Catalogue card reads, 'Mayoral ball. Mayor Cr. R. Horman, Town Clerk F. Dwerryhouse, Cr. & Mrs. McLeod, Cr. B. Hubbard, Mr. Jess M.P., Mr. J. Mawson, M.L.A., Cr. Lavid, Cr. & Mrs. R.O. Spencer, Dr. & Mrs. Hewitt, Cr. & Mrs. Deuter, Rev. B. Adams.

Typed below photograph, "10 modern villas recently erected alongside the estate". Typed below photograph, "Soldiers Homes, Bedford Road. 1924." Catalogue card reads, "Soldiers homes Bedford Road, looking east from outside shops corner Illoura Ave. War of 1914-18 Soldiers Homes. From land sale brochure."

Catalogue card reads, "The Mountain District Horse and Pony Club's winning team with the shield presented by the A.N.Z. Bank. From left: Judith Byrne, Helen Harvie, Marian Farmer, Campbell Sullivan". Note on back of photograph reads, "Annual two day competition of the Pony Clubs' Association of Victoria held at Frankston 21st and 22nd May. [no year stated].

Catalogue card reads, "Jamboree Athletic Meeting held at Ringwood, 8th January 1949. The carnival was historic in that for the first time in the annals of Ringwood, a liquor booth operated at the grounds and bookmakers laid the odds". An addition note on the back of the photograph reads, "The Bookies and the Booth. The bookmakers are apparently a law unto themselves. The Council had refused permission for the bookmakers to operate on the reserve, but here they are."

Catalogue card reads, 'Declaration of City - 1960. SEC Float. Background: Site of demolished Cool Store corner Maroondah Hwy. and Wantirna Rd. Clock moved from intersection of Hwy and Warrandyte Rd. to this site.' Stamp on back of one of the copies reads, 'Copyright. This photograph may not be reproduced without permission in writing from the Editor of "The Age", 23 Collins St. Melbourne...'.

Catalogue card reads, "East Ringwood Football Club. Two of the Best and Fairest players with the President. Left to right - Bruce Webber, Tom Reddish (Pres.), Max Vincent." However writing on back of photograph differs in identification of men. It reads, "Two of the Best and Fairest players of East Ringwood Football Club with the President. L. to R. Bruce Kerr, T. Reddish, Pres. Max Vincent".

Black and White Photograph. See also ABC silent movie of the event in VC record 11129. Ringwood Mail Newspaper article about the ceremony and parade is in VC 11129 Lt. Col. E.R. Baldwin Being challenged. Written on back of one copy of photograph, 'Photo ... Southern Command, Army Public Relations.' Catalogue card reads, 'Freedom of the City. Taken when Ben Hubbard was mayor.' Typed on back of another copy: Police Inspector A. Angus challenging the R.A.E. on their right to enter Rignwood. O.C. replies. this took place outside the entrane to the Railways Station. Date Stamp 27 Mar 1965.

Catalogue card reads, 'Queen Carnival. c1923. There was rivalry between towns Mitcham, Ringwood and Croydon. This particular year the Ringwood group was so lovely they said the Maddens must have put the money up. Back standing: LHS Maxie Benson, Vera Simpson. Sitting: LHS Nell Lawlor, Dorothy Matlock, Mary O'Regan (Queen), Amy Connell, Kathleen Sherlock. Tiny boy is Ted Matlock.'

Backing sheet reads, 'City of Ringwood 1960' and 'From Herald-Sun Feature' therefore photograph would be subject to copyright until 2010. Catalogue card reads, 'Declaration of City. Parade: Background part of site of demolished Cool Store corner Highway and Wantirna Road. Atlantic Service station corner Highway and Wantirna Road. Right-hand side Coles Store near corner Ringwood Street'.

Catalogue card reads, "North Ringwood Cricket Team 1937-8". Typed on back of photograph, "Nth Ringwood R.D.C.A. Premiers 1937-38. B. Rimmer, Back - M. McAlpin, F. Flentje, W. Whitehouse, Mid. K. Allen, A. Whitehouse, H. McAlpin, H. MacKinlay, P. Vergers, Front - R. Maroney, A. McDonald. Also Premiers 1938 - 1939. See "Mail" 9/9/65."

Written on back of photograph, "ROW Next to Mail Office 1960's) and "Old right of way now Civic Place". Catalogue card reads, "Old right of way which ran from Adelaide St. near hospital. When sold it became part of thoroughfare leading to Warrandyte Road. L.H. side present (1987) a garage, R.H. side is Safeways. Right though past Dickins (now National Bank) to Ringwood St.

Catalogue card reads, 'Early Sketch of Ringwood Layout (part). Not to scale but largely true to life of approximately 1890. Many local landmarks shown e.g. Wesleyan Chapel, Duncans Antimony Mine Hotel, Cass's School, Herry's Store. Maroondah Highway not shown but would approximate a line drawn from just to left of horse and cart near Chapel - North to pass around Antimony Mine and to the left to pass behind Cass's School.'

Catalogue card reads, 'Opening Court of Petty Sessions. 1933. Back row from left: A.F.B. Long, Mr. Duggan, M. Lonie, Constable Knopb, Mr. Fulton, Dr. W.L. Colquhoun, Cr. J.K. McCaskill, Mr. Peimezel, Cr. J.G. Aird, Mr. A.C. Ostrom. Front row: Mr. Pegler, Cr. A. Blood, Cr. R.W. Dawes, C.H. Hughes Chairman, Cr. A.T. Miles, V. Halliday'.

Catalogue card reads, "Hon. Billie Snedden (later knighted) with Ian Sprague. Exhibition of pottery, October 14, 1967." Backing sheet of photograph reads, "The Minister for Immigration (Mr. B.M. Snedden) this weekend (October 14, 1967?) opened an exhibition of pottery at the Potters Cottage, Warrandyte, Victoria. Exhibits came from all parts of Australia. Here Mr. Snedden (left) discusses a hand-made vase with exhibitor Ian Sprague of Upper Beaconsfield, Victoria."

Written on back of photograph and catalogue card, 'Mayor Cr. E.T. Purser, J.P. receiving his guests at Mayoral Ball 1952. Left to right - Councillor Anderson, Mayor of Rochester, England, Councillor H. Petty, Mayor of Prahran, Councillor Paice, Mayor of Nunawading, Councillor Kemp, Mayor of Box Hill, Councillor E.T. Purser, Mayor of Ringwood on the occasion of the first Mayoral Ball held on July 31st, 1952. Mayoral chain (gift of anonymous donor) worn for the first time'.

Written above and below photograph of backing, 'St. Marys Catholic Church Ball, 10.8.37. Ringwood Town Hall. President Mrs. Bruce(?), Joint S??? Miss L. Madden, ???? Leo Pratt, Rev. Father O'Toole'. Catalogue card reads, 'Front row No.5 Louie Madden, No.9 Lorene Hunt (white dress), Dorrie Matlock (floral dress). Can identify Des Lindsay, Jack Delahunty, Lance Lane, Sonsie Madden but unable to pinpoint location.'

Black and white photograph of unmade road in poor condition. Houses in background.Typed below photograph, "Barkly St., Ringwood c.1948". Catalogue card states, "Taken about 100 yards down from Wantirna Road. Car probably going south along Wantirna Road. House far right now block of flats (Sept. 1975) but next two houses up street are there. Haig St. just behind car. Fence on house to left still there and curved front path. Shop visible corner Haig St. to left of big pole still there."

Typed above newspaper clipping, "Ian Johnson at Ringwood Cricket presentation night". Written on back of clipping, "'Mail' 24/4/1958". Written on back of photograph, "L to R. P. Vergers, C. Beaumont, I. Johnston, G. Chandler". Catalogue card reads, L to R. The Mayor Cr. P. Vergers, The President Mr. Beaumont, Secretary M.C.C. and Ex-Australian Captain Mr. I. Johnston, Hon. G. L. Chandler, C.M.G. Minister for Agriculture. President of R.D.C.A. Mr. Lou Salvana".

Catalogue card reads, 'Youth Ball - 1956. Debutantes at Youth Ball, October 23rd, 1956'. Written on back of photograph, 'Back row: Left to right: Loosje van Winkle, Helen Ingram, Maureen Street, Shirley Cassidy, Winsome McNamara, Helen Hamilton, Coral Shurrie, Joan Ingram, Lynette Rackham. Flower Girl - Patricia G?????, Page, Graham Sinclair. Back Row, Left to Right" Elizabeth Sumner, Judith Morris, Virginia Jones, Janet Phillips, Margaret Rick, Lezlie Sumner, Margaret Lockey'.

Typed below photograph, "Ringwood Football Team at East Ringwood Oval, circa 1923". Catalogue card reads, "1924 Football Team. Premiers - 19 winds straight at East Ringwood Oval. Back Row: L-R. W. Kennett, G. Dempster, M. Kiker, M. Sellers, H. Nelson, E. Aumann, B. Bowen, A. Cooper, F. Pickett (Trainer). Second Row: V. Crompton (Trainer), C. Pendlebury, J. Lawler, W. Rhodes, W. Allan (Capt.), B. Caldwell. Front Row: B. Webster, T. Tovey (Umpire), F. Corft, J. Pratt".

Black and White photographs of RAE band from Kapooka, N.S.W.Catalogue card reads, 'R.A.E. Band. "Freedom of City". 34d Div. Engineers'. Written on backing of photograph, 'RAE band from Kapooka, N.S.W. 7/3/65. "Freedom" 3rd Div. Eng.' Two photographs and two extra slightly cropped versions. Handwritten on the back of 11168-4 "The Royal Australian Engineers Corps Band from Kapooka (NSW) moved into position near four Mounted Troopers during a march through Ringwood on March 27. The troopers supported Police Inspector A. Angus, who acted as Town Marshall to challenge 200 Members of the Royal Australian Engineers, 3rd Division. The Regiment gained entry to the City by the production of a Freedom of the City Scroll presented by the Mayor of Ringwood (Cr. B.J. Hubbard)."

This laneway which ran between Bamford's Timber Yard on the corner of Warrandyte Rd and Maroondah Hwy became Civic Place. Two storey building is Renong Chambers. Bottom left shows Jack Orr's clothes hoists. Bottom right is Horman & Woolhouse plumbers. This area was demolished in 1965.Typed below photograph, "Former Ringwood Mail office, Adelaide Street, 1955". Catalogue card reads, "Adelaide St. looking along laneway to west showing former "Mail" office and Billiards Pool to left, 1955." Written on backing sheet of one copy, "Lane between Bamford's Timber Yard, corner Warrandyte Rd. and Maroondah Highway. House demolished 1965. 'Ringwood Mail' office at end of lane in Adelaide St." Another copy's backing sheet reads, "Mail Office. Lane went to Melbourne St. Ham's Billiard Saloon, Renong Chambers (2 storey) bot. left Jack Orr's clothes hoists. Bot. right Horman & Woolhouse plumbers." Another copy reads, "This laneway became Civic Place."

Catalogue card reads, 'Opening Mechanics Institute - 1909. Veranda: Roy Thomas, Howard Falconer, W. Foreshaw, --, --, Harry Falconer, --, Rev. H. Greenwood, Mr. Tucker, Mr. R.W.M. Chalmers, Mr. Jack Pollard. Standing Steps: --, Rev. Schules, Mr. A.V. Greenwood. 3rd Row (standing from left): Mr. A. Loughnan, Cr. A.B. Taylor, Mr. W. Unsworth, Mr. Hockin, Mrs. Theo Anderson, Mr. J.B. McAlpin, Rev. J. Nicholson, Mr. Alf Hocking. 2nd Row (Standing from left): Cr. Tulley, Cr. A.B. Taylor, --, --, Mrs. E.E. Walker, Mrs. R.V. Greenwood, --, --, Miss Edgar, --, Capt. Ecklestein. Front Row (Sitting from left): Mr. Gwillam, Architect, Hon. D.E. McBryde, MLC, Mrs. J. Murray, Hon. S. Murray, Premier, Mr. J. Parker, President, Rev. D. Porteous, Hon. W.H. Edgar, MLC, Hon. W.J. Evans, MLC, Mr. T. Brown.'

Black and White Photograph (2copies) and list of staff names. Catalogue card reads, '1960. Council Staff when Ringwood was declared a city, March 1960'. One copy has stamp of "Peter Payens of Ringwood Studios". Second copy has stamp of Brian Pump. On separate typed sheet: Typed below photograph, "Ringwood City Council Staff - 1960". Typed sheet in sleeve lists the staff in photograph and reads, "Photograph of Town Hall staff taken on the occasion of Ringwood being proclaimed a CITY 1960. Standing (back row left to right) Robert Moore (Rates Office), James Allen (Health Inspt), Robert Glassford (Eng. Asst.), James Rouse (Rates), Howard Tyrell (Dept. City Engr.), Jozsef Benzinger (Supt. Parks & Gdns.), David Wilson (Eng.) and Jeffrey Porter (Eng.). Second Row down, Wally Ross (Traffic Insp), Murray Jones (Eng.), Jim Clerk (Bldg. Insp.), Ernie Dall (Bld. Dept.), Jim Johnson (Rates), Les Steeth (Dog Ranger), Billy Duff (Hall Kpr). Clarrie Burns (Works Supt.), Keith Gore (Ch. Hall Kpr).Second row up from bottom - Marg McAdam (Health Ctre), Gwen Collocott (Rates - Accts. Machinist), Mabs Cleverly (Sec. D.T.C.), June Eyres (Steno), Nancy Gibson (H. Help), Judy Hubbard (Steno), Hazel Lyons (Sec. C/Eng.), Wilhelmina van Wijngaarden, (rates), Sr. Hildebard Weinroider (Health Care), Maureen Charlwood (Telephonist).Bottom row - Sr. Edna Ahlslton (Health Care), Lindsay Ewart (Rate Colltr), Jean Matthews (Sec. T/C.), Vic Faravoni (D.T.C.), Dr. Wm. Hewitt (Med.O.Health), Fred Dwerryhouse (Town Clerk), Alan Robertson (City Eng.), Ray Forde (Con.Eng.), Kit Gurling (typist/engrs.), Des Steele (Bldg.Suryor), Sr. Linda Turnley (Health Centre-H'mont).

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually, the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower areas of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave from 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However, he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. Official History of Australia in the War of 1914-18 Vol 2-1 Author: C E W Bean Publisher: Angus & Robertson Date: 1937 shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, warrnambool, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, official history of australia in the war of 1914-18 vol 2-1, official history of australia in the war of 1914-18

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually, the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower areas of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave from 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However, he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. Official History of Australia in the War of 1914-18 Vol 3-1 Author: C E W Bean Publisher: Angus & Robertson Date: 1937 shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, warrnambool, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, official history of australia in the war of 1914-18 vol 3

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. Official History of Australia in the War of 1914-18 Vol 3-2 Author: C E W Bean Publisher: Angus & Robertson Date: 1937shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, warrnambool, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, official history of australia in the war of 1914-18 vol 3, c e w bean

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art, and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower area of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine, and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave during 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. Official History of Australia in the War of 1914-18 Vol 3-3 Author: C E W Bean Publisher: Angus & Robertson Date: 1937 shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, warrnambool, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, official history of australia in the war of 1914-18 vol 3

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually, the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower areas of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave from 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However, he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. Official History of Australia in the War of 1914-18 Vol 4-1 Author: C E W Bean Publisher: Angus & Robertson Date: 1941shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, warrnambool, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, official history of australia in the war of 1914-18 vol 4

This item is from the ‘Pattison Collection’, a collection of books and records that was originally owned by the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute, which was founded in Warrnambool in 1853. By 1886 the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute (WMI) had grown to have a Library, Museum and Fine Arts Gallery, with a collection of “… choice productions of art and valuable specimens in almost every branch and many wonderful national curiosities are now to be seen there, including historic relics of the town and district.” It later included a School of Design. Although it was very well patronised, the lack of financial support led the WMI in 1911 to ask the City Council to take it over. In 1935 Ralph Pattison was appointed as City Librarian to establish and organise the Warrnambool Library as it was then called. When the WMI building was pulled down in 1963 a new civic building was erected on the site and the new Warrnambool Library, on behalf of the City Council, took over all the holdings of the WMI. At this time some of the items were separated and identified as the ‘Pattison Collection’, named after Ralph Pattison. Eventually, the components of the WMI were distributed from the Warrnambool Library to various places, including the Art Gallery, Historical Society and Flagstaff Hill. Later some were even distributed to other regional branches of Corangamite Regional Library and passed to and fro. It is difficult now to trace just where all of the items have ended up. The books at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village generally display stamps and markings from Pattison as well as a variety of other institutions including the Mechanics’ Institute itself. RALPH ERIC PATTISON Ralph Eric Pattison was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He married Maude Swan from Warrnambool in 1920 and they set up home in Warrnambool. In 1935 Pattison accepted a position as City Librarian for the Warrnambool City Council. His huge challenge was to make a functional library within two rooms of the Mechanics’ Institute. He tirelessly cleaned, cleared and sorted a disarrayed collection of old books, jars of preserved specimens and other items reserved for exhibition in the city’s museum. He developed and updated the library with a wide variety of books for all tastes, including reference books for students; a difficult task to fulfil during the years following the Depression. He converted all of the lower areas of the building into a library, reference room and reading room for members and the public. The books were sorted and stored using a cataloguing and card index system that he had developed himself. He also prepared the upper floor of the building and established the Art Gallery and later the Museum, a place to exhibit the many old relics that had been stored for years for this purpose. One of the treasures he found was a beautiful ancient clock, which he repaired, restored and enjoyed using in his office during the years of his service there. Ralph Pattison was described as “a meticulous gentleman whose punctuality, floorless courtesy and distinctive neat dress were hallmarks of his character, and ‘his’ clock controlled his daily routine and his opening and closing of the library’s large heavy doors to the minute.” Pattison took leave from 1942 to 1945 to serve in the Royal Australian Navy, Volunteer Reserve as Lieutenant. A few years later he converted one of the Museum’s rooms into a Children’s Library, stocking it with suitable books for the younger generation. This was an instant success. In the 1950’s he had the honour of being appointed to the Victorian Library Board and received more inspiration from the monthly conferences in Melbourne. He was sadly retired in 1959 after over 23 years of service, due to the fact that he had gone over the working age of council officers. However, he continued to take a very keen interest in the continual development of the Library until his death in 1969. The Pattison Collection, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s collection. The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute Collection is primarily significant in its totality, rather than for the individual objects it contains. Its contents are highly representative of the development of Mechanics' Institute libraries across Australia, particularly Victoria. A diversity of publications and themes has been amassed, and these provide clues to our understanding of the nature of and changes in the reading habits of Victorians from the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century. The collection also highlights the Warrnambool community’s commitment to the Mechanics’ Institute, reading, literacy and learning in the regions, and proves that access to knowledge was not impeded by distance. These items help to provide a more complete picture of our community’s ideals and aspirations. The Warrnambool Mechanics Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual, cultural and social development of people throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes. The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance. Official History of Australia in the War of 1914-18 Vol 4-2 Author: C E W Bean Publisher: Angus & Robertson Date:1942 shipwrecked-coast, flagstaff-hill, warrnambool, flagstaff-hill-maritime-museum, maritime-museum, shipwreck-coast, flagstaff-hill-maritime-village, shipwrecked-artefact, book, warrnambool library, warrnambool mechanics’ institute, warrnambool city librarian, mechanics’ institute library, victorian library board, warrnambool books and records, warrnambool children’s library, great ocean road, official history of australia in the war of 1914-18 vol 4-2, official history of australia in the war of 1914-18, c e w bean