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Brighton Historical Society
Dress, c1930s
This item is part of the Di Reidie collection. Diane Reidie was a much loved volunteer and President of Brighton Historical Society from 1999 until 2016. Originally from New Zealand, Di and her family lived in Male Street, Brighton for many years. A vibrant and energetic person with a zest for life and a gift for bringing people together, Di was a friend to many in the Bayside community and active in local community organisations. Her tireless work as President of BHS saw her named Bayside Citizen of the Year in 2008. As a seller and collector of vintage clothing, she was passionate about fashion history; one of her many enduring contributions to BHS was her extensive work in preserving, developing and promoting the Society's costume collection. In 2018-19, Di donated more than one hundred items from her personal vintage clothing collection to the Society. The collection, which includes clothing, hats, handbags and shoes from local and international designers, is representative of Di's wide-ranging interests, colourful personality, creativity, humour and love of fashion and travel. Di purchased this 1930s dress in 1983 to wear to her sister's Registry Office wedding in William Street, Melbourne. It was the first vintage clothing item she ever purchased and was the starting point of a lifelong love of collecting, preserving and promoting historical clothing. She subsequently wore the dress to a great number of events and considered it an important piece in her wardrobe. c1930s black cotton filet net dress with white cotton embroidered flowers. The dress fastens centre front with three hook and eyes, eleven black silk covered buttons and finished with black acetate ribbon band pussy bow at the neck , is slim fitting and finishes at approximately knee length. The head of the sleeve is gathered with a small shoulder band and finishes above the elbow with a black silk band. filet net, 1930s, di reidie, vintage clothing -
Brighton Historical Society
Shoes, c1890s
This item is part of the Di Reidie collection. Diane Reidie was a much loved volunteer and President of Brighton Historical Society from 1999 until 2016. Originally from New Zealand, Di and her family lived in Male Street, Brighton for many years. A vibrant and energetic person with a zest for life and a gift for bringing people together, Di was a friend to many in the Bayside community and active in local community organisations. Her tireless work as President of BHS saw her named Bayside Citizen of the Year in 2008. As a seller and collector of vintage clothing, she was passionate about fashion history; one of her many enduring contributions to BHS was her extensive work in preserving, developing and promoting the Society's costume collection. In 2018-19, Di donated more than one hundred items from her personal vintage clothing collection to the Society. The collection, which includes clothing, hats, handbags and shoes from local and international designers, is representative of Di's wide-ranging interests, colourful personality, creativity, humour and love of fashion and travel. Di purchased these 1890s shoes around 1990 and recalled wearing them to approximately three events before she donated them to BHS in 2019. Di enjoyed the novelty and conversation they would inspire due to their unusual appearance by modern standards. The shoes are indicative of Di's playful approach to clothing and life. The decorative preserved mink pelt with head featured on the vamps of these shoes is typical of Victorian era interest in and prevalent use of preserved animals for decorative purposes in clothing, millinery and household adornment. This fashion reflected social positioning of oneself as being affluent, educated and worldly. Following the death of Queen Victoria's husband Prince Albert in 1861, the Queen's approach to mourning his death influenced social conventions for the public, with the wearing of black becoming a significant aspect of Victorian fashions. The shoes were made by Kendal Milne & Co, a large department store on Deansgate, Manchester. It has traded under various names and owners since it opened in 1832; it traded as Kendal Milne & Co from 1862-1919, and continued to be known by this name for many years after. The store is currently owned by the House of Fraser department store chain and is known as House of Fraser Manchester.Black silk linear quilted uppers of single piece construction with feature centre front vamp seam. Horsehair wadding can be seen along the side of the forefoot where the upper is coming away from the leather soles. Approx 4.5 cm plain black silk covered heel with leather top piece missing from right shoe. Both shoes feature the head of a small preserved mink with glass eyes. The toppling of the vamp features a decorative strip of mink fur. Inside of both shoes is a gold printed manufacturers label on the black silk insole.Manufacturers label - Made expressly for Kendall Milne and Co, Manchester.victoriana, mink pelt, taxidermy, 1890s, fur, di reidie, vintage clothing -
Brighton Historical Society
Trousers, Howard Showers, "Howard Showers" trousers, c1990s
This item is part of the Di Reidie collection. Diane Reidie was a much loved volunteer and President of Brighton Historical Society from 1999 until 2016. Originally from New Zealand, Di and her family lived in Male Street, Brighton for many years. A vibrant and energetic person with a zest for life and a gift for bringing people together, Di was a friend to many in the Bayside community and active in local community organisations. Her tireless work as President of BHS saw her named Bayside Citizen of the Year in 2008. As a seller and collector of vintage clothing, she was passionate about fashion history; one of her many enduring contributions to BHS was her extensive work in preserving, developing and promoting the Society's costume collection. In 2018-19, Di donated more than one hundred items from her personal vintage clothing collection to the Society. The collection, which includes clothing, hats, handbags and shoes from local and international designers, is representative of Di's wide-ranging interests, colourful personality, creativity, humour and love of fashion and travel. Di wore these novelty car print "Howard Showers" pants to many car rally events in Victoria, Australia and USA between 1990 and 2010, where she would perform the role of navigator and co-driver in a team with her husband David. Di's choice of clothing at the rallies is indicative of her sense of humour and attitude towards clothing. Cream coloured cotton French terry cloth pants with metal zip fly front, branded button closure, feature red stitching and printed cars in black ink. There are several car designs featured with each design appearing c1960s - 1970s. One car design features the name "Howard" on its number plate. Manufacturers label "Howard Showers, Holiday, size 12" Metal button inscription "Howard Showers, Syd (Sydney), Aust (Australia). "Made in Australia". Care label. howard showers, novelty print clothing, 1990s, di reidie -
Brighton Historical Society
Evening outfit, Four piece outfit of blouse, camisole, skirt and wrap, c.1997
This item is part of the Di Reidie collection. Diane Reidie was a much loved volunteer and President of Brighton Historical Society from 1999 until 2016. Originally from New Zealand, Di and her family lived in Male Street, Brighton for many years. A vibrant and energetic person with a zest for life and a gift for bringing people together, Di was a friend to many in the Bayside community and active in local community organisations. Her tireless work as President of BHS saw her named Bayside Citizen of the Year in 2008. As a seller and collector of vintage clothing, she was passionate about fashion history; one of her many enduring contributions to BHS was her extensive work in preserving, developing and promoting the Society's costume collection. In 2018-19, Di donated more than one hundred items from her personal vintage clothing collection to the Society. The collection, which includes clothing, hats, handbags and shoes from local and international designers, is representative of Di's wide-ranging interests, colourful personality, creativity, humour and love of fashion and travel. Of all the items Di donated to the Society, this four-piece Easton Pearson outfit was her favourite. When she bought it around 1997-98, it was the first time she had spent a large amount of money on clothing, and she thought it only fitting to throw a suitably elegant party at which to wear it. James Cameron's hit movie 'Titanic' had just been released, and upon discovering the recipe book 'Last Dinner On the Titanic: Menus and Recipes from the Great Liner', Di was inspired to host a Titanic-themed party for her friends. Held at her home in Brighton in 1998, the event included a string quartet, an eleven-course meal prepared entirely by Di, and a life boat in the backyard swimming pool.A four piece outfit consisting of a blouse/cardigan, camisole, skirt and wrap. Double-layered silk wrap with an outer layer of silk chiffon. Both ends feature and embroidered band of brown and black cotton, copper wire, and copper glass beads. Camisole of black and copper shot polyester rayon with wide shoulder straps and small shoulder pads. Blouse of brown silk chiffon, with a v-neck and eleven silk-covered buttons and loops at centre front. Patch pockets over front hip and full length sleeves. The neckline and sleeve edges are trimmed with copper-coloured glass beads. Full-length double-layered straight skirt with black and copper shot polyester rayon lining and silk chiffon overskirt. The skirt secures centre back with a nylon zip and botton closure. The skirt features a centre front embroidered panel of brown and black cotton leaf and flower motifs, with copper wire and copper glass beads. manufacturer's label: "Oh! Easton Pearson", "Pure Silk", "Polyester Rayon", Care label, "M"costume party, titanic, easton pearson, pamela easton, lydia pearson, australian fashion, di reidie, 1990s -
Brighton Historical Society
Jacket, c1990s
This item is part of the Di Reidie collection. Diane Reidie was a much loved volunteer and President of Brighton Historical Society from 1999 until 2016. Originally from New Zealand, Di and her family lived in Male Street, Brighton for many years. A vibrant and energetic person with a zest for life and a gift for bringing people together, Di was a friend to many in the Bayside community and active in local community organisations. Her tireless work as President of BHS saw her named Bayside Citizen of the Year in 2008. As a seller and collector of vintage clothing, she was passionate about fashion history; one of her many enduring contributions to BHS was her extensive work in preserving, developing and promoting the Society's costume collection. In 2018-19, Di donated more than one hundred items from her personal vintage clothing collection to the Society. The collection, which includes clothing, hats, handbags and shoes from local and international designers, is representative of Di's wide-ranging interests, colourful personality, creativity, humour and love of fashion and travel. This jacket originally belonged to Australian singer, actress and philanthropist Olivia Newton-John, who autographed it and donated it to be auctioned at a Leather and Lace Ball for the Austin Health Olivia Newton-John Cancer Centre Appeal on 15 May 2004. Newton-John has long been an advocate for cancer research and awareness, having undergone multiple treatments for cancer, a disease Di also battled for many years. Di's husband David purchased the jacket at the auction for around $1,000, and it has since been much worn by Di and her daughter Kathryn. The nature of the jacket - which is faux-leather, with glued-on diamantés, suggests that it was likely part of a stage costume rather than an item from Olivia Newton-John's personal wardrobe.Black polyester leather look jacket with black polyester lining. The jacket features a centre front opening secured by six black press studs, two bust height flap pockets with press studs, and collar. Full length sleeves with band and black press stud closure. The jacket features diamanté decorative finish along the collar and shoulder placket. "IMMAGINE, Made in Italy" "40" "Made in Italy, Fabrique en Italie, 100% Polyiestere, Polyestere, Polyester, Polyester" Personal signature of Olivia Newton John in fine silver pen, "Love Olivia Newton John, 04".olivia newton john, stage costume, olivia newton john cancer centre, austin health, di reidie, immagine, 1990s -
Brighton Historical Society
Jacket, Kimono, c.1960s
This item is part of the Di Reidie collection. Diane Reidie was a much loved volunteer and President of Brighton Historical Society from 1999 until 2016. Originally from New Zealand, Di and her family lived in Male Street, Brighton for many years. A vibrant and energetic person with a zest for life and a gift for bringing people together, Di was a friend to many in the Bayside community and active in local community organisations. Her tireless work as President of BHS saw her named Bayside Citizen of the Year in 2008. As a seller and collector of vintage clothing, she was passionate about fashion history; one of her many enduring contributions to BHS was her extensive work in preserving, developing and promoting the Society's costume collection. In 2018-19, Di donated more than one hundred items from her personal vintage clothing collection to the Society. The collection, which includes clothing, hats, handbags and shoes from local and international designers, is representative of Di's wide-ranging interests, colourful personality, creativity, humour and love of fashion and travel. In 2006, as Di prepared for a trip to New York City, fellow BHS volunteer Liz Gay gifted her a copy of the book “Alligators, Old Mink and New Money” by vintage clothing dealer and former fashion model Alison Houtte. Between 1995 and 2015, ran the vintage and second hand clothing store Hooti Couture at 321 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn, and after reading the book Di was inspired to seek out the shop. During her visit she met Alison, who autographed her book, and purchased this kimono jacket from the store.Pure silk black kimono with red silk lining. The kimono features floral and leaf motif machine embroidery in pale pink and green."Made in Japan"hooti couture, alligators, old mink and new money, kimono, alison houtte, vintage clothing, di reidie, 1960s -
Brighton Historical Society
Uniform, NSW Mounted Rifles waistcoat, circa 1899
NSW Mounted Rifles officer's mess dress waistcoat worn by Lieutenant William Augustine Newman (1873-1955) during the Second Boer War. Born in Campbelltown, NSW, William began working in the colonial public service at the age of eighteen. In 1899 he travelled to South Africa to fight in the Second Boer War as an officer of the 1st NSW Mounted Rifles. Returning to Australia in time for Federation on 1 January 1901, William rejoined the public service and was appointed to the original staff of Prime Minister Sir Edmund Barton, attending the first opening of Federal Parliament in Melbourne as Barton's private secretary. He went on to serve as the chief clerk of the Home Affairs Department, Commonwealth Electoral Officer for Victoria and official secretary to the Governor-General. In 1927 he was appointed Administrator of Nauru, a position he occupied until his retirement at the end of 1932. He retired to Brighton, where he lived with his family at 43 Martin Street until his death in 1955.Black NSW Mounted Rifles officer's mess dress waistcoat. Black superfine wool front, with black cotton back and cream cotton lining. The neck, front and bottom front edge are edged with gold metal lace and gold cording in an Austrian knot style. Two front pockets are edged in the same looped cording. The left front opening is edged with a row of decorative gold metal studs, with hook and eye fastenings underneath.Handwritten in pen on lining: "MESS WAISTCOAT / BOER WAR / LIEUT. NEWMAN / Gift of Mrs. D. Kelly, daughter".military uniform, nsw mounted rifles, boer war, william augustine newman -
Brighton Historical Society
Dress and jacket, begun 1920s, finished 1970s
Brighton councillor Sally Allmand's grandmother Minnie Toms (1878-1983) began making this dress and matching jacket in the 1920s, but never finished it. Sally's mother (also named Minnie, 1914-2001) finished it in the 1970s and Sally wore it when, as Mayor of Brighton in 1981, she was introduced to the Queen during a Royal visit.Sleeveless black floral lace dress (.1) with v-neck and matching collarless jacket (.2) with scalloped bottom hem.sally allmand, minnie toms, brighton council, politics -
Brighton Historical Society
Uniform, Girl Guide uniform, circa 1952-1953
This uniform was worn by Sandra "Sally" Allmand circa 1953-57 as a member of the 3rd St Andrews Girl Guides company in Brighton. Sally Allmand went on to serve on the Brighton Council from 1977 to 1983 and was mayor in 1981.1950s Girl Guides uniform consisting of a dress, belt and beret. Blue cotton dress with long sleeves and high collared neck. Various patches sewn onto sleeves and front breast. Three front pockets fastening with black plastic buttons featuring Girl Guides trefoil logo. Breast pocket has two vertical white stripes. Brown leather belt with silver metal buckle with embossed Girl Guides logo and the text "Girl Guides Association / Be Prepared". Navy blue felt beret with two sewn-on patches. Included with the dress are a Girl Guides 'test card' dated 1953 and a rectangular De Reszke cigarette tin containing a collection of Girl Guide ribbons, patches and buttons. .1 - Dress .2 - Belt .3 - Beret .4 - Test card .5 - Box of patches and ribbonsDress label: "The Guide Shop / STATE HEADQUARTERS / RUN BY GUIDES / FOR GUIDES".girl guides, sally allmand, 1950s -
Brighton Historical Society
Shoes, circa 1867
These shoes were worn by Emily Cock (nee Smith), the daughter of wealthy early settler John Matthew Smith. From 1856 until 1931 the Smiths lived at 'Castlefield', a mansion on a vast estate that at one time stretched along South Road from Bluff Road to Hampton Street. The land was gradually subdivided, and the house is now a part of Haileybury College. Julien Mayer was a French ladies shoemaker and prolific exporter who advertised his successes on the shoes themselves by stamping the soles with details of the prizes he had won.Pair of black kid leather shoes with low block heel, decorated with pink silk, cut-away applique and embroidery. Pink bow with metal clasp on one shoe; missing from the other. Edged with pink silk ribbon binding, largely deteriorated.Sole embossed with "MAYER / Julien / à Paris", in addition to tamped with three small medallions proclaiming the awards the shoemaker won in London in 1862, Porto in 1865 and Paris in 1867. Handwritten in interior sole of T0124.2 in pencil: "Emily Smith / Castlefield"emily smith, castlefield, shoes, 1860s, applique, embroidery, julien mayer -
Brighton Historical Society
Dress, Stage costume, circa 1950s-70s
Purchased from an opportunity shop, this dress is a stage costume bearing the label of Bonn & Mackenzie, a prominent UK costume designer from the 1950s to the 1970s. The dress appears to have been worn by June Bronhill (1929-2005), a prominent Australian opera singer and actress, whose name is handwritten on the label. Born June Mary Gough, she began using the stage name of Bronhill in 1952 in honour of her NSW home town of Broken Hill as a form of thanks to the local community who had helped raise money to send her overseas for professional training as a singer. Bronhill trained in London and gained early exposure with the English National Opera. She went on to star in many theatrical productions in Australia and the UK. She moved back to Australia permanently in 1976, and in 1980 was cast in her first television role as Mrs Crawford in the Australian version of 'Are You Being Served?'.Full-length short-sleeved dress of white cotton, lace and nylon, featuring elaborately ruffled sleeves and vertical stripes of lace on the skirt and bodice. The dress is open at the back, fastening with hooks and cotton ties to facilitate quick costume changes.Label, white cotton with red text: "BONN & MACKENZIE LTD. / TEMPLE BAR 1393". Handwritten underneath in black pen: "JUNE BRONHILL".june bronhill, bonn & mackenzie, theatre costume -
Brighton Historical Society
Bodice, circa 1900
This bodice belonged to Mary Crombie, an early Victorian dentist, who lived in Brighton while she was studying at the Australian College of Dentistry in the mid-1900s, and later returned to the area in her retirement from 1949-1971. Mary Margaret Crombie (1884-1971) was born at Coan Downs Station near Walgett, northern New South Wales, where her father Henry was station manager. After Henry’s untimely death in 1895, Mary and her mother loved for a few years with family members in St Kilda, before moving into a cottage of their own, ‘Rosewood’, at 42 Asling Street, Brighton around 1899. From here, Mary attended Oberwyl Ladies College in St Kilda and later the Australian College of Dentistry, one of only a few women to study dental surgery at the time. She was apprenticed to Ada Tovell (1865-1932), one of Victoria’s first female dentists, who had her own practice in Collins Street. Mary graduated in 1907 and the following year moved with he mother to Yarram in South Gippsland, where she took over the running of a practice owned by Sale dentist Charles Trood, eventually purchasing it from him in 1915. Speaking to a Brighton newspaper in 1961, Mary said she believed that she was the first woman to start a dental practice in Gippsland. For some locals, this took a little getting used to: “Many were amazed, and had some misgivings, when they found that the local dentist was a woman,” she said. “I always remember a huge farmer (he was about 6 ft. 4 in.), who had fortified himself at the local hotel to face the ordeal of visiting the dentist. He almost turned and ran when he saw me. … He was still more amazed when I pulled out his tooth without undue trouble.” The farmer was the best advertisement she could have asked for, telling everybody about the diminutive lady dentist who had calmly extracted his tooth. Mary practiced in Yarram until her retirement in 1949. After selling her practice she returned to Brighton, where she spent the last two decades of her life residing at 25 Oak Grove. Following her death in 1971, her relatives in Brighton donated a number of items from her home to BHS.Black satin bodice, boned, with black faceted glass buttons down the front. High collar. Both collar and cuffs are edged with a black net ruffle. Two rows of seven black crochet-covered buttons at each cuff, fastening with loops. Stray brown threads poking through fabric around the collar, shoulders and back indicate that these areas may originally have featured lace embellishments.mary crombie, 1900s -
Brighton Historical Society
Dress
This dress belonged to Brighton woman Mariam Issa, an author, public speaker and co-founder with Katharina Kons of the nonprofit organisation Resilient Aspiring Women (RAW). Born in Somalia, Mariam and her family arrived in Australia as refugees in 1998. Seeking to bring women together and foster connections, in 2012 Mariam opened her Brighton backyard to the community. The RAW community garden unites women from all cultures through gardening, food and storytelling.Long loose kaftan-style dress, turquoise cotton with black, brown and cream embroidery around neck and shoulders, depicting large brown flowers surrounded by swirling cream border. Round neck and short, loose sleeves.mariam issa, migration, somalia, resilient aspiring women -
Brighton Historical Society
Dress, circa 1920
This dress belonged to Ellen Davis, nee McLaughlin (1870-1956), great-grandmother of Margaret Lake. Ellen was born in County Donegal, Ireland. She married George Washington Davis in 1890 and the couple moved to South Africa, where George owned a bicycle store. During this time, Margaret says, Ellen "had a life of luxury, having servants at her beck and call and even sleeping at the foot of her bed to protect her from any harm". She was a "tiny lady of 5 foot tall" and George "could put his hands around her waist of 18 inches". On coming to Australia they opened a garage and taxi service in Graham Street, Port Melbourne. They lived here until Ellen's death in a road accident in 1956. Ellen gave the dress to her great-granddaughter when Margaret was ten years old. Aged 62, Margaret told BHS, "I have worn it on several occasions, mostly to costume parties and fancy-dress balls when I was younger. I have loved it all this time and displayed it on a dress model in my last home". As she had no granddaughter of her own to leave it to, she decided to donate the dress so that it would continue to be cared for.Sleeveless black silk crepe dress with V-neck and scalloped hem. Covered with black beaded designs, with white bead and iridescent pink sequin accents.margaret lake, ellen davis, ellen mclaughlin, beading, 1920s -
Brighton Historical Society
Dress, Evening dress, late 1950s - early 1960s
This item is part of the Di Reidie collection. Diane Reidie was a much loved volunteer and President of Brighton Historical Society from 1999 until 2016. Originally from New Zealand, Di and her family lived in Male Street, Brighton for many years. A vibrant and energetic person with a zest for life and a gift for bringing people together, Di was a friend to many in the Bayside community and active in local community organisations. Her tireless work as President of BHS saw her named Bayside Citizen of the Year in 2008. As a seller and collector of vintage clothing, she was passionate about fashion history; one of her many enduring contributions to BHS was her extensive work in preserving, developing and promoting the Society's costume collection. In 2018-19, Di donated more than one hundred items from her personal vintage clothing collection to the Society. The collection, which includes clothing, hats, handbags and shoes from local and international designers, is representative of Di's wide-ranging interests, colourful personality, creativity, humour and love of fashion and travel. Di purchased this dress as a vintage item.Light brown floor-length silk evening dress featuring a band of black and bronze beading around neckling. Circular beaded buckles at either side of waist. Zip at back.Label, pale blue on cream "Exclusively Yours / Hartnell REGD / MELBOURNE" Label, black on pale grey: "Exclusive Finest / IMPORTED FABRIC".di reidie, vintage clothing, melbourne designers, hartnell of melbourne, ralph samuel -
Brighton Historical Society
Headwear - Hat, Beret, circa 1956
This beret was worn by Marlene Austin, nee Trenberth in 1956 as part of the uniform of an official driver for the Melbourne Olympic Games. Marlene, who was living with her parents in Brighton at the time, took leave from her job as a stenographer to work as a driver at the Olympics. She drove officials and dignitaries from a variety of nations (including Thailand, Italy, Cuba and Sweden) to and from events, collecting a number of souvenirs, including a Venezuelan pennant and a pair of earrings gifted by the Thai delegation. Marlene's family have lived in Brighton since 1941, when her parents moved into a house at 15 Moffat Street. The house remained in the family for more than 75 years, before it was sold in 2018.Green wool beret featuring an oval-shaped white patch embroidered with the five Olympic rings. Grey lining.Label in lining, cream with yellow text: "COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT CLOTHING FACTORY / MELBOURNE" Stamped on top of this text in black: "7⅛"marlene pearl austin, marlene pearl trenberth, 1950s, 1956 olympic games, olympic games, beret -
Brighton Historical Society
Earrings, circa 1956
These earrings were given to Marlene Austin, nee Trenberth by members of the Thai Olympic delegation when she drove them around Melbourne during the 1956 Olympic Games. Marlene, who was living with her parents in Brighton at the time, took leave from her job as a stenographer to work as an official driver at the Olympics. She drove officials and dignitaries from a variety of nations (including Thailand, Italy, Cuba and Sweden) to and from events, collecting a number of souvenirs. Marlene's family have lived in Brighton since 1941, when her parents moved into a house at 15 Moffat Street. The house remained in the family for more than 75 years, before it was sold in 2018.Six-sided bell-shaped silver screw-back earrings for non-pierced ears. Each of the six sides features a vine pattern with black inlays. Each earring has a hollow interior containing a small metal bead dangling on a chain, causing the earrings to jingle when the wearer moves.marlene pearl austin, marlene pearl trenberth, 1950s, 1956 olympic games, olympic games, earrings, jewellery -
Brighton Historical Society
Flag, Pennant, circa 1956
This Venezuelan 1956 Olympic pennant was souvenired by Marlene Austin, nee Trenberth in 1956 when she was working as an official driver for the Melbourne Olympic Games. Marlene, who was living with her parents in Brighton at the time, took leave from her job as a stenographer to work as a driver at the Olympics. She drove officials and dignitaries from a variety of nations (including Thailand, Italy, Cuba and Sweden) to and from events, collecting a number of souvenirs. Marlene's family have lived in Brighton since 1941, when her parents moved into a house at 15 Moffat Street. The house remained in the family for more than 75 years, before it was sold in 2018.White triangular pennant with a blue border. The pennant features the image of the Olympic rings, with the central ring replaced by the image of the Olympic flame burning in a cauldron atop a Grecian pillar. Inside each of the four remaining rings are images of athletes competing in sporting events: a hurdler, a shooter, two boxers and a cyclist.Above the Olympic flame, the word "MELBOURNE" is printed in black. To the right of the image, printed in yellow, red and blue, is the text "VENEZUELA A LOS / XVI / JUEGOS OLIMPICOS" At the far right is the year "1956" in yellow text on a black background.marlene pearl austin, marlene pearl trenberth, 1950s, 1956 olympic games, olympic games, pennant, venezuela -
Brighton Historical Society
Bag, Evening purse, circa 1930
This bag belonged to by Mrs Alice "May" Moss CBE (1869-1948), Australian suffragist, social welfare campaigner and longtime resident of 59 North Road, Brighton. Born Alice Frances Mabel Wilson in Ballarat, in 1887 May married Isidore Moss, the son of Norwood's builder Mark Moss. While her children were young, she began to campaign for the rights of women and served as vice-president of the Australian Women's National League in 1906-14, during which time she actively campaigned in Victoria for women's suffrage. She was an Australian delegate at the League of Nations Assembly at Geneva in 1927, where she was the first woman to sit on a finance committee. She attended the International Council of Women in Geneva in the same year and in 1928 was elected as vice president of the ICW, a position she held until her death. She was the first president of the National Council of Women of Australia, serving from 1931 to 1936. May was active in many other community organisations and causes, including the Royal Women's Hospital, the Collingwood Crèche and the Free Kindergarten movement. She served on the board of management of the City Newsboys' Society in 1906-48 and was the first woman lay-member of the National Health and Medical Research Council in 1936-45. She was also member of the International and Lyceum clubs, with an interest in the theatre, painting and woodcarving.French petit point tapestry bag featuring seven people in a bucolic scene, with trees and buildings in the background. Black border. Gold metal hinged opening with ornamental clasp and gold chain.may moss, petit point, 1930s -
Brighton Historical Society
Purse, Coin purse, circa 1966
Australia converted to decimal currency on 14 February 1966. This coin purse is printed with a simple conversion table to help the user navigate the switch from pounds, shillings and pence to the new dollars and cents.Cream vinyl coin purse with conversion table for pre-decimal and decimal currency printed in black on each side. Hinged silver metal opening and kiss clasp. Unlined.coin purse, decimal currency, 1960s -
Brighton Historical Society
Dress and vest, Dress and tunic vest, circa late 1960s
This dress belonged to Nola Jennings, a long-time Brighton resident. Bindi of Melbourne was the youth label of Australian commercial fashion house Len Vogue.Long-sleeved crimplene dress (.1) with white bodice and short purple skirt. High collar, cuffs and waist have a purple and yellow checkerboard-patterned trim. Four self-covered buttons down the centre front of skirt. Zip at back. Long purple tunic vest (.2) worn over the top.Label in both dress and vest, white with black text: "Fashioned for / Bindi / of MELBOURNE" Two smaller labels at bottom: "SIZE 10 / TO FIT / BUST 32" / HIP 34"" and "CRIMP TERY. / C 145 4".nola jennings, 1960s, bindi of melbourne, len vogue -
Brighton Historical Society
Bag, Bookmaker's bag, circa 1960s-1990s
Bags such as this one were used by bookmakers to collect and securely hold punters' bets at racing events. This bag belonged to Charlie Cox, a second-generation Australian bookmaker. His father, George Gordon Cox, ran bookmaking operations primarily during the 1920s and 1930s. After serving in the Air Force during the Second World War, Charlie entered the business during the 1940s, initially fielding at greyhound, trots and gallop meetings. In the early 1960s he moved to Melbourne, where he got his first big financial break when he was offered an interstate license to operate on the rails at all city tracks. He was a leading Melbourne bookmaker on the interstate rails racing circuit from the 1960s to the 1990s, from which period this bag originated.White painted leather bag with metal fastening mechanism. A short painted leather handle is joined to the bag by metal fastening clips.Painted on one side of the bag in black letters: "C.C. COX / INTERSTATE RAILS".bookmakers, horse racing, charlie cox, c. c. cox, interstate rails -
Brighton Historical Society
Bag, Bookmaker's bag, circa 1960s-1990s
Bags such as this one were used by bookmakers to collect and securely hold punters' bets at racing events. This bag belonged to Charlie Cox, a second-generation Australian bookmaker. His father, George Gordon Cox, ran bookmaking operations primarily during the 1920s and 1930s. After serving in the Air Force during the Second World War, Charlie entered the business during the 1940s, initially fielding at greyhound, trots and gallop meetings. In the early 1960s he moved to Melbourne, where he got his first big financial break when he was offered an interstate license to operate on the rails at all city tracks. He was a leading Melbourne bookmaker on the interstate rails racing circuit from the 1960s to the 1990s, from which period this bag originated.White painted leather bag with metal fastening mechanism. A short painted leather handle is joined to the bag by metal fastening clips. A long painted leather strap is joined to the bag by metal fastening clips.Painted on one side of the bag in black letters: "C.C. COX / INTERSTATE RAILS". "C.C. COX" is also painted in black at either end of the shoulder strap.bookmakers, horse racing, charlie cox, c. c. cox, interstate rails -
Brighton Historical Society
Cover, Cushion cover, 1916
Items such as this cushion covers were purchased by Australian men and women serving during the First World War as souvenirs of their travels and gifts for their loved ones at home. The allies established a base at Thessaloniki in 1915. BHS records indicate that this cushion cover was among a collection of items received from the Harkaway studio of Brighton-born artist Jessie Traill following her death in 1967. During the First World War, Jessie served for three and a half years in hospitals in England and France with the Voluntary Aid Detachment. As she did not serve in Thessaloniki, where this item was made, it is unlikely she purchased it herself, but may have received it as a gift.Black velvet cushion cover featuring the embroidered image of a white and yellow dove bearing red, white and blue ribbons along with red and pink flowers. Embroidered in pale yellow are the words "Souvenir de Salonigue / 1916".cushion cover, 1910s, first world war, world war i, thessaloniki, jessie traill -
Brighton Historical Society
Cover, Cushion cover, 1916
Items such as this cushion covers were purchased by Australian men and women serving during the First World War as souvenirs of their travels and gifts for their loved ones at home. The allies established a base at Thessaloniki in 1915. BHS records indicate that this cushion cover was among a collection of items received from the Harkaway studio of Brighton-born artist Jessie Traill following her death in 1967. During the First World War, Jessie served for three and a half years in hospitals in England and France with the Voluntary Aid Detachment. As she did not serve in Thessaloniki, where this item was made, it is unlikely she purchased it herself, but may have received it as a gift.Black velvet cushion cover featuring the embroidered image of a white and yellow dove bearing a draped French flag, alongside a spray of red and pink flowers. Embroidered in pale yellow are the words "Souvenir de Salonigue / 1916".cushion cover, 1910s, first world war, world war i, thessaloniki, jessie traill -
Brighton Historical Society
Swimsuit, late 1950s - early 1960s
Ada of California was a Melbourne swimwear company founded in the early 1950s by Brighton locals Ada and Toni Murkies. Born in Poland in 1922, Ada was 17 when the Second World War reached her doorstep. She and her family were torn from their home by Soviet soldiers and sent to a brutal labour camp in Siberia as part of a series of mass deportations. In order to escape the horrific conditions of the camp, Ada and her sister Barbara joined the Soviet-backed Polish Army. During her time in the military she became close with a handsome young Jewish officer, Lieutenant Antoni Murkies, who later became her husband. After the war Toni was awarded 15 medals including the highest Polish military honour, the Virtuti Militari. Ada was awarded 10 medals, including the Order of the Cross of Grunwald. Emigrating to Australia as postwar refugees in 1948, Ada and Toni arrived in Melbourne with little to their name. Working initially in garment factories and building their connections, by the mid-1950s the couple were able to start a company of their own, with Ada designing the garments and Toni managing the business. Within ten years, Ada of California swimwear was being sold in department stores throughout Australia, and the Murkies family were able to build a permanent home of their own in Brighton. By the early 1980s they had acquired several other major labels, including Watersun. This swimsuit is believed to be one of a large quantity of samples, seconds and unsold Ada Productions stock donated to Brighton Historical Society in late 1990 by Brian Samuel, who worked at the company between 1979 and 1990.Pink short-sleeved one-piece swimsuit with silver lamé embellishment. Sweetheart neckline and low-cut back with metal zip. A black and gold swing tag is attached to one sleeve.Label in bra: “Ada OF CALIFORNIA / MIRACULOUS s-t-r-e-t-c-h BRI-NYLON / 34” Swing tag, front: black with gold text and palm tree logo. “Ada / OF CALIFORNIA / ‘Limited Edition’”. Back: gold with black text. “‘Limited Edition’”. Interior: “Congratulations on your choice of ADA OF CALIFORNIA ‘Limited Edition” Swimsuit contoured for your discriminating taste. / Style 546 / Size 34 / Price £11.9.6”. Care instructions also included.swimwear, ada productions, ada of california, ada murkies, toni murkies, melbourne designers -
Brighton Historical Society
Swimsuit ensemble, Watersun, Pool party ensemble, 1973
This striking pool party ensemble from Australian swimwear company Watersun was designed by Carmela DiBernado, nee Savino, for the opening of the Sydney Opera House in 1973. Polish-born designer David Waters first began producing swimwear in 1952. His mother Halina had recently opened a stall at Melbourne Queen Victoria Markets and was looking for swimsuits to sell; unable to find any she liked, she asked David to design something. He began making swimming costumes using his mother's sewing machine, in between his shifts working at a knitting factory. He had soon set up a small business in his parents' home, cutting patterns in one room while a machinist sewed them together in the next. His company, which he named Watersun, would become an iconic Australian swimwear label. During the early 1960s, Watersun developed its "Unquestionable Bra", an inbuilt moulded bra which was marketed as giving wearers a more natural bustline than other labels. The company was also known for its matching swimwear and beachwear, producing dresses, kaftans, tops and skirts in identical colours and prints to those used for many of its swimsuits. By 1967, the company was reportedly one of Australia's two biggest swimwear manufacturers, with over one hundred employees. Watersun was sold to Ada Productions in 1984 and was later acquired by Trackerjack Australasia. This swimsuit is believed to be one of a large quantity of samples, seconds and unsold Ada Productions stock donated to Brighton Historical Society in late 1990 by Brian Samuel, who worked at the company between 1979 and 1990.Pool party ensemble consisting of a swimsuit (.1) and robe dress (.2), both black with silver trim. Dress has a crossover front, fastening at side waist, with v-neck at front and plunging back. Swimsuit has a v-neck, with silver trim extending forming an X-shape across the body.Label (identical in both items), blue text on white: “Watersun / SIZE 10 / BUST 32 / Made in Australia”swimwear, watersun, david waters, ada productions, melbourne designers, 1970s, carmela savino, carmela dibernardo, sydney opera house -
Brighton Historical Society
Swimsuit, Ada of California
Ada of California was a Melbourne swimwear company founded in the early 1950s by Brighton locals Ada and Toni Murkies. Born in Poland in 1922, Ada was 17 when the Second World War reached her doorstep. She and her family were torn from their home by Soviet soldiers and sent to a brutal labour camp in Siberia as part of a series of mass deportations. In order to escape the horrific conditions of the camp, Ada and her sister Barbara joined the Soviet-backed Polish Army. During her time in the military she became close with a handsome young Jewish officer, Lieutenant Antoni Murkies, who later became her husband. After the war Toni was awarded 15 medals including the highest Polish military honour, the Virtuti Militari. Ada was awarded 10 medals, including the Order of the Cross of Grunwald. Emigrating to Australia as postwar refugees in 1948, Ada and Toni arrived in Melbourne with little to their name. Working initially in garment factories and building their connections, by the mid-1950s the couple were able to start a company of their own, with Ada designing the garments and Toni managing the business. Within ten years, Ada of California swimwear was being sold in department stores throughout Australia, and the Murkies family were able to build a permanent home of their own in Brighton. By the early 1980s they had acquired several other major labels, including Watersun. This swimsuit is believed to be one of a large quantity of samples, seconds and unsold Ada Productions stock donated to Brighton Historical Society in late 1990 by Brian Samuel, who worked at the company between 1979 and 1990.Black one-piece swimsuit with deep v-neck and low-cut back and high-cut legs. Halter neck. Ruched sides. Label in side: "ada / 16"swimwear, ada of california, ada productions, melbourne designers, ada murkies, toni murkies -
Brighton Historical Society
Clothing - Swimsuit, Ada of California, circa 1950s-60s
This swimsuit belonged to Audrey May Ferguson (nee Fulton), a longtime Brighton resident. Ada of California was a Melbourne swimwear company founded in the early 1950s by Brighton locals Ada and Toni Murkies. Born in Poland in 1922, Ada was 17 when the Second World War reached her doorstep. She and her family were torn from their home by Soviet soldiers and sent to a brutal labour camp in Siberia as part of a series of mass deportations. In order to escape the horrific conditions of the camp, Ada and her sister Barbara joined the Soviet-backed Polish Army. During her time in the military she became close with a handsome young Jewish officer, Lieutenant Antoni Murkies, who later became her husband. After the war Toni was awarded 15 medals including the highest Polish military honour, the Virtuti Militari. Ada was awarded 10 medals, including the Order of the Cross of Grunwald. Emigrating to Australia as postwar refugees in 1948, Ada and Toni arrived in Melbourne with little to their name. Working initially in garment factories and building their connections, by the mid-1950s the couple were able to start a company of their own, with Ada designing the garments and Toni managing the business. Within ten years, Ada of California swimwear was being sold in department stores throughout Australia, and the Murkies family were able to build a permanent home of their own in Brighton. By the early 1980s they had acquired several other major labels, including Watersun.Black one-piece rayon and cotton swimsuit. Straps button at back. Asymmetrical zig-zag front with double-line of white stitching, embellished by a large cream button.Label, white with green palm tree logo and red text: "Ada / OF CALIFORNIA" Label, white with red text: "61% RAYON, 10% RUBBER, 29% COTTON 36"swimwear, audrey may ferguson, audrey may fulton, melbourne designers, ada of california, ada murkies, toni murkies, 1950s, 1960s -
Brighton Historical Society
Dress, circa 1940s-50s
This dress belonged to Katherine Blair, a longtime resident of Brighton. Katherine Fennell Blair was born in April 1929 in Benalla to magistrate Douglas Granville Blair (1893-1976) and his wife Isabell Nora (“Billie”) Blair, nee McNamara (1895-1989). Katherine was a child when the family moved to Brighton, where she attended St Joan of Arc Catholic Primary School and Star of the Sea College. After school, Katherine worked as a secretary and PA for various companies in the Melbourne CBD. Following a working holiday in the UK in 1959-61, she returned to Brighton, living first with her parents at 14 Kilrush Street and later in Burrows Street. An active part of the local community, Katherine was a member of the Brighton Red Cross, Brighton Probus Club and the St Joan of Arc Catholic parish and choir.Long-sleeved black velvet dress with shallow v-neck and self-covered belt. Smocked at shoulders and either side of waist. Floral embroidery around neck, cuffs and above smocking at waist.katherine fennell blair, 1940s, 1950s