considered one of Victoria's premier gold mines. The A1 mine is part of the extensive and prospective Lachlan Fold Belt, a north-west trending belt of tightly folded Early Devonian sedimentary rocks extending from New South Wales to Victoria. Mineralisation is hosted within or immediately adjacent to diorite dykes. Contemporary development of the 'Queens Lode' at the A1 mine signals a move from high-grade, narrow vein airleg mining into larger scale, mechanical mining designed to increase ore production volume. This original, undated photograph of the A1 Mine appears to depict an area or phase of disuse or abandonment. The aged and humble appearance of the cottage suggests association with the historical A1 Mine Settlement, therefore the image may have been taken prior to the 1950s-1970s revival period in which the A1 mine is known to have produced high gold yields. The photograph contributes to our understanding of the A1 Gold Mine's impact on the landscape and the social, environmental impacts of mining on communities and may be compared with others in the Burke Museum's extensive collection of mining photographs to deepen our understanding of mining in the Jamieson area.Black and white rectangular photograph printed on photographic paperReverse: 5577 / A1 Mine / Near Jamieson / Vic. /burke museum, beechworth museum, beechworth, gold fields, gold rush, victorian gold rush, mining tunnels, gold ming history, colonial australia, australian gold rushes, mining technology, beechworth historic district, indigo gold trail, indigo shire, upper goulburn shire, jamieson, woods point-walhalla goldfield, a1 gold mine, victorian high country, modern mining methods, orogenic gold province, gold mineralisation, devonian, dykes

This photograph depicts the Great Southern Mine located in Rutherglen as it was during the 1900. After the initial Gold Rush of 1853-1854, Gold was discovered deeper under the surface of the earth in the 1860 after the discovery of another deep lead system. Due to the discovery of Gold in Rutherglen, Rutherglen developed into a community in its own right, possessing a population of 6600 by December 1860 and developed into a municipality in 1862. The Great Southern Mine depicted in this photograph required the use of a range of modern technologies, including the hydraulic pumps, in order to reach gold. This photo depicts the mining operations as they were undertaken around the turn of the century.The search for gold is ingrained into the history of Victoria and therefore, images like this one which portray a modern mining operation undertaken in the 1860s, can reveal important information for society and technology for the date when the photograph was taken. This image is of important historical significance for its ability to convey information about the methods used to extract gold in 1900. It is significant as most mining operations around the region, particularly earlier on in the period, used different technologies such as water races. This image is important for current research into the history of Rutherglen more generally, a town which developed singlehandedly due to the discovery of minerals and mining, as depicted here in this photograph, thus indicating an element of social significance as well as historic. The Beechworth Burke Museum has additional images relating to mining and Rutherglen which can be analysed and studied alongside images like this one.A black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper.Reverse: $ 3.00 19972503 / a02503 / Great Southern Mine Rutherglen 1900rutherglen mine, rutherglen, great southern mine, beechworth, mine, mining, post goldrush, victoria, gold, 1860s, sluicing, hydrolic sluicing

The Thylacine or Tasmanian Tiger, was a large nocturnal carnivorous marsupial now believed to be extinct that was native to both Australia and New Guinea. The Thylacine is believed to have first appeared over two million years ago with documentation of the species appearing on rock-art that have been dated as far back as 1,000BC. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. The Burke Museum Thylacine is of great historic, scientific and cultural significance as Australia's most notable example of a species made extinct within living memory. Poignant images of the last known thylacine linger in national consciousness and remain an evocative symbol of the impact of humankind on the natural environment. The Burke Museum thylacine has immense social significance not only for its ability to tell a story to present and future generations, but also for embodying the mythic tiger that lives on elusively, we hope, in the Tasmanian wilderness. Attempts to clone the thylacine from material held in museums attest to the passion that this iconic animal evokes in the scientific as well as mainstream community. Medium sized lean female thylacine with four stocky legs and a stiff tail. The fur is short and coarse and in a light brown-yellow colour with 15 dark brown stripes across the width of the body. The head is long and narrow with two small pointy ears and a large jaw with up to 30 visible teeth.taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, thylacine, tasmanian tiger, rare

There are 62 species of Flying Foxes or "Fruit Bats" globally, with 3 existing in Australia: the grey-headed, the little-red, and the black. Flying Foxes are nocturnal, social and herbivorous animals. They can weigh up to 1kg and live up to 30 years. In Australia, Flying Foxes occupy a range from Bundaberg in Queensland to Geelong in Victoria. Most species are listed as endangered or vulnerable. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. The specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia's fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental, climate and conservation research.Small sized flying fox with a pointed head, curved body, bushy tail, and curved claws perched on a wooden mount. The pelage is thick, long and silky in pale caramel and tan shades. The head is small with two pointed ears, two glass eyes, and about five teeth.On wooden mount: BMM5895 /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, flying fox, fruit bat, burke museum, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, natural history, animal

This photograph depicts a reef mine in Beechworth. Reef mining, or quartz reef mining, was common in 19th Century Victoria. This gold mining technique requires mine shafts to be sunk into underground quartz reefs, with horizontal tunnels dug from the original shaft at differing levels to find the gold-bearing rock. The quartz would then be hoisted to the surface, which would then be pounded to access the gold in its metallic state. Gold was discovered in Beechworth in February 1852, at Spring Creek. Within 11 months of that discovery, over 8000 hopeful prospectors quickly descended on this region, transforming it into a thriving, wealthy township. Reef mining and hydraulic sluicing were gold mining techniques used in this region in the 19th and early 20th centuries. This photograph interestingly contains dogs alongside the miners. While dogs have been recorded as deterrents to thieves in the Victorian goldfields, these dogs appear as companions to these men.The search for gold is ingrained into the history of Victoria and therefore, images like this one can reveal important information for society and technology for the date when the photograph was taken. It also shows a location where reef mining was undertaken which provides insight into the impact on the environment at a time when it was done. Although quartz is one of the most common minerals found in the earth's crust, it does not always contain gold. Those reefs that do are rare and highly sought after by prospectors. The Beechworth Burke Museum has additional images relating to gold mining which can be analysed and studied alongside images like this one.Sepia coloured rectangular photograph printed on gloss photographic paper. Obverse: Reverse: United Shire of Beechworth/ Shire Secretary/ Reef Mining, Beechworth./ 6167.abeechworth, burke museum, gold, gold mining, gold rush, victorian gold rush, reef mining, quartz, companion dog, horse and cart

This reproduced photograph depicts a reef mine in Beechworth. Reef mining, or quartz reef mining, was common in 19th Century Victoria. This gold mining technique requires mine shafts to be sunk into underground quartz reefs, with horizontal tunnels dug from the original shaft at differing levels to find the gold-bearing rock. The quartz would then be hoisted to the surface, which would then be pounded to access the gold in its metallic state. Gold was discovered in Beechworth in February 1852, at Spring Creek. 8000 hopeful prospectors quickly descended on this region within the year, transforming it into a thriving, wealthy township. Reef mining and hydraulic sluicing were gold mining techniques used in this region in the 19th and early 20th centuries. This reproduction photograph interestingly contains dogs alongside the miners. While dogs have been recorded as deterrents to thieves in the Victorian goldfields, these dogs appear as companions to these men.The search for gold is ingrained into the history of Victoria and therefore, images like this one can reveal important information for society and technology for the date when the photograph was taken. It also shows a location where reef mining was undertaken which provides insight into the impact on the environment at a time when it was done. The Beechworth Burke Museum has additional images relating to gold mining which can be analysed and studied alongside images like this one.Black and white rectangular reproduction photograph on gloss photographic paper. Obverse: Reverse: L is miners 26%/ 10 x 8/ 6167.bbeechworth, burke museum, gold, gold mining, gold rush, victorian gold rush, reef mining, quartz, companion dog, horse and cart

This postcard shows a group of men standing outside of the Everton mine alongside a mining trolley sitting on tracks. The search for gold is ingrained into the history of Victoria and therefore, images like this one can reveal important information for society and technology for the date when the photograph was taken. It also shows a location where reef mining was undertaken which provides insight into the impact on the environment at a time when it was done.A sepia toned rectangular postcard printed on photographic paperpost card/correspondence address only/ Kodak Australia/1914everton mine, mining, goldrush, postcard, burke museum, black and white, photograph, mining trolley

The Great Crested Grebe is a medium to large sized bird located in Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Asia and in parts of Africa. They reside in large bodies of fresh water and are renowned for their elaborate mating dances. When breeding, the Great Crested Grebe has tawny cheek "fans" and black crests; however, in the non-breading seasons the plumage of this bird turns white. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.The Great Crested Grebe is a medium to large sized bird. It typically has cheek "fans" on the sides of the face and elaborate crest feathers which are shed after breeding, as is the case for this specimen. This bird is in a tall standing position with its neck stretched upwards and facing left. The small dark eyes have been made from glass and a large pointed bill. It has a metal tag tied to its left leg engraved with the numbers "4401". The skin surrounding the toes are flat which assists the bird when swimming.On tag 4401taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, great crested grebe, bird

The Red-Necked Grebe is a medium sized bird with a long neck and pointed bill. During the non-breeding months, this bird has grey, white and brown plumage. During the breeding seasons, the Red-necked Grebe has a rusty red coloured fore-neck and breast with a black bill and white cheeks. This species can be located in freshwater lakes of the northern hemisphere. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.A Red-Necked Grebe of medium size stylised in a standing position with the face positioned forward. The bird stands on a wooden pedestal with two tags around its legs. One tag is paper and documents cataloguing information and the second is metal and lists the number 4403. This Red-Necked Grebe has pale feathers of white, grey and browns typical of this species in the non-breeding months. The face is positioned towards the front and the small eyes are made from dark glass.On metal tag 4403. On paper tag "32. Red-Necked Grebe.Catalogue, page, 43"taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, red-necked grebe

The Great Crested Grebe is the largest bird in the Grebe family. It has a long neck with a black crown and orange/black "fans" on the sides of the face. This bird can be found in all Australian states and territories and typically resides in open bodies of fresh water. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.A Great Crested Grebe in a tall position standing on a wooden pedestal. It has a long neck and bill with coloured plumage. The crest is black with orange and black cheek "fans" on the sides of the face. The eyes are made of glass and are a red/black colour. On paper tag: "[Austra]lian... [G]rebe... [pa]ge, 42" taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, great crested grebe

The Red-Necked Grebe is a medium sized bird with a long neck and pointed bill. During the non-breeding months, this bird has grey, white and brown plumage. During the breeding seasons, the Red-necked Grebe has a rusty red coloured fore-neck and breast with a black bill and white cheeks. This species can be located in freshwater lakes of the northern hemisphere. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.A Red-Necked Grebe of medium size stylised in a standing position with the face positioned forward. The bird stands on a wooden pedestal with two tags around its legs. One tag is paper and documents cataloguing information and the second is metal and lists the number 4492. This Red-Necked Grebe has pale feathers of white, grey and browns typical of this species in the non-breeding months. The face is positioned towards the front and the small eyes are made from dark glass.Paper tag: 32a Red-necked Grebe Catalogue, Page, 43. Metal tag: 4492taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, red-necked grebe

This gun was presented to Robert O’Hara Burke Esq in 1858 by the Beechworth Police in recognition of his four years’ service as the Police Superintendent at Beechworth. It arrived back in Beechworth on Thursday 10th April, 2014.Presented to R. O’Hara Burke Esq / Supt. of Police by the Officers of the district on his transfer from Beechworth / November 1858 /burke, robert o'hara burke, burke museum, robert o'hara burke museum, firearm, burke and wills, burke & wills, burke and wills expedition, expedition, beechworth, indigo shire, north-east victoria, revolver

This image taken between 1920-1930 depicts open-cut hydraulic sluicing at the Three Mile Mine, located about five kilometres south of Beechworth. Alluvial, or surface, mining began on this site in the 1850s, but was soon replaced by hydraulic sluicing methods. By the start of 1880 it is estimated that nine hundred miles of water races had been cut though soil and rock in the Beechworth district. Hydraulic sluicing employs high pressure jets of water to blast away large areas of earth and wash it down to be run through a sluice box. Gold gets caught in the sluice and the remaining slurry is washed away. Large water quantities were required for hydraulic sluicing, and the long water races and deep tailraces that were constructed were considered great engineering feats. This method of mining is extremely effective, but causes significant environmental damage and impacts to waterways and agricultural operations. Miners at Beechworth built extensive networks of races and dams to secure reliable supplies of water on a scale far greater than elsewhere in Victoria. By the 1880s Beechworth's water barons continued to hold more than half of all the water right licences on issue and undertook sluicing operations on a massive scale. The manipulation of surface and ground water via race networks was well planned and recorded in detail by local mining surveyors. The maps that were created, combined with modern geo-spatial technologies, provide a vital key in understanding the great lengths to which miners went to capture and control critical water resources. Today, Three Mile mine is called Baarmutha. The Three Mile Mine was unproductive until 1865 when John Pund and three other miners secured a fifteen year license and constructed a water race from Upper Nine Mile Creek to Three Mile Creek. In the early twentieth century Pund & Co. averaged over one thousand ounces of gold per year from the mine. After Pund's death in 1915, GSG Amalgamated Co operated the site, continuing sluicing until 1950. This image of hydraulic sluicing methods shows the extent of water-works engineering in the landscape. This photograph has historic and research potential for understanding changes to the landscape, the evolution of mining methods, and the extensive construction, manipulation and management of water networks in the Beechworth district. Black and white rectangular photograph on matte paperReverse: 7597-1 / Sluice Mining / Copied from original on loan from Webb (Qld) / Donated Nov 2009 / Baarmutha Three Mile Mine c1920-1950 / Managed by the Plain Bros then Parkinsons / Current Location is: Beechworth Animal Shelter / used for Baarmuthaburke museum, beechworth museum, beechworth, gold fields, gold rush, victorian gold rush, hydraulic sluicing, spring creek, netwown falls, mining tunnels, water races, tailraces, gold ming history, colonial australia, australian gold rushes, mining technology, beechworth historic district, indigo gold trail, indigo shire, john pund, water manipulation, water engineering, three mile creek, three mile mine, water race, large-scale mining methods, historical mining construction, alluvial mining, mining environmental impacts, baarmutha, water barons

This image shows an unknown location in the area of Beechworth that was possibly used as a sluicing mining site for gold during the Victorian Gold Rush. This era saw an influx of Chinese immigrants and Australian prospectors hoping to strike it rich on the fields. Many companies such as the Rocky Mountain Extended Gold Sluicing Company Ltd and the Cocks Pioneer Gold &Tin Sluicing Company also set up mines in the area. This site may be the location of one of these company's mines. The wooden logs are reminiscent of known sluicing operations in the era from that time. Sluicing involved the use of high-pressured hoses to clear away soil from earth that had been dug up by miners and was a popular method of excavation in the area, although it had severe impacts on the environment.The search for gold is ingrained into the history of Victoria and therefore, images like this one which portray an open cut sluicing site can reveal important information for society and technology for the date when the photograph was taken. This image is of important historical significance for its ability to convey information about sluicing and the methods used to find gold. It also shows a location where sluicing was undertook which provides insight into the impact of sluicing on the environment at a time when it was done.A colour rectangular photograph printed on glossy photographic paperReverse: 6855 /beechworth, gold rush, sluicing, mining

The Australasian Grebe is a small duck-like bird with a hyperactive nature. These birds reside in small, shallow, freshwater lakes and ponds, small waterways or sheltered caves and bays. They can be found throughout Australia and the Pacific region and New Zealand. The Australasian Grebe eat mainly small freshwater fish, crayfish, shellfish and leeches which they catch by diving underwater. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.This Australasian Grebe is in a standing position on a wooden platform with identification tags tied to the right leg. It has dark glass eyes and pale grey bill and legs. The plumage of this specimen consists of dark greys and browns on the rear with lighter colours on the underside. These colours align with those of the non-breeding season. This species has rufous red colouring on the chest and neck and darker colouring on the head during the breeding season. Paper tag: "34a Dabchick Catalogue, page, 64" Metal Tag: "4496"taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, grebe, australasian grebe, dabchick

The Buff-banded Rail is located on mainland Australia. It can also be found in south-east Asia, New Guinea and New Zealand. These birds are often seen individually or in pairs walking through the dense reeds and vegetations of wetlands or crops. This rail has a slow walk and often flicks its tail, which is raised, as they move. They are omnivore scavengers who feed on a large variety of invertebrates, fruit, seeds and vegetables. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is in a standing position on a wooden platform. The Buff-Branded Rail has a pale grey/yellow eyebrow over the black glass eyes and a pale yellow bill. It also has an orange and brown coloured band on its breast. This bird is multicoloured with streaks of chestnut brown, black, white and a faint orange-brown. This specimen has a paper tag tied to its right leg and a grey/back label on the wooden platform.Platform: "Banded Landrail" Paper tag: "National Museum Victoria. Banded Landrail Hypotoenidia w8 427 Philippensis (L)"taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, landrail, buff-banded rail

The Australian Spotted Crake can be found the south-east and the south-west of Australia. It is unlikely to be seen in Queensland or Tasmania and frequents much of New South Wales, Victoria and north-eastern South Australia. They reside in wetlands and are often found in dense growths of plants. The Australian Spotted Crake is a timid bird which flicks its tail as they walk. If disturbed, they may run away in a crouched position with their tail raised. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is a small, stocky bird with yellow legs and bill. The Australian Spotted Crake has grey colouring on its neck and an orange on the nape of its neck. The torso and rear are striped with black and grey/cream colours and have white spots along the rear. The specimen has brown feathers on the wings. It stands on a wooden platform in a standing position with a paper identification tag tied around its left leg. 19c Spotted Water Crake. See Catalogue, Page, 35.taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, spotted crake, crake, australian birds, australian spotted crake

Dusky Moorhens are a medium sized, dark coloured water bird. They are located in the wetlands of eastern and south-western Australia. They can also be found in India, New Guinea, Borneo and Indonesia. These birds have a bright face shield located above the bill; however, the bright colour of this feature grows duller in females and young males during autumn and winter. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century. This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.A Dusky Moorhen standing on a wooden platform with a paper tag attached to its left leg. The specimen has a sooty-black plumage with a yellow bill and black/yellow legs/toes. It has remnants of what would have been a reddish-yellow shield on its forehead. "18c Australian Coot. See Catalogue, Page, 35"taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, dusky moorhen, waterbird

The White-necked Heron (also known as the Pacific Heron) is commonly found throughout mainland Australia. It resides mainly in locations with freshwater and in tidal areas. These birds are carnivores and mainly eat fish, crustaceans, amphibians and insects. They are also known to feed on young freshwater rats, young ducklings and lizards. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.The White-Necked Heron has been stylised in a standing position on a wooden platform. The bird has long black legs and a long white neck with black spots decorating the front of the neck. The head is also white and the bill black. The front torso of the bird is cream mixed with brown plumage and the back. The rear and wings are a dark brown. [illegible] Heron / See Catalogue, page 33. /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, australian birds, white-necked heron, heron, pacific heron

The White-necked Heron (also known as the Pacific Heron) is commonly found throughout mainland Australia. It resides mainly in locations with freshwater and in tidal areas. These birds are carnivores and mainly eat fish, crustaceans, amphibians and insects. They are also known to feed on young freshwater rats, young ducklings and lizards. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.The White-Necked Heron has been stylised in a standing position on a wooden platform. It is facing forwards but looking over its left shoulder. The eyes of this specimen are made from yellow glass. The bird has long black legs and a long white neck with black spots decorating the front of the neck. The head is also white and the bill black. The front torso of the bird is cream mixed with brown plumage and the back. The rear and wings are a dark brown.taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, australian birds, white-necked heron, heron, pacific heron

The Musk Lorikeet is a bright coloured bird which commonly resides in south-eastern Australia. They also live in the drier areas of Tasmania. These birds are common in suburban and urban areas and are nomadic, meaning they are willing to travel significant distance to find flowering trees. The bright colours of this Lorikeet enable the bird to camouflage in dense foliage. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.The Musk Lorikeet is a beautiful species of parrot with mainly green plumage. it has a patch of yellow on the side of the breast which has faded to a grey on this specimen. This could be due to the impact of the taxidermy process or a product of time. The bird has an orange patch on the forehead and band through he eye to the ear coverts which has also faded from a brighter red colour. The crown of this bird is grey and would have been a grey-blue colour originally.87a / (89a)? Musk Lorikeet / See catalogue, page 24. /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, australian birds, lorikeet, musk lorikeet

The Azure Kingfisher can be located throughout northern and eastern Australia. It can also been found in parts of Indonesia, New Guinea and surrounding islands. This species frequents the Kimberley region in Western Australia and and the Top End of Queensland. In Victoria, it resides inland near the Murray-Darling Basin. These birds prefer to make their homes near bodies of water such as creeks and rivers. They live in areas with shady vegetation. This particular species of Kingfisher are known for their bright and contrasting colouring and tiny stature. They are the smallest Kingfisher found in Australia. These birds feed on yabbies and small fish. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.The Azure Kingfisher is stylized perched upon a wooden stand and has a paper identification tag attached to one of its legs. This bird has a combination of blue, yellow/orange and black plumage. The orange colour is located upon its chest while the royal blue is upon the rear of the bird on its back and head. The blue has faded in places due to age. The specimen is a diminutive bird species with a wide torso and a long and slender black bill. It has a short tail and two glass black eyes. The feet are a pale cream colour.11a. / Azure Kingfisher See Catalogue, page 9. /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, australian birds, kingfisher, azure, azure kingfisher, small birds, brightly coloured birds

The Musk Lorikeet is a bright coloured bird which commonly resides in south-eastern Australia. They also live in the drier areas of Tasmania. These birds are common in suburban and urban areas and are nomadic, meaning they are willing to travel significant distance to find flowering trees. The bright colours of this Lorikeet enable the bird to camouflage in dense foliage. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.The Musk Lorikeet is a beautiful species of parrot with mainly green plumage. It has a patch of yellow on the side of the breast which has faded to a grey on this specimen. This could be due to the impact of the taxidermy process or a product of time. The bird has an orange patch on the forehead and band through he eye to the ear coverts which has also faded from a brighter red colour. The crown of this bird is grey and would have been a grey-blue colour originally.88a / Musk Lorikeet / See Catalogue, page 24. /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, australian birds, lorikeet, musk lorikeet